Container charging system and method

Abstract

This relates to a system and method for filling containers. [Solution] The heat pipe charging system 10 comprises a structured and operable work platform 24. The system further comprises a structured and operable processing head 22 to at least partially fill the internal channel 18 of at least one heat pipe device 14 with a working fluid. The system further comprises a plurality of system conduits 26 fluid-connected to the processing head, structured and operable to supply at least one of a working fluid, vacuum, and gas to the processing head to verify a sealed component, at least partially filling the internal channel of at least one heat pipe device with a working fluid and sealing the channel using various plugging methods.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 705,850, filed on 10 October 2024. The disclosures of the said application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Government rights

[0002] This invention was made with government support under the grant of FA8650-23-C-5019 by the United States Air Force. The government reserves certain rights in this invention.

[0002]

[0003]

[0004] This instruction relates to a system and method for filling containers, and in a particular embodiment, to a system and method for charging an OHP device with a working fluid. [Background technology]

[0003]

[0005] The descriptions in this section are solely for the purpose of providing background information related to this disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0004]

[0006] Self-oscillating heat pipe devices, conventional heat pipe devices, vapor chambers, and other sealed devices with one or more internal channels are typically filled with working or cooling fluid by adding or forming tubular structures extending from the device, allowing for the installation of a sealing system. The sealing system can operate (though not necessarily in that order) to draw a vacuum, introduce fluid into the internal channels of the device, and then seal the device. The resulting tubular structures protrude from the sealed device, which is undesirable due to fragility, increased device geometry due to the protruding tubular stub, and additional process steps to protect the tubular structures. These issues pose a significant challenge for designing devices that fit complex shapes possible with heat pipe / sealed devices such as self-oscillating heat pipes, where protruding tubular structures are difficult to incorporate. Furthermore, such protruding tubular structures are susceptible to damage and therefore present a safety hazard if the working / cooling fluid is toxic or otherwise hazardous, and accidental fluid release can result from damage to the tubular structure. In addition, adding such protruding tubular structures to a device requires multiple manufacturing steps, manufacturing costs, and complexity. Furthermore, current heat pipe charging systems are designed for implementation and operation in the device manufacturer's facilities, requiring large-scale equipment (e.g., vacuum bake-out systems, ovens, exhaust systems, weighing scales, etc.) and considerable capital costs. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0005]

[0007] In various embodiments, the Disclosure provides a heat pipe charging system comprising a work platform structured and operable thereon on which a heat pipe device is disposed, wherein the heat pipe device has at least one internal channel formed therein and a connection port formed in its outer wall. The system further comprises a processing head structured and operable to at least partially fill the internal channel of at least one heat pipe device with a working fluid, and a plurality of system conduits fluid-connected to the processing head, structured and operable to supply at least one of a working fluid, vacuum, and gas to the processing head in order to at least partially fill the internal channel of at least one heat pipe device with a working fluid.

[0006]

[0008] In various other embodiments, the disclosure provides a method for charging a heat pipe device with a working fluid using a heat pipe charging system comprising a work platform, a processing head, and a plurality of system conduits. In various cases, the method comprises: a) arranging a heat pipe device on a heat pipe charge system work platform, wherein the heat pipe device comprises at least one internal channel formed therein and a connection port formed in its outer wall; b) positioning the distal end of a multifunctional mounting tool of a heat pipe charge system processing head in contact with the heat pipe device connection port such that the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool is fluidly connected to the at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device via a discharge / filling passage of the connection port extending through the outer wall of the heat pipe device into the at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device; c) verifying a sealed airtightness between the distal end of the multifunctional mounting tool and the heat pipe device connection port; and d) at least partially filling the at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device with working fluid via the operation of the main operating module of the heat pipe charge system processing head, wherein the multifunctional mounting tool extends from the main operating module and the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool is fluidly connectable to a plurality of heat pipe charge system conduits, one of which is connected to a working fluid source.

[0007]

[0009] This summary is given simply to summarize the various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of the various aspects of the teachings herein. The various embodiments, aspects, and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description, together with the accompanying drawings illustrating the principles of the embodiments described. Therefore, it should be understood that the descriptions and specific examples set forth herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of this teaching.

[0008]

[0010] The drawings included herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of these instructions. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1]

[0011] A diagram illustrating an exemplary self-excited oscillating heat pipe (OHP) charging system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A-D]

[0012] Figure 1 illustrates the steps for generating and sealing discharge / filling passages in an OHP device using the OHP charging system shown in Figure 1, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2E] Figure 1 illustrates the steps for generating and sealing discharge / filling passages in an OHP device using the OHP charging system shown in Figure 1, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A-D]

[0013] Figure 1 illustrates the steps for generating and sealing an OHP discharge / filling passage in an OHP device using the OHP charging system shown in Figure 1, according to various other embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A-C]

[0014] A diagram illustrating the steps for generating and sealing an OHP device discharge / filling passage using the OHP charging system shown in Figure 1, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A-C]

[0015] A diagram illustrating the steps for generating and sealing an discharge / filling passage in an OHP device using the OHP charging system shown in Figure 1, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5D] A diagram illustrating the steps for generating and sealing an discharge / filling passage in an OHP device using the OHP charging system shown in Figure 1, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A-C]

[0016] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary process for sealing the discharge / filling passage in an OHP device using a ball plug, utilizing the OHP charging system shown in Figure 1, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7]

[0017] A diagram exemplarily showing a system and method for disposing a ball plug in an exhaust / filling passage in an OHP device by using the OHP charging system shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8]

[0018] A diagram exemplarily showing the components and structure of the OHP charging system shown in FIG. 1 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9]

[0019] A diagram exemplarily showing the components and structure of the OHP charging system shown in FIG. 1 according to various other embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10]

[0020] A diagram exemplarily showing the components and structure of the OHP charging system shown in FIG. 1 according to still other embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]

[0021] A diagram exemplarily showing the components and structure of the OHP charging system shown in FIG. 1 according to even still other embodiments of the present disclosure.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010]

[0022] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout several views of the drawings.

[0011]

[0023] The following description is essentially illustrative and is not intended in any way to limit the teachings, uses, or applications of this specification. Throughout this specification, similar reference numerals are used to refer to similar elements. Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive, nor are they intended to limit the invention to the exact forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are selected and described so that those skilled in the art can make use of their teachings. Similarly, while the drawings are intended to illustrate and clearly disclose currently conceivable embodiments to those skilled in the art, they are not intended to be manufacturing-level drawings or representations of the final product and should be understood as including simplified conceptual diagrams for ease of understanding or explanation. Likewise, the relative sizes and arrangements of components may differ from those shown and still work within the spirit of the invention.

[0012]

[0024] When used herein, the words “exemplary” or “exemplary” mean “acting as an example, case, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “exemplary” should not necessarily be construed as being preferable or advantageous to other implementations. All implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable those skilled in the art to carry out the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

[0013]

[0025] Unless otherwise specified, all scientific and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as those generally understood by those skilled in the art in the field to which this disclosure belongs. Technical terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit to specific exemplary embodiments. Where used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may also include the plural form unless otherwise explicitly indicated in the context. The terms “equipped,” “possessed,” “include,” and “have” are inclusive and thus specify the presence of the described features, integers, steps, actions, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, actions, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The steps, processes, and actions of the methods described herein should not necessarily be construed as requiring their execution in a specific order described or illustrated unless specifically identified as the order of execution. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be used.

[0014]

[0026] When an element, object, device, apparatus, component, region, or section is referred to as "on top of," "engaged to," "connected to," or "joined to" another element, object, device, apparatus, component, region, or section, it may be directly on top of, engaged to, connected to, or joined to, or there may be an intervening element, object, device, apparatus, component, region, or section. In contrast, when an element, object, device, apparatus, component, region, or section is referred to as "directly on top of," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or "directly joined to" another element, object, device, apparatus, component, region, or section, there may be no intervening element, object, device, apparatus, component, region, or section. Other words used to describe relationships between elements, objects, devices, apparatus, components, areas, or sections should be interpreted similarly (e.g., "between" vs. "directly between," "adjacent" vs. "directly adjacent").

[0015]

[0027] When used herein, the phrase “operably connected” will be understood to mean two or more elements, objects, devices, apparatus, components, etc. that are directly or indirectly connected to one another in an operable and / or cooperative manner such that an action or function relating to at least one of the elements, objects, devices, apparatus, components, etc. imparts or causes an action or function relating to at least one other of the elements, objects, devices, apparatus, components, etc. Such impartment or causing of an action or function may be unidirectional or bidirectional.

[0016]

[0028] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related enumerated items. For example, A and / or B includes A only, or B only, or both A and B.

[0017]

[0029] Terms such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used herein to describe various elements, objects, devices, apparatus, components, areas, or sections, but these elements, objects, devices, apparatus, components, areas, or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used solely to distinguish one element, object, device, apparatus, component, area, or section from another element, object, device, apparatus, component, area, or section, and do not necessarily imply any order or sequence unless clearly indicated by the context.

[0018]

[0030] Furthermore, various designations such as “top,” “bottom,” “bottom,” “top,” “left,” “right,” “first,” and “second” are used only in relation to descriptions associated with the drawings, and it will be understood that components may be oriented differently, for example, during transport and manufacturing and operation. Since many different and different embodiments can be made within the scope of the concepts taught herein, and many modifications can be made to the embodiments described herein, it should be understood that the details herein should be interpreted as illustrative and non-limiting.

[0019]

[0031] In various embodiments, the apparatus / systems and methods described herein may be at least partially implemented by one or more computer program products including one or more non-temporary, tangible, computer-readable media that store computer programs having instructions that can be executed by one or more processors. The computer programs may include processor-executable instructions and / or instructions that can be translated or otherwise interpreted by the processor so that the processor can execute the instructions. The computer programs may also include stored data. Non-limiting examples of non-temporary, tangible, computer-readable media include non-volatile memory, magnetic memory, and optical memory.

[0020]

[0032] As used herein, the term "module" may refer to, may be part of, or include, some or all of the above, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), electronic circuit, combinational logic circuit, field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes instructions contained in code, including execution of executable code instructions and / or interpretation / translation of uncompiled code, other suitable hardware components that provide the functionality described, or a system-on-a-chip. The term "module" may also include memory (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code executed by the processor.

[0021]

[0033] As used herein, the term "code" may include software, firmware, and / or microcode, and may refer to one or more programs, routines, functions, classes, and / or objects. As used herein, the term "shared" means that some or all of the code from multiple modules may be executed using a single (shared) processor. In addition, some or all of the code from multiple modules may be stored in a single (shared) memory. As used above, the term "group" means that some or all of the code from a single module may be executed using a group of processors. In addition, some or all of the code from a single module may be stored using a group of memories.

[0022]

[0034] Referring to Figure 1, the present disclosure provides a heat pipe charging system 10 structured and operable to charge (i.e., at least partially fill) the internal volume of one or more heat pipe devices 14. More specifically, the heat pipe charging system 10 is structured and operable to charge (i.e., at least partially fill) one or more channels 18 (e.g., microchannels) integrally and internally formed within the heat pipe device 14 with a working fluid or cooling fluid. The heat pipe device 14 may be any heat transfer device such as a self-oscillating heat pipe device, a steam chamber, a cooling plate device, a pressure vessel, a sealed container, and other sealed devices. However, for the purposes of clarity and exemplification, the charging system 10 is described herein exemplary in relation to the charging of a self-oscillating heat pipe (OHP) device. Therefore, although the heat pipe charge system 10 and heat pipe device 14 are described herein as the OHP charge system 10 and OHP device 14, and their structure and components are described in relation to the OHP device, the scope of this disclosure should not be narrowly interpreted as applying only to the OHP device.

[0023]

[0035] Importantly, the heat pipe charging system 10 of the present disclosure provides a heat pipe device charging system (e.g., OHP device charging system) that is structured and operable to charge (i.e., at least partially fill) the internal volume of a heat pipe device (i.e., one or more OHP internal microchannels) with a working fluid or cooling fluid, wherein the system 10 can be efficiently packaged and shipped to a customer's facility for heat pipe devices, thereby enabling the charging of heat pipe devices at the customer's facility after production of the heat pipe devices at the heat pipe device manufacturing facility. This enables heat pipe customers to modify uncharged heat pipe devices at their facilities (e.g., perform additional assembly and / or processing on / the devices), and subsequently charge the modified devices. For example, if a charged heat pipe device received from a heat pipe device manufacturer cannot withstand the internal pressure resulting from a high-temperature process performed on the charged heat pipe device (e.g., die mounting of integrated circuit chips, adhesive curing, additive manufacturing on the device), the heat pipe customer can receive an uncharged heat pipe device from the heat pipe device manufacturer, perform the high-temperature process on the uncharged heat pipe device, and then charge the modified heat pipe device on-site at the customer's facility using the heat pipe charging system 10 as described herein.

[0024]

[0036] Accordingly, in various exemplary embodiments, the Disclosure provides a self-excited oscillating heat pipe (OHP) charging system 10 that is structured and operable to charge (i.e., at least partially fill) the internal volume of one or more OHP devices 14. More specifically, the OHP charging system 10 is structured and operable to charge (i.e., at least partially fill) one or more microchannels 18 integrally and internally formed within the OHP device 14 with a working fluid or cooling fluid. The OHP charging system 10 described herein may be a fully or partially automated system that is structured and operable to sequentially and continuously charge a plurality of OHP devices 14 that are automatically fed into the OHP charging system 10 (for example, via a conveyor system of the OHP charging system 10), but the OHP charging system 10 and the method of use are described below exemplary with respect to charging a single OHP device 14.

[0025]

[0037] Generally, a self-excited oscillating heat pipe (OHP) device (e.g., OHP device 14) is a passive heat transfer device that transports heat using a two-phase fluid flow in one or more capillary-sized microchannels or tunnels formed integrally and internally within the OHP device. The microchannels are constructed to a size that has a capillary effect on the working fluid or cooling fluid disposed therein, and they have meandering paths moving between one or more heating zones and one or more cooling zones of the OHP device. The volume of the microchannels is at least partially filled with the working fluid or cooling fluid and sealed from the external environment. The hydraulic diameter of the microchannels must be sufficiently small and the surface tension of the working fluid or cooling fluid must be sufficiently large so that the working fluid or cooling fluid is dispersed throughout the microchannels into discrete liquid "plugs" and vapor "bubbles" (i.e., capillary action) on its own. During operation, the OHP device transfers heat from the heating zone to the cooling zone as follows: the working fluid or cooling fluid partially evaporates and expands within the microchannel in or near the heating zone, and the associated expansion of the working fluid or cooling fluid vapor pushes or drives the working fluid or cooling fluid vapor axially within the microchannel from the heating zone toward the colder, lower-pressure cooling zone, where the incoming working fluid or cooling fluid vapor rejects its heat, condenses back into a liquid, and contracts. As a result, the working fluid or cooling fluid near the cooling zone is initially removed by the incoming fluid and pushed toward the heating zone through the microchannel path, and the cycle is repeated such that the working fluid or cooling fluid in liquid form and the working fluid or cooling fluid in vapor form form oscillate within the microchannel between the heating zone and the cooling zone.

[0026]

[0038] In various embodiments, the charge system 10 comprises a processing head 22, an OHP work platform 24, and a plurality of system conduits 26 connectable to the processing head 22. The OHP work platform 24 is structured and operable to have an OHP device 14 disposed thereon, while the processing head 22 at least partially fills microchannels 18 integrally and internally formed within the OHP device 14 with a working fluid or cooling fluid, as described below. The processing head 22 comprises a main operating module 28 and a multi-function mounting tool 30 extending from the main operating module 28. The multi-function mounting tool 30 has a lumen 34 and is structured and operable to be attachable to and sealed with a connection port 38 of the OHP device 14, as described below, while the OHP device 14 is disposed on the OHP work platform 24. The system conduit 26 is fluid-connectable to the processing head 22, as described below, and is structured and operable to provide working fluid or cooling fluid, vacuum, gas, and any other desired liquid, gas, or pneumatic operation to the main operating module 28, the multifunction mounting tool 30, and subsequently the OHP device 14 during the charging process of the OHP device 14. For example, in various embodiments, the system conduit may comprise a vacuum conduit 26A that is fluid-connectable to a vacuum source (not shown) and a working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 26B that is fluid-connectable to a working fluid or cooling fluid source (not shown). In various cases, the charging system 10 may further comprise a leak detection conduit 26C that is fluid-connectable to a helium leak detector or residual gas analyzer (not shown).

[0027]

[0039] Generally, during operation, the OHP device 14 is placed on the OHP work platform 24 manually or automatically (via a conveyor or other automated or robotic transport device). As described above, the OHP device includes a connection port 38 formed within the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14. The connection port 38 helps to provide a tight seal with the distal end 30A of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 and is structured and operable to provide a fluid flow connection of the OHP internal microchannel 18 to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 when the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38 (described later), thereby allowing the OHP device 14 to be charged as described herein. The connection port 38 may be any area of ​​the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14 that is directly aligned with and adjacent to the OHP microchannel 18 and designated as the connection port 38, or it may be any structure that is directly aligned with and adjacent to the OHP microchannel 18, is fluidly connected to or connectable to it, and is integrally formed within the outer wall or outer surface 46 designated as the connection port 38.

[0028]

[0040] In various embodiments, when the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38, the connection port 38 may be provided with a discharge / filling orifice or passage 42 extending into the microchannel 38 through its outer wall or outer surface 46 to provide a fluid flow connection between the OHP internal microchannel 18 and the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30. In various embodiments, the discharge / filling orifice or passage 42 may be prefabricated / pre-generated / pre-formed within the connection port 38 (i.e., fabricated during the fabrication or manufacture of the OHP device 14), thereby, when the OHP device 14 is first placed on the OHP work platform 24, the internal volume of the OHP microchannel 18 is opened to the ambient environment and fluidly connected thereto, and thereby the OHP microchannel 18 may be charged (i.e., filled with working fluid or cooling fluid). Alternatively, in various embodiments, the connection port 38 may be sealed such that when the OHP device 14 is first placed on the OHP work platform 24, the internal volume of the OHP microchannel 18 is closed and not open to the surrounding environment, nor is there any fluid connection with it (i.e., the discharge / filling passage 42 is not pre-fabricated). In embodiments of such a sealed connection port, the charging system 10 may further include orifice generating tools 50 / 90 (e.g., elements 50 in Figures 2A to 4C, 5D, 6C, 8, and 9, and elements 90 in Figures 5A to 5C) that are structured and operable to generate or create a connection port discharge / filling passage 42 when the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38 in order to establish a fluid flow connection between the OHP microchannel 18 and the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30, thereby allowing the OHP microchannel 18 to be charged (i.e., filled with working fluid or cooling fluid).

[0029]

[0041] When the OHP device 14 is placed on the work platform 38, the tip 30A of the multifunction mounting tool 30 is placed on or connected to the connection port 38. In various embodiments, the charging system 10 may be structured and operable to create a sealed tight seal between the distal end 30A of the multifunction mounting tool 30 and the connection port 38 after the multifunction mounting tool 30 has been placed on or connected to the connection port 38. In embodiments where the connection port discharge / filling passage 42 is prefabricated, a fluid flow connection between the OHP internal microchannel 18 and the lumen 34 of the multifunction mounting tool 30 is established thereby. However, in embodiments where the connection port discharge / filling passage 42 is not prefabricated, when the multifunction mounting tool 30 is placed on or connected to the connection port 38, the connection port discharge / filling passage 42 is generated via the processing head 22 (as described below), thereby establishing a fluid flow connection between the OHP internal microchannel 18 and the lumen 34 of the multifunction mounting tool 30.

[0030]

[0042] Next, referring to Figures 1, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4A, 4B, and 4C, in various embodiments, the connection port 38 of the OHP device 14 is structured and operable to assist in positioning the multifunctional mounting tool 30 on the OHP device in order to properly connect the multifunctional mounting tool 30 to the OHP device 14. The connection port 38 is also structured and operable to assist in providing a tight seal between the distal end 30A of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 and the OHP device 14, so that a fluid flow connection can be established between the OHP internal microchannel 18 and the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30, as described herein, and the OHP device 14 can be charged. As described above, in various instances, the OHP device 14 may be fabricated or manufactured so that the connection port 38 is sealed first. More specifically, in various embodiments, the connection port 38 is formed in or provided by the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14 and does not include a discharge / filling passage 42. In such cases, the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14 must provide a discharge / filling passage 42 for discharging and / or filling the OHP microchannel 18, and the connection port 38 must be punctured or perforated to provide a fluid flow connection between the OHP microchannel 18 and the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 when the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38.

[0031]

[0043] In such embodiments, the charge system 10, more specifically the main operating module 28 of the processing head 22, may include an orifice-forming tool 50 structured and operable to at least partially form an orifice (i.e., discharge / filling passage 42) in the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14 by puncturing, penetrating, drilling, or otherwise. The orifice-forming tool 50 may include any device, apparatus, system, or tool structured and operable to at least partially form an discharge / filling port 42 in the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device within the internal space of the connection port 38 by puncturing, penetrating, drilling, or otherwise. For example, the orifice-forming tool 50 may include a punch or needle (e.g., the punch rod 90 shown in Figures 6A-6C) structured and operable to pierce the outer wall or surface 46 of the OHP device using a vertical force to form an discharge / fill passage 42 through the outer wall or surface 46 of the OHP device, or a drill or similar rotary motion device configured to remove or manipulate the material of the outer wall or surface 46 of the OHP device to form an discharge / fill passage 42 through the outer wall or surface 46 of the OHP device, or an ablation device or process such as a laser or chemical etching process structured and operable to form an discharge / fill passage 42 through the outer wall or surface 46 of the OHP device.

[0032]

[0044] For example, as illustrated in Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, in various embodiments, the orifice generating tool 50 may comprise a cutting tool (e.g., a milling blade, rotary bit, laser, or other device) structured and operable to cut a conical channel, recess, or groove 54 that is directly aligned with a portion of the OHP microchannel 18 and partially passes through the thickness of the adjacent OHP device outer wall or surface 46, such that a thin amount of the outer wall or surface 46, referred to herein as a thin skin 58 of the outer wall or surface 46, remains at the distal end of the conical groove 54 between the conical groove 54 and the internal microchannel 18. More specifically, the orifice generating tool 50 may comprise a cutting tool that makes an incision in the outer wall or surface 46 at a certain angle and moves circularly so as to generate a conical groove 54, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B. Furthermore, the cutting tool (for example, the orifice generating tool 50) cuts into the outer wall or outer surface 46 so that the conical groove 54 extends through the outer wall or outer surface 46 almost completely, thereby forming a conical plug 62 connected to the skin 58 at the apex 60 of the conical plug 62 so that the skin 58 is positioned between the apex 60 and a portion of the adjacent OHP microchannel 18, as shown in Figure 2B.

[0033]

[0045] In such embodiments, the main operating module 28 of the charging system 10, more specifically the processing head 22, moves the conical plug 62 downward (i.e., Y as shown in Figure 2C) so that the conical plug 62 is advanced or pushed through the skin 58. -To push in the direction of (in which direction), a plug control device 66 structured and operable via an actuator 106 (shown in Figures 8, 9, 10, and 11) may be further provided. When the conical plug 62 is pushed downward, the apex 60 is pushed through the skin 58 so that the skin 58 is pierced, perforated, or destroyed. The conical plug 62 may then be partially or completely withdrawn via the plug control device 66, thereby forming a discharge / filling passage 42 extending along and through the conical groove 54, or through a conical recess provided when the conical plug 62 is fully withdrawn, as shown in Figure 2C, and along and through the space between the pierced skin 58 and the conical plug 62. As described above, the discharge / filling passage 42 fluidly connects the internal space of the OHP microchannel 18 to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 so that the OHP microchannel 18 can be charged (i.e., filled with working fluid or cooling fluid). Furthermore, in various embodiments, the discharge / filling passage 42 fluidly connects the internal space of the OHP microchannel 18 to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30, thereby allowing the OHP microchannel 18 to be subjected to leak testing, pressure testing, and / or discharge of any moisture, residue, and / or debris that may be present in the internal space of the OHP microchannel 18 before it is charged with a working fluid or cooling fluid, as described below. As shown in Figure 2D, once the OHP microchannel 18 is charged, the plug control device 66 causes the conical plug 62 to close, at least temporarily sealing the discharge / filling passage 42 (i.e., giving a temporary or permanent seal). - The conical plug 62 may be further pushed in that direction. Subsequently, the conical plug 62 may be sealed in the discharge / filling passage 42 by any suitable sealing means or process (e.g., torsional ultrasonic welding).

[0034]

[0046] In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 1, 2E, 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, the charge system 10, more specifically the processing head 22, may include an orifice-forming tool 50 structured and operable to puncture, penetrate, or otherwise form an orifice (i.e., an discharge / filling passage 42) in the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14, as described above. As also described above, in various embodiments, the orifice-forming tool 50 may include a cutting tool (e.g., a milling blade, rotary bit, laser, or other device) structured and operable to cut a conical channel, recess, or groove 54 that partially passes through the thickness of the adjacent OHP device outer wall or outer surface 46, directly aligned with a portion of the OHP microchannel 18 such that a thin amount of outer wall or outer surface 46, i.e., a thin skin 58, remains at the distal end of the conical groove 54. More specifically, the cutting tool moves in a circular motion, making an angled cut in the outer wall or outer surface 46 so as to generate a conical groove 54, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B. The cutting tool (e.g., the orifice generating tool 50) also cuts into the outer wall or outer surface 46 so that the conical groove 54 extends through the outer wall or outer surface 46 almost completely, thereby forming a conical plug 62 connected to the skin 58 at its apex 60 so that the skin 58 is positioned between the apex 60 and a portion of the adjacent OHP microchannel 18, as shown in Figure 3B.

[0035]

[0047] In such embodiments, the charging system 10, more specifically the processing head 22, raises the conical plug 62 upward (i.e., Y as shown in Figure 3C) so that the conical plug 62 is pulled out or separated from the skin 58. +To pull in the direction of the OHP, the system further comprises a plug control device 66 that is structured and operable via an actuator 106 (shown in Figures 8, 9, 10, and 11). When the conical plug 62 is pulled upward, the apex 60 is pulled away from the skin 58 so that the skin 58 is broken. The conical plug 62 may then be partially or completely pulled out by the plug control device 66, thereby forming a discharge / filling passage 42 that extends along and through the conical groove 54, or through a conical recess provided when the conical plug 62 is fully pulled out, as shown in Figure 3C, and along and through the space between the pierced skin 58 and the conical plug 62. As described above, the discharge / filling passage 42 fluidly connects the internal space of the OHP microchannel 18 to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 so that the OHP microchannel 18 can be charged (i.e., filled with working fluid or cooling fluid). Furthermore, in various embodiments, the discharge / filling passage 42 fluidly connects the internal space of the OHP microchannel 18 to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30, thereby allowing the OHP microchannel 18 to be subjected to leak testing, pressure testing, and / or discharge of any moisture, residue, and / or debris that may be present in the internal space of the OHP microchannel 18 before it is charged with a working fluid or cooling fluid, as described below. As shown in Figure 3D, once the OHP microchannel 18 is charged, the plug control device 66 causes the conical plug 62 to close and at least temporarily seal the discharge / filling passage 42. - The conical plug 62 may be operated to push in that direction. Subsequently, the conical plug 62 may be sealed in the discharge / filling passage 42 by any suitable sealing means, method or process (e.g., torsional ultrasonic welding).

[0036]

[0048] In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 1, 2E, 4A, 4B, and 4C, the charge system 10, more particularly the processing head 22, may include an orifice-forming tool 50 structured and operable to puncture, penetrate, or otherwise at least partially form an orifice (i.e., discharge / filling passage 42) in the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14, as described above. Again, as described above, the orifice-forming tool 50 may include any device structured and operable to puncture, penetrate, or otherwise at least partially form an orifice. For example, in various embodiments, the orifice-forming tool 50 may include a cutting tool (e.g., a milling blade, rotary bit, laser, or other device) that is directly aligned with a portion of the OHP microchannel 18 and structured and operable to drill, cut, mill, sinter, or otherwise form a truncated cone-shaped recess 70 in an adjacent OHP device outer wall or surface 46, such that a thin amount of outer wall or surface 46, i.e., a thin skin 58, remains at the bottom of the truncated cone-shaped recess 70, as shown in Figure 4A.

[0037]

[0049] In such embodiments, the charging system 10, more specifically the processing head 22, directs the truncated cone-shaped plug 74 downwards (i.e., the Y shown in Figure 4B). - To push in the direction of (Y), the plug further comprises a plug control device 66 that is structured and operable via an actuator 106 (shown in Figures 8, 9, 10, and 11). In various cases, the truncated cone-shaped plug 74 has an angled base 76 with a vertex 78. Thus the truncated cone-shaped plug 74 is positioned downward (i.e., Y - When pushed in the direction, the apex 78 of the angled base 76 is pushed through the skin 58 so that the skin 58 is pierced, perforated, or destroyed.

[0038]

[0050] Next, the truncated cone-shaped plug 74 can be partially or completely withdrawn via the plug control device 66, thereby forming a discharge / filling passage 42 that extends between the side wall of the truncated cone-shaped plug 74 and the side wall of the truncated cone-shaped recess 70, or through the truncated cone-shaped recess 70 if the cone-shaped plug 62 is fully withdrawn, and through the space between the pierced skin 58 and the truncated cone-shaped plug 74, as shown in Figure 4B. As described above, the discharge / filling passage 42 fluidly connects the internal space of the OHP microchannel 18 to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 so that the OHP microchannel 18 can be charged (i.e., filled with working fluid or cooling fluid). Furthermore, in various embodiments, the discharge / filling passage 42 fluidly connects the internal space of the OHP microchannel 18 to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30, thereby allowing leak testing, pressure testing, and / or discharge of any moisture, residue, and / or debris that may be present in the internal space of the OHP microchannel 18 before it is charged with a working fluid or cooling fluid, as described below. As shown in Figure 4C, once the OHP microchannel 18 is filled, the plug control device 66 causes the truncated cone-shaped plug 74 to close and at least temporarily seal the discharge / filling passage 42. - The truncated cone-shaped plug 66 may be further pushed in that direction. Subsequently, the truncated cone-shaped plug 74 may be sealed in the discharge / filling passage 42 by any suitable sealing means, method, or process (e.g., torsional ultrasonic welding).

[0039]

[0051] Next, referring to Figures 1, 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D, as described above, in various embodiments, the connection port 38 may be provided with a discharge / filling passage 42 that is prefabricated within the connection port 38 (i.e., fabricated during the fabrication or manufacture of the OHP device 14) to provide a fluid flow connection of the OHP internal microchannel 18 with the lumen 34 of the multifunction mounting tool 30 when the multifunction mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38. For example, in various embodiments, the discharge / filling passage 42 may be a small port hole 82 (e.g., a port hole with a diameter of 0.020 to 0.050 inches) that extends at least partially through the thickness of the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14. In various embodiments, if the prefabricated discharge / filling passage 42 / port hole 82 extends fully through the outer wall or outer surface 46 (Figure 5A), the internal volume of the OHP microchannel 18 is opened to the ambient environment and fluidly connected with it when the OHP device 14 is first placed on the OHP work platform 24. Alternatively, in various embodiments, if the pre-fabricated discharge / fill passage 42 / port hole 82 does not extend entirely through the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device, a thin layer of the outer wall or skin 86 remains at the distal end of the discharge / fill passage 42 / port hole 82 (Figure 5B). In such embodiments, the processing head 22, more specifically, the main operating module 28, is structured and operable to puncture the skin 86 before or after the multifunction mounting tool 30 is sealed to the connection port 38. For example, in such embodiments, the orifice generating tool 50 punctures, perforates, or breaks the outer wall 46 or skin 86 at the distal end of the discharge / fill passage 42 / port hole 82 by the punch rod 90, thereby forming the discharge / fill passage 42 by the punch rod 90 downward (i.e., Y as shown in Figure 5C) - A punch rod 90 (Figure 5D) may be provided, structured and operable via an actuator 106 (shown in Figures 8, 9, 10, and 11) to move or push in a certain direction.

[0040]

[0052] As described above, in order to charge the OHP device 14, the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is sealed to the OHP device at the connection port 38. This may be done before or after the discharge / filling passage 42 is formed or provided. Also as described above, the connection port 38 may be any area or structure that is directly aligned adjacent to the OHP microchannel 18 and formed integrally with the outer surface of the outer wall or outer surface 46 designated as the connection port 38, formed on it, formed therein, or connected thereto. For example, in various embodiments, the connection port 38 may have a flat surface (e.g., a flat surface with a diameter of 1 / 4 inch) on the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device. Generally, during operation, the processing head 22 is connected to the OHP device 14 by connecting and sealing the multifunctional mounting tool 30 at the connection port 38. This may be done in any suitable way, e.g., via O-rings, adhesives, laser welding, valves, quick-connect features, etc.

[0041]

[0053] Once the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38, placed in contact with it, or otherwise sealed to it, and the exhaust / fill passage 42 is provided or formed, the charge system 10 can perform an internal volume leak test to verify that there is no unwanted leak in the OHP envelope or gas in the OHP channel 18. In various embodiments, if the internal volume is initially under vacuum, this can be done by sensing, via a gas sensor in the processing head 22, whether there is gas in the internal volume of the OHP channel 18 after the exhaust / fill passage 42 has been formed, thus indicating the presence of a leak path in the OHP envelope that would cause the unit to reject. In various embodiments, if the internal volume is fluidly connected to the ambient environment, the internal volume leak test can be performed using any suitable method such as detecting gas or air leaks in the use of RGA, FTIR or CIS, helium, or other tracer mass spectrometry gas leak tests, pressure measurement / pressure attenuation tests, vacuum attenuation, etc.

[0042]

[0054] Furthermore, once the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38, placed in contact with it, or otherwise sealed to it, and a discharge / filling passage 42 is provided or formed, helium can be introduced into the OHP channel 18 via a helium source (not shown) which may be connected to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool and a leak detection conduit 26C. More specifically, in various cases, the leak detection conduit 26C may be selectively fluid-connected to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool, which is fluid-connected to the OHP microchannel 18 when the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38. Using a standard helium leak detection method, helium is used to verify that a tight seal is established between the distal end 30 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 and the connection port 38, and that there is no leak within the OHP microchannel 18.

[0043]

[0055] Alternatively, in various embodiments, vacuum may be used to verify a tight seal between the distal end 30 of the multifunction mounting tool 30 and the connection port 38, and to ensure there are no leaks within the OHP microchannel 18. More specifically, a vacuum conduit 26A may be fluidically connected to a vacuum source (not shown). In various cases, the vacuum conduit 26A may be selectively fluidically connected to the lumen 34 of the multifunction mounting tool, which is fluidly connected to the OHP microchannel 18. Once the multifunction mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38, a target level or pressure of vacuum may be applied to the OHP microchannel 18 via the vacuum source for a specific duration. The target level or pressure of vacuum is then measured or monitored by sensors on the processing head 22 during that duration to determine whether the target level or pressure of vacuum is being maintained. If the target vacuum level or pressure is maintained, the airtightness of the connection between the distal end 30 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 and the connection port 38 is verified, i.e., the airtight seal between the distal end 30 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 and the connection port 38 is verified, and the airtightness of the OHP microchannel is verified.

[0044]

[0056] As described above, in various embodiments, the connection port 38 may be provided with a discharge / filling passage 42 that is prefabricated within the connection port 38 (i.e., fabricated during the fabrication or manufacture of the OHP device 14), thereby opening the internal volume of the OHP microchannel 18 to the ambient environment and fluidizing it when the OHP device 14 is first placed on the OHP work platform 24. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the discharge / filling passage 42 may be fabricated via the main operating module 28 of the processing head 22 before or after the multifunction mounting tool 30 is sealed at the connection port 38, as described above. In any of the above scenarios, in various embodiments, once the seal between the distal end 30 of the multifunction mounting tool 30 and the connection port 38 is established and verified, the OHP microchannel 18 may be discharged by drawing a vacuum from the OHP microchannel 18 via a vacuum source connected to the vacuum conduit 26A. More specifically, as described above, the vacuum conduit 26A can be selectively fluidized into the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool, which is fluidized into the OHP microchannel 18 when the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is sealed to the connection port 38. Thus, the vacuum generated by the vacuum source is applied to the OHP microchannel 18, thereby expelling moisture, residue, and / or debris from the OHP microchannel 18.

[0045]

[0057] Furthermore, in various embodiments, once an internal volume leak test is performed, the charge system 10, more specifically the processing head 22, can measure the internal volume of the OHP channel 18. This can be done using any suitable means, method, or process, such as introducing a known mass of a known gas into the microchannel 18, measuring the pressure and temperature of the control volume, calculating the control volume using the law of ideal gases or tabled gas properties, and subtracting the known internal volume of the tool. In addition, if two of these properties are unknown, the volume can be calculated by varying the value of one of them and measuring the properties for each state. Otherwise, this can be done by completely filling the OHP channel 18 with a working fluid or cooling fluid and correlating it to the known total volume of the OHP channel 18 using the density of the working fluid or cooling fluid at a specific charge temperature, or via an ultrasonic test, etc. Subsequently, in various embodiments, the charge system 10, more specifically the processing head 22, can perform an internal pressure test on the OHP device 14. In particular, in various cases, a hydrostatic test can be performed using a working fluid or cooling fluid. For example, the OHP microchannel 18 may be 100% filled with liquid, and then additional mechanically driven pressure may be applied to the fluid in the OHP microchannel to push the OHP device beyond the fluid saturation curve to a desired pressure. During pressurization, an external detector of the working fluid or cooling fluid may be used to detect whether a leak path is open, and / or a visual inspection may be completed to verify that there is no permanent deformation of the OHP envelope material. Alternatively, the OHP microchannel 18 may be depressurized and leak testing performed internally using the method described above.

[0046]

[0058] Once a sealed enclosure between the distal end 30 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 and the connection port 38 is established and verified, an internal volume leakage test is performed, and in various cases, the OHP microchannel 18 is discharged and the OHP microchannel 18 can be charged with a desired predetermined amount of working fluid or cooling fluid via a working fluid or cooling fluid source (not shown) connected to a working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 26B. More specifically, the working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 26B can be selectively fluid-connected to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool, which is fluid-connected to the OHP microchannel 18 when the multifunctional mounting tool 30 is connected to the connection port 38. Thus, a desired predetermined amount of working fluid or cooling fluid can be delivered into the OHP microchannel 18 via the working fluid or cooling fluid source. When the OHP microchannel 18 is charged, that is, filled with a desired amount of working fluid or cooling fluid, the OHP system 10, more specifically the processing head 22, can at least temporarily seal and close the discharge / filling passage 42 of the connection port 38, after which the multi-function mounting tool 30 can be detached from the connection port 38 and removed.

[0047]

[0059] Next, referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 7, the discharge / fill passage 42 can be at least temporarily sealed (i.e., at least temporarily hermetically sealed and closed) via any suitable means, manner, system, mechanism, or device. For example, in various embodiments, the discharge / fill passage 42 can be sealed and closed by plugging the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage 42 (i.e., the end of the discharge / fill passage 42 closest to the outer surface of the OHP device outer wall or outer surface 46 shown in FIGS. 2D, 3D, and 4C) with a ball plug 94d that can be received within the proximal end 42A. The ball plug 94 can be disposed at the distal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage via any suitable means, manner, system, mechanism, or device. Thereafter, the program 98 of the processing head active operation module 28 can push, wedge, accommodate, crush, and / or deform the ball plug 94 into the distal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage via an actuator 106 (shown in FIGS. 8, 9, 10, and 11) to push the ball plug 94 downward (i.e., in the Y - direction shown in FIG. 6B). Thus, the ball plug 94 at least temporarily seals the discharge / fill passage 42 (i.e., at least temporarily hermetically seals the discharge / fill passage 42), and more particularly, at least temporarily seals the OHP microchannel 18 (i.e., at least temporarily hermetically seals the OHP microchannel 18).

[0048]

[0060] Alternatively, the charge system (e.g., processing head 22) may be structured and operable to weld a ball plug 94 to the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage via welding material cladding (e.g., via welding a single alloy plug ball, or using a brazed / welded material-cladded plug ball). Such a sealing process may be provided by the charge system processing head 22, or by a separate system structured and operable to provide at least temporary sealing of the discharge / fill passage 42. Furthermore, in various other embodiments, instead of the ball plug 94, embodiments may utilize a plug or cap that, after being pressed into the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage, deforms to return a spring to seal the discharge / fill passage 42. In various embodiments, further modifications using other plug shapes and sealing methods (e.g., thermal expansion difference, welding, press-fitting, riveting, etc.) may be implemented to provide at least temporary sealing of the discharge / fill passage 42 (i.e., providing at least temporary sealing).

[0049]

[0061] The ball plug 94 may be placed, positioned, or otherwise disposed of by any suitable means, method, system, mechanism, or device to the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage 42. For example, in various embodiments, the main operating module 28 of the processing head 22 may include a ball plug input inclined section 102 that allows the ball plug 94 to roll into a predetermined position within the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage. More specifically, the ball plug 94 may be placed into the ball plug input inclined section 102 manually or automatically, and then the ball plug 94 rolls down through the ball plug input inclined section 102 into the lumen 34 of the multifunction mounting tool 30 by gravity. The ball plug 94 then falls or rolls through the lumen 34 of the multifunction mounting tool to the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage. In various embodiments, the program 98 then pushes, wedges, accommodates, crushes, and / or deforms the ball plug 94 into the distal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage, as described above. Alternatively, as described above, the charge system (e.g., the processing head 22) may be structured and operable to weld the ball plug 94 to the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage via welding material cladding (e.g., via welding a single alloy plug ball, or using a brazed / welded material cladding plug ball).

[0050]

[0062] If using any means, methods, systems, mechanisms, or devices described herein for at least temporarily sealing the discharge / filling passage 42, or any combination of any means, methods, systems, mechanisms, or devices described herein for at least temporarily sealing the discharge / filling passage 42, does not provide a tight seal that can withstand downstream or customer requirements (e.g., the seal cannot withstand downstream or customer requirements such as internal pressure, shock, vibration, etc.), then an additional final seal may be applied using any suitable sealing process (e.g., torsional ultrasonic welding) to provide the required tight seal. Such a final sealing process may be provided by the charge system processing head 22, or by a separate system structured and operable to provide a final seal after charging the OHP device 14 by the OHP charge system 10. For example, in various embodiments, the charge system 10, more particularly the processing head 22, may perform the final seal before disconnecting and removing the multifunctional mounting tool 30 from the connection port 38.

[0051]

[0063] Next, referring to Figures 1 to 11, as described above, the vacuum conduit 16A, the working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 16B, and the leak inspection conduit 16C are selectively connected to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool based on specific operations of the charge system 10, such as OHP microchannel exhaust operation, OHP microchannel charging operation, and seal inspection. More specifically, as described below, the vacuum conduit 16A, the working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 16B, and the leak inspection conduit 16C are selectively connected to the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool via the operation of the main operating module 28 of the processing head 22, based on specific operations of the charge system 10. Furthermore, the processing head 22 and the main operating module 28 of the charge system 10 can have various structures, configurations, and functions.

[0052]

[0064] For example, referring particularly to Figure 8, in various embodiments, the main operating module 28 of the processing head 22 may be a syringe or piston module comprising a piston actuator 106 that extends into and at least partially disposed within the internal lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool. Furthermore, the main operating module 28 may comprise a multi-source feed tube 110 having system conduits 26 (e.g., a vacuum conduit 26A, a working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 26B, and a leak inspection conduit 26C) distally connected to the side wall of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 and connected to its body. The multi-source feed tube 110 comprises an internal bore or internal lumen such that the system conduits 26 can be selectively fluid-connected to the internal lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 via the operation of the main operating module. As described above, in various embodiments, the processing head 22 may include an orifice-generating tool 50 that is structured and operable to puncture, penetrate, drill holes in, or otherwise at least partially form an orifice (i.e., an discharge / filling passage 42) in the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14. In various cases, the orifice-generating tool 50 may be a laser device that is structured and operable to generate or emit a laser beam that is projected through the internal lumen 34 of the multifunction mounting tool 30 to at least partially cut through the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device in the connection port 38 to give an discharge / filling passage 42.

[0053]

[0065] As illustrated in Figure 9, in other embodiments, the processing head 22 may comprise a rotary main operating module 28 comprising an upper stator 114 and a lower stator 118, with a rotatable central body 122 positioned between them. The upper stator 114 is fluid-connectable to system conduits 26 (e.g., a vacuum conduit 26A, a working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 26B, and a leak inspection conduit 26C). The lower stator 118 has a multifunctional mounting tool 30 extending therefrom, which comprises an orifice or bore fluid-connected to an internal cavity 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30. The rotatable central body is fabricated, formed, or constructed to have various internal channels, tunnels, conduits, and / or passages 126 that fluidly connect the system conduit 26 to various passages, such that the rotatable central body is operable to rotate selectively to align one of the passages with the internal cavity of the bore and neck of the lower stator and to fluidly connect, thereby selectively fluidizing the system conduit 26 to the internal cavity 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30.

[0054]

[0066] In various cases, the rotatable central body 122 may further include an orifice generating tool 50 comprising one or more laser port and reflection path guides 130 and one or more laser devices (not shown). The laser port and reflection path guides 130 are structured and operable to receive a laser beam / signal generated or emitted by the laser device to provide an evacuation / filling passage 42, and direct the laser beam / signal through the internal cavity 34 of the multifunction mounting tool toward the connection port 38, at least partially cutting through the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device in the connection port 38. More specifically, the rotatable central body 122 may be rotated to align the laser port and reflection path guides 130 so that the emitted laser beam / signal is directed through the internal cavity 34 of the multifunction mounting tool toward the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device in the connection port 38 to generate an evacuation / filling passage 42. The laser port and reflection path guides 130 may include a mirror to direct the laser beam toward the connection port 38. Subsequently, the central body 122 may be rotated to align or otherwise fluidize one or more of the internal channels, tunnels, conduits, and / or passages 126 with the internal lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool, thereby selectively fluidizing one or more of the system conduits 26 with the internal lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool, and more specifically, with the OHP microchannels 18.

[0055]

[0067] For example, the central body 122 may be rotated to align or otherwise selectively fluidize one or more of the internal channels, tunnels, conduits, and / or passages 126 with the leak test conduit 26C and the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool, so that the airtightness of the sealed connection of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 with the connection port 38 can be tested and verified as described above, thereby selectively fluidizing the leak test conduit 26C with the OHP microchannel 18. The central body 122 may then be rotated to align or otherwise selectively fluidize one or more of the internal channels, tunnels, conduits, and / or passages 126 with the vacuum conduit 26A and the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool, so that the airtightness of the OHP microchannel 18 can be tested and verified as described above, and / or the OHP microchannel 18 can be discharged of moisture, residue, and / or debris as described above. Next, the central body 122 may be rotated to align or otherwise selectively fluidize one or more of the internal channels, tunnels, conduits, and / or passages 126 with the working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 26B and the internal lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool, thereby selectively fluidizing the working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 26B with the OHP microchannel 18. The OHP microchannel 18 can then be charged with the working fluid or cooling fluid as described above.

[0056]

[0068] Finally, the central body 122 may be rotated to align the piston rod of the discharge / fill passage plug insertion device 134 (e.g., the plug control device 66, the punch rod 90, or the program 98) with the lumen 34 of the multifunction mounting tool so that the discharge / fill passage plug (e.g., the conical plug 62, or the truncated conical plug 74, or the ball plug 94) can be inserted into and sealed into the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage as described above, in order to at least temporarily seal the discharge / fill passage 42 as described above (i.e., it may be a temporary or permanent seal). In various embodiments, the central body 122 may then be rotated to position the laser port and reflection path guide 130 so that the laser beam / signal is directed through the lumen 34 of the multifunction mounting tool onto the connection port 38 in order to give or produce a permanent seal of the discharge / fill passage plug 62, 74, or 94 in the discharge / fill passage 42.

[0057]

[0069] As illustrated in Figure 10, in other embodiments, the processing head 22 may include an internal moving component 138 disposed within the main operating module 28. In various cases, the internal moving component may include a linear slide 142, which is a tray holding a first operating head 146 and a second operating head 150. The first operating head 146 and the second operating head 150 perform the functions / operations of generating the discharge / filling passage 42, leak testing of the seal between the multifunction mounting tool 30 and the connection port 38, discharge of moisture, residue, and / or debris from the OHP microchannel 18, charging the OHP microchannel 18 with working fluid or cooling fluid, and the final sealing of the discharge / filling passage 42 as described above. For example, in various embodiments, the first operating head 146 may have a sharp spike located at its distal end that is structured and operable to generate or provide the discharge / fill passage 42, and the second operating head 150 may have a blunt boss or post located at its distal end that is structured and operable to insert and seal a discharge / fill passage plug (e.g., the conical plug 62 described above, or the truncated conical plug 74 described above, or the ball plug 94 described above) into and within the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage as described above, and to at least temporarily seal the discharge / fill passage 42 as described above (i.e., it may be a temporary or permanent seal).

[0058]

[0070] More specifically, the processing head 22 may include a slide actuator 154 structured and operable to selectively position a linear slide 142 so that the piston rod 158 can access and operate relative to the respective selected first operating head 146 or second operating head 150, depending on the function / operation to be performed (e.g., generating a discharge / filling passage 42, leak testing of the seal between the multifunction mounting tool 30 and the connection port 38, discharge of moisture, residue, and / or debris from the OHP microchannel 18, filling the OHP microchannel 18 with working fluid or cooling fluid, or final sealing of the discharge / filling passage 42), in order to selectively align the first operating head 146 and the second operating head 150 with the piston rod 158 of an operating actuator 162 attached to the main operating module 28. The multi-source feed tube 166 has system conduits 26 (e.g., a vacuum conduit 26A, a working fluid or cooling fluid conduit 26B, and a leak inspection conduit 26C) connected to its body. The multi-source feed tube 166 has an internal bore or lumen so that the system conduits 26 selectively connect to the internal lumen 34 of the multi-function mounting tool 30.

[0059]

[0071] As illustrated in Figures 7 and 11, in various embodiments, the processing head 22 may be configured to at least partially puncture the outer wall or surface 46 of the OHP device within the connection port 38 to provide an discharge / filling passage 42, and may include a puncture tool 170 capable of operating in this manner. In various cases, the puncture tool 170 is disposed to slide concentrically within the program 98 (as described above with respect to Figure 7). In such embodiments, the processing head 22 may further include a puncture tool actuator 174 that can be selectively connected to the puncture tool 170 and a program actuator 176 that can be selectively connected to the program 98. The puncture tool actuator 174 and the program actuator 176 respectively connect the puncture tool 170 and the program 98 Y + and Y - It is structured and operable to move up and down in that direction.

[0060]

[0072] As described above with respect to Figure 7, in various embodiments, the main operating module 28 may include a ball plug input inclined section 102 that allows the ball plug 94 to roll into a predetermined position within the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage. More specifically, once the OHP microchannel 18 is charged with a desired predetermined amount of working fluid or cooling fluid, the ball plug 94 may be released into the ball plug input inclined section 102 manually or via automation, and the ball plug 94 then rolls down through the ball plug input inclined section 102 into the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30 by gravity. The ball plug 94 then falls or rolls through the lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool into the proximal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage. The program 98 then pushes, wedges, accommodates, crushes, and / or deforms the ball plug 94 into the distal end 42A of the discharge / fill passage via the operation of the multipurpose actuator 174, as described above. Alternatively, as described above, the charge system (e.g., processing head 22) may be structured and operable to weld the ball plug 94 into the proximal end 42A of the discharge / filling passage via welding material cladding (e.g., via welding a single alloy plug ball, or using a brazed / welding material-cladded plug ball). Furthermore, the processing head 22 may include a multi-source feed tube 178 distally connected to the side wall of the main operating module 28 and fluidly connected to the internal lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30. The multi-source feed tube 178 has a system conduit 26 (not shown) connected to its body. The multi-source feed tube 178 has an internal bore or lumen so that the system conduit 26 is selectively fluidly connected to the internal lumen 34 of the multifunctional mounting tool 30.

[0061]

[0073] In various embodiments, during operation, the ball plug 94 may be loaded into the ball plug input inclined section 102, and both the puncture tool actuator 174 and the program actuator 176 are Y +Retracted in the direction, the multi-function mounting tool 30 is attached to the OHP device 14 in the connection port 38. Air is then discharged from the main operating module 28 using a vacuum source fluidly connected to the multi-source feed tube 178 via a vacuum conduit 26A (not shown), thereby verifying the airtight seal between the multi-function mounting tool 30 and the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device 14 in the connection port 38. Then, both the puncture tool actuator 174 and the program actuator 176 move both the puncture tool 170 and the program 98 to allow the puncture tool to puncture the outer wall or outer surface 46 of the OHP device in the connection port 38, in order to provide an discharge / fill passage 42. - It is operated to lower in the direction. Then the puncture tool 170 is moved via the puncture tool actuator 174 to the Y + It can be retracted in that direction, allowing the internal cavity 34 of the multi-functional mounting tool to be fluidly connected to the internal OHP channel 18.

[0062]

[0074] Subsequently, the OHP microchannel 18 is charged with working fluid or cooling fluid, after which moisture, residue, and / or debris are discharged, as described above. In various cases, there is a ball catch 182 in the ball plug input inclined section 102 to prevent the ball plug 94 from interfering with the puncture and charging process of the OHP device 14. The ball plug 94 is released by the ball catch 182 after the OHP device 14 has been charged and is ready to at least temporarily seal the discharge / filling passage 42. In various cases, there is a backfill prevention O-ring 186 positioned around the puncture tool conduit to prevent the working fluid or cooling fluid from backfilling the space in the main operating module 28 during the charging process. Subsequently, after charging, to at least temporarily seal the discharge / filling passage 42, the ball program 98 is pushed through the backfill prevention O-ring 186 into the proximal end 42A of the discharge / filling passage via the program actuator 176. - It can be lowered in that direction.

[0063]

[0075] As described above, all or part of the operation of the charging system 10 described herein may be manual operation and / or automated operation controlled by a computer-based controller (not shown, but clearly and readily understood by those skilled in the art). In various automated embodiments, the charging system 10 may be programmed to know where the charging port 38 is located on each OHP device 14. Thus, the processing head 22 may be moved (when controlled by a computer-based controller) to align the filling port 38 of the multifunction mounting tool 30, or an automated bed on which each OHP device 14 is arranged may be moved (when controlled by a computer-based controller) to align the filling port 38 of the multifunction mounting tool 30.

[0064]

[0076] The descriptions herein are essentially illustrative, and therefore, any variations that do not deviate from the gist of what is described are intended to be within the scope of this teaching. Furthermore, while the foregoing descriptions and associated drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments in the context of specific exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Such variations and alternative combinations of elements and / or functions should not be considered deviations from the spirit and scope of this teaching.

Claims

1. It is a heat pipe charging system, A work platform structured and operable thereon on which a heat pipe device is disposed, wherein the heat pipe device has at least one internal channel formed therein and a connection port formed in its outer wall, A processing head structured and operable to at least partially fill one internal channel of the heat pipe device with a working fluid, To at least partially fill the internal channel of the at least one heat pipe device with the working fluid, a plurality of system conduits fluid-connected to the processing head are structured and operable to supply at least one of the working fluid, vacuum, and gas to the processing head. A heat pipe charging system equipped with this system.

2. The processing head is Main operation module and The system comprises a multifunctional mounting tool extending from the main operating module, wherein the multifunctional mounting tool has a lumen and is structured and operable to be attachable to and to be tightly sealed with the connection port of the heat pipe device. The system according to claim 1, wherein the main operating module is structured and operable to selectively fluidize the plurality of system conduits to the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the main operating module comprises an orifice generating tool structured and operable to form an discharge / fill passage within the connection port, the discharge / fill passage extending through the outer wall of the heat pipe device into the at least one internal channel.

4. The aforementioned orifice generation tool is A cutting tool structured and operable to cut a conical groove that partially passes through the thickness of the outer wall of the heat pipe device, thereby forming a conical plug connected at its apex to a thin skin formed at the distal end of the conical recess between the conical recess and the at least one internal channel, Push the conical plug through the thin skin, then pull out the conical plug, thereby providing the discharge / filling passage, and The conical plug is pulled away from the thin skin, thereby breaking the thin skin and providing the discharge / filling passage. A plug-in control device structured and operable to perform one of the following: The system according to claim 3, comprising:

5. The system according to claim 3, wherein the orifice generating tool comprises a punch rod structured and operable to perforate the outer wall, thereby providing the discharge / filling passage.

6. The aforementioned main operation module is A ball plug input section is formed within the connection port and is structured and operable to accommodate a ball plug at the proximal end of a discharge / fill passage that extends through the outer wall of the heat pipe device into the at least one internal channel, A program structured and operable to push the ball plug at least partially into the discharge / fill passage, thereby sealing the discharge / fill passage. The system according to claim 5, comprising:

7. The main operating module is a piston-type module that extends into the internal cavity of the multi-functional mounting tool and comprises a piston-type actuator that is at least partially disposed within the internal cavity. The processing head further comprises a multi-source feed tube connected to the multiple system conduits and the main operating module such that the multiple system conduits can be selectively fluid-connected to the multi-functional mounting tool and the lumen, The system according to claim 2, wherein the main operating module is structured and operable to selectively fluidize the plurality of system conduits into the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool.

8. The main operating module is a rotary module comprising an upper stator, a lower stator, and a rotatable central body disposed between the upper stator and the lower stator. The processing head further comprises a multi-source feed tube connected to the multiple system conduits and the main operating module such that the multiple system conduits can be selectively fluidized into the lumen of the multi-functional mounting tool, The system according to claim 2, wherein the rotatable central body is structured and operable to selectively fluidize the plurality of system conduits into the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool.

9. The main motion module comprises a motion actuator and a linear slide including a first motion head and a second motion head. The processing head further comprises a multi-source feed tube connected to the multiple system conduits and the main operating module such that the multiple system conduits can be selectively fluidized into the lumen of the multi-functional mounting tool, The system according to claim 8, wherein the linear slide is structured and operable to selectively align the first and second operating heads with the piston rod in order to selectively fluidize the plurality of system conduits into the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool.

10. A method for charging a heat pipe device with a working fluid using a heat pipe charging system comprising a work platform, a processing head, and a plurality of system conduits, The heat pipe device is arranged on the heat pipe charging system work platform, wherein the heat pipe device comprises at least one internal channel formed therein and a connection port formed in its outer wall. The distal end of the multifunctional mounting tool of the heat pipe charge system processing head is placed in contact with the heat pipe device connection port so that the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool is fluidly connected to the at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device via the discharge / filling passage of the connection port that extends through the outer wall of the heat pipe device into the at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device, To verify the airtight seal between the distal end of the multi-functional mounting tool and the heat pipe device connection port, The operation of the main operating module of the heat pipe charging system processing head to at least partially fill at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device with working fluid, wherein the multifunctional mounting tool extends from the main operating module, and the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool is fluid-connectable to the plurality of heat pipe charging system conduits, wherein one of the system conduits is connected to a working fluid source. A method that includes [a certain feature].

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising using the orifice generation tool of the main operating module to form the discharge / filling passage within the connection port of the heat pipe device.

12. The orifice generating tool comprises a cutting tool, and the discharge / filling passage is formed by, Using the cutting tool that utilizes the orifice generating tool, a conical groove is cut through the thickness of the outer wall of the heat pipe device, thereby forming a conical plug connected at its apex to a thin skin formed at the distal end of the conical recess between the conical recess and the at least one internal channel. The conical plug is pushed through the thin skin via the plug control device of the orifice generating tool, and then the conical plug is pulled out, thereby providing the discharge / filling passage. The method according to claim 11, comprising:

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising pushing the conical plug into the discharge / filling passage after at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device has been at least partially filled with the working fluid, thereby sealing the discharge / filling passage.

14. The orifice generating tool comprises a cutting tool, and the discharge / filling passage is formed by, Using the cutting tool that utilizes the orifice generating tool, a conical groove is cut through the thickness of the outer wall of the heat pipe device, thereby forming a conical plug connected at its apex to a thin skin formed at the distal end of the conical recess between the conical recess and the at least one internal channel. The conical plug is drawn out of the thin skin via the plug control device of the orifice generating tool, thereby breaking the thin skin and providing the discharge / filling passage. The method according to claim 11, comprising:

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising pushing the conical plug into the discharge / filling passage after at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device has been at least partially filled with the working fluid, thereby sealing the discharge / filling passage.

16. The method according to claim 11, wherein the orifice generating tool comprises a punch rod, and forming the discharge / filling passage comprises using the punch rod to perforate the outer wall of the heat pipe device.

17. By utilizing the ball plug input section of the main operating module, a ball plug is provided at the proximal end of the discharge / filling passage. The program of the main operating module is used to push the ball plug at least partially into the discharge / fill passage, thereby sealing the discharge / fill passage. The method according to claim 16, further comprising:

18. The main operating module is a piston-type module comprising a piston-type actuator extending into the internal cavity of the multi-function mounting tool and at least partially disposed within the internal cavity, and the processing head comprises the plurality of system conduits and a multi-source feed pipe connected to the main operating module, wherein the method is To verify the sealed airtightness between the distal end of the multi-functional mounting tool and the heat pipe device connection port, To discharge at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device, Verify that the device is sealed, and To at least partially fill the at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device with the working fluid. The method according to claim 10, further comprising selectively fluidizing the plurality of system conduits to the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool via the operation of the main operating module and the piston-type actuator to do at least one of the following:

19. The main operating module is a rotary module comprising an upper stator, a lower stator, and a rotatable central body disposed between the upper and lower stators, and the processing head further comprises a plurality of system conduits and a multi-source feed pipe connected to the main operating module, wherein the method is as follows: To verify the sealed airtightness between the distal end of the multi-functional mounting tool and the heat pipe device connection port, To discharge at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device, Verify that the device is sealed, and To at least partially fill the at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device with the working fluid. The method of claim 10, further comprising selectively rotating the rotatable central body to selectively fluidize the plurality of system conduits into the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool in order to do at least one of the following:

20. The main operating module comprises a piston and a linear slide including a first operating head and a second operating head, and the processing head further comprises the plurality of system conduits and a multi-source feed tube connected to the main operating module, wherein the method is To verify the sealed airtightness between the distal end of the multi-functional mounting tool and the heat pipe device connection port, To discharge at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device, Verify that the device is sealed, and To at least partially fill the at least one internal channel of the heat pipe device with the working fluid. The method of claim 10, further comprising selectively moving the linear slide to selectively align the first and second operating heads with the piston rod in order to selectively fluidize the plurality of system conduits into the lumen of the multifunctional mounting tool in order to do at least one of the following:

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