Cooling module

Abstract

This provides a cooling module that improves the ease of installation on actual equipment. [Solution] The cooling module 2 includes a manifold 3 comprising a distribution manifold 7 and a collection manifold 8. The distribution manifold has connection ports for a plurality of joints 71 that are connected to the refrigerant inlets 51 in a plurality of cooling units 5. The collection manifold has connection ports for a plurality of joints 81 that are connected to the refrigerant outlets 52 in a plurality of cooling units. Each of the distribution manifold and the collection manifold is fixed to each other by a fixing member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cooling module.

Background Art

[0002] There is a cooling module including a distribution manifold that distributes refrigerant to a plurality of cooling units, and a collection manifold that collects refrigerant from the plurality of cooling units to which the refrigerant has been distributed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the case of attaching the prior art cooling module to an actual machine, since the distribution manifold and the collection manifold need to be attached individually, there is room for improvement in the workability of attaching to the actual machine.

[0005] Exemplary embodiments have been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide a cooling module capable of improving the workability of attaching to an actual machine.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The cooling module according to an exemplary embodiment includes a manifold including a distribution manifold and a collection manifold. The distribution manifold includes connection ports of a plurality of joints connected to inlets of refrigerant in a plurality of cooling units. The collection manifold includes connection ports of a plurality of joints connected to outlets of refrigerant in the plurality of cooling units. Each of the distribution manifold and the collection manifold is fixed to each other by a fixing member.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] In the exemplary embodiment of the cooling module, the distribution manifold and the collection manifold are fixed to each other by a fixing member, allowing the distribution manifold and the collection manifold to be installed on the actual machine at the same time, thus improving the ease of installation on the actual machine. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an explanatory top view of a cooling module according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a front view illustrating the manifold according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an explanatory top view of the connection portion in the distribution manifold according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an explanatory top view of the connection portion in the collection manifold according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating the manifold according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an explanatory top view of the cooling module relating to the first modified example. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an explanatory top view of the distribution-side connection block according to the first modified example. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional explanatory diagram of the distribution side connection block according to the first modified example. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an explanatory view of the bottom of the collection-side connection block according to the first modified example. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional explanatory diagram of the collection-side connection block according to the first modified example. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an explanatory top view of the connection between the collection manifold and the distribution side connection block according to the first modification. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an explanatory top view of the connection between the collection-side connection block and the distribution manifold according to the second modified example. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating the distribution side connection block. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating the distribution side connection block. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments for implementing the cooling module according to this disclosure (hereinafter referred to as "Embodiments") will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited by these embodiments. In the following embodiments, components that perform the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0010] In the embodiments described below, expressions such as "constant," "orthogonal," "perpendicular," or "parallel" may be used, but these expressions do not require strict adherence to "constant," "orthogonal," "perpendicular," or "parallel" conditions. In other words, each of the above expressions allows for deviations, for example, in manufacturing precision or installation precision.

[0011] In the drawings referenced below, for the sake of clarity, mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axis directions are sometimes defined, and a Cartesian coordinate system is shown with the positive Z axis pointing vertically upward.

[0012] First, the configuration of a cooling module according to an exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a top view explanatory of a cooling module 2 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a front view explanatory of a manifold 3 according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the cooling module 2 includes a manifold 3, a plurality of flow path pipes 4, and a plurality of cooling sections 5. The cooling module 2 is fluidly connected to an external flow path 6.

[0013] The external flow path 6 includes, for example, a refrigerant circulation device. The refrigerant circulation device is a device that cools the refrigerant flowing in from the cooling module 2 and sends it back to the cooling module 2. Note that the refrigerant circulation device may include a radiator. The manifold 3 includes a distribution manifold 7 and a collection manifold 8. The distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 have internal flow paths through which the refrigerant flows inside.

[0014] The distribution manifold 7 includes connection ports of a plurality of joints (hereinafter referred to as "distribution-side joints 71") connected to the refrigerant inlets 51 in the plurality of cooling units 5. The connection ports of the distribution-side joints 71 are arranged in a direction parallel to the first direction (Y-axis direction).

[0015] The distribution-side joints 71 are fluid-connected to the refrigerant inlets 51 in the cooling units 5 via the flow path pipes 4. The distribution manifold 7 has an inlet portion 72 at one end on the one side of the first direction (the positive side end in the Y-axis direction) through which the refrigerant flows in from the external flow path 6 via the flow path pipe 4.

[0016] The collection manifold 8 includes connection ports of a plurality of joints (hereinafter referred to as "collection-side joints 81") connected to the refrigerant outlets 52 in the plurality of cooling units 5. The connection ports of the collection-side joints 81 are arranged in a direction parallel to the first direction (Y-axis direction).

[0017] The collection-side joints 81 are fluid-connected to the refrigerant outlets 52 in the cooling units 5 via the flow path pipes 4. The collection manifold 8 has an outlet portion 82 at the other end on the other side of the first direction (the negative side end in the Y-axis direction) through which the refrigerant flows out to the external flow path 6 via the flow path pipe 4.

[0018] The cooling unit 5 is, for example, a cold plate. The cooling unit 5 is in thermal contact with the heat source 10. The heat source 10 is, for example, an arithmetic device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Each cooling unit 5 has an internal flow path through which the refrigerant flows inside. The cooling unit 5 also has a plurality of fins that absorb heat from the refrigerant flowing through the internal flow path.

[0019] Here, we will explain the flow of refrigerant in the cooling module 2. The cooled refrigerant delivered from the external flow path 6 flows into the inlet 72 of the distribution manifold 7 via the flow path pipe 4. The refrigerant that has flowed into the distribution manifold 7 is then distributed to each cooling unit 5 via the flow path pipe 4 from each distribution-side joint 71.

[0020] The refrigerant that flows into the inlet 51 of each cooling unit 5 absorbs heat from the heat source 10 as it passes through the internal flow path of the cooling unit 5, and flows from the outlet 52 into the collection manifold 8 via the flow path pipe 4 and each collection-side joint 81.

[0021] The refrigerant that flows into the collection manifold 8 flows out from the outlet section 82 and flows into the external flow path 6 via the flow path pipe 4. The refrigerant that flows into the external flow path 6 is cooled, for example by a radiator, as it passes through the external flow path 6, and is then sent back to the distribution manifold 7.

[0022] In this way, the cooling module 2 can cool the heat source 10 by circulating the refrigerant in the order of external flow path 6, distribution manifold 7, cooling unit 5, collection manifold 8, and external flow path 6.

[0023] Each of the distribution manifold 7 and collection manifold 8 is fixed to the other by fixing members 78 and 88. This allows the distribution manifold 7 and collection manifold 8 to be installed on the actual machine at the same time, improving the ease of installation on the actual machine.

[0024] The distribution manifold 7 has a connection portion 70 at one end in the first direction (the positive end in the Y-axis direction) where the connection ports to the distribution side joint 71 are aligned, and which faces the other end in the first direction (the positive end in the Y-axis direction) of the collection manifold 8 in the first direction (the positive end in the Y-axis direction).

[0025] The collection manifold 8 has a connection portion 80 at the other end (negative Y-axis end) in the first direction where the connection ports to the collection-side joint 81 are aligned, and which faces the other end (negative Y-axis end) of the distribution manifold 7 in the first direction (Y-axis direction).

[0026] The distribution manifold 7 is fixed to the collection manifold 8 at the connection section 70 by a fixing member 88. The collection manifold 8 is fixed to the distribution manifold 7 at the connection section 80 by a fixing member 78. Specific examples of the configuration of the connection sections 70 and 80 will be described later with reference to Figures 3 and 4.

[0027] In this way, the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 are fixed to each other at both ends in the first direction (Y-axis direction), which is the longitudinal direction. This improves the fixing strength against vibrations compared to when they are fixed at locations other than the longitudinal ends. As a result, the manifold 3 can suppress any displacement in the relative position between the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 after fixing.

[0028] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the distribution manifold 7 is provided with a connection port 73 for the distribution side joint 71 on one side of the second direction (the positive side of the Z-axis direction) which is perpendicular to the first direction (the Y-axis direction). Similarly, the collection manifold 8 is provided with a connection port 83 for the collection side joint 81 on one side of the second direction (the positive side of the Z-axis direction).

[0029] Furthermore, the connection port 73 of the distribution manifold 7 and the connection port 83 of the collection manifold 8 are positioned so as not to overlap in a third direction (X-axis direction) that is perpendicular to the first direction (Y-axis direction) and the second direction (Z-axis direction).

[0030] This allows all the flow path pipes 4 connecting each connection port 73, 83 to the cooling unit 5 to be concentrated and arranged on the same side in the third direction (the negative side in the X-axis direction in Figures 1 and 2), making it easier to route the flow path pipes 4. In addition, it becomes easier to fix the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 to each other using the fixing members 78, 88.

[0031] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 are fixed with a gap between them. Specifically, the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 are fixed with a gap between them in the first direction (Y-axis direction) and the third direction (X-axis direction). In other words, the collection manifold 8 and the distribution manifold 7 are positioned so that they do not come into contact with each other, except for the fixed parts between them.

[0032] As a result, the manifold 3 can suppress the transfer of heat from the collection manifold 8, through which the refrigerant that has absorbed heat from the heat source 10 in the cooling section 5 flows, to the distribution manifold 7, through which the refrigerant cooled in the external flow path 6 flows, thereby preventing a decrease in the cooling performance of the cooling module 2.

[0033] Furthermore, the manifold 3 can suppress heat transfer by leaving a gap of 0.1 mm or more between the collection manifold 8 and the distribution manifold 7, in one example. In this embodiment, a gap of approximately 2 mm is left.

[0034] Although not shown in Figure 1, the thermal insulation performance of manifold 3 can be further improved by inserting a highly insulating material between the collection manifold 8 and the distribution manifold 7.

[0035] Furthermore, the collection manifold 8 and the distribution manifold 7 are spaced apart in the first direction (Y-axis direction). Therefore, when installed in an actual machine (for example, a heat source 10), the collection manifold 8 and the distribution manifold 7 can be offset in the first direction (Y-axis direction), improving ease of installation. In addition, fixing and removing the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 becomes easier, and position adjustments are made easier when installing them in an actual machine.

[0036] Furthermore, increasing the spacing between them increases the range of adjustment that can be made to the collection manifold 8 and the distribution manifold 7, further improving ease of installation and also enhancing the ability to suppress the undesirable heat transfer mentioned above.

[0037] Furthermore, since the non-facing surfaces of the collection manifold 8 and the distribution manifold 7 are flat, interference with other components can be suppressed when they are installed in an actual machine (for example, the heat source 10).

[0038] Next, the connection portion 70 of the distribution manifold 7 and the connection portion 80 of the collection manifold 8 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a top view explanatory diagram of the connection portion 70 in the distribution manifold 7 according to the embodiment. Figure 4 is a top view explanatory diagram of the connection portion 80 in the collection manifold 8 according to the embodiment.

[0039] As shown in Figure 3, the collection manifold 8 is equipped with a flange 86. The flange 86 extends from one end of the collection manifold 8 in the first direction (the end on the positive side in the Y-axis direction) to a position where it overlaps with the connection portion 70 of the distribution manifold 7 in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction (in the Z-axis direction).

[0040] The collection manifold 8 is fixed to the distribution manifold 7 by a fixing member 88 inserted into a hole 87 in the flange 86 from one side of the second direction (the positive side in the Z-axis direction). In one example, the fixing member 88 is a screw.

[0041] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the distribution manifold 7 is equipped with a flange 76. The flange 76 extends from the other end of the distribution manifold 7 in the first direction (the negative end in the Y-axis direction) to a position where it overlaps with the connection portion 80 of the collection manifold 8 in the second direction (Z-axis direction) perpendicular to the first direction.

[0042] The distribution manifold 7 is fixed to the collection manifold 8 by a fixing member 78 inserted into a hole 77 in the flange 76 from one side of the second direction (the positive side in the Z-axis direction). In one example, the fixing member 78 is a screw.

[0043] This prevents the manifold 3 from shifting position between the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 due to vibrations or other factors. Furthermore, it makes it easier to fix and remove the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8, and to adjust their positions when installing them on the actual machine. In addition, since both fixing members 78 and 88 are inserted into the manifold 3 from one side of the second direction (the positive side in the Z-axis direction), the fixing work of the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 is made easier.

[0044] The flange 86 of the collection manifold 8 may be positioned on one side of the second direction (positive side in the Z-axis direction) at the connection portion 70 of the distribution manifold 7, and the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7 may be positioned on the other side of the second direction (negative side in the Z-axis direction) at the connection portion 80 of the collection manifold 8. Alternatively, the flange 86 of the collection manifold 8 may be positioned on the other side of the second direction (negative side in the Z-axis direction) at the connection portion 70 of the distribution manifold 7, and the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7 may be positioned on one side of the second direction (positive side in the Z-axis direction) at the connection portion 80 of the collection manifold 8.

[0045] As a result, even when the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 are not fixed together by the fixing members 78 and 88, they are less likely to detach from each other. Therefore, the work efficiency during fixing and re-fixing operations using the fixing members 78 and 88 is improved.

[0046] Next, the internal structure of the manifold 3 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional explanatory diagram of the manifold 3 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the inside of the distribution manifold 7 where the refrigerant inlet 72 (see Figure 1) is provided is in communication with the internal flow path of the distribution manifold 7, but the inside of the connection part 70 where the inlet 72 is not provided is filled in.

[0047] This prevents heat from being transferred from the collection manifold 8, through which the refrigerant that has absorbed heat from the heat source 10 flows, to the refrigerant flowing inside the distribution manifold 7 via the connection part 70 of the distribution manifold 7.

[0048] Furthermore, the collection manifold 8 has an internal passage in the area where the refrigerant outlet 82 (see Figure 1) is located, but the inside of the connection section 80 where the outlet 82 is not located is filled in.

[0049] This prevents heat from being transferred from the collection manifold 8, through which the refrigerant that has absorbed heat from the heat source 10 flows, to the refrigerant flowing inside the distribution manifold 7 via the connection part 80, which does not have an outlet part 82.

[0050] Next, with reference to Figure 6, a cooling module 2A according to the first modified embodiment will be described. Figure 6 is a top view explanatory view of the cooling module 2A according to the first modified embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the cooling module 2A differs from the manifold 3 shown in Figure 1 in the configuration of the manifold 3A. Specifically, the distribution manifold 7A of manifold 3A includes a distribution-side connection block 72A instead of the connection section 70 and inlet section 72 shown in Figure 1. Also, the collection manifold 8A of manifold 3A includes a collection-side connection block 82A instead of the outlet section 82 and connection section 80 shown in Figure 1.

[0051] Next, the distribution-side connection block 72A and the collection-side connection block 82A according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 12. Figure 7 is a top view explanatory view of the distribution-side connection block 72A according to a modified example. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional explanatory view of the distribution-side connection block 72A according to a modified example. Figure 9 is a bottom view explanatory view of the collection-side connection block 82A according to a modified example. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional explanatory view of the collection-side connection block 82A according to a modified example. Figure 11 is a top view explanatory view of the connection between the collection manifold 8 and the distribution-side connection block 72A according to a modified example. Figure 12 is a top view explanatory view of the connection between the collection-side connection block 82A and the distribution manifold 7 according to a modified example.

[0052] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the distribution manifold 7A has a distribution-side connection block 72A at one end in the first direction (the positive end in the Y-axis direction) into which refrigerant flows from the external flow path 6. Also, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the collection manifold 8A has a collection-side connection block 82A at the other end in the first direction (the negative end in the Y-axis direction) into which refrigerant flows out from the collection manifold 8A to the external flow path 6.

[0053] At least a portion of the distribution-side connection block 72A is fixed to one end of the collection manifold 8A in the first direction (the positive end in the Y-axis direction). In addition, at least a portion of the collection-side connection block 82A is fixed to the other end of the distribution manifold 7 in the first direction (the negative end in the Y-axis direction).

[0054] This makes it easier to fix the distribution-side connection block 72A to the collection manifold 8A, and to fix the collection-side connection block 82A to the distribution manifold 7A. Furthermore, it can suppress the occurrence of misalignment between the distribution-side connection block 72A and the collection manifold 8A, and between the collection-side connection block 82A and the distribution manifold 7A, due to vibration or other factors.

[0055] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the collection manifold 8A includes a flange 86 that extends from one end in the first direction (the positive end in the Y-axis direction) to a position where it overlaps with the distribution side connection block 72A in the second direction (the Z-axis direction). The flange 86 of the collection manifold 8A is fastened to the distribution side connection block 72A by a fixing member 88 that is inserted into a hole 87 in the flange 86 from one side in the second direction (the positive side in the Z-axis direction). The fixing member 88 is, in one example, a screw.

[0056] The flange 86 of the collection manifold 8A extends from the end face in the first direction (the end face on the positive side in the Y-axis direction) of the wall portion 89 that seals the end face in the first direction (the end face on the positive side in the Y-axis direction) of the collection manifold 8A. The flange 86 also extends from a position where it is flush with the end face in the second direction (the end face on the positive side in the Z-axis direction) of the collection manifold 8A to a position where it overlaps with the distribution side connection block 72A in the second direction (in the Z-axis direction).

[0057] The flange 86 and the distribution-side connection block 72A are provided with holes 87 and 79H in positions that overlap in the second direction (Z-axis direction), and the distribution-side connection block 72A and the collection manifold 8A can be fixed by the fixing member 88.

[0058] This makes it possible to suppress positional displacement between the distribution-side connection block 72A and the collection manifold 8A due to vibrations or other factors. Furthermore, it becomes easier to fix and detach the distribution-side connection block 72A and the collection manifold 8A, and it becomes easier to adjust their position when installing them in the actual equipment (e.g., the heat source 10).

[0059] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the distribution manifold 7A includes a flange 76 that extends from the other end in the first direction (the negative end in the Y-axis direction) to a position where it overlaps with the collection-side connection block 82A in the second direction (the Z-axis direction). The flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A is fastened to the collection-side connection block 82A by a fixing member 78 that is inserted into a hole 77 in the flange 76 from the other end in the second direction (the negative side in the Z-axis direction). The fixing member 78 is, in one example, a screw.

[0060] The flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A extends from the other end face in the first direction (the negative end face in the Y-axis direction) of the wall portion 79 that seals the other end face in the first direction (the negative end face in the Y-axis direction) of the distribution manifold 7A. The flange 76 also extends from a position where it is flush with one end face in the second direction (the positive end face in the Z-axis direction) of the distribution manifold 7A to a position where it overlaps with the collection side connection block 82A in the second direction (Z-axis direction).

[0061] The flange 76 and the collection-side connection block 82A are provided with holes 77 and 89H in positions that overlap in the second direction (Z-axis direction), and the collection-side connection block 82A and the distribution manifold 7A can be fixed by the fixing member 78.

[0062] This makes it possible to suppress positional displacement between the collection-side connection block 82A and the distribution manifold 7A due to vibrations or other factors. Furthermore, it becomes easier to fix and detach the collection-side connection block 82A and the distribution manifold 7A, and it becomes easier to adjust their position when installing them in the actual equipment (e.g., the heat source 10).

[0063] Furthermore, the collection manifold 8A and the wall portion 89 can be made of metal. Similarly, the distribution manifold 7A and the wall portion 79 can be made of metal. By making them of metal, the collection manifold 8A and the wall portion 89 can be welded together by brazing, laser welding, etc. Similarly, the distribution manifold 7A and the wall portion 79 can be welded together by brazing, laser welding, etc. This ensures that liquid leakage is reliably suppressed by high sealing accuracy.

[0064] The height of the flange 86 of the collection manifold 8A can be changed to match the shape of the distribution side connection block 72A. The height of the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A can be changed to match the shape of the collection side connection block 82A.

[0065] Furthermore, the wall portion 89 of the collection manifold 8A and the distribution-side connection block 72A are positioned opposite each other with a gap between them. Therefore, heat transfer between the collection manifold 8A and the distribution-side connection block 72A can be suppressed. Similarly, the wall portion 79 of the distribution manifold 7A and the collection-side connection block 82A are positioned opposite each other with a gap between them. Therefore, heat transfer between the distribution manifold 7A and the collection-side connection block 82A can be suppressed.

[0066] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7 is positioned on the other side of the second direction (negative side in the Z-axis direction) of the collection-side connection block 82A. On the other hand, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the flange 86 of the collection manifold 8 is positioned on one side of the second direction (positive side in the Z-axis direction) of the distribution-side connection block 72A.

[0067] If the fixing member 78 is a screw, the distribution manifold 7A is screwed to the collection-side connection block 82A by the fixing member 78 from the other side of the second direction (negative side in the Z-axis direction). If the fixing member 88 is a screw, the collection manifold 8A is screwed to the distribution-side connection block 72A by the fixing member 88 from one side of the second direction (positive side in the Z-axis direction). This makes it easy to combine the distribution manifold 7A and the collection manifold 8A while avoiding the connection points of the distribution-side joint 71 and the collection-side joint 81. As a result, even when the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 are not fixed by the fixing members 78 and 88, the distribution manifold 7 and the collection manifold 8 are less likely to come apart from each other. Therefore, the work efficiency during fixing work and re-fixing work using the fixing members 78 and 88 is improved.

[0068] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, the hole 87 in the flange 86 of the collection manifold 8A has a larger width in the first direction (Y-axis direction) and third direction (X-axis direction) than the hole 79H provided in the distribution side connection block 72A. Similarly, the hole 77 in the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A has a larger width in the first direction (Y-axis direction) and third direction (X-axis direction) than the hole 89H provided in the collection side connection block 82A.

[0069] This allows the collection manifold 8 and the distribution-side connection block 72A to be fastened together by the fixing member 88 after adjusting their positions. Similarly, the distribution manifold 7A and the collection-side connection block 82A can be fastened together by the fixing member 78 after adjusting their positions. This makes it easier to adjust the relative positions of the distribution manifold 7A, the distribution-side connection block 72A, the collection manifold 8A, and the collection-side connection block 82A.

[0070] Furthermore, one side of the flange 86 of the collection manifold 8 in the third direction (the side on the positive side in the X-axis direction) can abut against the opposing surface of the recess 90 provided in the distribution side connection block 72A. By abutting the flange 86 against the recess 90, positioning in the third direction (X-axis direction) can be easily performed, improving work efficiency. Similarly, one side of the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A in the third direction (the side on the positive side in the X-axis direction) can abut against the opposing surface of the recess provided in the collection side connection block 82A. By abutting the flange 76 against the recess, positioning in the third direction (X-axis direction) can be easily performed, improving work efficiency.

[0071] When the distribution manifold 7A and collection manifold 8A are held together, the collection manifold 8A moves in one direction in the third direction (positive X-axis direction). Therefore, positioning the flanges 76 and 86 on one side in the third direction (positive X-axis direction) is more efficient than positioning them on the other side in the third direction (negative X-axis direction).

[0072] Only a portion of the flange 76 contacts the distribution manifold 7A and the collection-side connection block 82A. Only a portion of the flange 86 contacts the collection manifold 8A and the distribution-side connection block 72A. By limiting the contact area to only a portion of the flanges 76 and 86 in this way, heat exchange between the distribution manifold 7A and the collection-side connection block 82A, and between the collection manifold 8A and the distribution-side connection block 72A, can be suppressed.

[0073] This suppresses the temperature rise of the cold refrigerant flowing through the distribution manifold 7A and the distribution-side connection block 72A, thereby suppressing a decrease in the cooling performance of the cooling module 2. In addition, insulating members may be provided between the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A and the collection-side connection block 82A, and between the flange 86 of the collection manifold 8A and the distribution-side connection block 72A, in which case heat transfer can be further suppressed.

[0074] Note that the positions in which the flanges 76 and 86 are provided as described above are just examples, and the positions of the flanges 76 and 86 can be changed. Figure 12 is an explanatory top view of the connection between the collection-side connection block 82B and the distribution manifold 7A according to a second modified example of the embodiment.

[0075] If the flange 86 of the collection manifold 8A is positioned on one side of the distribution-side connection block 72A in the second direction (positive side in the Z-axis direction), the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A may be positioned as shown in Figure 12. Specifically, the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A may be positioned on one side of the collection-side connection block 82B in the second direction (positive side in the Z-axis direction).

[0076] In other words, the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A and the flange 86 of the collection manifold 8A may both be positioned on the upper surface of one side in the second direction (the positive side in the Z-axis direction). In this case, as shown in Figure 12, the flange 76 of the distribution manifold 7A and the collection side connection block 82B are fixed together by a fixing member 78 from one side in the second direction (the positive side in the Z-axis direction).

[0077] As a result, when assembling the distribution manifold 7A and the collection manifold 8A, they can be fastened together by fixing members 78 and 88 inserted from one side of the second direction (the positive side in the Z-axis direction), making it easy to attach and detach the fixing members 78 and 88 during the assembly process.

[0078] Specifically, when attaching the distribution manifold 7A and collection manifold 8A to the actual machine (for example, the heat source 10), one side of the second direction (the positive Z-axis side) faces upward, and the other side faces downward. Therefore, even after the machine has been placed, it becomes easy to loosen the fixing members 78 and 88 when adjusting the positions of the distribution manifold 7A and collection manifold 8A.

[0079] Next, the internal structure of the distribution-side connection block 72A will be described with reference to Figures 13 and 14. Figures 13 and 14 are cross-sectional diagrams of the distribution-side connection block 72A. Since the internal structure of the collection-side connection block 82A is the same as that of the distribution-side connection block 72A, the distribution-side connection block 72A will be described here, and the redundant explanation for the collection-side connection block 82A will be omitted.

[0080] As shown in Figure 14, the distribution-side connection block 72A is equipped with a refrigerant inlet 92 on the other side of the third direction (negative side in the X-axis direction) and a refrigerant outlet 93 on the other side of the first direction (negative side in the Y-axis direction), as shown in Figure 13. The flow path extending from the inlet 92 extends to one side of the third direction (positive side in the X-axis direction). The flow path extending to one side of the third direction (positive side in the X-axis direction) connects to a connecting flow path 94 that slopes toward the other side of the second direction (negative side in the Z-axis direction) as it moves toward the other side of the first direction (negative side in the Y-axis direction), and then connects to the outlet 93.

[0081] The refrigerant that flows into the distribution-side connection block 72A flows from the inlet 92, then flows toward one side of the third direction (positive side in the X-axis direction), and then flows toward the other side of the first direction (negative side in the Y-axis direction) through the connection flow path 94 and is discharged from the outlet 93 into the distribution manifold 7A.

[0082] The angled design of the connecting channel 94 makes it easy to form a channel using a single distribution-side connecting block 72A, even when the inlet 92 and outlet 93 are offset in the second direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, the area required for the connecting channel 94 can be reduced, and screw holes and other fasteners can be provided in the distribution-side connecting block 72A.

[0083] In the above-described embodiment, the case in which the distribution manifolds 7,7A and flange 76 are separate, and the collection manifolds 8,8A and flange 86 are separate, was explained, but this is just one example. The distribution manifolds 7,7A and flange 76 may be integrated, and the collection manifolds 8,8A and flange 86 may be integrated.

[0084] Furthermore, the distribution manifolds 7, 7A and the collection manifolds 8, 8A may each be formed by machining, but they may also each consist of a box section and a lid section. In this case, the box section has a refrigerant flow path formed inside. Connection ports 73, 83 are formed in the lid section. The box section and the lid section are joined by welding or brazing.

[0085] Furthermore, this technology can be configured as follows: (1) A distribution manifold having multiple joint connection ports connected to the refrigerant inlets in multiple cooling units, A collection manifold having multiple joint connection ports connected to the refrigerant outlets in the aforementioned multiple cooling units, Includes a manifold, Each of the distribution manifold and the collection manifold is fixed to each other by a fixing member. Cooling module. (2) The distribution manifold is fixed to the collection manifold by the fixing member at one end in the first direction where the plurality of connection ports are lined up. The collection manifold is fixed to the distribution manifold by the fixing member at the other end in the first direction. The cooling module described in (1) above. (3) The distribution manifold is provided with a connection portion at one end in the first direction that faces the same end in the first direction as the same end in the collection manifold. The collection manifold is provided with a connection portion at the other end in the first direction that faces the other end in the first direction of the distribution manifold in the first direction, The distribution manifold is provided with a flange extending from the other end in the first direction to a position in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction where it overlaps with the connection portion of the collection manifold, and is fixed to the collection manifold by the fixing member inserted into a hole in the flange from one side in the second direction. The collection manifold is equipped with a flange extending from one end in the first direction to a position overlapping with the connection portion of the distribution manifold in the second direction, and is fixed to the distribution manifold by a fixing member inserted into a hole in the flange from one side in the second direction. The cooling module described in (2) above. (4) The flange of the collection manifold is positioned on one side of the second direction at the connection portion of the distribution manifold. The flange of the distribution manifold is positioned on the other side of the second direction at the connection portion of the collection manifold. The cooling module described in (3) above. (5) The distribution manifold and the collection manifold are provided with the connection port on one side of the second direction, The connection port of the distribution manifold and the connection port of the collection manifold are positioned so as not to overlap in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions. The cooling module described in (3) or (4) above. (6) The distribution manifold and the collection manifold are fixed to each other with a gap between them. A cooling module as described in any one of (1) to (5) above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 2.2A Cooling Module 3.3A Manifold 4 Flow channel 5 Cooling section 6. External channel 7.7A distribution manifold 8.8A Collection Manifold 10 Heat source 51 Inlet 52 Outlet 70 Connection part 71 Distribution side joint 72 Inlet 72A Distribution side connection block 73 connection ports 76 Flange 77,79H Hole 78 Fixing member 79 Wall 80 Connection part 81 Collection-side joint 82A Collection-side connection block 83 connection ports 86 Flange 87,89H Hole 88 Fixing member 89 Wall 90 recess 92 Inlet 93 Outlet 94 Connection Channels

Claims

1. A distribution manifold having multiple joint connection ports connected to the refrigerant inlets in multiple cooling units, A collection manifold having multiple joint connection ports connected to the refrigerant outlets in the aforementioned multiple cooling units, Includes a manifold, Each of the distribution manifold and the collection manifold is fixed to each other by a fixing member. Cooling module.

2. The distribution manifold is fixed to the collection manifold by the fixing member at one end in the first direction where the plurality of connection ports are lined up. The collection manifold is fixed to the distribution manifold by the fixing member at the other end in the first direction. The cooling module according to claim 1.

3. The distribution manifold is provided with a connection portion at one end in the first direction that faces the same end in the first direction as the same end in the collection manifold. The collection manifold is provided with a connection portion at the other end in the first direction that faces the other end in the first direction of the distribution manifold in the first direction, The distribution manifold is provided with a flange extending from the other end in the first direction to a position in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction where it overlaps with the connection portion of the collection manifold, and is fixed to the collection manifold by the fixing member inserted into a hole in the flange from one side in the second direction. The collection manifold is equipped with a flange extending from one end in the first direction to a position overlapping with the connection portion of the distribution manifold in the second direction, and is fixed to the distribution manifold by a fixing member inserted into a hole in the flange from one side in the second direction. The cooling module according to claim 2.

4. The flange of the collection manifold is positioned on one side of the second direction at the connection portion of the distribution manifold. The flange of the distribution manifold is positioned on the other side of the second direction at the connection portion of the collection manifold. The cooling module according to claim 3.

5. The distribution manifold and the collection manifold are provided with the connection port on one side of the second direction, The connection port of the distribution manifold and the connection port of the collection manifold are positioned so as not to overlap in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction. The cooling module according to claim 3.

6. The distribution manifold and the collection manifold are fixed to each other with a gap between them. The cooling module according to claim 1.

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