Cooling system and cooling method for a medical device

Abstract

The present application relates to a cooling system for a medical device, which cools one or more heat loads in the medical device, comprising: an outdoor heat exchange module for heat exchange with an outdoor environment; an indoor heat exchange module in communication with the outdoor heat exchange module via a first pipeline and coupled with the heat load via a second pipeline; and a mechanical refrigeration module in communication with the outdoor heat exchange module via the first pipeline and in communication with the indoor heat exchange module via the second pipeline, according to different ambient temperatures, the cooling system switches between the following three action modes: a natural cooling mode in which only the outdoor heat exchange module undertakes the cooling function; a mechanical refrigeration mode in which only the mechanical refrigeration module undertakes the cooling function; and a hybrid mode in which the outdoor heat exchange module is preferentially utilized for cooling, when the refrigeration capacity of the outdoor heat exchange module approaches the limit, the mechanical refrigeration module starts and performs the cooling action.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical technology, and in particular to a cooling system and cooling method for medical devices. Background Technology

[0002] As a core infrastructure ensuring the stable operation of medical equipment, the energy efficiency and reliability of medical equipment cooling systems directly impact the operating costs and service quality of medical institutions. Traditional medical cooling systems often employ a fixed, integrated design, resulting in poor system scalability and difficulties in component replacement. Furthermore, because traditional medical cooling systems typically operate in a constant cooling mode, they cannot dynamically adjust their operating status according to ambient temperature, always operating in a high-energy-consuming mechanical cooling mode, leading to problems such as low energy utilization, short service life, and high maintenance costs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a cooling system and cooling method for medical devices, which can maintain a stable cooling temperature and low noise operation while significantly reducing power consumption. In addition, it can avoid frequent switching that leads to frequent start-up and shutdown of the device, and extend the service life of the system.

[0004] This invention relates to a cooling system for a medical device, for cooling one or more heat loads in the medical device, characterized in that it comprises: An outdoor heat exchange module, which is used for heat exchange with the outdoor environment; An indoor heat exchange module, which is connected to the outdoor heat exchange module via a first pipe and coupled to the heat load via a second pipe; and A mechanical refrigeration module, which is connected to the outdoor heat exchange module via the first pipe and to the indoor heat exchange module via the second pipe. Depending on the ambient temperature, the cooling system switches between the following three operating modes: In the natural cooling mode, the cooling function is performed solely by the outdoor heat exchange module. In mechanical refrigeration mode, the cooling function is performed solely by the mechanical refrigeration module; and In the hybrid mode, the outdoor heat exchange module is used preferentially for cooling. When the cooling capacity of the outdoor heat exchange module approaches its limit, the mechanical refrigeration module is activated and performs cooling. Preferably, a fluid medium is circulated in the first pipeline and the second pipeline to discharge heat from the heat load to the outside. Preferably, the cooling system of the present invention further includes a controller, which sets a temperature control point and, based on the comparison result between the ambient temperature and the temperature control point, causes the cooling system to switch and operate between the natural cooling mode, the mechanical refrigeration mode and the hybrid mode. Preferably, the temperature control point is preset based on the operating conditions of the cooling system and external environmental factors. Preferably, the temperature control point is dynamically adjusted based on real-time monitoring of the ambient temperature, the state of the heat load, and the operating status of the cooling system. Preferably, in the hybrid mode, the timing of intervention of the mechanical refrigeration module is adjusted according to the real-time operating status of the cooling system or instructions from the outside. Preferably, the controller has a super control interface for interacting with the medical device and accepting super control commands from the medical device. Preferably, when the over-control command is present, the controller responds to the over-control command to switch the action mode. Preferably, the controller includes an Internet of Things (IoT) module, which interconnects with IoT edge devices. Preferably, the controller has at least one expansion interface for implementing control optimization based on AI deep learning. The present invention also relates to a cooling method for medical devices, implemented by the aforementioned cooling system, characterized by comprising the following steps: When the ambient temperature is lower than the lower temperature control point, the cooling system will enter the natural cooling mode to operate. When the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the upper temperature control point, the cooling system enters mechanical refrigeration mode and operates; and When the ambient temperature is between the upper temperature control point and the lower temperature control point, the cooling system enters a hybrid mode to operate. In the hybrid mode, the outdoor heat exchange module is used first for cooling, and when the capacity limit is approached, the mechanical refrigeration module intervenes to participate in cooling. Preferably, the upper temperature control point and the lower temperature control point are dynamically adjusted based on the results of real-time monitoring of the ambient temperature, the state of the heat load, and the operating status of the cooling system. Preferably, in the hybrid mode, the timing of intervention of the mechanical refrigeration module is adjusted according to the real-time operating status of the cooling system or instructions from the outside. Preferably, when there is a control command from the medical device, the cooling system responds preferentially to the control command to switch operating modes and perform actions. The present invention also relates to a medical device, characterized in that it includes: a heat load; and the above-described cooling system. Attached Figure Description

[0005] The present invention can be better understood by describing exemplary embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0007] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a cooling system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the switching of the operating mode of a cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] Figure 4 This is a circuit diagram illustrating the operation of a cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention in natural cooling mode.

[0010] Figure 5 This is a circuit diagram illustrating the operation of a cooling system in mechanical refrigeration mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 6 This is a circuit diagram illustrating a cooling system operating in hybrid mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the switching of the operating mode of a cooling system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the architecture for implementing AI deep learning-based control optimization in a cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0014] The following describes specific embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that, in order to provide a concise description, this specification cannot exhaustively describe all features of the actual embodiments. It should be understood that, in the actual implementation of any embodiment, just as in any engineering or design project, various specific decisions are often made to achieve the developer's specific goals and to meet system-related or business-related constraints, and this can change from one embodiment to another. Furthermore, it is understood that although the efforts made in this development process may be complex and lengthy, for those skilled in the art related to the content disclosed in this invention, some design, manufacturing, or production modifications based on the technical content disclosed herein are merely conventional technical means and should not be construed as insufficient content of this disclosure.

[0015] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the claims and description shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in the patent application description and claims of this invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. The terms "an" or "a" and similar terms do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms "comprising" or "including" and similar terms mean that the element or object preceding "comprising" or "including" encompasses the element or object listed following "comprising" or "including" and its equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. The terms "connected" or "linked" and similar terms are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, nor are they limited to direct or indirect connections.

[0016] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0017] One embodiment of the present invention provides a cooling system for medical devices. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a cooling system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cooling system 100 is used to cool one or more heat loads in a medical device. In some embodiments, the medical device may include, for example, one or more of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, a computed tomography (CT) scanner, and other diagnostic and therapeutic devices. The one or more heat loads may be, for example, electronic system heat loads, electromagnetic system heat loads, mechanical system heat loads, radiation source heat loads, etc. In the case where the medical device is a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, the heat load may include, for example, one or more of the components in the MRI system, such as a superconducting magnet assembly, a gradient coil system, a power amplifier, an electronic control unit, and a cooling compressor. [Structure of the cooling system]

[0018] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooling system 100 of this embodiment includes an outdoor heat exchange module 101, an indoor heat exchange module 102, and a mechanical refrigeration module 103. The outdoor heat exchange module 101 is used for heat exchange with the outdoor environment and is connected to the indoor heat exchange module 102 and the mechanical refrigeration module 103 via a first pipe 110. The indoor heat exchange module 102 is coupled to one or more heat loads in the medical device via a second pipe 120 and is connected to the mechanical refrigeration module 103. The outdoor heat exchange module 101, the indoor heat exchange module 102, and / or the mechanical refrigeration module 103 form a heat exchange loop.

[0019] The first pipe 110 is used to connect the outdoor heat exchange module 101 to the indoor heat exchange module 102 and the mechanical refrigeration module 103 respectively, and to circulate the fluid medium (hereinafter sometimes referred to as cooling fluid, cooling water, etc.) therein. The second pipe 120 is used to couple the indoor heat exchange module 102 to the above-mentioned heat load and to connect it to the mechanical refrigeration module 103, and to circulate the fluid medium therein as well.

[0020] In this embodiment, the cooling system 100 includes an open or closed primary loop and a secondary loop to form a cooling water system for cooling the heat load. The primary loop is the loop that exchanges heat with the outdoor environment, and is mainly formed by the outdoor heat exchange module 101, the first pipeline 100, and a portion of the indoor heat exchange module 102 and the mechanical refrigeration module 103 (e.g., auxiliary components such as valves and pumps). The secondary loop is the loop coupled to the aforementioned heat load, and exchanges heat with the primary loop through isolation via the indoor heat exchange module 102 and / or the mechanical refrigeration module.

[0021] The "coupling" mentioned above can include, but is not limited to, heat exchange through various means such as direct physical contact, indirect heat conduction, radiative heat exchange, and convective heat exchange. Furthermore, the "connection" mentioned refers to the formation of a continuous fluid pathway between related components through structural openings, pipes, channels, or other fluid-flowable paths, allowing fluid to flow freely between components and thus achieving heat transfer or exchange. This connection can be normally open or controllable.

[0022] The aforementioned cooling system 100 is divided into an indoor section and an outdoor section (e.g., Figure 1(As shown in the vertical grid partition). The outdoor heat exchange module 101 is installed outdoors, while the indoor heat exchange module 102 and mechanical refrigeration module 103 are installed indoors. The term "outdoor" can refer to the external space of a building, the external area of ​​an equipment room, a well-ventilated exterior wall, or other areas capable of effective heat exchange with the external environment. The term "indoor" can refer to the operating room, control room, internal area of ​​an equipment room, or other spaces capable of coupling with one or more heat loads of the medical equipment. In some embodiments, the outdoor heat exchange module 101 can be fixed outdoors using brackets, suspension devices, or other methods, and is preferably installed in an area with good ventilation and easy heat dissipation to maximize heat exchange efficiency. In some embodiments, the indoor heat exchange module 102 and mechanical refrigeration module 103 can be fixed using wall-mounted, vertical, or embedded methods depending on space constraints, and are preferably installed close to one or more heat loads of the medical equipment to shorten the heat conduction path and reduce heat loss.

[0023] Furthermore, in some embodiments, multiple outdoor heat exchange modules 101, indoor heat exchange modules 102, and mechanical refrigeration modules 103 can be provided to adapt to different cooling requirements. In a preferred embodiment, the number of modules can be flexibly configured according to the size of the heat load, spatial distribution, and cooling accuracy requirements. For example, multiple indoor and outdoor heat exchange modules and mechanical refrigeration modules can be connected in series or in parallel to form an extended heat dissipation network, improving the system's heat dissipation capacity under extreme ambient temperatures. Moreover, the mechanical refrigeration module 103 located indoors can be integrated with the indoor heat exchange module 102 or set independently. In a preferred embodiment, the mechanical refrigeration module 103 is separately set from the outdoor heat exchange module 101 and the indoor heat exchange module 102, and connected to the first pipe 110 and the second pipe 120 through standardized connection interfaces. By adopting this method, individual modules can be disassembled and replaced according to cooling requirements without significantly changing the piping design, thereby reducing system maintenance costs and downtime.

[0024] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the cooling system 100 also includes a controller (not shown) for switching and controlling the cooling loops through which cooling occurs. Preferably, the controller can be configured to manage the temperature and flow path of the cooling fluid in the secondary loop, mixing cooling fluids of different temperatures according to cooling requirements. In some embodiments, the controller can be integrated with the indoor heat exchange module 102. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the controller can be located outside the cooling system 100, independent of the indoor heat exchange module 102, acting as an external controller to control the cooling system 100. In some embodiments, the controller can also have functions such as intelligent control logic. Further, in some embodiments, the controller can not only function as a local control unit but also accept control commands from the cloud or a remote server, which will be described in detail later.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a cooling system 200 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 A detailed structural block diagram of the cooling system 200 is shown as a specific implementation of the cooling system 100 described above. However, the implementation of the cooling system 100 is not limited to this, and those skilled in the art can make various modifications, variations, or substitutions to this embodiment without departing from the concept and scope of the present invention. For example, the shape, size, material, arrangement, connection method, quantity, and relative positional relationship of each component in the cooling system 200 can be adjusted according to specific application requirements. Furthermore, Figure 2 Some of the components shown may be omitted, replaced, or combined with other components not shown. The shown components may also be decomposed into multiple sub-components or integrated into a single unit. The following description uses a cooling system 200 as an example, where water is used as the cooling fluid flowing in both the primary and secondary loops (hereinafter, the water flowing in the primary loop will be referred to as "primary water," and the water flowing in the secondary loop will be referred to as "secondary water").

[0026] like Figure 2As shown, in the cooling system 200, the outdoor heat exchange module 101 includes, for example, a condenser 1011 and a fan 1012. The condenser 1011 is a primary water condenser, mainly used to transfer heat from the refrigerant to the external environment, exchanging heat with the outdoor environment. The condenser 1011 can be implemented in various structural forms; for example, in some embodiments, it can adopt a microchannel structure, a finned tube structure, or a plate structure to improve heat exchange efficiency. The fan 101 is used to generate forced convection around the condenser 1011, which can significantly improve the heat exchange efficiency between the condenser 1011 and the outdoor environment. Preferably, in some embodiments, the fan 1012 can be a variable speed fan, adjusting the heat exchange efficiency in real time to control the primary water temperature. Preferably, in some embodiments, the outdoor heat exchange module 101 also includes an ambient temperature sensor 1013. The speed of the fan 1012 can be automatically adjusted according to the measurement results of the ambient temperature sensor 1013, thereby achieving intelligent control. In other embodiments, the speed of fan 1012 can also be dynamically adjusted according to factors such as the operating parameters of condenser 1011, system load, refrigerant pressure, energy consumption optimization targets, or user settings.

[0027] like Figure 2 As shown, the indoor heat exchange module 102 includes, for example, a heat exchanger 1021, a throttling device (e.g., a three-way valve) 1022, a pump 1023, and a liquid storage tank 1024. The heat from the aforementioned heat load is transferred from the secondary circuit to the primary circuit via the heat exchanger 1021.

[0028] The mechanical refrigeration module 103 includes, for example, heat exchangers 1031 and 1032, a pump 1033, a liquid receiver 1034, a compressor 1035, and throttling devices 1036 and 1037. The mechanical refrigeration module 103 uses refrigerant to transfer heat from the aforementioned heat load from the secondary circuit to the primary circuit via heat exchangers 1031 and 1032, ultimately dissipating it outdoors. Heat exchanger 1031 is coupled to the secondary circuit and exchanges heat with it. Heat exchanger 1032 is coupled to the primary circuit and transfers heat to the outside via the primary circuit. Furthermore, the temperature of the secondary circuit can be controlled by adjusting the speed and operating frequency of the compressor 1035 and the opening percentage of the throttling devices 1036 and 1037. Thus, a compressor circuit is formed in the mechanical refrigeration module 103, in which the refrigerant used for cooling flows. Preferably, the refrigerant used is the environmentally friendly refrigerant R513a to achieve superior environmental characteristics.

[0029] Furthermore, in some embodiments, similar to cooling system 100, cooling system 200 also includes a controller (not shown) to control the switching of cooling loops during cooling. Preferably, the controller can be configured to manage the temperature and flow path of the cooling fluid in the secondary loop, mixing cooling fluids of different temperatures according to cooling requirements. In some embodiments, the controller can be integrated with indoor heat exchange module 102. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the controller can be located outside cooling system 200 independently of indoor heat exchange module 102, acting as an external controller to control cooling system 200. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller can also have functions such as intelligent control logic. Further, in some embodiments, the controller can not only function as a local control unit but also accept control commands from the cloud or a remote server, which will be described in detail later. [Cooling system operating mode]

[0030] The operating modes of the cooling systems 100 and 200 described above will be explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation mode switching of a cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Cooling systems 100 and 200 switch their operation modes via a controller and perform cooling operations in the corresponding modes. In this embodiment, under the control of the controller, cooling systems 100 and 200 will switch between mechanical cooling mode, natural cooling mode, and a hybrid mode.

[0032] First, in step S101, the cooling system performs system initialization. In this step S101, parameters such as the external system heat load Q and the secondary water output temperature C can be input to the controller, but are not limited to these. Depending on different control requirements, various types of sensors can be configured in the cooling system to collect necessary operating parameters. In some embodiments, parameters including, but not limited to, primary water input and output temperatures, pressure values ​​at various points in the cooling system, fluid flow rate, condenser surface temperature, fan speed, compressor operating status, refrigerant charge amount, and refrigerant leak detection signal can also be input. These parameters can be transmitted to the controller via wired or wireless means.

[0033] In this embodiment, the external system thermal load Q represents the heat generated by one or more thermal loads coupled to the secondary circuit, which can be calculated in real time according to the signal of the return water temperature sensor. The secondary water output temperature C is the output temperature of the secondary water supplied to the above thermal loads by the cooling system. In some embodiments, the controller adjusts the control parameters described later based on the specific values of the external system thermal load Q and the secondary water output temperature C, thereby affecting the switching of operation modes. Specifically, the controller may correspondingly adjust the upper temperature control point or the lower temperature control point to be compared with the ambient temperature T, which will be described later, based on the external system thermal load Q. In some embodiments, when the external system thermal load Q increases, the controller may lower the upper temperature control point, so that the cooling system can more easily enter the mechanical refrigeration mode to meet higher cooling demands. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the controller correspondingly adjusts the upper and lower temperature control points described later based on the secondary water output temperature C, so as to control the secondary water output temperature C near the expected value and optimize the system use efficiency.

[0034] Next, the process proceeds to step S102. In step S102, the ambient temperature T input to the controller is compared with the upper and lower temperature control points, and the operation mode of the cooling system is determined based on the comparison result.

[0035] Specifically, the controller determines the operation mode of the cooling system by analyzing the relationship between the ambient temperature T from the above ambient temperature sensor 1013 and the upper and lower temperature control points. In this embodiment, the temperature control points are preset as an upper temperature control point F+a or a lower temperature control point F+f, where F is the reference temperature switching point, a is a positive offset parameter, and f is a negative offset parameter. Accordingly, when it is determined in step S102 that the ambient temperature T < F+f, the process proceeds to step S103, and the cooling system operates in the natural cooling mode. When it is determined in step S102 that the ambient temperature T ≥ F+a, the process proceeds to step S104, and the cooling system operates in the mechanical refrigeration mode. When it is determined in step S102 that the ambient temperature T falls within the interval [F+f, F+a], the process proceeds to step S105, and the cooling system operates in the mixed mode.

[0036] In some embodiments, the reference temperature switching point F, and the positive and negative bias parameters a and f can be preset by the controller according to the operating conditions of the cooling system and external environmental factors. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the ambient temperature, heat load status, and operating status can be monitored in real time, and the controller can dynamically calculate the reference temperature switching point F, and the positive and negative bias parameters a and f through algorithms. The reference temperature switching point F, and the positive and negative bias parameters a and f can also be dynamically adjusted based on historical data and current environmental conditions to ensure high efficiency of the cooling system. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the reference temperature switching point F, and the positive and negative bias parameters a and f can also be manually adjusted by the user through a user interface to meet personalized cooling needs. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the reference temperature switching point and the positive and negative bias parameters can be automatically adjusted using machine learning algorithms, enabling the prediction of the optimal switching point and bias parameters under specific environmental conditions, thereby achieving adaptive control.

[0037] Furthermore, in some embodiments, a necessary delay time d is set after each operating mode to prevent the system from frequently switching operating modes due to short-term fluctuations in ambient temperature. By setting the delay time, it is possible to prevent the system from frequently switching between different operating modes, which could cause operational instability, thereby extending equipment life and enhancing the stability and reliability of system operation. In addition, in some embodiments, the delay time d can be dynamically adjusted according to system characteristics and the operating environment.

[0038] The following is a detailed explanation of each of the above action modes. Figures 4 to 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the specific circuits for each action mode. Figure 4 This is a circuit diagram illustrating the cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention operating in natural cooling mode. Figure 5 This is a circuit diagram illustrating the cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention operating in mechanical refrigeration mode. Figure 6 This is a circuit diagram illustrating the cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention operating in hybrid mode.

[0039] First, let's explain the natural cooling mode. Figure 4 Therefore Figure 2 Taking the cooling system 200 as an example, the circulation loop of cooling water within the system is shown in natural cooling mode. When the ambient temperature T is lower than the lower temperature control point F+f, the cooling system enters natural cooling mode. In this natural cooling mode, the heat exchanger and related auxiliary components in the mechanical refrigeration module 103 are in a dormant state. Figure 4As indicated by the middle arrow, the flow direction of the cooling water is regulated by a throttling device, such as a three-way valve 1022, so that the cooling water flows between the primary and secondary loops to form a closed loop, thereby discharging the heat from the heat load to the outside through the indoor heat exchange module 102 and the outdoor heat exchange module 101. Specifically, the cooling water flows sequentially through the heat exchanger 1021 and the outdoor heat exchange module 101 to be cooled, and the cooled water, after being cooled and regulated, returns to the heat load from the outdoor heat exchange module 101, through the heat exchanger 1021. In this process, the outdoor heat exchange module 101 is the only device that performs the cooling action. In some embodiments, the controller can control the primary water temperature by adjusting the speed of the fan 1012, and thus control the secondary water temperature, thereby achieving cooling of the heat load. In some embodiments, PID control can be used to precisely adjust the fan speed of the fan 1012 to obtain the desired secondary water temperature.

[0040] In the aforementioned natural cooling mode, heat from the heat load is discharged only through the heat exchanger of the secondary loop and primary loop to the outside. Cooling water for cooling the heat load flows sequentially through the indoor heat exchange module 102 and the outdoor heat exchange module 101, and is cooled only through heat exchange between the outdoor heat exchange module 101 and the outdoor environment. During this process, only the outdoor heat exchange module 101 undertakes the cooling function of the entire system, ensuring effective utilization of natural cooling in low-temperature environments. Furthermore, since the mechanical refrigeration module 103 does not participate in the cooling process, energy consumption is significantly reduced, thereby significantly improving the overall energy efficiency of the cooling system, effectively reducing system operating costs and extending equipment lifespan.

[0041] Next, the mechanical refrigeration mode will be explained. Figure 5 Therefore Figure 2 Taking the cooling system 200 as an example, the circulation loop of cooling water within the system is shown in mechanical refrigeration mode. When the ambient temperature T is greater than or equal to the upper temperature control point F+a, the cooling system enters mechanical refrigeration mode. In this mechanical refrigeration mode, the mechanical refrigeration module 103 operates. Figure 5 In the direction indicated by the middle arrow, heat from the heat load is transferred to the mechanical refrigeration module 103 through the secondary loop. After being cooled by the refrigerant flowing in the mechanical refrigeration module 103, the heat is finally discharged outdoors through the primary loop. Specifically, cooling water is cooled sequentially by passing through heat exchangers 1031 and 1032 in the mechanical refrigeration module 103 and then through the outdoor heat exchange module 101. The cooled water, after being cooled and regulated, flows back from the outdoor heat exchange module 101 through heat exchangers 1031 and 1032 in the mechanical refrigeration module 103 to return to the heat load. Additionally, as... Figure 5As shown by the middle arrow, under the control of a throttling device such as a three-way valve 1022, the cooling water flowing out of the mechanical refrigeration module 103 will not pass through the heat exchanger 1021 in the indoor heat exchange module 102, but will be directly discharged to the outside through the primary loop.

[0042] In the aforementioned mechanical refrigeration mode, heat from the heat load is discharged only through the following path: flowing out through the heat exchanger of the secondary loop-mechanical refrigeration module, and then being discharged outdoors through the heat exchanger of the mechanical refrigeration module-primary loop. Cooling water used to cool the heat load flows sequentially through the mechanical refrigeration module 103 and the outdoor heat exchange module 101, and is cooled by the cooling action of the mechanical refrigeration module 103. During this process, only the mechanical refrigeration module 103 undertakes the cooling function of the entire system.

[0043] Next, the hybrid mode will be explained. Figure 6 Therefore Figure 2 Taking the cooling system 200 as an example, the circulation loop of cooling water within the system in hybrid mode is shown. When the ambient temperature T is between the temperature control points F+f and F+a, the cooling system enters hybrid mode. In this hybrid mode, the outdoor heat exchange module 101 acts as the primary cooling source, while the mechanical refrigeration module 103 is in an inertial mode. The inertial mode here means that the mechanical refrigeration module 103 only activates to supplement the cooling capacity when the cooling capacity of the outdoor heat exchange module 101 approaches its limit. Figure 6 As indicated by the arrows in the upper half, heat from the heat load is first discharged to the outside through the indoor heat exchange module 102 and then the outdoor heat exchange module 101. That is, as in the natural cooling mode described above, cooling water is cooled sequentially through the heat exchanger 1021 and the outdoor heat exchange module 101. After being cooled and temperature-regulated, the cooling water returns to the heat load from the outdoor heat exchange module 101 through the heat exchanger 1021. At this time, the outdoor heat exchange module 101 is the only device performing the cooling action. When sufficient cooling cannot be achieved by the outdoor heat exchange module 101 alone, i.e., when the cooling capacity of the outdoor heat exchange module 101 is nearing its limit, the mechanical refrigeration module 103 is activated and begins the cooling action, thus... Figure 6 As indicated by the arrow in the lower half, a portion of the heat from the heat load also flows out through the heat exchanger of the secondary loop-mechanical refrigeration module, and then is discharged to the outside through the heat exchanger of the mechanical refrigeration module-primary loop. At this time, as in the mechanical refrigeration mode described above, the cooling water is cooled sequentially through the heat exchangers 1031 and 1032 in the mechanical refrigeration module 103 and the outdoor heat exchange module 101. After being cooled and regulated, the cooling water flows back from the outdoor heat exchange module 101 through the heat exchangers 1031 and 1032 in the mechanical refrigeration module 103 to return to the heat load.

[0044] In the aforementioned hybrid mode, heat from the heat load is preferentially discharged to the outside via the cooling circuit in natural cooling mode. When the cooling capacity of the outdoor heat exchange module 101 approaches its limit, it is then discharged to the outside via the cooling circuit in mechanical cooling mode. By prioritizing the use of the outdoor heat exchange module 101 and only activating the mechanical cooling module 103 when necessary, power consumption can be significantly reduced. At the same time, the timely intervention of the mechanical cooling module 103 when the cooling capacity of the outdoor heat exchange module 101 approaches its limit ensures the stability and efficiency of the cooling system.

[0045] In this embodiment, by performing reasonable mode switching and control under different conditions, the cooling system can operate in different operating modes, which can significantly reduce power consumption while maintaining stable cooling temperature and low noise operation. In addition, it can avoid frequent switching that leads to frequent equipment start-ups and shutdowns, thus extending the system's service life.

[0046] The above illustrates an example of determining the operating mode of the cooling system solely by analyzing the relationship between the ambient temperature T from the aforementioned ambient temperature sensor 1013 and the aforementioned temperature control point. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the cooling system can also adjust its strategy according to instructions from an external host, external controller, or cloud, machine learning, self-evolution, and other methods to adapt to different environmental conditions and user needs, thereby improving the flexibility and performance of the cooling system.

Controller Structure

[0047] As described above, cooling systems 100 and 200 also include a controller that controls various sensors, auxiliary components, parameters, and operating modes within the system. This controller can be integrated with the cooling system or set up independently. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller may also have intelligent control logic and other functions. In addition, in some embodiments, the controller can not only function as a local control unit but also receive control commands from the cloud or a remote server. The structure and functions of the controller involved in this application will be described in detail below.

[0048] First, the controller involved in this application has the function of controlling various sensors, auxiliary components, parameters, and operating modes in the system. These have been described above and will not be repeated here.

[0049] In some embodiments, the controller may have functions such as intelligent logic control. Specifically, in cases where the heat dissipation capacity of the outdoor heat exchange module 101 decreases under special environments, such as dust clogging the condenser or spring willow catkins blocking the air duct, the controller can estimate the heat dissipation efficiency coefficient of the outdoor heat exchange module 101 based on information from temperature and flow sensors. When the heat dissipation efficiency coefficient is lower than a preset lower limit and the cooling system enters the aforementioned hybrid mode, the intervention time of the mechanical refrigeration module 103 will be advanced to compensate for more of the natural cooling capacity. Furthermore, in some embodiments, when the cooling system is in the mechanical refrigeration mode with the highest power consumption, the controller can take into account the design margin of the compressor and "overclock" the compressor according to the degree of reduction in outdoor heat dissipation efficiency to compensate for the temporary loss of cooling capacity.

[0050] With the aforementioned functions, the cooling system's operating mode can be dynamically adjusted, ensuring the stable operation of medical equipment such as magnetic resonance imaging systems under various complex environmental conditions. Furthermore, the cooling performance can be dynamically optimized based on real-time environmental parameters, significantly improving the adaptability and reliability of the cooling system.

[0051] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller also has an interface for interacting with medical devices to allow the medical devices to exercise overriding control over the cooling systems 100 and 200. This interface will be referred to below as the overriding interface. Overriding refers to the medical devices directly intervening in and adjusting the operating parameters and control strategies of the cooling system (a subsystem) under temporary or specific conditions through this interface. In some embodiments, the medical device is a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system.

[0052] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the switching of the operating mode of the cooling system according to these embodiments. (e.g.) Figure 7 As shown, in Figure 3 Before step S102, the judgment in step S106 is performed first. In step S106, the controller determines whether there is an over-control command from the magnetic resonance system transmitted via the over-control interface. If there is no over-control command, the process proceeds to step S102, continuing the process of determining the three operating modes based on the ambient temperature. If there is an over-control command, the process proceeds to either the natural cooling mode in step S103 or the mechanical cooling mode in step S104, depending on the specific content of the over-control command. In addition, in some embodiments, the over-control command can also directly indicate the entry into the hybrid mode in step S105.

[0053] In some embodiments, the aforementioned supercontrol interface may be a digital signal interface or the like. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the supercontrol command, in addition to including the target cooling mode, may also include information such as temperature range, cooling rate, priority, and system operating status.

[0054] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the overclocking command can also instruct the cooling system to enter a special operating mode. For example, in some embodiments, the controller of the cooling system can receive an overclocking command from the magnetic resonance system via an interactive interface to enter a low-power mode, adjusting the timing of the mechanical cooling module 103's intervention to be more delayed, while raising the preset temperature control point to adapt to low heat load conditions, thereby achieving a more significant energy-saving effect.

[0055] In some embodiments, the controller also includes an IoT module. Through the IoT module, the controller can interconnect with IoT edge devices via wired or wireless transmission protocols compatible with Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). These transmission protocols include, but are not limited to, Modbus, LoRA, Zigbee, and CAN bus protocols. Within compliance limits, all sensor data, operating status of core components (such as pumps, compressors, and fans), external power supply status, and power quality in the cooling system are uploaded to the cloud or a private server via dedicated or public networks. The IoT server then displays the real-time data, pushes alarms, and analyzes the data according to pre-programmed logic, thereby enabling functions such as digital twin display of equipment, fault alarms, fault warnings, and data analysis.

[0056] In this way, maintenance personnel, R&D personnel, and users can dynamically display the cooling system's operating principles and status in real time on computers or mobile devices, analyze energy consumption, and receive alarms and warnings, improving the cooling system's reliability and ease of use. Simultaneously, the cooling system can be remotely controlled by sending commands to the controller via an IoT module through a server. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a comprehensive software ecosystem covering all scenarios can be developed, such as customized software like mobile apps, web applications, and server applications, to achieve the aforementioned functions.

[0057] In some embodiments, when the controller receives control commands from the magnetic resonance system via the control interface and also receives control commands from the Internet of Things (IoT) via the IoT module, the control priority can be set as follows: self-protection logic (within the controller) > control commands from the magnetic resonance system > control commands from the IoT > three-mode switching logic based on ambient temperature. However, the control priority is not limited to this and can be set according to actual needs.

[0058] Furthermore, the control of the cooling system via the over-control interface and the control commands transmitted via the IoT module are not limited to the above. For example, they can also include adjusting the values ​​of preset parameters in the controller (such as temperature setpoint, pressure setpoint, inverter upper and lower limits, etc.), enabling or suppressing one or two of the three cooling modes, adjusting the PID parameters in the controller, etc., which can be set according to actual needs.

[0059] By setting up diverse interactive interfaces, more efficient cooling strategies can be implemented, enabling comprehensive remote monitoring of equipment and significantly improving the operational reliability of the cooling system.

[0060] In addition, the controller may include at least one expansion interface that supports common Internet and industrial communication protocols for enabling control optimization based on AI deep learning.

[0061] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an architecture for implementing AI deep learning-based control optimization in a cooling system according to some embodiments. For example... Figure 8 As shown, data transmitted from the aforementioned extended interface of the cooling system is fed into the agent program. The main function of the agent program is to process the input data and convert it into a format recognizable by the subsequent inference model. The agent program is also responsible for observing relevant information and monitoring the input data and system status in real time to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the data. Next, the data processed by the agent program is passed to the inference model. This inference model performs inference based on a pre-trained algorithm, generating suggestions for control strategies or parameters. During this process, the inference model iterates based on the observed data, gradually optimizing the control strategy to adapt to the real-time status and needs of the equipment in the cooling system. The output of the inference model then enters the conversion program. Using the conversion program, the final output of the inference model is converted into control commands or parameters recognizable by the cooling system's controller. Finally, the control commands or parameters generated by the conversion program are sent back to the controller via the extended interface to achieve real-time control and adjustment of the equipment in the cooling system.

[0062] also, Figure 8 This is just one implementation architecture according to some embodiments, and the architecture for implementing AI deep learning-based control optimization is not limited to this. In some embodiments, the agent program and the conversion program are not limited to one; for example, different programs can be set to handle different data types (such as temperature sensor data sets, flow sensor data sets, PID parameter adjustment modules, three cooling mode switching modules, etc.), or an energy analysis program module can be added.

[0063] In some embodiments, the above architecture can be implemented using an edge small model approach. Specifically, this involves adding local edge inference devices (including but not limited to: industrial control computers with GPU cores, local high-performance computers, computing expansion cards supporting neural network computing, etc.), and deploying pre-trained and distilled small inference models on these devices. These models then perform inference based on real-time data from the controller or IoT devices and provide personalized adjustments to the control strategy. By adopting this small model approach, the involved devices and models are all part of the cooling system, offering advantages such as good real-time performance, enabling rapid response to changes in device status and ensuring the efficient operation of the cooling system. Furthermore, this approach can reduce data transmission latency and decrease reliance on cloud resources, thereby improving the overall stability of the system. However, it should be noted that its functionality is limited by the capabilities of the small model and may not provide sufficient decision support in complex scenarios.

[0064] Furthermore, in some embodiments, an external large-scale model approach can be used to implement the above architecture. Specifically, a pre-trained and fine-tuned large-scale inference model running on a high-performance server within the MRI system rack or on an AI server deployed in the cloud, relying on a local data link or IoT link with the MRI system, periodically or in stages optimizes and iterates the cooling system's control strategy, triggered by fixed time nodes or specific operating states of the equipment. This large-scale model approach offers higher control precision and capability, enabling the handling of more complex decision-making problems and providing more accurate control strategies and parameter adjustments. However, the real-time performance of this approach is limited by the data transmission speed and the computation time of the large-scale model inference, which may lead to response delays in certain situations. Therefore, users need to consider factors such as network conditions and system load when selecting this approach to ensure optimal performance.

[0065] Furthermore, the choice of which model to use to implement the above architecture can be made based on customer requirements, regulatory restrictions, and market strategies.

[0066] Furthermore, in both of the above schemes, the model weight generation methods include, but are not limited to, the following: For example, using laboratory data, historical site data, and customer-specific information (such as the characteristics of magnetic resonance products, the climate conditions corresponding to the installation location, and the thermal load corresponding to the customer's commonly used scanning sequences), combined with the customer's thermal load characteristics and usage habits data since installation (collectively referred to as the dataset), a neural network algorithm is used for training, and the model is tested and verified using equipment log information to obtain the aforementioned small or large model. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the existing inference model can be further fine-tuned or retrained based on the aforementioned dataset to improve the model's adaptability and accuracy. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a small model suitable for edge devices can be obtained based on the aforementioned generated large model through distillation or quantization techniques. The "small model" and "large model" mentioned here refer to the "small inference model" in the aforementioned edge small model scheme and the "large inference model" in the aforementioned external large model scheme, respectively.

[0067] By setting at least one expansion interface in the controller, control optimization based on AI deep learning can be realized, thereby generating customized control strategies or control parameters for each user or site. As the equipment is used over time or the number of installed units increases, the controller can be made more intelligent and personalized, thereby stabilizing and optimizing the performance of the cooling system, improving the reliability of equipment in the cooling system, and promoting the faster achievement of energy conservation and environmental protection goals.

[0068] The cooling system and cooling method for medical devices according to the present invention have been described above. However, the structures shown in the above exemplary embodiments are merely examples of the content of the present invention and can be combined with other known technologies. Furthermore, parts of the structure may be omitted or modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0069] Furthermore, within the scope of this invention, the various embodiments can be freely combined, or any structural elements of the various embodiments can be modified, or any structural elements of the various embodiments can be omitted.

Claims

1. A cooling system for a medical device, wherein one or more heat loads in the medical device are cooled, characterized in that, include: An outdoor heat exchange module, which is used for heat exchange with the outdoor environment; An indoor heat exchange module is connected to the outdoor heat exchange module via a first pipeline and coupled to the heat load via a second pipeline. as well as A mechanical refrigeration module, which is connected to the outdoor heat exchange module via the first pipe and to the indoor heat exchange module via the second pipe. Depending on the ambient temperature, the cooling system switches between the following three operating modes: In the natural cooling mode, the cooling function is performed solely by the outdoor heat exchange module. In mechanical refrigeration mode, the cooling function is performed solely by the mechanical refrigeration module; and In the hybrid mode, the outdoor heat exchange module is used preferentially for cooling. When the cooling capacity of the outdoor heat exchange module approaches its limit, the mechanical refrigeration module is activated and performs cooling.

2. The cooling system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first and second pipelines circulate fluid media to discharge heat from the heat load to the outside.

3. The cooling system as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It also includes the controller, The controller sets a temperature control point, and based on the comparison between the ambient temperature and the temperature control point, it switches and operates the cooling system between the natural cooling mode, the mechanical refrigeration mode, and the hybrid mode.

4. The cooling system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The temperature control point is preset based on the operating conditions of the cooling system and external environmental factors.

5. The cooling system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The temperature control point is dynamically adjusted based on real-time monitoring of the ambient temperature, the state of the heat load, and the operating status of the cooling system.

6. The cooling system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, In the hybrid mode, the timing of intervention of the mechanical refrigeration module is adjusted according to the real-time operating status of the cooling system or external instructions.

7. The cooling system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The controller has a super control interface for interacting with the medical device and accepting super control commands from the medical device.

8. The cooling system as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, In the presence of the over-control command, the controller responds to the over-control command to switch the action mode.

9. The cooling system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The controller has an Internet of Things (IoT) module, which is interconnected with IoT edge devices.

10. The cooling system as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The controller has at least one expansion interface for implementing control optimization based on AI deep learning.

11. A cooling method for a medical device, implemented by the cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: When the ambient temperature is lower than the lower temperature control point, the cooling system will enter the natural cooling mode to operate. When the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the upper temperature control point, the cooling system enters mechanical refrigeration mode and operates; and When the ambient temperature is between the upper temperature control point and the lower temperature control point, the cooling system enters a hybrid mode to operate. In the hybrid mode, the outdoor heat exchange module is used first for cooling, and when the capacity limit is approached, the mechanical refrigeration module intervenes to participate in cooling.

12. The cooling method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The upper temperature control point and the lower temperature control point are dynamically adjusted based on the results of real-time monitoring of the ambient temperature, the state of the heat load, and the operating status of the cooling system.

13. The cooling method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, In the hybrid mode, the timing of intervention of the mechanical refrigeration module is adjusted according to the real-time operating status of the cooling system or external instructions.

14. The cooling method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, In the event of an over-control command from the medical device, the cooling system prioritizes responding to the over-control command to switch operating modes and take action.

15. A medical device, characterized in that, include: Thermal load; as well as The cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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