Immersion type liquid cooling device and liquid cooling system

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention provide an immersion-type liquid cooling device and a liquid cooling system. The liquid cooling device includes a cabinet and a heat exchange module. The cabinet includes a first chamber and a second chamber integrated with the side wall of the first chamber. The side wall is provided with through holes for circulating a first coolant between the two chambers. The heat exchange module is adapted to be inserted into the second chamber through an opening on the second chamber, and includes a heat exchanger, a coolant driving device, and a guide assembly. The heat exchanger is used to cool the first coolant using a second coolant. The coolant driving device is used to drive the first coolant to circulate between the two chambers. The guide assembly includes a liquid flow path for guiding the first coolant from the coolant driving device to the heat exchanger. Here, when the heat exchange module is inserted into the second chamber, the coolant driving device is closer to the opening of the second chamber than the heat exchanger. When the heat exchanger and the guide assembly are held in the second chamber, they can be withdrawn from the second chamber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - reference to Related Applications] This application claims priority to a Chinese patent application for invention with application number 202210692514.2 and invention title "Immersion Liquid Cooling Device and Liquid Cooling System", filed on June 17, 2022, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to the technical field of cooling of electronic devices, and more specifically, to immersion liquid cooling devices and liquid cooling systems comprising immersion liquid cooling devices.

Background Art

[0003] With the integration and development of new - generation information and communication technologies such as 5G, cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence with the real economy, data centers have gradually expanded from serving some enterprises to serving society as a whole and are becoming a new type of infrastructure.

[0004] Such infrastructure poses higher requirements for the heat - dissipation solutions and overall energy efficiency of data centers. On the other hand, with the advent of the big - data era, data is increasing at an unimaginable speed. The processing, storage, and transmission of a large amount of data require an exponential increase in the power consumption of IT devices, and chip heat dissipation has become a major issue. Conventional air - cooled heat - dissipation solutions are difficult to meet the requirements for efficient heat dissipation of electronic information devices.

[0005] To solve the heat - dissipation problem of high - power - consumption IT devices, data centers have started to adopt liquid - cooling technologies that use a working fluid as an intermediate heat - transfer medium to transfer heat from the heat - generating part to a cooling tower and then cool it. The cooling efficiency of liquid - cooling technologies is much higher than that of air - cooled heat dissipation, which can effectively solve the heat - dissipation problem of high - power - consumption IT devices, reduce the energy consumption of the cooling system, and reduce noise.

[0006] In data centers employing current liquid cooling solutions, conventional immersion liquid cooling systems typically involve large cabinets (usually about 3 meters long) equipped with one or more coolant distribution units (CDUs). However, such conventional immersion liquid cooling systems are large, structurally complex, and difficult to assemble. Furthermore, these systems are difficult to operate and maintain, and have low reliability.

[0007] Therefore, improvements to liquid cooling solutions for data centers are needed. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide an immersion type liquid cooling device and a liquid cooling system comprising an immersion type liquid cooling device in order to solve the above-mentioned problems at least partially.

[0009] In a first embodiment of the present invention, an immersion liquid cooling system is provided, the immersion liquid cooling system being a cabinet, the cabinet comprising a first chamber and a second chamber integrated into the side wall of the first chamber, the first chamber being used to house an electronic device to be cooled, the side wall of which is provided a through hole for circulating a first coolant between the first chamber and the second chamber, and a heat exchange module adapted to be inserted into the second chamber through an opening in the second chamber, the heat exchange module comprising a heat exchanger, a coolant drive, and a guide assembly, the heat exchanger being connected to a second coolant via a liquid circulation pipeline. A coolant is received and used to cool the first coolant using the second coolant, and the coolant drive is used to drive the first coolant to circulate between the second chamber and the first chamber, and the guide assembly has a liquid channel for guiding the first coolant from the coolant drive to the heat exchanger, wherein when the heat exchange module is inserted into the second chamber, the coolant drive is closer to the opening of the second chamber than the heat exchanger, and the coolant drive can be withdrawn from the second chamber when the heat exchanger and the guide assembly are held inside the second chamber.

[0010] In the embodiment of the present invention, since the cabinet is integrated with the heat exchange module, the entire system does not need to be used with an additional coolant distribution unit, making it very flexible and convenient. Furthermore, since the heat exchange module has a modular design, assembly and maintenance are easy. In addition, since the maintenance requirement for the coolant drive unit within the heat exchange module is higher than that for the heat exchanger, by placing the coolant drive unit above the heat exchanger, the coolant drive unit can be pulled out from inside the cabinet, making maintenance of the coolant drive unit easier and reducing the maintenance time for the coolant drive unit.

[0011] In some embodiments, the heat exchange module further comprises a first bracket, the heat exchanger and the guide assembly being supported by the first bracket, and the coolant drive unit comprises a first drive assembly, the first drive assembly comprising a second bracket and a first circulation pump supported by the second bracket, the second bracket being detachably connected to the first bracket, wherein when the second bracket is connected to the first bracket, the circulation pump outlet of the first circulation pump is in communication with the liquid flow path in the guide assembly. In such embodiments, the coordination between the first and second brackets allows the first drive assembly to be pulled out of the cabinet independently, or to be easily pulled out of the cabinet together with other components in the heat exchange module.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first bracket comprises a first support portion and a second support portion, the second bracket being detachably connected to the first support portion, and the heat exchanger and the guide assembly being supported by the second support portion, wherein the first support portion is located outside the second chamber when the heat exchange module is inserted into the second chamber. In such embodiments, the first support portion enables reliable support of the heat exchange module by the cabinet, and the first support portion prevents leakage of the first coolant into the second chamber.

[0013] In some embodiments, a seal ring is provided on the side of the first support facing the second chamber, where, when the heat exchange module is inserted into the second chamber, the space between the first support and the second chamber is sealed by the seal ring. In such embodiments, the use of the seal ring can improve the sealing performance between the first support and the second chamber, further reducing leakage of the first coolant into the second chamber.

[0014] In some embodiments, a display unit is provided on the side of the first support unit facing away from the second chamber to display the operating status of the coolant drive unit. In such embodiments, the operating status of the coolant drive unit can be observed in real time by the display unit, so that maintenance of the coolant drive unit can be performed in the event of abnormal operation of the coolant drive unit.

[0015] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger and the guide assembly are fixed to the second support by fasteners. In such embodiments, the heat exchanger and the guide assembly can be reliably fixed to the second support using fasteners.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second bracket comprises a third support and a fourth support, the third support being detachably connected to the first support, and the first circulation pump being supported by the fourth support. In such embodiments, the coordination between the third support and the first support facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the first drive assembly and the first bracket.

[0017] In some embodiments, a handle is provided on the side of the third support facing away from the first circulation pump. In such embodiments, the handle can be used to easily pull out the first drive assembly alone or the entire heat exchange module from the second chamber.

[0018] In some embodiments, the fourth support portion includes a first inclined portion inclined with respect to the withdrawal direction of the first drive assembly, the circulation pump outlet of the first circulation pump is provided in the first inclined portion, and the guide assembly includes a second inclined portion inclined with respect to the withdrawal direction, wherein the second inclined portion abuts against the first inclined portion when the third support portion is connected to the first support portion. In such embodiments, the coordination between the first and second inclined portions ensures, on the one hand, accurate positioning of the first drive assembly during insertion, and on the other hand, reliable communication between the circulation pump outlet of the first circulation pump and the liquid flow path in the guide assembly.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first drive assembly further includes a filter provided at the circulation pump inlet of the first circulation pump. In such embodiments, filtering the first coolant flowing into the first circulation pump prevents impurities from entering the pump body and damaging the first circulation pump.

[0020] In some embodiments, the coolant drive further comprises a second drive assembly, the second drive assembly comprising a third bracket and a second circulation pump supported by the third bracket, the third bracket being detachably connected to the first bracket. In such embodiments, the provision of a redundant second drive assembly improves the reliability of the liquid cooling system because if a problem occurs in one of the drive assemblies, the other can still operate normally.

[0021] In some embodiments, the guide assembly comprises a first guide member and a second and third guide member provided above the first guide member, wherein the liquid flow path in the second guide member communicates with the circulation pump outlet of the first circulation pump, the liquid flow path in the third guide member communicates with the circulation pump outlet of the second circulation pump, and the liquid flow path in the first guide member is connected to the heat exchanger. In such embodiments, the first guide member, the second guide member, and the third guide member can, on the one hand, reliably guide the first coolant from the coolant drive to the heat exchanger, and on the other hand, discharge the volume of the first coolant in the second chamber so that the liquid level of the first coolant in the second chamber rises, thereby reducing the amount of first coolant required in the cabinet and lowering the overall cost.

[0022] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger is a plate heat exchanger comprising an outer chamber and an inner chamber surrounded by the outer chamber, the outer chamber comprising a first liquid inlet and a first liquid outlet, the first liquid inlet being connected to a liquid flow path in the guide assembly to receive the first coolant, and the first liquid outlet being used to discharge the first coolant from the outer chamber into the second chamber, the inner chamber comprising a second liquid inlet and a second liquid outlet, the second liquid inlet being connected to a liquid inlet pipe of the liquid circulation pipeline to receive the second coolant, and the second liquid outlet being connected to a liquid return pipe of the liquid circulation pipeline. In such embodiments, the first coolant in the outer chamber and the second coolant in the inner chamber can form a fork-flow type heat exchange, improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger.

[0023] In some embodiments, the through-holes comprise a first set of through-holes and a second set of through-holes, wherein the second set of through-holes is closer to the opening of the second chamber than the first set of through-holes, and where, if the heat exchange module is inserted into the second chamber, the coolant drive is closer to the second set of through-holes and the heat exchanger is closer to the first set of through-holes. In such embodiments, by positioning the coolant drive adjacent to the second set of through-holes, the first coolant can achieve rapid circulation between the second chamber and the first chamber. Furthermore, by positioning the heat exchanger adjacent to the first set of through-holes, the first coolant cooled by the heat exchanger can be timely introduced into the first chamber through the first set of through-holes.

[0024] In some embodiments, the heat exchange module further comprises a liquid-occupying block, which, when the heat exchange module is inserted into the second chamber, is at least partially immersed in the first coolant in the second chamber. In such embodiments, when the heat exchange module is inserted into the second chamber, the liquid-occupying block can discharge a volume of the first coolant, thereby reducing the amount of first coolant required in the cabinet and lowering the overall cost.

[0025] In some embodiments, the cabinet further comprises an external frame and a top cover, the external frame being provided around the first and second chambers, and the top cover being rotatably connected to the external frame and switchable between a closed state that closes the first chamber and an open state that opens the first chamber. In such embodiments, closing the first chamber using the top cover can reduce leakage of the first coolant from the first chamber and prevent external contaminants from entering the first chamber.

[0026] In some embodiments, a seal ring is provided on the side of the top cover facing the first chamber. Here, when the top cover is in the closed state, the space between the top cover and the first chamber is sealed by the seal ring. In such embodiments, by using the seal ring, the sealing performance between the top cover and the first chamber can be improved, and the leakage of the first coolant in the first chamber can be further reduced.

[0027] In some embodiments, the cabinet further includes a hydraulic drive device, which is connected between the external frame and the top cover and is used to operate so as to switch the top cover between the closed state and the open state. In such embodiments, the top cover can be easily opened or closed by using the hydraulic drive device.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first coolant includes a fluorine-based fluid or mineral oil, and / or the second coolant includes deionized water.

[0029] In a second aspect of the present invention, a liquid cooling system is provided, which includes a plurality of immersion-type liquid cooling devices arranged side by side. Here, each immersion-type liquid cooling device among the plurality of immersion-type liquid cooling devices is an immersion-type liquid cooling device according to any one of the first aspects of the present invention.

[0030] It should be understood that the content described in the summary part of the present invention is not intended to limit the main features or important features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Other features of the present invention will be easily understood from the following description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031] The above-mentioned features and other features, advantages, and aspects of each embodiment of the present invention will become clearer by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings. In the drawings, the same or similar symbols indicate the same or similar elements, where, [Figure 1] This diagram shows a schematic configuration of an immersion-type liquid cooling device according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the heat exchange module inserted into the second chamber. [Figure 2] This diagram shows a schematic configuration of an immersion-type liquid cooling device according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which the heat exchange module is drawn out from inside the second chamber. [Figure 3] This diagram shows a schematic configuration of the side wall of the first chamber for integrating the second chamber according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] A schematic diagram of a heat exchange module according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 5] Figure 4 shows a front view of the heat exchange module. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram of a first drive assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 7] Figure 1 shows the first drive assembly of the immersion type liquid cooling system in the extended position. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram of a heat exchanger according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram of a liquid cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0032] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. Although preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present invention can be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to make the present invention more fully transparent and to fully convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0033] In this specification, the term “including” and similar terms are open-ended inclusions meaning “including, but not limited to.” Unless otherwise specified, the term “or” means “and / or.” The term “based on” means “based at least in part.” The terms “one exemplary embodiment” and “one embodiment” mean “at least one exemplary embodiment.” The term “another embodiment” means “at least one yet another embodiment.” Terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., may refer to different or the same object.

[0034] As described above, conventional immersion liquid cooling systems have various problems, including being large, having a complex structure, being difficult to assemble, being difficult to maintain, and having low reliability. Embodiments of the present invention provide an immersion liquid cooling device and a liquid cooling system equipped with an immersion liquid cooling device, which integrate a heat exchanger internally, in order to reduce the difficulty of maintenance, reduce the complexity of the architecture, increase adaptability, and improve reliability. The principle of the present invention will be explained below in conjunction with Figures 1 to 9.

[0035] Figures 1 and 2 show schematic configuration diagrams of an immersion liquid cooling system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where in Figure 1 the heat exchange module 3 is inserted into the second chamber 22, and in Figure 2 the heat exchange module 3 is withdrawn from the second chamber 22. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the immersion liquid cooling system 100 described herein generally comprises a cabinet 2 and a heat exchange module 3. The cabinet 2 comprises an external frame 23, a first chamber 21, a second chamber 22 integrated with the side wall 211 of the first chamber 21, and a top cover 24. The first chamber 21 is used to house the electronic device to be cooled and a first coolant (not shown). The second chamber 22 is used to house the heat exchange module 3 and the first coolant. The first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22 are in fluid communication through a through-hole 6 (see Figure 3) provided in the side wall 211, and the first coolant can circulate between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22 through the through-hole 6. The heat exchange module 3 is adapted to be inserted into the second chamber 22 through an opening 221 on the second chamber 22.

[0036] In some embodiments, the electronic device housed in the first chamber 21 includes a server or a switch. In other embodiments, the electronic device may be of a different type, and embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect.

[0037] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the outer frame 23 roughly surrounds the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22 to provide some degree of mechanical support for them. The first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22 may be attached to the outer frame 23 by welding or other means. In some embodiments, the outer frame 23 may be welded from square steel. In other embodiments, the outer frame 23 may be manufactured and formed by other processes or using other materials, and embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22 may be welded from stainless steel sheets. In other embodiments, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22 may be manufactured by other processes or using other materials, and embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect.

[0039] In some embodiments, the top cover 24 is rotatably connected to the external frame 23 and is switchable between a closed state that closes the first chamber 21 and an open state that opens the first chamber 21. Figures 1 and 2 show the top cover 24 in the closed state. In the closed state, the top cover 24 can reduce leakage of the first coolant from the first chamber 21 and prevent external contaminants from entering the first chamber 21. When the top cover 24 is in the open state, an operator can install and maintain electronic devices in the first chamber 21 and fill the first chamber 21 with the first coolant.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first coolant comprises a fluorinated fluid or mineral oil. In other embodiments, the first coolant may be of other types, and embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect.

[0041] In some embodiments, the top cover 24 can be opened to more than 90 degrees relative to the outer frame 23. At the maximum opening angle, a stopper (not shown) may be provided to limit the position of the top cover 24.

[0042] In some embodiments, the top cover 24 may be connected to the side of the outer frame 23 by hinges. In other embodiments, the top cover 24 may be connected to the outer frame 23 by other means, such as shaft hole fitting, and embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect.

[0043] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the top cover 24 comprises a frame 241 and an observation window 242 surrounded by the frame 241. The frame 241 is connected to an outer frame 23 and is rotatable relative to the outer frame 23. The frame 241 may be made of an aluminum alloy or other type of metallic or non-metallic material. The observation window 242 may be made of a transparent polycarbonate (PC) material or other type of transparent material. By providing the observation window 242, even when the top cover 24 is closed, an operator can observe the electronic device in the first chamber 21 through the observation window 242 and understand the operating state of the electronic device in a timely manner.

[0044] In some embodiments, a seal ring (not shown) is provided on the side of the top cover 24 facing the first chamber 21. When the top cover 24 is closed, the seal ring seals the space between the top cover 24 and the first chamber 21. The seal ring may include, for example, ethylene propylene diene (EPDM) rubber or other types of sealing materials. By using a seal ring, the sealing performance between the top cover 24 and the first chamber 21 can be improved, and leakage of the first coolant from the first chamber 24 can be further reduced.

[0045] In some embodiments, the cabinet 2 further includes a hydraulic drive (not shown) for opening and closing the top cover 24. The hydraulic drive is connected between the outer frame 23 and the top cover 24 and operates to switch the top cover 24 between a closed state and an open state. Opening and closing the top cover 24 can be easily achieved using the hydraulic drive.

[0046] In some embodiments, the hydraulic drive system includes a pair of hydraulic rods (not shown). One of the hydraulic rods is connected between a side of the top cover 24 and a corresponding side of the outer frame 23. The other hydraulic rod is connected between the other side of the top cover 24 and a corresponding side of the outer frame 23. The pair of hydraulic rods, positioned opposite each other, allow for a quick and reliable switching of the state of the top cover 24.

[0047] In other embodiments, the top cover 24 may be switched between a closed state and an open state by other means, and it should be understood that embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect.

[0048] In some embodiments, a handle (not shown) may be provided on the side of the top cover 24 facing away from the first chamber 21. Using such an arrangement, the operator can open and close the top cover 24 by gripping the handle.

[0049] As described above, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22 are fluidly connected via through-holes 6 provided in the side wall 211. Figure 3 shows an exemplary arrangement of the through-holes 6 on the side wall 211 of the first chamber 21. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, the through-holes 6 comprise a first set of through-holes 61 and a second set of through-holes 62. The first coolant in the second chamber 22 can flow into the first chamber 21 through the first set of through-holes 61, and the first coolant in the first chamber 21 can flow into the second chamber 22 through the second set of through-holes 62.

[0050] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, each of the first set of through holes 61 may be elliptical. In other embodiments, each of the first set of through holes 61 may be of other shapes, such as circular, oblong, square, or rod-shaped, and it should be understood that embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect.

[0051] Similarly, as shown in Figure 3, each of the through-holes 62 in the second set may be elliptical. In other embodiments, each of the through-holes 62 in the second set may be of other shapes such as circular, oblong, square, or rod-shaped, and embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect.

[0052] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the first set of through holes 61 are located adjacent to the bottom of the second chamber 22, and the second set of through holes 62 are located adjacent to the top of the second chamber 22. By utilizing this arrangement, most of the first coolant in the second chamber 22 can be made to participate in the coolant circulation between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22.

[0053] In embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that the through-holes 6 on the side wall 211 may take other forms, as long as they can provide a coolant circulation path between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22. For example, the first set of through-holes 61 may be replaced by one or more elongated rod-shaped holes, and the second set of through-holes 62 may be replaced by one or more elongated rod-shaped holes.

[0054] As described above, both the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22 are used to contain the first coolant. In the first chamber 21, the first coolant can immerse the electronic device in order to cool it. In the second chamber 22, the heat exchange module 3 may be at least partially immersed in the first coolant. The heat exchange module 3 is connected to an external cooling device (e.g., a cooling tower) to receive the second coolant provided by the external cooling device. Since the temperature of the second coolant in the heat exchange module 3 is lower than the temperature of the first coolant in the second chamber 22, the first coolant in the second chamber 22 can be cooled.

[0055] In some embodiments, the second coolant in the heat exchange module 3 may contain deionized water. In other embodiments, the second coolant may be of other types, and embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect.

[0056] In the following, an exemplary configuration of the heat exchange module 3 will be described in conjunction with Figures 4 to 8. First, referring to Figures 4 and 5, Figure 4 shows a schematic configuration diagram of the heat exchange module 3 according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 5 shows a front view of the heat exchange module 3 shown in Figure 4. To make the configuration of the heat exchange module 3 clearer, a portion of the liquid circulation pipeline 31 is omitted in Figure 5. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the heat exchange module 3 comprises a heat exchanger 32, a coolant drive unit 33, and a guide assembly 34. The heat exchanger 32 is in fluid communication with the liquid circulation pipeline 31, which circulates a second coolant between the heat exchanger 32 and an external cooling device (e.g., a cooling tower). By utilizing this arrangement, a second coolant at a lower temperature can be provided to the heat exchanger 32. The heat exchanger 32 can use the second coolant to cool the first coolant in the second chamber 22. The coolant drive unit 33 circulates the first coolant between the second chamber 22 and the first chamber 21. The guide assembly 34 includes a liquid channel (not shown) for guiding the first coolant from the coolant drive unit 33 to the heat exchanger 32. By utilizing this arrangement, the low-temperature first coolant can flow from the second chamber 22 into the first chamber 21 through, for example, the first set of through-holes 61 shown in Figure 3, to absorb heat from the electronic device. After absorbing heat and its temperature rises, the first coolant flows from the first chamber 21 into the second chamber 22 through the second set of through-holes 62, is driven by the coolant drive unit 33 into the liquid channel of the guide assembly 34, and then travels along the liquid channel to the heat exchanger 32, where it is cooled again for the next cycle.

[0057] As shown in Figure 5, the coolant drive unit 33 is located above the heat exchanger 32, where the coolant drive unit 33 is closer to the top side of the heat exchange module 3, and the heat exchanger 32 is closer to the bottom side of the heat exchange module 3. In conjunction with Figures 1 and 2, when the heat exchange module 3 is inserted into the second chamber 22, the coolant drive unit 33 is closer to the opening 221 of the second chamber 22 than the heat exchanger 32. In some embodiments, the coolant drive unit 33 may be closer to the second set of through holes 62 shown in Figure 3, and the heat exchanger 32 may be closer to the first set of through holes 61 shown in Figure 3.

[0058] In an embodiment of the present invention, the coolant drive unit 33 is detachably mounted within the heat exchange module 3. Therefore, the coolant drive unit 33 can be pulled out from within the second chamber 22 when the heat exchanger 32 and guide assembly 34 are held within the second chamber 22. Since the coolant drive unit 33 within the heat exchange module 3 requires more maintenance than the heat exchanger 32, by positioning the coolant drive unit 33 above the heat exchanger 32, the coolant drive unit 33 can be pulled out from the cabinet 2 independently, thereby facilitating maintenance of the coolant drive unit 33 and reducing the maintenance time for the coolant drive unit 33.

[0059] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the heat exchange module 3 further comprises a first bracket 30, the first bracket 30 comprising a first support portion 301 and a second support portion 302. The first support portion 301 and the second support portion 302 may be assembled or joined by welding, bolting, or other means to support other components of the heat exchange module 3. When the heat exchange module 3 is inserted into the second chamber 22, the first support portion 301 is located outside the second chamber 22 and is supported by the external frame 23. This allows the entire weight of the heat exchange module 3 to be reliably supported on the external frame 23 by the first support portion 301. The second support portion 302 is used to support several other components of the heat exchange module 3. For example, the heat exchanger 32 and the guide assembly 34 may be mounted on the second support portion 302.

[0060] In one exemplary implementation, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the heat exchanger 32 and guide assembly 34 are secured to the second support 302 by fasteners 37. The fasteners 37 may be, for example, U-shaped strips, and bolts can be used to secure the heat exchanger 32 and guide assembly 34 to the second support 302. It should be understood that the fasteners 37 are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. In other exemplary implementations, the heat exchanger 32 and guide assembly 34 may be secured to the second support 302 by other means.

[0061] In some embodiments, a seal ring (not shown) is provided on the side of the first support portion 301 facing the second chamber 22 (i.e., the bottom side). When the heat exchange module 3 is inserted into the second chamber 22, the seal ring seals the space between the first support portion 301 and the second chamber 22. The seal ring may include, for example, EPDM rubber or other types of sealing material. By using a seal ring, the sealing performance between the first support portion 301 and the second chamber 22 can be improved, and leakage of the first coolant into the second chamber 22 can be reduced.

[0062] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, a display unit 35 for displaying the operating status of the coolant drive unit 33 is provided on the side of the first support unit 301 facing away from the second chamber 22 (i.e., the top side). The display unit 35 allows for real-time observation of the operating status of the coolant drive unit 33, and therefore, the coolant drive unit 33 can be maintained in the event of abnormal operation.

[0063] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the heat exchange module 3 further comprises a logic control assembly 36 for monitoring and / or controlling the operating state of the coolant drive unit 33. The logic control assembly 36 may be supported by a first support 301 and provided on the side of the first support 301 facing the second chamber 22. The logic control assembly 36 may be provided in other locations, and embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0064] In some embodiments, the heat exchange module 3 further comprises one or more sensors (not shown) for detecting the state of the first coolant in the second chamber 22. For example, a conductivity sensor can be used to detect the conductivity of the first coolant, and a temperature sensor can be used to detect the temperature of the first electrolyte. Signals detected by the sensors can be transmitted to a logic control assembly 36 to control the operating state of the coolant drive unit 33.

[0065] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the heat exchange module 3 further comprises one or more liquid-occupying blocks 38. When the heat exchange module 3 is inserted into the second chamber 22, the liquid-occupying blocks 38 can be at least partially immersed in the first coolant in the second chamber 22. This allows the liquid-occupying blocks 38 to reduce the amount of first coolant required in the cabinet 2 by draining a volume of the first coolant in the second chamber 22 so that the liquid level of the first coolant in the second chamber 22 rises, thereby reducing the overall cost.

[0066] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the coolant drive unit 33 comprises a first drive assembly 331. Figure 6 shows an exemplary configuration of the first drive assembly 331. As shown in Figure 6, the first drive assembly 331 comprises a second bracket 330 and a first circulation pump 333 supported by the second bracket 330. In conjunction with Figures 4 to 6, the second bracket 330 is detachably connected to the first bracket 30. In one exemplary implementation, the second bracket 330 may be secured to the first bracket 30 by bolts. In another exemplary implementation, the second bracket 330 may be snapped to the first bracket 30 by snaps. In other implementations, the second bracket 330 may be detachably connected to the first bracket 30 by other means, and embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited in this respect. By utilizing this arrangement, when the heat exchange module 3 is inserted into the second chamber 22, the first drive assembly 331 can be pulled out of the second chamber 22 independently for maintenance, as shown in Figure 7.

[0067] As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the first circulation pump 333 includes a circulation pump inlet 3331 and a circulation pump outlet 3332. When the second bracket 330 is connected to the first bracket 30, the circulation pump outlet 3332 of the first circulation pump 333 communicates with the liquid flow path in the guide assembly 34. Therefore, the first circulation pump 333 can drive the first coolant into the liquid flow path of the guide assembly 34.

[0068] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, the first drive assembly 331 further includes a filter 334 provided at the circulation pump inlet 3331 of the first circulation pump 333. The filter 334 can filter the first coolant flowing into the first circulation pump 333 to prevent impurities from entering the inside of the pump body and damaging the first circulation pump 333.

[0069] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, the second bracket 330 includes a third support portion 3301 and a fourth support portion 3302. In conjunction with Figures 4 to 6, the third support portion 3301 is detachably connected to the first support portion 301, and the first circulation pump 333 is supported by the fourth support portion 3302. The third support portion 3301 may be connected to the first support portion 301 by bolts, snaps, or other configurations.

[0070] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, a handle 335 is provided on the side (top side) of the third support portion 3301 facing away from the first circulation pump 333. When the third support portion 3301 is not connected to the first connection portion 301, the first drive assembly can be easily and independently pulled out of the second chamber 22 331 using the handle 335, as shown in Figure 7. When the third support portion 3301 is connected to the first connection portion 301, the heat exchange module 3 can be easily and entirely pulled out of the second chamber 22 using the handle 335, as shown in Figure 2.

[0071] As shown in Figure 6, one or more electrical connectors 336 may be further provided on the side of the third support portion 3301 facing away from the first circulation pump 333, and the electrical connectors 336 can provide power to and control the first circulation pump 333.

[0072] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, the fourth support portion 3302 includes a first inclined portion 3303 inclined with respect to the withdrawal direction X of the first drive assembly 331 (for example, the vertical direction in Figure 5), and the circulation pump outlet 3332 of the first circulation pump 333 is provided on the first inclined portion 3303. Accordingly, the guide assembly 34 includes a second inclined portion 3411 inclined with respect to the withdrawal direction X. When the third support portion 3301 is connected to the first support portion 301, the second inclined portion 3411 abuts against the first inclined portion 3303 to enable communication between the circulation pump outlet 3332 of the first circulation pump 333 and the liquid flow path in the guide assembly 34. By providing the first inclined portion 3303 and the second inclined portion 3411, on the one hand, accurate positioning of the first drive assembly 331 during insertion can be ensured, and on the other hand, reliable communication between the circulation pump outlet 3332 of the first circulation pump 333 and the liquid flow path in the guide assembly 34 can be ensured.

[0073] In some embodiments, a seal ring may be provided at the circulation pump outlet 3332 of the first circulation pump 333 and the inlet of the liquid flow path in the guide assembly 34 to improve the sealing performance between them, ensuring that the first circulation pump 333 can reliably drive the first coolant to the heat exchanger 32.

[0074] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the coolant drive unit 33 further comprises a second drive assembly 332. The second drive assembly 332 is provided alongside the first drive assembly 331 and has a similar configuration to the first drive assembly 331. For example, the second drive assembly 332 may comprise a third bracket and a second circulation pump supported by the third bracket. The configuration of the third bracket is the same as that of the second bracket 330, and the configuration of the second circulation pump is the same as that of the first circulation pump 333, and will not be described again here. The third bracket is detachably connected to the first bracket 30. Thus, like the first drive assembly 331, the second drive assembly 332 can be similarly withdrawn from the second chamber 22 on its own, or withdrawn together with the heat exchanger 32. By providing a redundant second drive assembly 332, the reliability of the liquid cooling system 100 can be improved because if a problem occurs in one of the drive assemblies, the first drive assembly 331 or the second drive assembly 332, the other drive assembly can still operate normally. In other embodiments, it should be understood that the coolant drive unit 33 may have even more drive assemblies to further enhance the redundant performance of the liquid cooling system 100.

[0075] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the guide assembly 34 comprises a first guide member 341 and a second guide member 342 and a third guide member 343 located above the first guide member 341. The liquid flow path in the second guide member 342 communicates with the circulation pump outlet 3332 of the first circulation pump 333. The liquid flow path in the third guide member 343 communicates with the circulation pump outlet of the second circulation pump. The liquid flow path in the first guide member 341 is connected to the heat exchanger 32. The liquid flow paths in the second guide member 342 and the third guide member 343 each communicate with the liquid flow path in the first guide member 341. By providing the first guide member 341, the second guide member 342, and the third guide member 343, on the one hand, the first coolant can be reliably guided from the coolant drive device 33 to the heat exchanger 32, and on the other hand, by discharging the volume of the first coolant in the second chamber 22 in order to raise the liquid level of the first coolant in the second chamber 22, the amount of first coolant required in the cabinet 2 can be reduced, thereby reducing the overall cost.

[0076] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the second inclined portion 3411 described above can be provided on the second guide member 342 and the third guide member 343 so as to be positioned corresponding to the first inclined portion 3303 on the first drive assembly 331 and the second drive assembly 332, respectively.

[0077] In other embodiments, the guide assembly 34 may have other configurations for guiding the first coolant from the coolant drive unit to the heat exchanger 32, and the scope of the present invention is not limited in this respect.

[0078] As described above, the heat exchanger 32 can cool the first coolant using the second coolant. Below, an exemplary configuration of the heat exchanger 32 will be described in conjunction with Figure 8. As shown in Figure 8, the heat exchanger 32 is a plate heat exchanger, which comprises an outer chamber 320 and an inner chamber (not shown) surrounded by the outer chamber 320. The outer chamber 320 includes a first liquid inlet 321 and a first liquid outlet 322, the first liquid inlet 321 being used to receive the first coolant by connecting to a liquid flow path in the guide assembly 34, and the first liquid outlet 322 being used to discharge the first coolant from the outer chamber 320 into the second chamber 22. The inner chamber is equipped with a second liquid inlet 323 and a second liquid outlet 324. The second liquid inlet 323 is connected to a liquid inlet pipe 311 in the liquid circulation pipeline 31 to receive a second coolant from the cooling tower, and the second liquid outlet 324 is connected to a liquid return pipe 312 in the liquid circulation pipeline 31 to return the second coolant to the cooling tower. The first coolant in the outer chamber 320 and the second coolant in the inner chamber can form a fork-flow type heat exchange, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger 32.

[0079] In other embodiments, the heat exchanger 32 may be of a different type, and the scope of the present invention is not limited in this respect.

[0080] In some embodiments, the immersion liquid cooling system 100 further includes height-adjusting brackets (not shown), which are positioned below the first chamber 21 and support the first chamber 21. By utilizing such an arrangement, users can combine liquid cooling systems with different height-adjusting brackets depending on the actual depth of the electronic device, thereby saving on the amount of first coolant used and reducing the overall cost of the liquid cooling system. In some cases, the height-adjusting brackets can also support a second chamber 22.

[0081] Figure 9 shows a schematic configuration diagram of a liquid cooling system 900 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 9, the liquid cooling system 900 comprises a plurality of immersion type liquid cooling devices 100 arranged side by side. Each of the plurality of immersion type liquid cooling devices 100 may be any of the immersion type liquid cooling devices 100 described in conjunction with Figures 1 to 8.

[0082] In small, medium, and large data centers, users can configure the number of immersion liquid cooling units 100 according to their business needs, forming business systems of different scales, providing data centers with a more flexible and efficient deployment mode for immersion liquid cooling systems. This also solves the problem of excessive losses due to a single failure caused by a large number of IT devices in one cabinet. In some edge computing use cases, such small-scale immersion liquid cooling units 100 can be deployed independently in small quantities, leading to more small-scale and flexible deployment application scenarios.

[0083] Furthermore, in the case of large-scale cluster deployment, the cabinet 2 and heat exchange module 3 are pre-positioned in the data center, the immersion liquid cooling system 100 is pre-positioned in the server room of the data center, and the liquid circulation pipeline 31 is connected to the primary side coolant supply system (e.g., cooling tower) to complete commissioning. Subsequently, when business needs arise, the user can procure IT devices, deploy them in the first chamber 21 of the cabinet 2, and finally add the first coolant to the first chamber 21 to complete the deployment of the entire system. This significantly reduces the data center deployment time.

[0084] Embodiments of the present invention further provide a data center deployed in a large cluster, the data center comprising a plurality of immersion liquid cooling units 100 and a primary coolant supply system (e.g., a cooling tower), the plurality of immersion liquid cooling units 100 pre-installed in the server room of the data center, each immersion liquid cooling unit 100 not yet equipped with electronic devices and not yet injected with first coolant, and the primary coolant supply system is connected via a liquid transmission line to a liquid circulation line 31 in the heat exchange module 3 of each immersion liquid cooling unit 100. By utilizing such an arrangement, the immersion liquid cooling units 100 and the primary coolant supply system can be pre-connected and commissioned, facilitating rapid deployment of a large cluster.

[0085] In embodiments of the present invention, the first chamber 21 of the cabinet 2 in the immersion liquid cooling device 100 may be designed to have different dimensions, for example, different depths, to accommodate IT devices of different sizes, such as 4U, 8U, 12U, etc., where U is a unit of height for the IT device, with 1U = 1.75 inches = 4.445 cm, 4U = 7 inches = 17.78 cm, 8U = 14 inches = 35.56 cm, and 12U = 21 inches = 53.34 cm. Accordingly, the height-adjusting brackets may have different dimensions, thereby allowing the same set of external frames 23 to be adapted to different first chambers 21. In some embodiments, the height-adjusting brackets may be height-adjustable height-adjusting brackets.

[0086] For example, a typical computing server has a depth of 600 mm, and a storage server has a depth of 800 mm. Cabinet 2 allows adjustment of the depth of the first chamber 21 using a height-adjusting bracket at the bottom, and by designing the first chamber 21 with different depths, the amount of first coolant used can be significantly reduced.

[0087] Embodiments of the present invention provide a liquid cooling system design with an integrated heat exchanger, enabling efficient self-circulating cooling of IT devices such as servers and switches located inside. This reduces data center investment and overall operating costs, allows for controlling the overall power usage effect (PUE) of the data center to 1.1 or less, and saves energy. Furthermore, by positioning the coolant drive unit above the heat exchanger, the coolant drive unit can be independently removed from the cabinet, facilitating maintenance of the coolant drive unit and reducing maintenance time.

[0088] While the various implementations of the present invention have been described above, the above descriptions are illustrative, not exhaustive, and not limited to the implementations disclosed. Many modifications and changes will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of each implementation described. The choice of terms used herein is intended to best interpret the principles, practical applications, or improvements to the technology in the market of each implementation, or to enable those skilled in the art to understand each implementation disclosed herein.

Claims

1. Immersion type liquid cooling device (100), A cabinet (2) comprising a first chamber (21) and a second chamber (22) integrated with the side wall (211) of the first chamber (21), wherein the first chamber (21) is used to house an electronic device to be cooled, and the side wall (211) is provided with a through hole (6) for circulating a first coolant between the first chamber (21) and the second chamber (22), A heat exchange module (3) is fitted to be inserted into the second chamber (22) through an opening (221) on the second chamber (22), the heat exchange module (3) comprising a heat exchanger (32), a coolant drive (33), and a guide assembly (34), wherein the heat exchanger (32) is used to receive a second coolant via a liquid circulation line (31) and to use the second coolant to cool the first coolant, the coolant drive (33) is used to drive the first coolant to circulate between the second chamber (22) and the first chamber (21), and the guide assembly (34) is used to drive the first coolant The heat exchange module (3) is provided with a liquid channel for guiding the coolant from the coolant drive device (33) to the heat exchanger (32), wherein the coolant drive device (33) is closer to the opening (221) of the second chamber (22) than the heat exchanger (32) when the heat exchange module (3) is inserted into the second chamber (22), and the coolant drive device (33) is detachably mounted in the heat exchange module so that the coolant drive device (33) can be withdrawn from the second chamber (22) when the heat exchanger (32) and the guide assembly (34) are held in the second chamber (22), Equipped with, The coolant drive device (33) comprises a first drive assembly (331), the first drive assembly (331) comprising a second bracket (330) and a first circulation pump (333) supported by the second bracket (330), the second bracket (330) comprising a fourth support portion (3302), the fourth support portion (3302) comprising a first inclined portion (3303) inclined with respect to the withdrawal direction of the first drive assembly (331), and the circulation pump outlet (3332) of the first circulation pump (333) provided on the first inclined portion (3303). The guide assembly (34) comprises a second inclined portion (3411) inclined with respect to the withdrawal direction, and the second inclined portion (3411) abuts against the first inclined portion (3303) when the first drive assembly (331) is installed in the heat exchange module (3), in the immersion type liquid cooling device (100).

2. The heat exchange module (3) further comprises a first bracket (30), and the heat exchanger (32) and the guide assembly (34) are supported by the first bracket (30). The second bracket (330) is detachably connected to the first bracket (30). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 1.

3. The first bracket (30) comprises a first support portion (301) and a second support portion (302), the second bracket (330) being detachably connected to the first support portion (301), the heat exchanger (32) and the guide assembly (34) being supported by the second support portion (302), and the first support portion (301) being located outside the second chamber (22) when the heat exchange module (3) is inserted into the second chamber (22). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 2.

4. A sealing ring is provided on the side of the first support portion (301) facing the second chamber (22), and when the heat exchange module (3) is inserted into the second chamber (22), the space between the first support portion (301) and the second chamber (22) is sealed by the sealing ring. The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 3.

5. On the side of the first support portion (301) facing away from the second chamber (22), a display unit (35) is provided for displaying the operating status of the coolant drive device (33). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 3.

6. The heat exchanger (32) and the guide assembly (34) are fixed to the second support portion (302) by fasteners (37). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 3.

7. The second bracket (330) includes a third support portion (3301), the third support portion (3301) is detachably connected to the first support portion (301), and the first circulation pump (333) is supported by the fourth support portion (3302). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 3.

8. A handle (335) is provided on the side of the third support portion (3301) that faces away from the first circulation pump (333). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 7.

9. The first drive assembly (331) further comprises a filter (334) provided at the circulation pump inlet (3331) of the first circulation pump (333). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 2.

10. The coolant drive device (33) further comprises a second drive assembly (332), the second drive assembly (332) comprising a third bracket and a second circulation pump supported by the third bracket, the third bracket being detachably connected to the first bracket (30). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 2.

11. The guide assembly (34) comprises a first guide member (341), a second guide member (342), and a third guide member (343) provided above the first guide member (341), wherein the liquid flow path within the second guide member (342) communicates with the circulation pump outlet (3332) of the first circulation pump (333), the liquid flow path within the third guide member (343) communicates with the circulation pump outlet of the second circulation pump, and the liquid flow path within the first guide member (341) is connected to the heat exchanger (32). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 10.

12. The heat exchanger (32) is a plate-type heat exchanger, and the plate-type heat exchanger comprises an outer chamber (320) and an inner chamber surrounded by the outer chamber (320). The outer chamber (320) comprises a first liquid inlet (321) and a first liquid outlet (322), the first liquid inlet (321) being connected to a liquid flow path in the guide assembly (34) to receive the first coolant, and the first liquid outlet (322) being used to discharge the first coolant from the outer chamber (320) into the second chamber (22). The inner chamber comprises a second liquid inlet (323) and a second liquid outlet (324), the second liquid inlet (323) being connected to a liquid inlet pipe (311) of the liquid circulation pipeline (31) to receive the second coolant, and the second liquid outlet (324) being connected to a liquid return pipe (312) of the liquid circulation pipeline (31). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 1.

13. The through-hole (6) comprises a first set of through-holes (61) and a second set of through-holes (62), wherein the second set of through-holes (62) is closer to the opening (221) of the second chamber (22) than the first set of through-holes (61), and when the heat exchange module (3) is inserted into the second chamber (22), the coolant drive device (33) is closer to the second set of through-holes (62), and the heat exchanger (32) is closer to the first set of through-holes (61). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 1.

14. The heat exchange module (3) further comprises a liquid-occupying block (38), and when the heat exchange module (3) is inserted into the second chamber (22), the liquid-occupying block (38) is at least partially immersed in the first coolant in the second chamber (22). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 1.

15. The cabinet (2) further comprises an external frame (23) and a top cover (24), the external frame (23) being provided around the first chamber (21) and the second chamber (22), and the top cover (24) being rotatably connected to the external frame (23) and switchable between a closed state that closes the first chamber (21) and an open state that opens the first chamber (21). The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 1.

16. A sealing ring is provided on the side of the top cover (24) facing the first chamber (21), and when the top cover (24) is in the closed state, the space between the top cover (24) and the first chamber (21) is sealed by the sealing ring. The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 15.

17. The cabinet (2) further comprises a hydraulic drive device, which is connected between the external frame (23) and the top cover (24) and used to operate the top cover (24) to switch between the closed state and the open state. The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 15.

18. The first coolant comprises a fluorine-based fluid or mineral oil, and / or the second coolant comprises deionized water. The immersion type liquid cooling device (100) according to claim 1.

19. The system comprises a plurality of immersion-type liquid cooling devices (100) arranged in a row, wherein each of the plurality of immersion-type liquid cooling devices (100) is the immersion-type liquid cooling device (100) described in claim 1. Liquid cooling system (900).

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