Slocsing prevention device for immersion cooling equipment

Abstract

An immersion cooling system (100) for cooling an object in an immersion cooling tank (102), comprising an anti-sloshing device (127) attached to or adapted to be attachable to the immersion cooling tank (e.g., the inner surface (121) of the immersion cooling tank), the anti-sloshing device (127) comprising a connecting device, a first plate (129) fixedly or rotatably attached to the connecting device (128), and a second plate (130) rotatably attached to the connecting device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an immersion cooling apparatus, and more particularly to an immersion cooling tank equipped with an anti-sloshing device. [Background technology]

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 958,380, filed January 8, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] Immersion cooling is a cooling technique for computer systems, electronic devices, and the like, whereby IT components, including complete servers and other electronic equipment, are submerged in a thermally conductive, dielectric liquid or coolant known as a heat transfer fluid. Heat generated by IT components can be removed from the system by conduction, by circulating the heat transfer fluid in direct contact with the hot components and then through a cooling heat exchanger. Immersion cooling has the potential to become a popular IT cooling solution, as it allows operators to significantly reduce energy usage by eliminating expensive air-cooling infrastructure, including onboard fans, compressors, required ductwork, and other active auxiliary systems such as dehumidifiers.

[0004] Typically, in an immersion cooling system, electronic equipment is placed in an immersion cooling tank while heat-transfer fluid covers the heat-generating areas of the electronic equipment to ensure effective heat removal. Unfortunately, leakage and loss of heat-transfer fluid from the immersion cooling tank can expose IT components submerged in the heat-transfer fluid to harmful or dangerous conditions. As a result, IT components in an immersion cooling system can be susceptible to damage during earthquakes and transportation. Indeed, more specifically, motion or external forces that generate large-amplitude vibrations and have frequency components that match the physical characteristics of a particular immersion cooling tank can result in an effective transfer of vibration energy, known as resonance. When this occurs, the heat-transfer fluid in the tank can slosh with large amplitudes, a phenomenon known as sloshing. When sloshing occurs, portions of the IT components may temporarily be uncovered by the heat-transfer fluid that provides continuous cooling. When IT components are exposed and uncovered in this way, heat removal can be reduced, potentially resulting in thermal runaway, damage, or destruction of the IT components, which is undesirable.

[0005] One way to combat this is to raise the heat transfer fluid level above the IT components so that, even during sloshing, the IT components remain completely or substantially completely submerged in the sloshing heat transfer fluid. However, raising the heat transfer fluid level can increase the cost of the submersion cooling system, as heat transfer fluids can be very expensive in some cases. Furthermore, sloshing can still occur if the amplitude and resonance of earthquakes or other forces applied to the submersion cooling tank are large enough.

[0006] Another conventional method for minimizing the exposure of IT components during a sloshing event is to immediately or quickly shut down the system when a critical situation occurs. However, such a response can result in lost productivity and / or potential data loss, which are also undesirable outcomes.

[0007] Conventional methods for preventing sloshing associated with fossil fuel and oil storage tanks may include providing a floating roof mechanism that rises and falls depending on the liquid level within the fossil fuel and oil storage tank. Unfortunately, the floating roof mechanism covers the surface of the heat transfer fluid, preventing dielectric vapor from properly leaving the liquid surface, thereby disrupting the heat transfer process. Another conventional method may include using a baffle system to remove energy from the sloshing fluid. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] Therefore, it is desirable to provide an apparatus that suppresses the effects of sloshing on the heat transfer fluid in the submerged cooling tank and on IT components therein, for example, during earthquakes, transportation, or other occurrences that may apply forces to the submerged cooling tank and the heat transfer fluid contained therein. Additionally, it is desirable to maximize the space available within the submerged cooling tank. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an submerged cooling apparatus or system that includes a submerged cooling tank with an anti-sloshing apparatus. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to an immersion cooling system for cooling an object in an immersion cooling tank. In some embodiments, the system includes an anti-sloshing device adapted to be attached to the immersion cooling tank (e.g., to an interior surface thereof). In some applications, the device includes a connection device, a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connection device, and a second plate rotatably attached to the connection device. In some variations, the anti-sloshing device includes a combination of devices, each including a connection device, a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connection device, and a second plate rotatably attached to the connection device.

[0010] In some applications, apertures can be formed through the first plate and / or the second plate. The shapes of the apertures can include circular, substantially circular, elliptical, oval, rectangular, rounded rectangular, square, and combinations thereof. In yet other applications, the system can include a stop for limiting rotation of at least the first plate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the system also includes a curved portion attached to or formed by the first plate and / or the second plate. In some variations, the first plate and the second plate are each attached to the connection device at their respective proximal ends, and the curved portion is disposed at their respective distal ends.

[0012] In some embodiments, the second plate is rotatable and further adapted to contact the first plate when an external force is applied to the second plate, hi some variations, the second plate is adapted to contact the first plate when the applied external force exceeds a threshold value.

[0013] In a second aspect, the invention relates to an immersion cooling tank having an inner surface and adapted to contain a heat transfer fluid for cooling an object. In some embodiments, the immersion cooling tank includes an anti-sloshing device adapted to be attached to the immersion cooling tank (e.g., to its inner surface). In some applications, the device includes a connection device, a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connection device, and a second plate rotatably attached to the connection device. In some variations, the anti-sloshing device includes a combination of devices, each including a connection device, a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connection device, and a second plate rotatably attached to the connection device.

[0014] In some applications, apertures can be formed through the first plate and / or the second plate. The shapes of the apertures can include circular, substantially circular, elliptical, oval, rectangular, rounded rectangular, square, and combinations thereof. In yet other applications, the system can include a stop for limiting rotation of at least the first plate.

[0015] In some embodiments, the system also includes a curved portion attached to or formed by the first plate and / or the second plate. In some variations, the first plate and the second plate are each attached to the connection device at their respective proximal ends, and the curved portion is disposed at their respective distal ends.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second plate is rotatable and further adapted to contact the first plate when an external force is applied to the second plate, hi some variations, the second plate is adapted to contact the first plate when the applied external force exceeds a threshold value.

[0017] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method for minimizing sloshing of heat transfer fluid in an submerged cooling tank, the method comprising attaching an anti-sloshing device to the submerged cooling tank (e.g., to an interior surface thereof) and filling the submerged cooling tank with heat transfer fluid to a predetermined level. In some embodiments, the anti-sloshing device comprises a connection device, a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connection device, and a second plate rotatably attached to the connection device. In some variations, the predetermined level is equal to or less than the attached anti-sloshing device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] In the drawings, like numerals generally refer to the same parts throughout the various views. However, for clarity, not every component is labeled in every drawing. Also, the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating certain principles of the invention as a whole. In the following description, various embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the following drawings:

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of an immersion cooling system having an anti-sloshing device, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] [Figure 2] 2 illustrates a side view of the immersion cooling system of FIG. 1 with a lifting device attached to an object submerged in the immersion cooling tank, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] [Figure 3] 2 illustrates a side view of the immersion cooling system of FIG. 1 with a lifting device attached to an object lifted from the immersion cooling tank, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a side view of an immersion cooling tank with an anti-sloshing device during the event of sloshing occurring, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0023] [Figure 5] 1 shows a plan view (top view) of an anti-sloshing device coupled to a rectangular immersion cooling tank, including cross sections AA and BB, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0024] [Figure 6A] 1 shows a plan view (top view) of a first embodiment of an anti-sloshing device coupled to a circular immersion cooling tank, including cross-sections AA and BB, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] [Figure 6B] 6B shows a (top) isometric view of one of the arcuate groups of the anti-sloshing device of FIG. 6A, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] [Figure 6C] 2A-2B show plan views (top views) of a second embodiment of an anti-sloshing device coupled to a circular immersion cooling tank, including cross-sections AA and BB, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] [Figure 6D] FIG. 6D shows an isometric (top) view of one of the arcuate groups of the anti-sloshing device of FIG. 6C, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] [Figure 7] 1 shows an isometric view of an anti-sloshing device with a circular perforation formed in a first plate, according to some embodiments of the present invention. FIG.

[0029] [Figure 8] 1 illustrates an isometric view of an anti-sloshing device with circular perforations formed in both the first plate and the second plate, according to some embodiments of the present invention. FIG.

[0030] [Figure 9] 1 shows an isometric view of an anti-sloshing device with rectangular perforations formed in a first plate, according to some embodiments of the present invention. FIG.

[0031] [Figure 10] 1 illustrates an isometric view of an anti-sloshing device with rectangular perforations formed in both the first and second plates, according to some embodiments of the present invention. FIG.

[0032] [Figure 11] 11A and 11B show top isometric and side views, respectively, of an anti-sloshing device having a curved portion, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] [Figure 12] 1 shows an isometric view of an anti-sloshing device with a circular perforation formed in a first plate and an adjustable mounting bracket, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0034] [Figure 13] 1 shows an isometric view of an anti-sloshing device with a circular perforation formed in a first plate and an adjustable mounting bracket, according to some embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] Immersion Cooling System 1-3 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a system 100 for immersion cooling of an object 101, such as an electronic device, during various stages of operation. Such a system is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 683,958, filed November 14, 2019, entitled "Hot Swap Condenser for Immersion Cooling," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. More specifically, FIG. 1 illustrates the system 100 in which the object 101 is placed or submerged in an immersion cooling tank 102 containing a bath of heat transfer fluid 103. FIG. 2 illustrates the system 100 in which a lifting device 112 is attached to the submerged object 101. FIG. 3 illustrates the system 100 in which the lifting device 112 has removed the object 101 from the immersion cooling tank 102.

[0036] In some embodiments, system 100 can include an immersion cooling tank 102 capable of holding a quantity of heat transfer fluid 103 in which one or more, e.g., heat-generating objects 101 (e.g., electronic systems or devices or electrical systems or devices, etc.) can be immersed or submerged. In some embodiments, system 100 can include a condenser 104 that can be selectively inserted into and / or removed from immersion cooling tank 102, while in other embodiments, condenser 104 can be fixedly secured to tank 102, as shown in FIG. 1 .

[0037] An exemplary embodiment of an immersion cooling tank 102 including at least one anti-sloshing device 127 coupled, attached, affixed, glued, etc. to the inner surface 121 of the sidewall portion 120 of the immersion cooling tank 102 is shown in FIG. 4. While embodiments of the invention are described in which the anti-sloshing device 127 may be permanently or fixedly coupled, attached, affixed, glued, etc. to the inner surface 121 of the sidewall portion 120, those skilled in the art will understand that the anti-sloshing device 127 may instead be removably attached to the sidewall portion 120, for example, using a device to which the anti-sloshing device 127 is attached and which can be placed over and removed from the rim of the immersion cooling tank 102. In some embodiments, the immersion cooling tank 102 may include, for example, a bottom portion 119 sealed to the sidewall portion 120. The two portions 119, 120 form the inner surface 121. In various embodiments, the sidewall portions 120 of the immersion cooling tank 102 can have a single continuous wall, or alternatively, several sidewall portions 120 can be joined together (e.g., at corners). For example, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the shape or cross-section of the immersion cooling tank 102 can be square (e.g., Figure 5), circular (Figures 6A and 6C), substantially circular, oval, substantially oval, etc.

[0038] As a result, depending on the shape of the immersion cooling tank 102, the anti-sloshing device 127 can be structured and arranged as a continuous or unitary device that can surround a single continuous wall (e.g., of a circular tank), or as a combination of multiple parts that individually and collectively perform the anti-sloshing function. Indeed, the anti-sloshing device 127 can be used in an array of different shapes and arrangements to prevent sloshing from multiple directions.

[0039] Anti-sloshing device 4 , in some applications, the anti-sloshing device 127 may be coupled, attached, affixed, glued, etc. to the inner surface 121 of the submerged cooling tank 102. In some variations, the anti-sloshing device 127 may include at least one connection device 128 (e.g., a hinge) that is physically coupled, attached, affixed, glued, etc. to the inner surface 121 of the submerged cooling tank 102, as well as a first (e.g., fixed or rotatable) plate 129 and a second (e.g., rotatable) plate 130. In some variations, the first and second plates 129, 130 may be embodied of metal, although the plates 129, 130 may be embodied of any material that is physically and chemically compatible with the heat transfer fluid 103 used in the submerged cooling tank 102.

[0040] While the present invention is described as having a first plate 129 structured and arranged to be rigidly fixed (i.e., in a non-rotating relationship) relative to the connecting device 128 and a second plate 130 adapted to rotate about the connecting device 128, those skilled in the art will understand that in other embodiments, both plates 129, 130 may be structured and arranged to rotate about the connecting device 128 and / or both plates 129, 130 may be fixedly attached to the connecting device 128 at a desired or predetermined angle such that neither plate 129, 130 can rotate about the connecting device 128. Furthermore, while the figures show the plates 129, 130 as rectangular in shape, this is done for purposes of illustration and not limitation. Those skilled in the art will understand that the plates 129, 130 may be manufactured in any shape and size.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first plate 129 and the second rotatable plate 130 may be coupled to the sidewall portion 120 of the immersion cooling tank 102 by a connecting device 128 (e.g., via a hinge). While the figures show a hinged connecting device 128 and the invention is described as having a hinged connecting device, this is done for purposes of illustration and not limitation. In some applications, the device 127 may include a first plate 129 and a perforated second plate 130 that are fixedly connected (e.g., at a fixed angle) without the need for a rotational hinge. As shown in FIGS. 7-13 , in some embodiments, the device 127 may include a limiting pin 134 that is fixedly attached to the connecting device 128 (e.g., at a fixed angle). Preferably, the limiting pin 134 is fixedly attached to the portion of the connecting device 128 that rotates with the second plate 130. 11B, the limiting pin 134 may be a (e.g., fixed-angle) limiting pin 134 that is structured and positioned to provide a desired or predetermined angle between the first plate 129 and the second plate 130. While a single cylindrical limiting pin 134 is shown in FIGS. 7-13, this is done for purposes of illustration and not limitation. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that multiple limiting pins 134 of any reasonable shape and size may be fixedly attached to the connecting device 128 to limit the rotation or further rotation of the first plate 129 and the second plate 130.

[0042] The connecting device 128 can be configured or manufactured to separate the first plate 129 and the second plate 130 from one another by a desired or predetermined angle (e.g., an acute angle) that can only be altered by applying a force (e.g., the force of the sloshing heat transfer fluid) to one or more of the plates 129, 130. Additionally, the second plate 130 can be adjusted to couple with the first plate 129 when the force applied to the second plate 130 exceeds a certain threshold. For example, when a certain amount of force is applied to a portion of the anti-sloshing device 127, the force causes the second plate 130 to rotate about the connecting device 128 until the second plate 130 contacts or otherwise physically contacts the first plate 129, coupling the first plate 129 and the second plate 130 together.

[0043] 5 shows an exemplary embodiment in which four groups of trapezoidal shaped anti-sloshing devices 127 (129a, 129b, 129c, 129d) are installed on the sidewall portion 120 of the rectangular tank 102. By disposing one group 129a, 129b, 129c, 129d on each side of the rectangular tank 102, sloshing 150 in various directions is reduced. For example, the groups 129b, 129d installed on the left and right sidewalls 120 of the immersion cooling tank 102 resist sloshing 150 in the left-right direction. The groups 129b, 129d installed on the front and rear sidewalls 120 of the immersion cooling tank 102 resist sloshing 150 in the front-to-rear direction.

[0044] 6A shows an exemplary embodiment in which a group of four arcuate anti-sloshing devices 127′, 129e, 129f, 129g, 129h, are installed on a sidewall portion 120 of a circular immersion cooling tank 102′ (e.g., along a short portion of the arcuate edge). By distributing each group 129e, 129f, 129g, 129h on one-quarter of the circular tank 102′, this embodiment can effectively counter sloshing 150 from any direction.

[0045] FIG. 6B illustrates how each of the groups 129e, 129f, 129g, and 129h of the arcuate anti-sloshing devices 127′ shown in FIG. 6A functions. In one embodiment, the arcuate first plate 129′ is vertically and linearly coupled to the arcuate second plate 130′ (e.g., using a pair of bolts 138 and nuts 139 operably positioned in respective holes 140 located at opposite distal and proximal ends of the plates 129′, 130′). Advantageously, the heads 141 of the bolts 138 can be rigidly attached (e.g., welded, soldered, glued, etc.) to the first plate 129′ (e.g., its upper surface). Nuts 139 can be removably attached to the respective bolts 138 and are adapted to support the second plate 130′ such that the bolts 138 are retained in the holes 140. Advantageously, the second plate 130' is freely translatable vertically (e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the shaft 142 of the bolt 138) such that when a force (e.g., from the sloshing heat transfer fluid 150) is applied to the second plate 130', the second plate 130' is configured to translate upwardly along the shaft 142 of the bolt 138 until the second plate 130' contacts the first plate 129'.

[0046] In some variations, the second plate 130' can be adapted to couple with the first plate 129' when a force applied to the second plate 130' exceeds a certain threshold. For example, when a force of a certain magnitude is applied to a portion of the anti-sloshing device 127', the force causes the second plate 130' to translate up the shaft 142 of the bolt 138 until the second plate 130' hits or physically contacts the first plate 129', coupling the first plate 129' and the second plate 130' together.

[0047] In the absence of a driving force pushing the second plate 130' towards the first plate 129', gravity will pull the second plate 130' away from the first plate 129' and return the second plate 130' to its original or rest position.

[0048] While the figures show arcuate plates 129', 130', this is done for purposes of illustration and not limitation. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that plates 129', 130', which are positioned using bolts 138, can be manufactured in any shape and size and therefore can be used in conjunction with a circular, rectangular, or any other shaped immersion cooling tank 102'.

[0049] FIG. 6C shows an alternative embodiment in which a group of four arcuate 129i, 129j, 129k, 129l anti-sloshing devices 127" are installed on the sidewall portion 120 of the circular immersion cooling tank 102' (e.g., along a short portion of the arcuate edge). By locating each portion of the group 129i, 129j, 129k, 129l in one quarter of the circular tank 102', this embodiment can effectively deal with sloshing heat transfer fluid 150 from any direction. FIG. 6D shows how each arcuate portion 129i of the anti-sloshing device 127" functions in some embodiments. For example, the anti-sloshing device 127" may include an arc-shaped first plate 129i having a plurality of openings or perforations 131 formed therethrough. Below each opening or perforation 131, one or more (e.g., rectangular) second plates 130" may be fixedly attached to the underside of the first plate 129i (e.g., using at least one corresponding connecting device 128). Optionally, the device 127" may include one or more (e.g., fixed angle) limit pins 134 fixedly attached to the one or more connecting devices 128.

[0050] In some embodiments, the arc-shaped first plate 129" can be directly attached (e.g., welded, soldered, glued, etc.) to the inner surface 121 of the sidewall portion 120 of the immersion cooling tank 102'. One or more rectangular-shaped second plates 130" are rotationally coupled to the arc-shaped first plate 129", for example, using one or more connection devices 128. Preferably, the second plate 130" is structured and arranged to cover (e.g., fully or partially) the opening or perforation 131 when sloshing occurs and a force is applied to the underside of the second plate 130". Advantageously, the shapes of the first plate 129" and the second plate 130" can be different, so long as the second plate 130" can cover (e.g., fully or partially) the opening or perforation 131 when sloshing occurs.

[0051] While the second plate 130" shown in FIG. 6D is rectangular in shape, this is done for illustrative purposes only. For example, in some variations, the second plate 130" can be tapered or pie-shaped to maximize the area that the second plate 130" covers without overlapping each other.

[0052] In some applications, the second plate 130" may be adapted to couple with the first plate 129" when a force applied to the second plate 130" (e.g., its underside) exceeds a certain threshold. For example, when a certain amount of force is applied to a portion of the anti-sloshing device 127", the force may be sufficient to cause the second plate 130" to rotate about the connecting device 128 until each second plate 130" hits or physically contacts its corresponding first plate 129", coupling the first plate 129" and the second plate 130". Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the plates 129", 130" can be manufactured in any shape and size for applications using a circular, rectangular, or any other shape of the immersion cooling tank 102'.

[0053] As shown in FIGS. 7-10 , one or more of the plates 129, 130 can include apertures or perforations 131, 131′, or more specifically, perforations 131, 131′ can be formed in one or more of the plates 129, 130. The shape of the perforations 131, 131′ can be a circle 131 ( FIGS. 7 and 8 ), a rectangle 131′ ( FIGS. 9 and 10 ), a square, an ellipse, an oval, a substantially circular shape, a rounded rectangle, a rounded square, or the like. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , for example, the perforations 131, 131′ can have various patterns and spacings between the perforations 131, 131′. Indeed, the shapes, sizes, patterns, and distributions of the perforations 131, 131′ can be formed in one or more of the plates 129, 130 in any combination. Furthermore, when the perforations 131, 131' are formed in both plates 129, 130, the positions of the perforations 131, 131' of the corresponding plates 129, 130 may not overlap each other, may completely overlap each other, or may partially overlap each other.

[0054] 11A and 11B, in some embodiments, one or more of the plates 129, 130 can include a curved portion 132. For example, in one embodiment, the anti-sloshing device 127 can include a second plate 130 having a curved portion 132 such that the second plate 130 is attached to the connecting device 128 at a proximal end and the curved portion 132 is integrated into the distal end of the second plate 130. Advantageously, this arrangement allows the second plate 130 to be positioned at an acute angle where the upward force of the heat transfer fluid can still push up when sloshing occurs. Furthermore, the curved portion 132 provides better dynamics for the second plate 130 by providing an increased contact area with the heat transfer fluid 103 when the heat transfer fluid 103 begins to slosh 150 within the submerged cooling tank 102. This larger surface area makes the anti-sloshing device 127 more sensitive to the forces of sloshing 150, so that the second plate 130 with the curved portion 132 can begin to rotate around the connecting device 128 before the second plate 130 without the curved portion 132 rotates.

[0055] 12 and 13 , in embodiments in which both the first plate 129 and the second plate 130 are rotatable about the connecting device 128, the connecting device 128 may be rotatably mounted to a mounting bracket 135 (e.g., using a threaded pin 136). Additionally, if both plates 129, 130 are adapted to rotate, a stop or blocking device 133 may be attached to the mounting bracket 135 to stop or prevent further rotation of the first plate 129 and / or the combined first and second plates 129, 130. Advantageously, the mounting bracket 135 allows the connecting device 128 to be reoriented and / or the anti-sloshing device 127 to be removed entirely.

[0056] 12 and 13, a first (e.g., fixed angle) limit pin 134 can be fixedly attached to a first portion of the connection device 128 (e.g., a portion of the connection device 128 adapted to rotate when the second plate 130 rotates) to limit or define the angle formed between the stop or blocking device 133 and the first plate 129. As shown in FIG. 13, a second (e.g., fixed angle) limit pin 137 can be fixedly attached to a second portion of the connection device 128 (e.g., a portion of the connection device 128 that does not rotate when the second plate 130 rotates and / or a portion that rotates when the first plate 129 rotates) to limit or define the angle formed between the stop or blocking device 133 and the first plate 129.

[0057] Operation of the anti-sloshing device Having described various embodiments of the anti-sloshing device 127, the submersion cooling tank 102 including the anti-sloshing device 127, and the submersion cooling system 100 including the submersion cooling tank 102 with the anti-sloshing device 127, the operation of the anti-sloshing device 127 will now be described. FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary submersion cooling tank 102 in which an object 101 (e.g., a heat-generating electronic device) is submerged in the heat transfer fluid 103 under normal operating conditions. The anti-sloshing device 127 can be installed above the level of the heat transfer fluid 103, partially submerged in the heat transfer fluid 103, or fully submerged in the heat transfer fluid 103. However, while the anti-sloshing device 127 is most effective when installed above the surface level of the heat transfer fluid 103, the anti-sloshing device 127 will still function when partially submerged or fully submerged in the heat transfer fluid 103. In some embodiments, the anti-sloshing device 127 can be configured to be attached to the immersion cooling tank 102 (e.g., using a mounting bracket 135) so that the first plate 129 is oriented parallel or substantially parallel to the surface level of the heat transfer fluid 103. The second plate 130 can be attached to the first plate 129 at a proximal end, e.g., via a connecting device 128, while at a distal end, the second plate 130 can be separated from the first plate 129 by an acute angle oriented at an oblique angle, i.e., pointing generally toward the surface level of the heat transfer fluid 103.

[0058] The heat transfer fluid 103 (e.g., a flowable dielectric) in the immersion cooling tank 102 absorbs heat generated and released by the object 101. When the heat absorbed by the heat transfer fluid 103 exceeds the boiling point of the heat transfer fluid 103, the heated fluid evaporates (e.g., becomes a dielectric vapor 110). Under normal operating conditions, the dielectric vapor 110 passes through the perforations 131, 131′ in the first plate 129 and / or the second plate 130 and reaches the condenser 104. Advantageously, the dielectric vapor 110 then condenses and flows back into the immersion cooling tank 102 as a liquid.

[0059] In special circumstances, for example, when an earthquake occurs or excessive force is applied to the submerged cooling tank 102, vibrations with very large amplitude are transmitted to the heat transfer fluid 103, resulting in sloshing 150 of the heat transfer fluid 103 in the submerged cooling tank 102. As shown in the shaded area in Figure 4, when sloshing 150 occurs, a portion 160 of the object 101 is no longer submerged in the heat transfer fluid 103, while a portion 170 of the sloshing 150 is pushed up above the level of the anti-sloshing device 127. More specifically, the sloshing heat transfer fluid 170 exerts an upward force on the bottom of the second plate 130 of the anti-sloshing device 127. The second plate 130, which is in contact with or otherwise coupled to the first plate 129, and the anti-sloshing device 127 as a whole, act as an effective temporary baffle to dampen the magnitude of the sloshing 150, thereby preventing further vertical sloshing of the heat transfer fluid 170 within the submerged cooling tank 102. The perforations 131, 131′ formed in one or more of the plates 129, 130 provide additional cushioning, as the sloshing heat transfer fluid 170 loses its kinetic energy while passing through the perforations 131, 131′. In some variations, the perforations 131, 131′ can be structured and positioned on the plates 129, 130 without overlapping or partial overlap. When the level of heat transfer fluid 103 does not fluctuate (e.g., during normal operating conditions), gravity separates the rotatable second plate 130 from the first, fixed plate 129, and optionally, the limiting pin 134 prevents further separation and defines the angle between the first plate 129 and the second plate 130. Furthermore, as the periodic crests or peaks of the sloshing heat transfer fluid 170 transition toward valleys, gravity and / or drag of the withdrawing heat transfer fluid 103 separates the rotatable second plate 130 from the first, fixed plate 129. Optionally, the limiting pin 134 limits or restricts further separation of the second plate 130 from the first plate 129, returning the second plate 130 to its predetermined or desired fixed angle relative to the first plate 129.

[0060] If the force exerted on the second plate 130 by the sloshing heat transfer fluid 170 exceeds a certain threshold, the second plate 130 will rotate upward (i.e., toward the first plate 129) and then contact or otherwise abut the fixed or partially rotatable first plate 129. When the first plate 129 and second plate 130 are coupled as a result of this contact or abutment, the coupled assembly 127 functions as an effective baffle to prevent further sloshing 150 and / or vertically reduce existing sloshing 150 within the submersion cooling tank 102. In some variations, a curved portion 132 may be formed or attached to the distal end of the second plate 130 and configured to allow the second plate 130 to be disposed at a greater angle and provide a longer stroke compared to a second plate 130 without the curved portion 132. Advantageously, the curved portion 132 is adapted to increase the contact surface with the sloshing heat transfer fluid 150. The second plate 130 having the curved portion 132 can still be pushed up by the upward force of the heat transfer fluid 103 when sloshing 150 occurs.

[0061] 12, in some applications, if the first plate 129 is rotatable, the anti-sloshing device 127 may also include a rigid stop 133 structured and arranged to effectively limit the movement (i.e., range of rotation) of the first plate 129. In this embodiment, both plates 129, 130 will rotate upward until prevented by the stop 133.

[0062] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The foregoing embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not limiting of the invention described herein. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of the claims are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

1. 1. An immersion cooling system for cooling an object in an immersion cooling tank, the immersion cooling system comprising: an anti-sloshing device adapted to be attached to a portion of said immersion cooling tank; The anti-sloshing device includes: at least one connection device; a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connecting device; a second plate rotatably mounted to the connecting device; a curved portion attached to or formed by at least one of the first plate or the second plate; Including, the system.

2. An immersion cooling system for cooling an object in an immersion cooling tank, the immersion cooling system comprising: an anti-sloshing device adapted to be attached to a portion of said immersion cooling tank; The anti-sloshing device includes: at least one connection device; a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connecting device; a second plate rotatably attached to the connecting device; Including, The system, wherein the second plate is rotatable and further adapted to contact the first plate when an external force is applied to the second plate.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein a plurality of apertures are formed through at least one of the first plate or the second plate.

4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the opening comprises a shape selected from the group consisting of: circular, substantially circular, elliptical, oval, rectangular, rounded rectangular, square, and combinations thereof.

5. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the first plate and the second plate is attached to the connection device at a respective proximal end, and the curved portion is disposed at a respective distal end of the first plate or the second plate.

6. The system of claim 2 , wherein the second plate is adapted to contact the first plate when an applied external force exceeds a threshold value.

7. The system of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a stop for limiting rotation of at least the first plate.

8. 3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the anti-sloshing device includes a plurality of devices, each device including at least one connecting device, a first plate, and a second plate, and the plurality of devices are attached to separate portions of the immersion cooling tank.

9. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the anti-sloshing device is attached to a portion of the inner surface of the immersion cooling tank.

10. 1. An immersion cooling tank having an interior surface and adapted to contain a heat transfer fluid for cooling an object, the immersion cooling tank comprising: Anti-sloshing device configured to be attached to a portion of an immersion cooling tank The anti-sloshing device includes: at least one connection device; a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connecting device; a second plate rotatably mounted to the connecting device; a curved portion attached to or formed by at least one of the first plate or the second plate; immersion cooling tank, including:

11. An immersion cooling tank having an interior surface and adapted to contain a heat transfer fluid for cooling an object, said immersion cooling tank comprising: Anti-sloshing device configured to be attached to a portion of an immersion cooling tank The anti-sloshing device includes: at least one connection device; a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connecting device; a second plate rotatably attached to the connecting device; Including, The second plate is rotatable and adapted to contact the first plate when an external force is applied to the second plate.

12. 12. The immersion cooling tank of claim 10 or 11, wherein a plurality of openings are formed through at least one of the first plate or the second plate.

13. 13. The immersion cooling tank of claim 12, wherein the opening comprises a shape selected from the group consisting of: circular, substantially circular, elliptical, oval, rectangular, rounded rectangular, square, and combinations thereof.

14. 11. The immersion cooling tank of claim 10, wherein each of the first plate and the second plate is attached to the connection device at a respective proximal end, and the curved portion is located at a respective distal end of the first plate or the second plate.

15. 12. The immersion cooling tank of claim 11, wherein the second plate is adapted to contact the first plate when an applied external force exceeds a threshold value.

16. 12. The immersion cooling tank of claim 10 or 11, further comprising a stop device for limiting rotation of at least the first plate.

17. 12. The immersion cooling tank of claim 10 or 11, wherein the anti-sloshing device comprises a plurality of devices, each device comprising at least one connecting device, a first plate and a second plate, and the plurality of devices are attached to separate portions of the immersion cooling tank.

18. 12. The immersion cooling tank according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the anti-sloshing device is attached to a part of the inner surface of the immersion cooling tank.

19. A method for minimizing sloshing of heat transfer fluid in an immersion cooling tank according to claim 10 or 11, said method comprising: attaching an anti-sloshing device to a portion of the inner surface of the immersion cooling tank; filling the immersion cooling tank with heat transfer fluid to a predetermined level; A method comprising:

20. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the predetermined level is equal to or less than the level of the installed anti-sloshing device.

21. An anti-sloshing device for an immersion cooling tank, comprising: The anti-sloshing device is adapted to be attached to a portion of the immersion cooling tank, and the anti-sloshing device comprises: at least one connection device; a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connecting device; a second plate rotatably mounted to the connecting device; a curved portion attached to or formed by at least one of the first plate or the second plate; An anti-sloshing device comprising:

22. An anti-sloshing device for an immersion cooling tank, comprising: The anti-sloshing device is adapted to be attached to a portion of the immersion cooling tank, and the anti-sloshing device comprises: at least one connection device; a first plate fixedly or rotatably attached to the connecting device; a second plate rotatably attached to the connecting device; Including, The anti-sloshing device, wherein the second plate is rotatable and adapted to contact the first plate when an external force is applied to the second plate.

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