Flow path member

Abstract

To provide a flow path member from which the leakage of medium can be suppressed.SOLUTION: The flow path member includes a flow path pipe 210, a connection member 111a, and a clamp member 300, the clamp member being arranged on the outer peripheral face of the flow path pipe, the clamp member including a band part 310 encircling the outer peripheral face of the flow path pipe at a position where the flow path pipe and the connection member overlap with each other in the radial direction, and an operation part 320 for changing the size of the inner diameter of the band part with changes in the size of at least one of the outer diameter of the flow path pipe, the inner diameter of the flow path pipe, and the outer diameter of the connection member.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a flow path member.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a pipe joint in which a binder is used to achieve a medium leakage prevention effect at a joint where a pipe is disposed inside a tube (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The binder includes a band portion that surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the tube.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the pipe joint described in Patent Document 1, the medium may leak from a flow path member such as a joint. In particular, when the thermal expansion coefficient of the tube and the thermal expansion coefficient of the pipe are different, the medium may leak from the flow path member.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a flow path member capable of suppressing leakage of a medium from the flow path member.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The flow path member according to one aspect of the present disclosure is used in a medium circulation device in which a medium circulates. The flow path member includes a flow path pipe, a connection member, and a clamp member. The flow path pipe has a flow path pipe space inside which the medium flows. The connection member has a connection member space inside which the medium flows, and at least a part of the connection member is disposed in the flow path pipe space. The clamp member is disposed on an outer peripheral surface of the flow path pipe. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the flow path pipe is different from the coefficient of thermal expansion of the connection member. The clamp member includes a band portion that surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the flow path pipe at a position where the flow path pipe and the connection member overlap in the radial direction, and an acting portion that changes the size of the inner diameter of the band portion in accordance with a change in at least one of the outer diameter of the flow path pipe, the inner diameter of the flow path pipe, and the outer diameter of the connection member.

Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a flow path member capable of suppressing leakage of a medium from the flow path member.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] In the drawings, for ease of understanding, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system are appropriately shown. In one example, the positive direction of the Z-axis (Z direction) indicates the upward direction, and the negative direction of the Z-axis indicates the downward direction. However, the up-down direction, upward direction, and downward direction are defined for convenience of explanation and do not necessarily coincide with the vertical direction. Also, the up-down direction is merely defined for convenience of explanation and does not limit the orientation of the flow path member according to the present disclosure during use and assembly.

[0011] Also, in this specification, the positive direction of the X-axis (X direction) indicates the direction away from the CDU and is referred to as "one of the front-rear directions". Also, the negative direction of the X-axis indicates the direction approaching the CDU and is referred to as "the other of the front-rear directions". The "front-rear direction" is an example of the "first direction". Also, the "Y-axis" is an example of the "second direction". The second direction and the first direction intersect.

[0012] Also, in this specification, the direction parallel to the central axis of the connecting member 111a is described as the "axial direction AD1" (for example, FIG. 4). Also, the direction orthogonal to the central axis is described as the "radial direction RD1". The "radial direction RD1" may be any direction as long as it is orthogonal to the central axis AX1 and is not particularly limited.

[0013] And the direction parallel to the central axis of the inflow channel pipe 210 is described as the "axial direction AD2" (for example, FIG. 4). Also, the direction orthogonal to the central axis is described as the "radial direction RD2". The "radial direction RD2" may be any direction as long as it is orthogonal to the central axis and is not particularly limited.

[0014] Furthermore, the direction parallel to the central axis of the band portion 310 of the clamp member 300 is described as the "axial direction AD3" (see, for example, FIG. 4). Also, the direction orthogonal to the central axis is described as the "radial direction RD3". The "radial direction RD3" may be any direction as long as it is orthogonal to the central axis, and is not particularly limited.

[0015] In this specification, the "parallel direction" includes a substantially parallel direction, and the "orthogonal direction" includes a substantially orthogonal direction. Furthermore, in this specification, the "annular shape", "cylindrical shape", "tubular shape", "circular shape", and "wave shape" do not represent shapes in a strict sense.

[0016] [Cooling System 100] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the cooling system 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the cooling system 100 cools at least one heat source 5 installed in the space A01. Specifically, the cooling system 100 includes a CDU 1, a distribution manifold 2, a collection manifold 3, at least one cold plate 4, a cooling device 6, and flow paths 7 and 8. The CDU 1 is an example of a "medium circulation device".

[0017] When the cooling system 100 is provided with one cold plate 4, the cooling system 100 may not include the distribution manifold 2 and the collection manifold 3.

[0018] The CDU 1, the distribution manifold 2, the collection manifold 3, and the plurality of cold plates 4 are installed in the space A01. The space A01 is, for example, a server room.

[0019] [Heat Source 5 and Rack 9] A rack 9 is provided in the space A01. A plurality of heat sources 5 are accommodated in the rack 9. The plurality of heat sources 5 are accommodated in the rack 9 so as to be arranged in a specific direction. The specific direction is, for example, the Z direction or the Y direction.

[0020] Each heat source 5 is typically an electronic component or an electronic device. The electronic component is a component that constitutes an electronic device and includes, for example, a central processing unit (so-called CPU), an electrolytic capacitor, a power semiconductor module, or a printed circuit board. The electronic component operates and generates heat by power supply. The electronic device is a rack-mounted server or a blade server. The electronic device may also be a projector, a personal computer, or a display, among others.

[0021] Together with the plurality of heat sources 5, the CDU 1, the distribution manifold 2, the collection manifold 3, and the plurality of cold plates 4 are installed in the rack 9. Note that a plurality of racks 9 may be provided in the space A01.

[0022] [Overview of CDU 1] The CDU 1 is, for example, housed in the rack 9 during use. However, it is not limited to this, and the CDU 1 may be installed outside the rack 9 during use. Specifically, the CDU 1 includes a housing 15, a pump (not shown), and a heat exchanger (not shown). The pump pumps the secondary refrigerant into the housing 15. The heat exchanger performs heat exchange between the primary refrigerant and the secondary refrigerant.

[0023] [Overview of the various outlets 12, 13 and the various inlets 11, 14] The CDU 1 includes a secondary inlet 11, a secondary outlet 12, a primary inlet 13, and a primary outlet 14. High-temperature secondary refrigerant flows into the secondary inlet 11 from the collection manifold 3. Low-temperature primary refrigerant flows into the primary inlet 13 through the flow path 7. The CDU 1 performs heat exchange between the secondary refrigerant (high temperature) that has flowed into the CDU 1 from the secondary inlet 11 and the primary refrigerant (low temperature) that has flowed into the CDU 1 from the primary inlet 13. As a result, within the CDU 1, the thermal energy of the secondary refrigerant moves to the primary refrigerant. That is, the temperature of the secondary refrigerant decreases compared to when it flows into the CDU 1 by heat exchange. The CDU 1 pumps the cooled secondary refrigerant toward the distribution manifold 2 from the secondary outlet 12. The heated primary refrigerant is sent out from the primary outlet 14 to the flow path 8.

[0024] [Primary refrigerant and secondary refrigerant] The secondary refrigerant is, for example, a coolant. Examples of the coolant include antifreeze or pure water. Typical examples of the antifreeze are an ethylene glycol aqueous solution or a propylene glycol aqueous solution. The primary refrigerant is a refrigerant of the same type or a different type from the secondary refrigerant. Note that at least one of the primary refrigerant and the secondary refrigerant may be a gas refrigerant.

[0025] [Distribution manifold 2] The distribution manifold 2 has a common flow path 21 and a plurality of individual flow paths 22. In FIG. 1, for the purpose of easy understanding, only three individual flow paths 22 are shown. In each of the common flow path 21 and the plurality of individual flow paths 22, the secondary refrigerant can flow. The other end of the common flow path 21 is connected to the secondary outlet 12 of the CDU 1 and is used as an inlet of the secondary refrigerant in the distribution manifold 2. One end of each of the plurality of individual flow paths 22 is connected to the common flow path 21 so that the secondary refrigerant can flow. The other end of each of the plurality of individual flow paths 22 is used as an outlet of the secondary refrigerant in the distribution manifold 2 and is individually connected to the inlet 41 of the cold plate 4.

[0026] [Cold plate 4] Each cold plate 4 is in thermal contact with at least one heat source 5. The secondary refrigerant (low temperature) flows inside each cold plate 4. Specifically, each cold plate 4 is arranged so as to be in direct thermal contact with the heat source 5. Each cold plate 4 may be arranged so as to be in thermal contact with the heat source 5 via, for example, a heat conduction sheet (not shown). That is, the term "in thermal contact" includes the meaning of "in direct thermal contact" and the meaning of "in indirect thermal contact".

[0027] Each cold plate 4 has an inlet 41, an outlet 42 for the secondary refrigerant, and an internal flow path 43. The internal flow path 43 connects the inlet 41 and the outlet 42 so that the secondary refrigerant can flow through. The secondary refrigerant (low temperature) flows into the inlet 41 from the individual flow path 22 connected to the inlet 41. The secondary refrigerant flows through the internal flow path 43 toward the outlet 42. Therefore, the thermal energy generated by the heat source 5 is transferred to the secondary refrigerant flowing through the internal flow path 43 of the cold plate 4 that is in thermal contact with the heat source 5. As a result, the heat source 5 is cooled and the temperature of the secondary refrigerant rises. The secondary refrigerant (high temperature) flows out from the outlet 42 into the individual flow path 31 of the collection manifold 3.

[0028] [Collection manifold 3] The collection manifold 3 has a plurality of individual flow paths 31 and a common flow path 32. In FIG. 1, for the purpose of easy understanding, three individual flow paths 31 are shown. The secondary refrigerant can flow through each of the plurality of individual flow paths 31 and the common flow path 32. The other end of the common flow path 32 is used as the outlet of the secondary refrigerant in the collection manifold 3 and is connected to the secondary inlet 11 of the CDU1. One end of each individual flow path 31 is connected to the common flow path 32 so that the secondary refrigerant can flow through. The other end of each individual flow path 31 is individually connected to the outlet 42 of the cold plate 4 as the inlet of the secondary refrigerant in the collection manifold 3. Therefore, the secondary refrigerant circulates through the CDU1, the distribution manifold 2, the cold plate 4, and the collection manifold 3 in this order.

[0029] [Cooling device 6] The cooling device 6 is installed, for example, outside the space A01. Note that the cooling device 6 may be installed either indoors or outdoors. The cooling device 6 is, for example, a chiller or a cooling tower. The cooling device 6 includes an inlet 61, an outlet 62 for the primary refrigerant, and an internal flow path 63, a cooling section 64, and a pump 65. The internal flow path 63 connects the inlet 61 and the outlet 62 so that the primary refrigerant can flow through. The cooling section 64 and the pump 65 are arranged connected to the internal flow path 63.

[0030] The primary refrigerant flowing into the inlet 61 flows into the cooling section 64 through the flow path. The cooling section 64 cools the primary refrigerant flowing into the cooling section 64. The cooling method in the cooling section 64 may be either an air-cooling method or a water-cooling method. The primary refrigerant flowing out of the cooling section 64 flows into the pump 65 through the flow path. The pump 65 pumps the primary refrigerant flowing into the pump 65 toward the outlet 62. In FIG. 1, the pump 65 is located between the cooling section 64 and the outlet 62 in the flow path of the primary refrigerant. However, it is not limited thereto, and the pump 65 may be located between the inlet 61 and the cooling section 64 in the flow path of the primary refrigerant.

[0031] [Details of CDU1] FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of the CDU1 shown in FIG. 1.

[0032] [Housing 15 and Panels 151 - 156] As shown in FIG. 2, the outer shape of the housing 15 is, for example, a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, relatively thin in the Z direction and relatively long in the X direction. The housing 15 has panels 151 - 156. The panels 151 - 156 define the outer shape of the housing 15. The panels 151 - 156 partition the internal space of the housing 15 from the outside.

[0033] Panels 151 and 152 are separated from each other in the X direction. In the embodiment, panel 151 is located on one side in the X direction with respect to panel 152. Each of panels 151 and 152 extends in both the Z direction and the Y direction.

[0034] Panels 153 and 154 are separated from each other in the Z direction. In the embodiment, panel 154 is located on one side in the Z direction with respect to panel 153. Each of panels 153 and 154 extends in both the X direction and the Y direction.

[0035] Panels 155 and 156 are separated from each other in the Y direction. In the embodiment, panel 155 is located on one side in the Y direction with respect to panel 156. Each of panels 155 and 156 extends in both the Z direction and the X direction. In the housing 15, panels 151 to 156 may each be separately removable, or may be integrally formed.

[0036] [Power supply unit 201] CDU1 further includes a power supply unit 201. In the embodiment, the number of power supply units 201 is two. The number of power supply units 201 may be at least one. The two power supply units 201 are preferably manufactured according to the same specifications as each other.

[0037] Each power supply unit 201 is a power supply circuit or the like. Each power supply unit 201 generates a first DC voltage from an AC voltage supplied from, for example, a commercial power supply. In contrast, each power supply unit 201 generates a second DC voltage lower than the first DC voltage from the same AC voltage. The first DC voltage is supplied to, for example, a pump (not shown). The second DC voltage is supplied to, for example, a control unit (not shown).

[0038] In the embodiment, the two power supply units 201 are stacked in the Z direction within the housing 15. A partition plate may be disposed between the two power supply units 201. Also, the two power supply units 201 are located between panels 153 and 154 in the Z direction. The two power supply units 201 are exposed from panel 151. The two power supply units 201 are located closer to panel 156 than panel 155 in the Y direction. Specifically, the two power supply units 201 are close to panel 156 with a slight gap therebetween.

[0039] [Details of various outlets 12, 13 and various inlets 11, 14] The housing 15 has, on the panel 151, a secondary inlet 11, a secondary outlet 12, a primary inlet 13, and a primary outlet 14 as four ports. Each of the four ports is located to the right of the power supply unit 201 toward the panel 151. Each of the four ports protrudes from the panel 151 in one direction of the X direction.

[0040] The secondary inlet 11 is located, for example, at the lower right corner of the panel 151 when viewed toward the panel 151. In other words, the secondary inlet 11 is located near the other end in the Z direction and near one end in the Y direction of the panel 151.

[0041] The primary inlet 13 is located, for example, to the left of the secondary inlet 11 when viewed toward the panel 151. In other words, the primary inlet 13 is located in the other direction of the Y direction with respect to the secondary inlet 11.

[0042] The secondary outlet 12 is located, for example, diagonally above and to the left of the primary inlet 13 when viewed toward the panel 151. In other words, the secondary outlet 12 is located in the other direction of the Y direction and one direction of the Z direction with respect to the primary inlet 13.

[0043] The primary outlet 14 is located, for example, above the secondary inlet 11 when viewed toward the panel 151. In other words, the primary outlet 14 is located in one direction of the Z direction with respect to the secondary inlet 11.

[0044] Subsequently, referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the flow path pipe 200 and the clamp member 300 will be described. FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of the CDU 1, the collection manifold 3, and the distribution manifold 2 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the inflow flow path pipe 210 and the clamp member 300.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cooling system 100 further includes a flow path pipe 200 and four clamp members 300. The flow path pipe 200 and the clamp member 300 are part of the "flow path member". In the embodiment, the number of the clamp members 300 is four. Note that the number of the clamp members 300 may be at least one.

[0046] The secondary flow inlet 11 includes an annular body 110 and a port member 111. The annular body 110 protrudes from the panel 151 in one direction of the X-axis. The port member 111 is disposed on one side of the annular body 110 in the X-axis direction. The port member 111 includes a block member 111b and a connecting member 111a. The connecting member 111a is a part of the "flow path member". The shape of the block member 111b is substantially a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The surface on the other side of the block member 111b in the X-axis direction is connected to the one side of the annular body 110 in the X-axis direction.

[0047] The connecting member 111a is disposed on the surface on the other side of the block member 111b in the Y-axis direction. The connecting member 111a protrudes in the other direction of the Y-axis. The connecting member 111a has a connecting member space 113 inside which the secondary refrigerant flows. Specifically, the shape of the connecting member 111a is substantially an annular shape. It is preferable that a corrugated protrusion is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 111a. Also, the material of the connecting member 111a may be a composite material, and preferably a metal. And inside the block member 111b, an internal flow path 112 that connects the annular body 110 and the connecting member 111a so that the secondary refrigerant can flow is disposed.

[0048] The secondary flow outlet 12 includes an annular body 120 and a port member 121. The annular body 120 protrudes from the panel 151 in one direction of the X-axis. The length of the annular body 120 in the X-axis direction is longer than the length of the annular body 110 in the X-axis direction. The port member 121 is disposed on one side of the annular body 120 in the X-axis direction. The port member 121 includes a block member 121b and a connecting member 121a. The shape of the block member 121b is substantially a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The surface on the other side of the block member 121b in the X-axis direction is connected to the one side of the annular body 120 in the X-axis direction.

[0049] The connecting member 121a is disposed on the surface of the block member 121b on one side in the Y direction. The connecting member 121a protrudes in one direction in the Y direction. The connecting member 121a has an internal connecting member space through which the primary refrigerant flows. Specifically, the shape of the connecting member 121a is substantially an annular shape. It is preferable that wavy protrusions are arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 121a. Also, the material of the connecting member 121a may be a composite material, and preferably it is a metal. And inside the block member 121b, an internal flow path is arranged to connect the annular body 120 and the connecting member 121a so that the primary refrigerant can flow through.

[0050] The distribution manifold 2 has a common flow port 23 as a port. The common flow port 23 is arranged on one side in the Z direction and one side in the Y direction from the secondary inlet 11.

[0051] The common flow port 23 includes an annular body 23b and a connecting member 23a. The connecting member 23a is a part of the "flow path member". The connecting member 23a is different from the connecting member 111a. The annular body 23b protrudes in the other direction in the Y direction. The connecting member 23a is arranged on the other side in the Y direction of the annular body 23b. The connecting member 23a protrudes in the other direction in the Y direction. The connecting member 23a has an internal connecting member space through which the secondary refrigerant flows. Specifically, the shape of the connecting member 23a is substantially an annular shape. It is preferable that wavy protrusions are arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 23a. Also, the material of the connecting member 23a may be a composite material, and preferably it is a metal.

[0052] The collection manifold 3 further has a common flow port 33 as a port. The common flow port 33 is located on one side in the X direction with respect to the common flow port 23.

[0053] The common flow junction 33 includes an annular body 33b and a connecting member 33a. The annular body 33b protrudes in the other direction of the Y-axis. The connecting member 33a is disposed on the other side of the annular body 33b in the Y-axis direction. The connecting member 33a protrudes in the other direction of the Y-axis. The connecting member 33a has an internal connecting member space through which the secondary refrigerant flows. Specifically, the shape of the connecting member 33a is substantially annular. Preferably, a wavy protrusion is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 33a. Also, the material of the connecting member 33a may be a composite material, and preferably is a metal.

[0054] The flow path pipe 200 includes an inflow flow path pipe 210. The secondary refrigerant flows into the CDU1 from the inflow flow path pipe 210.

[0055] The inflow flow path pipe 210 has an internal flow path pipe space 211 through which the secondary refrigerant flows. Specifically, the shape of the inflow flow path pipe 210 is substantially annular. Preferably, the inner diameter of the inflow flow path pipe 210 is larger than the outer diameter of the connecting member 111a. Also, the inflow flow path pipe 210 has elasticity and is bendable. Specifically, the material of the inflow flow path pipe 210 may be a composite material, and preferably is a synthetic resin. At this time, the coefficient of thermal expansion of the inflow flow path pipe 210 is different from that of the connecting member 111a. Therefore, when heat moves between the secondary refrigerant and the like and the inflow flow path pipe 210 and the connecting member 111a, a gap may occur between the inflow flow path pipe 210 and the connecting member 111a. Specifically, the coefficient of thermal expansion of the inflow flow path pipe 210 is larger than that of the connecting member 111a. Therefore, when the inflow flow path pipe 210 and the connecting member 111a are heated by the secondary refrigerant or the like, a gap may occur between the inner peripheral surface of the inflow flow path pipe 210 and the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 111a.

[0056] At least a part of the connecting member 111a is disposed in the flow path pipe space 211. Specifically, the connecting member 111a is inserted into the flow path pipe space 211 at one end of the inflow flow path pipe 210. In other words, the inflow flow path pipe 210 includes a first portion OA where one end side of the inflow flow path pipe 210 overlaps with the connecting member 111a. Preferably, the axial direction AD1 of the connecting member 111a coincides with the axial direction AD2 of the inflow flow path pipe 210.

[0057] Further, a connection member 23a is inserted into a flow path tube space 211 at the other end of the inflow flow path tube 210. In other words, the inflow flow path tube 210 includes a second portion where the other end side of the inflow flow path tube 210 and the connection member 23a overlap. Note that the axial direction of the connection member 23a and the axial direction AD2 of the inflow flow path tube 210 preferably coincide.

[0058] Furthermore, the inflow flow path tube 210 includes a bent-back portion R that connects the first portion OA and the second portion. Specifically, one end portion of the bent-back portion R is connected to the first portion OA, and the other end portion of the bent-back portion R is connected to the second portion. Specifically, the shape of the bent-back portion R is substantially U-shaped. Therefore, the bent-back portion R is disposed on the other side in the Y direction of the connection member 111a and on the other side in the Y direction of the connection member 23a.

[0059] The length RL in the Y direction from one end of the inflow flow path tube 210 to the end portion on the other side in the Y direction of the bent-back portion R is shorter than twice the length OAL in the Y direction of the first portion OA or the second portion. In other words, the inflow flow path tube 210 is bent in a narrow range.

[0060] Subsequently, referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the clamp member 300 will be described. FIG. 5 is an external perspective view of an example of the clamp member 300. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, each of the four clamp members 300 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the flow path tube 200.

[0061] Specifically, one of the four clamp members 300 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of one end portion of the inflow flow path tube 210. Also, one of the four clamp members 300 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the other end portion of the inflow flow path tube 210.

[0062] The clamp member 300 includes a band portion 310 and an operating portion 320.

[0063] The band portion 310 surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the inflow channel pipe 210 at a position where the inflow channel pipe 210 and the connection member 111a overlap in the radial directions RD1 and RD2. Specifically, at least a part of the first portion OA surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the inflow channel pipe 210. More specifically, in the radial direction RD3, the inner peripheral surface of the band portion 310 faces a plurality of protrusions provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connection member 111a. Also, in the radial direction RD3, the inner peripheral surface of the band portion 310 faces the protrusion on the most root side (the block member 111b side) among the plurality of protrusions provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connection member 111a. Further, a space AA is provided between the root outer peripheral surface of the connection member 111a and the inner peripheral surface of the tip portion of the inflow channel pipe 210. In other words, the band portion 310 does not surround the outer peripheral surface of the tip portion of the inflow channel pipe 210 and the root outer peripheral surface of the connection member 111a.

[0064] Specifically, the shape of the band portion 310 is an annular shape in which a part of an arc overlaps. In other words, a part of the band portion 310 is double. Specifically, one end portion 311 of the band portion 310 and the other end portion 312 of the band portion 310 are separated by a distance LL. One end portion of the inflow channel pipe 210 is inserted into the space of the band portion 310. The band portion 310 has elasticity. Specifically, the band portion 310 is a thin metal. Therefore, the distance LL between the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312 can be changed. In other words, the inner diameter of the band portion 310 can be changed.

[0065] The acting portion 320 changes the inner diameter of the band portion 310 in accordance with a change in at least one of the outer diameter of the inflow channel pipe 210, the inner diameter of the inflow channel pipe 210, and the outer diameter of the connecting member 111a. Specifically, the acting portion 320 preferably changes the inner diameter of the band portion 310 in accordance with the outer diameter of the connecting member 111a. In detail, when the inner diameter of the inflow channel pipe 210 becomes larger than the outer diameter of the connecting member 111a due to heat or the like, the acting portion 320 suppresses the decrease in the distance LL between the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312. As a result, an increase in the inner diameter of the band portion 310 is suppressed. Thus, the inner peripheral surface of the inflow channel pipe 210 is pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 111a. Further, when the outer diameter of the connecting member 111a becomes smaller than the inner diameter of the inflow channel pipe 210 due to heat or the like, the acting portion 320 increases the distance LL between the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312. As a result, the inner diameter of the band portion 310 becomes smaller. Thus, the inner peripheral surface of the inflow channel pipe 210 is pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 111a.

[0066] As described above, according to the embodiment, even when the sizes of the inflow channel pipe 210 and the connecting member 111a show different changes due to heat, it is possible to suppress the leakage of the secondary refrigerant from between the inflow channel pipe 210 and the connecting member 111a. Further, the inner peripheral surface of the band portion 310 faces a plurality of protrusions provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 111a, so that the leakage of the secondary refrigerant from between the inflow channel pipe 210 and the connecting member 111a can be further suppressed. Further, the inner peripheral surface of the band portion 310 faces the protrusion on the most root side (block member 111b side) among the plurality of protrusions provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 111a, so that the leakage of the secondary refrigerant from between the inflow channel pipe 210 and the connecting member 111a can be further suppressed. Further, a space AA is provided between the outer peripheral surface at the root of the connecting member 111a and the inner peripheral surface at the tip of the inflow channel pipe 210, so that the leakage of the secondary refrigerant from between the inflow channel pipe 210 and the connecting member 111a can be further suppressed.

[0067] In addition, since the inflow channel pipe 210 can be bent in a narrow range, it is possible to prevent overlapping with other members (power supply unit) arranged on the same surface of the housing 15 and reduce workability.

[0068] Since the material of the inflow channel pipe 210 is a synthetic resin, the routing of the inflow channel pipe 210 can be better arranged compared to the case where the material of the inflow channel pipe 210 is metal.

[0069] Since the material of the connecting member 111a is metal, the durability can be increased compared to the case where the material of the connecting member 111a is a synthetic resin.

[0070] Specifically, the acting portion 320 includes a spring portion 321 and a housing portion 322. Specifically, the shape of the housing portion 322 is a cylindrical shape. It is arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the band portion 310. Specifically, the housing portion 322 is connected to one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312. The axial direction of the housing portion 322 is along the radial direction RD3 of the band portion 310.

[0071] The spring portion 321 is arranged inside the housing portion 322. Specifically, the spring portion 321 includes a spring. The spring acts on one end portion 311 and a region of the outer peripheral surface of the band portion 310 so as to increase the distance LL between the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312. Also, when a force acts to shorten the distance LL between the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312, the spring suppresses shortening of the distance LL between the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312.

[0072] As described above, according to the embodiment, by continuously applying tension to the spring portion 321, the inner diameter of the spring portion 321 can follow each time the sizes of the inflow channel pipe 210 and the connecting member 111a show different changes.

[0073] Subsequently, referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the outflow channel pipe 220 will be described. The channel pipe 200 further includes the outflow channel pipe 220. Secondary refrigerant flows out from the CDU1 to the outflow channel pipe 220.

[0074] The outflow channel pipe 220 has a channel pipe space inside which the secondary refrigerant flows. Specifically, the shape of the outflow channel pipe 220 is a substantially annular shape. The inner diameter of the outflow channel pipe 220 is preferably larger than the outer diameter of the connection member 121a. Also, the outflow channel pipe 220 has elasticity and can be bent. Specifically, the material of the outflow channel pipe 220 may be a composite material, and preferably a synthetic resin. At this time, the coefficient of thermal expansion of the outflow channel pipe 220 and the coefficient of thermal expansion of the connection member 121a are different. Therefore, when heat moves between the secondary refrigerant or the like and the outflow channel pipe 220 and the connection member 121a, a gap may occur between the outflow channel pipe 220 and the connection member 121a. Specifically, the coefficient of thermal expansion of the outflow channel pipe 220 is larger than the coefficient of thermal expansion of the connection member 121a. Therefore, when the outflow channel pipe 220 and the connection member 121a are heated by the secondary refrigerant or the like, a gap may occur between the inner peripheral surface of the outflow channel pipe 220 and the outer peripheral surface of the connection member 121a.

[0075] The connection member 121a is inserted into the channel pipe space at one end of the outflow channel pipe 220. Also, the connection member 33a is inserted into the channel pipe space at the other end of the outflow channel pipe 220. In the embodiment, the length of the outflow channel pipe 220 is shorter than the length of the inflow channel pipe 210. Also, the outflow channel pipe 220 does not have a turning portion. In other words, the secondary refrigerant flows through the channel pipe space of the outflow channel pipe 220 along one direction.

[0076] One of the four clamp members 300 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of one end of the outflow channel pipe 220. Also, one of the four clamp members 300 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the other end of the outflow channel pipe 220.

[0077] At least a part of the inflow channel pipe 210 and at least a part of the outflow channel pipe 220 overlap in the X direction. Specifically, when the inflow channel pipe 210 attempts to move along the X direction, the inflow channel pipe 210 contacts the outflow channel pipe 220. As a result, the movement of the inflow channel pipe 210 in the X direction and the movement of the outflow channel pipe 220 in the X direction can be suppressed.

[0078] Specifically, the outflow channel pipe 220 is disposed on one side in the X direction with respect to the inflow channel pipe 210. Specifically, when the inflow channel pipe 210 attempts to move to one side in the X direction, the inflow channel pipe 210 comes into contact with the outflow channel pipe 220. As a result, the movement of the inflow channel pipe 210 having the folding-back portion R to one side in the X direction can be suppressed. Further, since the length of the inflow channel pipe 210 is longer than the length of the outflow channel pipe 220 and further includes the folding-back portion R, it is easy to move, but the movement to one side in the X direction can be suppressed.

[0079] The spring portion 321 of the clamp member 300 disposed on the inflow channel pipe 210 is disposed at a position away from the outflow channel pipe 220. Specifically, the spring portion 321 of the clamp member 300 disposed on the outer peripheral surface of one end portion of the inflow channel pipe 210 is disposed on the other side in the Z direction with respect to the inflow channel pipe 210. Further, the spring portion 321 of the clamp member 300 disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the other end portion of the inflow channel pipe 210 is disposed on the other side in the X direction with respect to the inflow channel pipe 210. As a result, damage due to contact between the spring portion 321 and the outflow channel pipe 220 can be suppressed.

[0080] Further, the spring portion 321 of the clamp member 300 disposed on the outflow channel pipe 220 is disposed at a position away from the inflow channel pipe 210. Specifically, the spring portion 321 of the clamp member 300 disposed on the outer peripheral surface of one end portion of the outflow channel pipe 220 is disposed on one side in the Z direction with respect to the outflow channel pipe 220. Further, the spring portion 321 of the clamp member 300 disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the other end portion of the outflow channel pipe 220 is disposed on one side in the X direction with respect to the outflow channel pipe 220. As a result, damage due to contact between the spring portion 321 and the inflow channel pipe 210 can be suppressed.

[0081] Also, for easy understanding of the present disclosure, the drawings schematically show each component mainly. The thickness, length, number, interval, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may be different from the actual ones for convenience of drawing creation. Further, the configuration of each component shown in the above embodiment is an example and is not particularly limited. Needless to say, various modifications can be made without substantially departing from the effects of the present disclosure.

[0082] Note that although the shape of the band portion 310 according to the embodiment was an annular shape in which a part of an arc overlapped, it is not limited to this. The shape of the band portion 310 may be an annular shape with a part missing. FIG. 6 is an external perspective view of another example of the clamp member 1300. One end portion 311 of the band portion 310 and the other end portion 312 of the band portion 310 face each other. One end portion of the inflow channel pipe 210 is inserted into the space of the band portion 310. The band portion 310 has elasticity. Specifically, the band portion 310 is a thin metal. Therefore, the distance LL between the one end portion 311 and the other end portion 312 can be changed. In other words, the inner diameter of the band portion 310 can be changed.

[0083] Note that the present technology can also adopt the following configuration.

[0084] (1) A flow path member used in a medium circulation device in which a medium circulates, a flow path pipe having a flow path pipe space inside which the medium flows, a connection member having a connection member space inside which the medium flows and at least a part of which is disposed in the flow path pipe space, a clamp member disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the flow path pipe and comprising wherein the coefficient of thermal expansion of the flow path pipe and the coefficient of thermal expansion of the connection member are different, the clamp member at a position where the flow path pipe and the connection member overlap in the radial direction, a band portion surrounding the outer peripheral surface of the flow path pipe, and an acting portion that changes the size of the inner diameter of the band portion in accordance with a change in at least one of the outer diameter of the flow path pipe, the inner diameter of the flow path pipe, and the outer diameter of the connection member and comprising a flow path member.

[0085] (2) The flow path pipe is an inflow channel pipe through which the medium flows into the medium circulation device, and an outflow channel pipe through which the medium flows out of the medium circulation device and comprising At least a part of the inflow channel tube and at least a part of the outflow channel tube overlap in a first direction. One side of the first direction indicates the direction away from the medium circulation device, and the channel member according to (1).

[0086] (3) The connection member comprises a first connection member, and a second connection member different from the first connection member. It is provided with One of the inflow channel tube and the outflow channel tube further comprises a first part where one end side of the channel tube overlaps with the first connection member, a second part where the other end side of the channel tube overlaps with the second connection member, and a folding part connecting the first part and the second part. The folding part is arranged on the other side of the second direction of the first connection member and the other side of the second direction of the second connection member. The other of the inflow channel tube and the outflow channel tube is arranged on one side of the first direction closer to the medium circulation device than one of the inflow channel tube and the outflow channel tube. The second direction and the first direction intersect, and the channel member according to (2).

[0087] (4) The length in the second direction from one end of one of the inflow channel tube and the outflow channel tube to the end on the other side of the second direction of the folding part is shorter than twice the length in the second direction of the first part or the second part, and the channel member according to (3).

[0088] (5) The material of the channel tube is a synthetic resin, and the channel member according to any one of (1) to (4).

[0089] (6) The material of the connection member is a metal, and the channel member according to any one of (1) to (5).

[0090] (7) The acting part comprises a spring part, and the channel member according to (2).

[0091] (8) The spring portion of the clamp member disposed on one of the inflow channel pipe and the outflow channel pipe is disposed at a position away from the other of the inflow channel pipe and the outflow channel pipe, the flow channel member according to (7).

Industrial Applicability

[0092] The flow channel member according to the present disclosure has industrial applicability.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0093] 100: Cooling system 1: CDU 9: Rack 15: Housing 151~156: Panel 200: Flow channel pipe 111a: Connection member 300: Clamp member 310: Band portion 320: Spring portion (actuating portion)

Claims

1. A flow path member used in a medium circulation device in which a medium circulates, comprising a flow path tube having a flow path tube space inside which the medium flows, a connection member having a connection member space inside which the medium flows and at least a part of which is disposed in the flow path tube space, and a clamp member disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the flow path tube, wherein the coefficient of thermal expansion of the flow path tube is different from the coefficient of thermal expansion of the connection member, the clamp member has a band portion that surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the flow path tube at a position where the flow path tube and the connection member overlap in the radial direction, and an acting portion that changes the inner diameter of the band portion in accordance with a change in at least one of the outer diameter of the flow path tube, the inner diameter of the flow path tube, and the outer diameter of the connection member, a flow path member.

2. The flow path tube comprises an inflow flow path tube through which the medium flows into the medium circulation device, and an outflow flow path tube through which the medium flows out of the medium circulation device, wherein at least a part of the inflow flow path tube and at least a part of the outflow flow path tube overlap in a first direction, and one side of the first direction indicates a direction away from the medium circulation device. The flow path member according to claim 1.

3. The connection member comprises a first connection member, and a second connection member different from the first connection member, wherein one of the inflow flow path tube and the outflow flow path tube further comprises a first portion where one end side of the flow path tube overlaps with the first connection member, a second portion where the other end side of the flow path tube overlaps with the second connection member, and a turning-back portion that connects the first portion and the second portion, the turning-back portion is disposed on the other side of the second direction of the first connection member and on the other side of the second direction of the second connection member, the other of the inflow flow path tube and the outflow flow path tube is disposed on one side of the first direction closer to the medium circulation device than the one of the inflow flow path tube and the outflow flow path tube, and the second direction intersects the first direction. The flow path member according to claim 2.

4. The length in the second direction from one end of one of the inflow flow path tube and the outflow flow path tube to the end on the other side of the second direction of the turning-back portion is shorter than twice the length in the second direction of the first portion or the second portion. The flow path member according to claim 3.

5. The material of the flow path tube is a synthetic resin. The flow path member according to claim 1.

6. The material of the connection member is a metal. The flow path member according to claim 1.

7. The acting portion comprises a spring portion. The flow path member according to claim 2.

8. The spring portion of the clamp member disposed on one of the inflow channel pipe and the outflow channel pipe is disposed at a position away from the other of the inflow channel pipe and the outflow channel pipe, the channel member according to claim 7.

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