Cooling element

Abstract

According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cooling element comprisinga base, one or more than one profile(s) extending from the base, a plurality of channels provided into the base for communicating with the one or more than one profile(s), and one or more than one aperture(s) via which one or more than one of the profiles is / are in connection with a respective channel.

Description

COOLING ELEMENTFIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooling element and a method for providing the cooling element.BACKGROUND

[0002] The cooling of electric components, such as microprocessors, LEDs, IGBT modules, etc., is conventionally based on attaching a cooling element to physical and thermally conducting connection to the component. A typical such cooling element comprises a heat-transfer device, such as a heat pipe, to transfer heat between two solid interfaces.

[0003] Typically, the cooling element comprises a base connected to thereto. Separate heat pipes are connected to the base by soldering, gluing or pressing. A separate vapor chamber can be soldered to the base. However, in this case, additional interfaces are formed in the structure, which interfaces impede heat transfer.

[0004] Further, heat pipes of the cooling element are typically joined to the base by soldering, welding or a thread connection. Joining by soldering or welding is difficult, because it requires controlling of a temperature and flow of a connecting alloy to avoid damaging the heat pipes. The thread connection requires complex machining of the heat pipe and the base. Providing a permanent tight bond between the joined parts may be challenging by the above-mentioned methods. A poor joint hinders the operation of the cooling element and is difficult to fix.

[0005] Therefore, there remains a need to further develop the cooling elements without excessively increasing the complexity or at least to provide the public with a useful alternative.SUMMARY

[0006] An object of the present embodiments is to mitigate at least some of the above- mentioned problems. An object of the present embodiments is to provide a large evaporator,which collects heat from a large area, is rigid and does not bend. A further object is to provide a reliable, close-fitting and inexpensive joint between a heat pipe and a base.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a cooling element comprising:- a base,- one or more than one profile(s) extending from the base,- a plurality of channels provided into the base for communicating with the one or more than one profile(s), and- one or more than one aperture(s) via which one or more than one of the profiles is / are in connection with a respective channel.

[0008] Significant benefits are gained with aid of the present cooling element. The cooling element provides a large evaporator formed by the channels, which collect heat from a large area. The cooling element has no additional interfaces between the base and the channels, because the channels are provided into the base. The cooling element thus provides reliable cooling of electronic and optical components.

[0009] One or more embodiments may comprise one or more features from the following itemized list:- the channels intersect with each other to provide a network of channels- the network of channels connects the profiles to each other for sharing heat dissipation resources between the profiles- the plurality of the channels is integrated to the base- at least some of the channels comprise mechanical plugs for sealing the channels- the cooling element further comprises a plurality of fins- the profiles are configured to extend through the fins- each of the profiles is a separate piece from the base and connected thereto- each of the profiles comprises a fitting end- the fitting end comprises an enlarged section, a narrow section connected to the enlarged section, and an optional transition section between the enlarged section and the narrow section- an outer diameter of the enlarged section is greater than an outer diameter of the narrow section- the cooling element further comprises a sleeve having a leading edge and a trailing edge- an inner diameter of the sleeve is greater at the leading edge than at the trailing edge- the sleeve is arranged around the fitting end and apply radial force thereto- the base comprises a plurality of collars- each of the fitting ends and the sleeves are arranged around the respective collars- each of the collars define the aperture and the each of the profiles is in fluid connection with the plurality of profiles via the apertures- the base comprises spaces around the each of the collars- the each of the fitting ends and the sleeves is arranged in the space

[0010] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for producing a cooling element, comprising:- providing a base,- providing a first plurality of channels into the base,- providing one or more than one of profile(s) of a condenser, which each of the profiles comprise a fitting end,- providing one or more than one aperture(s) via which one or more than one of the profiles is / are configured to be in connection with a respective channel, and- connecting one or more than one profile(s) to the one or more than one aperture(s).BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIGURE 1 illustrates a cooling element in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0012] FIGURE 2 illustrates a cooling element having a network provided by channels in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0013] FIGURE 3 illustrates a cooling element having a network provided by channels in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0014] FIGURE 4 illustrates components of a cooling element in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0015] FIGURE 5 illustrates a cooling element comprising a plurality of angled profiles in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0016] FIGURE 6 illustrates a kit in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0017] FIGURE 7 illustrates a kit comprising a sleeve with a bevelling in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0018] FIGURE 8 illustrates a cooling element in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0019] FIGURE 9 illustrates a base comprising a space in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0020] FIGURE 10 illustrates a cooling element comprising the base of FIGURE 9 in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0021] FIGURE 11 illustrates a base comprising a space in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0022] FIGURE 12 illustrates a cooling element comprising the base of FIGURE 11;

[0023] FIGURE 13 illustrates a profile and a base for forming a cooling element comprising an angled profile in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0024] FIGURE 14 illustrates a profile and a base comprising a space for forming a cooling element comprising an angled profile in accordance with at least some embodiments;

[0025] FIGURE 15 illustrates a profile and a base comprising a space for forming a cooling element comprising an angled profile in accordance with at least some embodiments; and

[0026] FIGURE 16 illustrates a cooling element comprising a curved profile in accordance with at least some embodiments.EMBODIMENTS

[0027] In the present context, the term “profile” means an individual part of a condenser. Two or more than two profiles can be connected together to form a condenser. The profile can be a pipe, which can be a heat pipe of a cooling element.

[0028] In the present context, “cooling element” refers to a device for cooling of electric or optical components.

[0029] In the present context, “profile” refers to a heat-transfer device that employs phase transition to transfer heat between two solid interfaces. A profile can be a thermosiphon, which is a heat pipe where a liquid is returned to the evaporator by gravitational or other accelerational forces. The profile can form a condenser section of a thermosiphon.

[0030] In the present context, ’’heat pipe structure” refers to a structure comprising a profile and a sleeve. The heat pipe structure is a structure in which fluids, and hence also heat, can be transferred.

[0031] In the present context, “evaporator” refers to a device used to turn a liquid into a vapour. The evaporator can be a surface evaporator.

[0032] In the present context, “enclosed” refers to an element or feature that is integrated to another element or feature.

[0033] In the present context, “integrated” refers to an element or feature that is an integral part of another element or feature such that said elements or features are inseparable. Further, the term refers to an element or feature that is formed from a material of a body.

[0034] A vapor chamber of a cooling element collects heat from an electrical or optical component. The vapor chamber can a separate part, which can be soldered to a base of the cooling element. However, in this case, additional interfaces impeding heat transfer are formed in the structure. At least of some of the present embodiments provide solutions to at least some of the above-mentioned problems.

[0035] According to an embodiment, a cooling element 100 comprises:- a base 120,- one or more than one profile(s) 110 extending from the base 120,- a plurality of channels 124, 125 provided into the base 120 for communicating with the one or more than one profile(s) 110, and- one or more than one aperture(s) 122 via which one or more than one of the profiles 110 is / are in connection with a respective channel 124, 125.

[0036] The cooling element provides a large evaporator formed by the channels, which collect heat from a large area. The cooling element has no additional interfaces between the base and the channels, because the channels are provided into the base. The cooling element thus provides reliable cooling of electronic and optical components.

[0037] The base 120 can be rectangular and thus comprises four sides. However, the base can have any other suitable form. For example, the base can be round.

[0038] According to an embodiment, the channels 124, 125 intersect with each other to provide a network of channels. For example, a first plurality of the channels 124 can extend from a first side of the base 120 inside the base 120, and a second plurality of channels 125 can extend from a second side of the base 120 inside the base 120, to provide the network of the channels. This provides a large evaporator and enables sharing the heat between the intersecting channels from a large area. This in further provides more efficient cooling of the electrical or optical component.

[0039] The first plurality of channels 124 can extend perpendicularly to the second plurality of channels 125 in a plane defined by the base 120. Alternatively, an angle between the first plurality of channels 124 and the second plurality of channels 125 can be for example, 90 to 50 degrees, preferably 60 degrees in the plane defined by the base 120.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the network of channels connects the profiles 110 to each other for sharing heat dissipation resources between the profiles 110. The cooling element thus enables sharing the heat between the profiles. This enables more efficient cooling of the electrical or optical component.

[0041] A number of the profiles 100 can be for example, 1 to 100, such as 13, as illustrated in FIGURE 1.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the plurality of the channels 124, 125 is integrated to the base 120. This means that the channels 124, 125 cannot be separated from the base 120. The channels 124, 125 are formed as cavities in the basic material of the base 120.

[0043] The channels 124, 125 can be blind holes. Therefore, the channels 124, 125 can extend from an outer surface of the base 120 inside the base 120. The channels 124 can have a first end on the outer surface of the base 120 and a second end inside the base.

[0044] Alternatively, the channels 124, 125 can extend through the base 120.

[0045] The channels 124, 125 can have either the same length or of different lengths.

[0046] According to an embodiment, at least some of the channels 124, 125 comprise mechanical plugs for sealing the channels 124, 125. The mechanical plugs can be inserted to the first ends of the channels 124, 125. The mechanical plugs can be produced from metal, such as aluminum, aluminum alloy or copper or copper alloy, such as brass. The mechanical plugs prevent the channels from leaking. The plugs thus protect the structure of the cooling element from damaging and enable efficient function of the cooling element.

[0047] According to an embodiment, the cooling element 100 further comprises a plurality of fins 150, and the profiles 120 are configured to extend through the fins 150. Alternatively, the fins 150 can be soldered, glued or connected by brazing to the profiles. The fins provide a large heat dissipation area for dissipating heat away from the electric component to the ambient.

[0048] The fins are plate-like planar or curved elements. The fins 150 can be cut or stamped from sheet metal. Holes for the profiles can be cut or stamped through as well. When the holes are properly sized, the fins press fit tightly on the profiles and heat transfer is very good. Optionally, to optimize thermal transfer, the fins can be soldered, glued or connected by brazing to the profiles.

[0049] FIGURE 1 illustrates a cooling element 100. The cooling element comprises a base 120 comprising a plurality of channels 124, 125. The cooling element further comprises a plurality of fins 150 and a plurality of profiles 110 connected to the base 120, which profiles 110 extend through the fins 150. The profiles 110 form a condenser 116. The cooling element enables transferring the heat from the base via profiles to the fins, which dissipate heat away to the ambient.

[0050] The network can comprise intersections formed by the intersecting channels 124, 125, and at least some of the profiles 110 can be connected to the intersections. This enables more efficient flow of fluid or vapour to the profiles.

[0051] FIGURE 2 illustrates a cooling element 100 having a network provided by channels 124, 125. The channels 124, 125 are formed in a base 120. The base 120 is rectangular and thus comprises four sides. A first plurality of the channels 124, namely fivechannels 124, extends from a first side inside the base 120. A second plurality of channels 125, namely two channels 125, extends from a second side inside the base 120. The first plurality of channels 124 intersect with the second plurality of channels 125 to provide the network. The first plurality of channels 124 extend perpendicularly to the second plurality of channels 125 in a plane defined by the base 120. The channels are blind holes. A plurality of profiles 110 are connected to the channels and the profiles 110 extend through a plurality of fins 150. Some of the profiles 110 are connected to intersections 126 formed by the intersecting channels 124, 125

[0052] FIGURE 3 illustrates a cooling element 100 having a network provided by channels 124, 125. The channels 124, 125 are formed in a base 120. The base 120 is rectangular and thus comprises four sides. A first plurality of the channels 124, namely two channels 124, extends from a first side inside the base 120. A second plurality of channels 125, namely three channels 125, extends from a second side inside the base 120. The first plurality of channels 124 intersect with the second plurality of channels 125 to provide the network. The first plurality of channels 124 extend perpendicularly to the second plurality of channels 125. The channels are blind holes. A plurality of profiles 110 are connected to the channels and the profiles 110 extend through a plurality of fins 150. The profiles 110 are connected to intersections 126 formed by the intersecting channels 124, 125.

[0053] According to an embodiment, each of the profiles 110 is a separate piece from the base 120 and connected thereto. This enables of producing the parts of the cooling element separately. So, the parts can be connected together to form a preferred entity.

[0054] According to an embodiment, each of the profiles 110 comprises a fitting end 111. The fitting end 111 enables a reliable fitting of the profiles the base.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the fitting end 111 comprises:- an enlarged section 113,- a narrow section 115 connected to the enlarged section 113, and- an optional transition section 114 between the enlarged section 113 and the narrow section 115, wherein an outer diameter of the enlarged section 113 is greater than an outer diameter of the narrow section 115. The fitting end provides a reliable attachment of the profile to the base. The enlarged section enables forming a greater joint between the profile and the base, which in turn enhanced function of the cooling element.

[0056] The enlarged section 113 can be formed to the profile 110 during producing of the profile 110. Alternatively, the enlarged section 113 can be formed after producing of the profile 110.

[0057] The profile(s) 110 can be connected to the base 120 by a kit. The kit facilitates connecting the profile(s) to the base. The kit provides a reliable, close-fitting and inexpensive joint between the profile(s) and the base. Due to the kit, soldering requiring a temperature control or complex thread connections can be avoided.

[0058] The kit for connecting the profile 110 to a base 120 can comprise:- a profile 110 comprising a fitting end 111, and- a sleeve 130 having a leading edge 131 and a trailing edge 132, wherein an inner diameter of the sleeve 130 is greater at the leading edge 131 than at the trailing edge 132, wherein the sleeve 130 is configured to be arranged around the fitting end 111 of the profile 110 and apply radial force thereto.

[0059] By ‘ ‘the sleeve is arranged around the fitting end”, it is meant that the fitting end can be at least partially inside the sleeve. Thus, the sleeve can enclose at least partially the fitting end. Then, an inner surface of the sleeve and an outer surface of the fitting end can be in the contact.

[0060] FIGURE 6 illustrates a kit. The kit comprises a profile 110 and a sleeve 130. The profile 110 comprises a fitting end 111. The fitting end 111 comprises an enlarged section 113, a narrow section 115 and a transition section 114 between the enlarged section 113 and the narrow section 115. The sleeve 130 has a leading edge 131 and a trailing edge 132. An inner diameter of the sleeve 130 is greater at the leading edge 131 than at the trailing edge 132.

[0061] An outer nominal diameter of the transition section 114 can be greater than an outer nominal diameter of the narrow section 115, but smaller than an outer nominal diameter of the enlarged section. The outer nominal diameter of the transition section 114 can decrease towards the narrow section 115. In other words, the transition section can be tapered.

[0062] Alternatively, the fitting end 111 can comprise a shoulder (not illustrated) between the enlarged section 113 and the narrow section 115. Then, the fitting end 111 maynot comprise the above-described transition section, but the narrow section 115 may be directly connected to the enlarged section.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the nominal outer diameter of the enlarged section 113 is 1 to 50 %, preferably 5 to 20 %, greater than the nominal outer diameter of the narrow section 115. This enables forming a greater joint between the profile 110 and the base 120, which in turn enhanced function of a cooling element 100, when the kit is used in the cooling element 100.

[0064] According to an embodiment, the sleeve 130 is configured to move along the narrow section 115 without plastic deformation. Thus, the sleeve is easy to move along the narrow section and it does not damage the narrow section when moved along it.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the sleeve 130 is configured to cause plastic deformation to the enlarged section 113, when the sleeve 130 is moved along the enlarged section 113. Thus, the sleeve can be pressed around the fitting end so that the fitting end can be tightly and reliably connected to the base 120.

[0066] According to an embodiment, an inner nominal diameter of the trailing edge 132 of the sleeve 130 is smaller than the greatest nominal outer diameter of the enlarged section 113, as illustrated in FIGURE 6. Thus, the sleeve is configured to apply radial force to the enlarged section 113, when the sleeve is arranged around the enlarged section 113.

[0067] According to an embodiment, an inner nominal diameter of the leading edge131 of the sleeve 130 is greater than the nominal outer diameter of the enlarged section 113, as illustrated in FIGURE 6. This makes sliding of the sleeve around the enlarged section easier.

[0068] According to an embodiment, an inner nominal diameter of the trailing edge132 of the sleeve 130 is greater than a nominal outer diameter of the narrow section 115, as illustrated in FIGURE 6. Thus, the sleeve is easy to move along the narrow section and it does not damage the narrow section when moved along it.

[0069] The sleeve 130 can further comprise a bevel or a rounding after the trailing edge 132. Then, the sleeve can be placed around the profile without any difficulty, because the sleeve can be placed around the profile either the leading edge 131 or the trailing edge 132 ahead.

[0070] FIGURE 7 illustrates a kit comprising a sleeve 130 with a bevel. The sleeve comprises a leading edge 131, a trailing edge 132 and a bevel formed after the trailing edge. The sleeve 130 has the smallest nominal inner diameter at the trailing edge. A nominal inner diameter of the sleeve is substantially same at the leading edge 131 and the bevelling. The kit further comprises a profile 110.

[0071] The profile 110 is preferably made from a thermally conducting material, such as aluminium or an aluminium alloy. A cross-section of the profile 110 can be circular or any suitable shape.

[0072] The profile 110 can be used as a heat pipe. The profile 110 can have an enclosed volume, in which a heat transferring fluid is arranged to act. The heat transferring fluid is preferably a saturated vapour with little or no impurities.

[0073] FIGURE 8 illustrates a cooling element 100. The cooling element comprises a kit comprising a profile 110 and a sleeve 130. The profile 110 comprises a fitting end 111. The fitting end 111 comprises an enlarged section 113, a narrow section 115 and a transition section 114 between the enlarged section 113 and the narrow section 115. The sleeve 130 has a leading edge 131 and a trailing edge 132. An inner diameter of the sleeve 130 is greater at the leading edge 131 than at the trailing edge 132. The cooling element 100 further comprises a base 120. The base 120 encloses a channel 124.

[0074] According to an embodiment, the base 120 comprises a space 123 around the collar 121, and the fitting end 111 and the sleeve 130 are arranged in the space 123. The space allows arranging the fitting end 111 and the sleeve 130 around the collar 121.

[0075] By “the fitting end and the sleeve is around the collar”, it is meant that the collar can be at least partially inside the fitting end and the fitting end can be at least partially inside the sleeve. Thus, the fitting end can enclose at least partially the collar and the sleeve can enclose at least partially the fitting end. Then, an inner surface of the fitting end and an outer surface of the collar can be in the contact, and an outer surface of the fitting end and an inner surface of the sleeve can be in the contact.

[0076] The space 123 can be formed in the base 120 during producing the base 123. So, the space 123 can be produced during casting of the base 120. Alternatively, the space 123 can be formed to the base 120 after producing the base 120. The space 123 can be formed for example, by machining.

[0077] The space 123 can extend from the collar 121 across the width of the base 120 in the first dimension X, as illustrated in FIGURE 8. This enables arranging of the fitting ends and sleeves with varying wall thicknesses around the collar.

[0078] Alternatively, the space 123 can be integrated in the base 120 and the space 123 can be open at least one of its sides for receiving the fitting end 111. Then, the space 123 is surrounded by the collar 121 and a basic material of the base 123, as illustrated in FIGURES 9, 10, 11 and 12. Thus, the fitting end 111 and the sleeve 130 can be arranged tightly in the base between the collar 121 and the basic material of the base 123.

[0079] FIGURE 9 illustrates a base 120 comprising a space 123. The base 120 further comprises a collar. The space 123 is enclosed by the collar 121 and a basic material of the base 120. A fitting end 111 of a profile 110 and a sleeve 130 are configured to be arranged in the space 123.

[0080] FIGURE 10 illustrates a cooling element 100 comprising the base 120 of FIGURE 9. The fitting end 111 and the sleeve 130 are arranged in the space 123. So, the collar 121 and the basic material of the base 123 enclose the fitting end 111 and the sleeve 130.

[0081] FIGURE 11 illustrates a base 120 comprising a space 123. The space 123 is enclosed by a collar 121 and a basic material of the base 120. A fitting end 111 of a profile 110 and a sleeve 130 are configured to be arranged in the space 123.

[0082] FIGURE 12 illustrates a cooling element 100 comprising the base 120 of FIGURE 11. The fitting end 111 and the sleeve 130 is arranged in the space 123. So, the collar 121 and the basic material of the base 123 enclose the fitting end 111 and the sleeve 130.

[0083] According to an embodiment, yield strength of the collar 121 and the sleeve 130 is greater than yield strength of the enlarged section 113. Thus, the collar can withstand the radial force applied by the sleeve without deformation, but the sleeve can cause plastic deformation to the enlarged section when the sleeve is moved along the enlarged section. This enables of forming a tight connection between the sleeve and enlarged section. In addition, arranging the sleeve around the enlarged section and the collar does not change the shape of the collar. Therefore, it does not affect the operation of the cooling element 100.

[0084] According to an embodiment, the base 120 is configured to extend in a first dimension X and the profile 110 is configured to extend in a second dimension Y, which second dimension Y is angled in respect to the first dimension X. By adjusting the angle, the heat can be directed in the desired direction.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the angle between the first dimension X and the second dimension Y is 5 to 45 degrees, preferably 5 to 25 degrees. For example, the angle is 5, 10, 15, 20 or 25 degrees.

[0086] FIGURE 13 illustrates a profile 110 and a base 120 for forming a cooling element comprising an angled profile 110. The profile 110 comprises a sleeve 130 around the profile 110. A base 120 comprises a collar 121. The collar 121 extends in a second dimension Y, which is angled in respect to a first dimension X. The space 123 extends from the collar 121 across the width of the base 120 in the first dimension X. The profile 110 and the sleeve 130 are configured to be arranged around the collar 121 for forming a cooling element comprising an angled profile 110.

[0087] FIGURE 14 illustrates a profile 110 and a base 120 comprising a space 123 for forming a cooling element comprising an angled profile 110. The profile 110 comprises a sleeve 130 around the profile 110 and a base 120 comprises a collar 121. The collar 121 extends in a second dimension Y, which is angled in respect to a first dimension X. The space 123 is enclosed by a collar 121 and a basic material of the base 120. The profile 110 and the sleeve 130 are configured to be arranged around the collar 121 for forming a cooling element comprising an angled profile 110.

[0088] FIGURE 15 illustrates a profile 110 and a base 120 comprising a space 123 for forming a cooling element comprising an angled profile 110. The profile 110 comprises a sleeve 130 around the profile 110 and a base 120 comprises a collar 121. The collar 121 extends in a second dimension Y, which is angled in respect to a first dimension X. The space 123 is enclosed by a collar 121 and a basic material of the base 120. The profile 110 and the sleeve 130 are configured to be arranged around the collar 121 for forming a cooling element comprising an angled profile 110.

[0089] The profile 110 can be curved. This enables more effective use of a space if the space is limited in the first direction X. Then a space in the second direction Y can beused for providing a long enough profile for effective heat transfer. In addition, the sleeve enhances the connection of the curved profile to the base.

[0090] A bend angle of the profile 110 can be 5 to 45 degrees, preferably 5 to 25 degrees.

[0091] FIGURE 16 a cooling element 100 comprising a curved profile 110. The cooling element 100 comprises a base 120 enclosing a channel 124. The base further comprises a space. The curved profile 110 comprises a fitting end 111 and a sleeve 130 around the fitting end 111. The fitting end 111 and the sleeve are arranged in the space 123. The evaporator is in fluid contact with the curved profile 110 via an aperture 122.

[0092] According to an embodiment, a heat transfer system comprises a cooling element 100 as described above and a heat source connected to a base 120. The heat source can be for example, an electrical or optical component.

[0093] FIGURE 4 illustrates components of a cooling element 100. The cooling element 100 comprises a base 120 comprising a plurality of channels 124, 125, a plurality of profiles 110, a plurality of sleeves 130 and a plurality of fins. A number of the profiles 110 is the same than a number of the sleeves 130. The base 120 further comprises a plurality of collars 123. Each of the collars 123 define an aperture 122. A number of the collars 123 is the same than the number of the profiles 110.

[0094] FIGURE 5 illustrates a cooling element 100 comprising a plurality of angled profiles 110. Each of the profiles 110 comprise a fitting end 111 and a sleeve 130 around the fitting end. The angled profiles 110 comprise a plurality of fins 150 around the angled profiles. The cooling element comprises a base 120, which comprise a plurality of collars collar 121. The collar 121 extends in a second dimension Y, which is angled in respect to a first dimension X. The base 120 further comprises a plurality of channels 124. Each of the sleeves 130 and the fitting ends 111 are arranged around the respective collars 121. A number of the profiles 110, the sleeves 130 and the collars 121 is the same.

[0095] According to an embodiment, a method for producing a cooling element, comprises:- providing a base 120,- providing a first plurality of channels 124 into the base 120,- providing one or more than one of profile(s) 110 of a condenser 116, which each of the profiles comprise a fitting end 111,- providing one or more than one aperture(s) 122 via which one or more than one of the profiles 110 is / are configured to be in connection with a respective channel 124, 125, and- connecting one or more than one profile(s) 110 to the one or more than one aperture(s) 122.

[0096] The method enables of producing a cooling element having no additional interfaces between the base and the channels, because the channels are provided into the base. The cooling element thus provides reliable cooling of electronic and optical components.

[0097] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises providing a second plurality of channels 125, which intersect with the first plurality of channels 124 to provide a network of channels. This enables providing a large evaporator and enables sharing the heat between the intersecting channels from a large area. This in further provides more efficient cooling of the electrical or optical component.

[0098] The method can comprise providing the first plurality of channels 124 in a relation to the second plurality of channels 125 in an angle of 90 to 50 degrees, preferably 60 degrees, in a plane defined by the base 120.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises connecting the plurality of the profiles 110 to the channels 124, 125 for sharing heat dissipation resources and extending from the base 120. This enables of providing a cooling element, which allows sharing the heat between the profiles. This in further enables more efficient cooling of the electrical or optical component. In addition, the method enables producing the profiles separately from other parts of the cooling element, which allows connecting the profiles and the other parts together to form a preferred cooling element structure for a specific application.

[0100] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises providing mechanical plugs to the channels 124, 125 for sealing the channels 124, 125. The mechanical plugs can be provided to the first ends of the channels. The mechanical plugs prevent the channels from leaking.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises:- providing a sleeve 130 having a leading edge 131 and a trailing edge 132, wherein an inner diameter of the sleeve 130 is larger at the leading edge 131 than at the trailing edge 132, and- moving the sleeve 130 around the fitting end 111 for applying radial force thereto. This provides a reliable, close-fitting and inexpensive joint between the profile and the base. Therefore, soldering requiring a temperature control or complex thread connections can be avoided.

[0102] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises providing a plurality of collars 121 to the base 120.

[0103] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises providing a space 123 around each of the collars 121. The space allows arranging the fitting end 111 and the sleeve 130 around the collar 121.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises arranging each of the fitting ends 111 and the sleeves 130 to the respective space 123.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises causing plastic deformation to the fitting end 111, when the sleeve 130 is arranged around the fitting end 111. Thus, the fitting end can be tightly connected to the receiving structure. The formed joint is close-fitting and does not leak. This in turn provides better performance of a cooling element.

[0106] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises attaching a plurality of fins 150 to the profiles 100. First, the fins 150 can be cut or stamped from sheet metal. Then, holes for the profiles can be cut or stamped through as well. Finally, the profiles 100 can be arranged through the holes. This provides a simple and low-cost way to produce and connect the fins to the profiles. When the holes are properly sized, the fins press fit tightly on the profiles and heat transfer is very good.

[0107] Optionally, the fins 150 can be soldered or glued to the profiles. This enables optimizing thermal transfer.

[0108] According to an embodiment, the method further comprises providing the plurality of channels 124, 125 into the base 120 by machining or by machining and extrusion.Preferably, at least one plurality of the channels is at least partly machined. For example, the first plurality of channels 124 can be provided by extrusion during producing of the base and the second plurality of channels can be machined after the producing of the base. Alternatively, both the first plurality of channels 124 and the second plurality channels 125 can be machined. Machining can be conducted for example, by boring.

[0109] The method can further comprise:- adding fluid in to the cooling element 100,- removing non-condensing gases, and- compacting the structure.

[0110] It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention disclosed are not limited to the particular structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but are extended to equivalents thereof as would be recognized by those ordinarily skilled in the relevant arts. It should also be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0111] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of lengths, widths, shapes, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention.

[0112] The verbs “to comprise” and “to include” are used in this document as open limitations that neither exclude nor require the existence of also un-recited features. The features recited in depending claims are mutually freely combinable unless otherwise explicitly stated. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the use of "a" or "an", i.e. a singular form, throughout this document does not exclude a plurality.REFERENCE SIGNS LIST100 cooling element110 profile111 fitting end113 enlarged section114 transition section115 narrow section116 condenser120 base121 collar122 aperture123 space 124, 125 channel126 intersection130 sleeve131 leading edge132 trailing edge 150 fin

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A cooling element (100) comprising:- a base (120),- one or more than one profile(s) (110) of a condenser (116) extending from the base (120),- a plurality of channels (124, 125) provided into the base (120) for communicating with the one or more than one profile(s) (110), and- one or more than one aperture(s) (122) via which one or more than one of the profiles (110) is / are in connection with a respective channel (124, 125).

2. The cooling element of claim 1, wherein the channels (124, 125) intersect with each other to provide a network of channels.

3. The cooling element of claim 2, the network of channels connects the profiles (110) to each other for sharing heat dissipation resources between the profiles (110).

4. The cooling element (100) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of the channels (124, 125) is integrated to the base (120).

5. The cooling element (100) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least some of the channels (124, 125) comprise mechanical plugs for sealing the channels (124, 125).

6. The cooling element (100) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of fins (150), and the profiles (120) are configured to extend through the fins (150).

7. The cooling element (100) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the profiles (110) is a separate piece from the base (120) and connected thereto.

8. The cooling element (100) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the profiles (110) comprises a fitting end (111).

9. The cooling element of claim 8, wherein the fitting end (111) comprises:- an enlarged section (113),- a narrow section (115) connected to the enlarged section (113), and- an optional transition section (114) between the enlarged section (113) and the narrow section (11 ), wherein an outer diameter of the enlarged section (113) is greater than an outer diameter of the narrow section (115).

10. The cooling element (100) of any one of the preceding claims 8 to 9, further comprising a sleeve (130) having:- a leading edge (131) and- a trailing edge (132), wherein an inner diameter of the sleeve (130) is greater at the leading edge (131) than at the trailing edge (132), and the sleeve (130) is arranged around the fitting end (111) and apply radial force thereto.

11. The cooling element (100) of any one of the preceding claims 8 to 10, wherein the base (120) comprises a plurality of collars (121), and each of the fitting ends (111) and the sleeves (130) are arranged around the respective collars (121).

12. The heat a cooling element (100) of claim 11, wherein each of the collars (121) define the aperture (122) and the each of the profiles (110) is in fluid connection with the plurality of profiles (110) via the apertures (122).

13. The heat a cooling element (100) of any one of the preceding claims 11 to 12, wherein the base (120) comprises spaces (123) around the each of the collars (121) and the each of the fitting ends (111) and the sleeves (130) is arranged in the space (123).

14. A method for producing a cooling element (100), comprising:- providing a base (120),- providing a first plurality of channels (124) into the base (120),- providing one or more than one of profile(s) (110) of a condenser (116), which each of the profiles comprise a fitting end (111),- providing one or more than one aperture(s) (122) via which one or more than one of the profiles (110) is / are configured to be in connection with a respective channel (124, 125), and- connecting one or more than one profile(s) (110) to the one or more than one aperture(s) (122).

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising providing a second plurality of channels (125), which intersect with the first plurality of channels (124) to provide a network of channels.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising connecting the plurality of the profiles (110) to the channels (124, 125) for sharing heat dissipation resources and extending from the base (120).

17. The method of any one of the preceding claims 14 to 16, further comprising providing mechanical plugs to the channels (124, 125) for sealing the channels (124, 125).

18. The method of any one of the preceding claims 14 to 17, further comprising:- providing a sleeve (130) having a leading edge (131) and a trailing edge (132), wherein an inner diameter of the sleeve (130) is larger at the leading edge (131) than at the trailing edge (132), and- moving the sleeve (130) around the fitting end (111) for applying radial force thereto.

19. The method of any one of the preceding claims 14 to 18, further comprising providing a plurality of collars (121) to the base (120).

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising providing a space (123) around each of the collars (121).

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising arranging each of the fitting ends (111) and the sleeves (130) to the respective space (123).

22. The method of any one of the preceding claims 14 to 21, further comprising causing plastic deformation to the fitting end (111), when the sleeve (130) is arranged around the fitting end (111).

23. The method of any one of the preceding claims 14 to 22, further comprising attaching a plurality of fins (150) to the profiles (110).

24. The method of any one of the preceding claims 14 to 23, providing the plurality of channels (124, 125) into the base (120) by machining or by machining and extrusion.

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