Cooling device

Abstract

To provide a cooling device that even when a pump stops, supplies a coolant to a cooling unit to continue cooling.SOLUTION: A cooling system 100 includes a cooling device 10 including a first cooling unit 11A, a second cooling unit 11B, a first pump unit 112A, a second pump unit 12B, a branch unit 3, a first flow passage unit 20A, a second flow passage unit 20B, a merging unit 4, and a connection unit 2. The branch unit divides a coolant into two. The first flow passage unit connects the first cooling unit with the first pump unit and one of the divided coolant passes through the first flow passage unit. The second flow passage unit connects the second cooling unit with the second pump unit and the other of the divided coolant passes through the second flow passage unit. The merging unit merges together the one and the other coolants that have passed through the first flow passage unit and the second flow passage unit, respectively. The connection unit connects fluidically the first flow passage unit and the second flow passage unit between the branch unit and the merging unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cooling device.

Background Art

[0002] The cold plate described in Patent Document 1 includes a working space where heat exchange is performed by a fluid, and a pump configured to guide the fluid to an outlet passage discharged from the working space. The working space is constituted by a base configured to absorb thermal energy and transfer the thermal energy to the fluid, and a casing.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the cold plate described in Patent Document 1, when the pump stops, the cold plate with the stopped pump cannot discharge the fluid from the working space, and thus cannot continue heat exchange.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a cooling device capable of supplying a refrigerant to a cooling unit and continuing cooling even when a pump stops.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] An exemplary cooling system of the present disclosure includes a first cooling section, a second cooling section, a first pump section, a second pump section, a branching section, a first flow path section, a second flow path section, a merging section, and a connecting section. The branching section divides the refrigerant into two. The first flow path section connects the first cooling section and the first pump section, through which one of the divided refrigerant flows. The second flow path section connects the second cooling section and the second pump section, through which the other of the divided refrigerant flows. The merging section merges the refrigerant that has passed through the first flow path section and the second flow path section, respectively. The connecting section fluidly connects the first flow path section and the second flow path section between the branching section and the merging section. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to an exemplary version of the present invention, even if the pump stops, it is possible to supply refrigerant to the cooling unit and continue cooling. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an overview of the cooling system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a detailed configuration of the cooling system. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the cooling unit. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view showing the inside of the cooling unit. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view showing the inside of the cooling unit. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is a schematic perspective view showing the inside of the pump section. [Figure 6B] Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view along the VIB-VIB line in Figure 6A. [Figure 6C] Figure 6C is a cross-sectional view showing the inside of the pump section 12. [Figure 6D] Figure 6D is a cross-sectional view showing the inside of the pump section 12. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the cooling unit. [Figure 8]Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cooling unit. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a cooling unit. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a cooling unit. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a cooling unit. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a diagram outlining a cooling system. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a diagram showing a cooling system having two cooling devices. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a diagram showing a cooling system. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a diagram showing a cooling unit. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of a pump unit and a housing unit. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a diagram showing a check valve of a cooling device. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of a guide portion, a check valve, and a housing portion. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is an enlarged view of the guide portion, the check valve, the first outflow passage, and the second outflow passage in Figure 18. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is an enlarged view of the guide portion, the check valve, the first outflow passage, and the second outflow passage in Figure 18. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference signs, and repeated description thereof will be omitted. In the present specification, for ease of understanding, a first direction X, a second direction Y, and a third direction Z that are orthogonal to each other are appropriately described. Furthermore, one side in the first direction X is referred to as a first direction one side X1, and the other side in the first direction X is referred to as a first direction other side X2. Furthermore, one side in the second direction Y is referred to as a second direction one side Y1, and the other side in the second direction Y is referred to as a second direction other side Y2. Furthermore, one side in the third direction Z is referred to as a third direction one side Z1, and the other side in the third direction Z is referred to as a third direction other side Z2. However, these directions are defined merely for convenience of description, and the orientation of the cooling device according to the present invention during use is not limited, unless it is particularly necessary to define the horizontal direction and the vertical direction. Furthermore, in the present application, the term "orthogonal direction" includes directions that are substantially orthogonal.

[0010] Referring to Fig. 1, a cooling system 100 including a cooling device 10 according to an exemplary embodiment will be described. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of the cooling system 100.

[0011] The cooling system 100 includes the cooling device 10 and a heat exchanger 50. The heat exchanger 50 is connected to the cooling device 10. The cooling system 100 and the cooling device 10 are used for cooling the heat-generating component C1. Inside the heat exchanger 50 and the cooling device 10, a refrigerant RL that cools the heat-generating component C1 flows. The refrigerant RL is, for example, a liquid or a gas. The heat-generating component C1 is, for example, an electronic device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Note that the heat-generating component C1 is not limited to electronic devices.

[0012] The cooling device 10 includes two cooling sections 11A and 11B, two pump sections 12A and 12B, two flow path sections 20A and 20B, a connection section 2, a branching section 3, and a merging section 4. Cooling section 11A is an example of a first cooling section. Cooling section 11B is an example of a second cooling section. Pump section 12A is an example of a first pump section. Pump section 12B is an example of a second pump section. Flow path section 20A is an example of a first flow path section. Flow path section 20B is an example of a second flow path section. In this specification, cooling sections 11A and 11B may each be referred to as cooling section 11, pump sections 12A and 12B may each be referred to as pump section 12, and flow path sections 20A and 20B may each be referred to as flow path section 20.

[0013] The cooling unit 11 cools the heat-generating component C1. The pump unit 12 draws in and discharges the refrigerant RL. The flow path unit 20 connects the cooling unit 11 and the pump unit 12. Specifically, the flow path unit 20A connects the cooling unit 11A and the pump unit 12A. The flow path unit 20B connects the cooling unit 11B and the pump unit 12B.

[0014] The pump unit 12 draws in and discharges the refrigerant RL, causing it to pass through the cooling unit 11 and the flow path 20B. In the cooling unit 11, the heat-generating component C1 is cooled by the refrigerant RL. As a result, for example, the temperature of the refrigerant RL rises.

[0015] The branching section 3 divides the refrigerant RL into a first path P1 and a second path P2. The first path P1 has a cooling section 11A, a pump section 12A, and a flow path section 20A. The second path P2 has a cooling section 11B, a pump section 12B, and a flow path section 20B. One of the refrigerant RL divided by the branching section 3 passes through the first path P1. The other of the refrigerant RL divided by the branching section 3 passes through the second path P2. In other words, the first path P1 and the second path P2 are arranged in parallel.

[0016] The merging section 4 merges the refrigerant RL that has passed through the first path P1 and the second path P2, respectively. The refrigerant RL merged at the merging section 4 passes through the heat exchanger 50 and reaches the branching section 3. As it passes through the heat exchanger 50, the refrigerant RL is cooled. In this manner, the refrigerant RL circulates between the heat exchanger 50 and the cooling device 10 in the cooling system 100.

[0017] Connection section 2 fluidically connects flow path section 20A and flow path section 20B in the section between branch section 3 and confluence section 4. Specifically, connection section 2 connects flow path section 20A and flow path section 20B so that refrigerant RL can flow between them. For example, connection section 2 can supply refrigerant RL passing through flow path section 20A to flow path section 20B, and can supply refrigerant RL passing through flow path section 20B to flow path section 20A. In other words, connection section 2 is a bypass flow path connecting flow path section 20A and flow path section 20B.

[0018] For example, when pump unit 12A is running and pump unit 12B is stopped, the refrigerant RL is drawn in and discharged by pump unit 12A, and the refrigerant RL passing through the second path P2 is supplied to the flow path 20A via the connection part 2. On the other hand, when pump unit 12B is running and pump unit 12A is stopped, the refrigerant RL is drawn in and discharged by pump unit 12B, and the refrigerant RL passing through the first path P1 is supplied to the flow path 20B via the connection part 2. As a result, even if the pump unit 12 in one cooling unit 1 stops, the pump unit 12 in the other cooling unit 1 can run, supplying refrigerant RL to the cooling unit 11 in the other cooling unit 1 via the connection part 2, and allowing the circulation of refrigerant RL in the cooling system 100 to continue. In other words, a redundant cooling system 100 can be constructed.

[0019] Next, with reference to Figure 2, a specific example of the cooling system of the exemplary embodiment will be described. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the cooling system 101. The cooling system 101 is an example of a specific example of the cooling system 100 shown in Figure 1.

[0020] The cooling system 101 includes a cooling device 10A, pipes 31 and 42, and a heat exchanger 50. The heat exchanger 50 is connected to the cooling device 10A via pipes 31 and 42. A refrigerant RL, which cools the heat-generating component C1, flows through the heat exchanger 50, pipes 31 and 42, and the cooling device 10A. For example, the refrigerant RL flows through the heat exchanger 50, pipes 31, cooling device 10A, and pipes 42 in that order, and returns to the heat exchanger 50.

[0021] The heat exchanger 50 cools the refrigerant RL. For example, the heat exchanger 50 is a radiator that dissipates heat to the outside by allowing the heated refrigerant RL to pass through it. The heat exchanger 50 has a plurality of refrigerant pipes extending along a third direction Z inside the heat exchanger 50, and a plurality of fins. The refrigerant RL passes inside the refrigerant pipes. The plurality of fins are arranged around the refrigerant pipes. Part of each fin is in contact with the refrigerant pipe. More specifically, the fins and the refrigerant pipes are joined by welding or the like. The fins absorb heat from the refrigerant pipes and the refrigerant RL and dissipate it to the outside air, thereby lowering the temperature of the refrigerant RL. However, the heat exchanger 50 is not limited to a radiator that dissipates heat to the outside. For example, it may perform heat exchange to a passage through which a different refrigerant flows than the passage through which the refrigerant RL flows.

[0022] Next, the cooling device 10A and the cooling unit 1 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the cooling unit 1.

[0023] The cooling device 10A includes two cooling units 1A and 1B, a connecting section 2A, a branching section 3A, and a merging section 4A. Cooling units 1A and 1B each cool the heat-generating component C1. In this specification, cooling units 1A and 1B may each be referred to as cooling unit 1. Cooling unit 1A is an example of a first path P1. Cooling unit 1B is an example of a second path P2.

[0024] Pipe 31 connects one end of the refrigerant pipe of the heat exchanger 50 to branch section 3A of the cooling device 10A. Pipes 32A and 32B are further connected to branch section 3A. Pipe 32A connects branch section 3A to cooling unit 1A. Pipe 32B connects branch section 3A to cooling unit 1B. Refrigerant RL that has passed through the heat exchanger 50 flows through pipes 31, 32A, and 32B. Branch section 3A splits the refrigerant RL that has passed through pipe 31 into pipes 32A and 32B, respectively.

[0025] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the cooling unit 1 has a cooling section 11, a pump section 12, and a housing section 13. The housing section 13 connects the cooling section 11 and the pump section 12. The housing section 13 has a flow path section 20. The housing section 13 is, for example, a box-shaped casing. The housing section 13 is, for example, made of resin. In this embodiment, the cooling unit 1A has a cooling section 11A, a pump section 12A, and a housing section 13A. The cooling unit 1B has a cooling section 11B, a pump section 12B, and a housing section 13B.

[0026] The refrigerant RL that passes through pipe 32A reaches cooling unit 1A and passes through the inside of cooling unit 1A. The refrigerant RL that passes through pipe 32B reaches cooling unit 1B and passes through the inside of cooling unit 1B. Details about the inside of cooling unit 1 will be described later.

[0027] A pipe 41A is further connected to the cooling unit 1A. A pipe 41B is further connected to the cooling unit 1B. Refrigerant RL that has passed through cooling unit 1A passes through pipe 41A. Refrigerant RL that has passed through cooling unit 1B passes through pipe 41B. Pipes 41A and 41B are connected to a junction 4A. A pipe 42 is further connected to the junction 4A. The junction 4A combines the refrigerant RL that has passed through pipe 41A and the refrigerant RL that has passed through pipe 41B and passes them through pipe 42.

[0028] Pipe 42 connects the junction 4A to the other end of the refrigerant pipe of the heat exchanger 50. The refrigerant RL that passes through pipe 42 reaches the heat exchanger 50 and passes through the inside of the refrigerant pipe of the heat exchanger 50.

[0029] Next, the details of the cooling unit 1 will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 6B. Figures 4 and 5 are schematic perspective views showing the interior of the cooling unit 1. Figure 6A is a schematic perspective view showing the interior of the pump section 12. Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view along the line VIB-VIB in Figure 6A.

[0030] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the cooling unit 11 has a contact portion 111 and a first heat exchange chamber RH1. The contact portion 111 is in contact with the heat-generating component C1. The housing portion 13 has a partition portion 131. The partition portion 131 separates the pump portion 12 and the cooling unit 11. In other words, the pump portion 12 and the cooling unit 11 are located on opposite sides of the partition portion 131. Specifically, the partition portion 131 is located on the other side X2 of the first direction of the pump portion 12 and on the one side X1 of the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the first direction. The contact portion 111 is located on the other side X2 of the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the first direction. For example, the contact portion 111 is located on the outside of the first heat exchange chamber RH1, on the surface facing the other side X2 in the first direction. The heat-generating component C1 is placed on the contact portion 111.

[0031] For example, in cooling unit 1A, the refrigerant RL flows from pipe 32A into the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the cooling section 11A. Details of the flow path from pipe 32A to the first heat exchange chamber RH1 will be described later. The configuration of cooling unit 1B is the same as that of cooling unit 1A, so its description will be omitted.

[0032] The refrigerant RL that flows into the first heat exchange chamber RH1 passes through the inside of the first heat exchange chamber RH1 and flows into the pump section 12. Specifically, the refrigerant RL flows into the pump chamber 123 shown in Figure 6A via the pump inlet passage 124 shown in Figure 6A. The pump inlet passage 124 penetrates the partition 131 and connects the first heat exchange chamber RH1 and the pump chamber 123 shown in Figure 6A. In cooling unit 1A, the pump inlet passage 124 is an example of the first pump inlet passage, and the pump chamber 123 is an example of the first pump chamber. In cooling unit 1B, the pump inlet passage 124 is an example of the second pump inlet passage, and the pump chamber 123 is an example of the second pump chamber.

[0033] The connection section 2A connects the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the cooling unit 1A to the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the cooling unit 1B. In this embodiment, the first heat exchange chamber RH1 corresponds to the flow path section 20. Therefore, the refrigerant RL passing through the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the cooling unit 1A can be supplied to the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the cooling unit 1B by the connection section 2A. Similarly, the refrigerant RL passing through the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the cooling unit 1B can be supplied to the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the cooling unit 1A by the connection section 2A.

[0034] As described above, by housing the pump section 12 and the cooling section 11 in a single housing section 13, the cooling unit 1 can be made compact. Furthermore, by arranging two cooling units 1 in parallel and connecting them with a connection section 2A, the cooling unit 1 can continue to cool the heat-generating component C1 by supplying refrigerant RL from the other cooling unit 1 to the cooling section 11 of one cooling unit 1 when the pump section 12 stops. If, for example, two cold plates described in Patent Document 1 are arranged in parallel, the two cold plates are not connected, so when the pump stops, the cold plate stops discharging fluid and heat exchange cannot be continued.

[0035] Next, the details of the pump section 12 will be described with reference to Figures 6A and 6B. As shown in Figure 6A, the pump section 12 includes a pump 121, a pump chamber 123, a pump inlet passage 124, a pump outlet passage 125, and a check valve 126 (Figure 6C). The pump section 12 is an example of a first pump section in cooling unit 1A and an example of a second pump section in cooling unit 1B. The pump 121 is an example of a first pump in cooling unit 1A and an example of a second pump in cooling unit 1B. The pump outlet passage 125 is an example of a first pump outlet passage in cooling unit 1A and an example of a second pump outlet passage in cooling unit 1B. The check valve 126 is an example of a first check valve in cooling unit 1A and an example of a second check valve in cooling unit 1B.

[0036] Pump 121 is located in the pump chamber 123. Pump 121 draws in and discharges refrigerant RL, circulating refrigerant RL in the cooling system 101. Pump 121 has an impeller 122 and a motor 221. As shown in Figure 6B, pump 121 also has a rotating shaft 222. Motor 221 rotates the rotating shaft 222. The rotating shaft 222 connects the motor 221 and the impeller 122. The rotating shaft 222 is located at the center of the face of the other side X2 in the first direction of the pump chamber 123. The pump inlet passage 124 is located at the center of the face of the other side X2 in the first direction of the pump chamber 123.

[0037] Specifically, the motor 221 includes a stator 223, a rotor 224, and a casing 225 that covers one side X1 of the pump chamber 123 in the first direction. The stator 223 has coils 2231. The rotor 224 has magnets 2241. In the example of Figure 6B, the motor 221 is of the outer rotor type. That is, the rotor 224 is located radially outward of the stator 223. Also, for example, the impeller 122 is attached to the other side X2 of the rotor 224 in the first direction. Thus, the stator 223 and the rotor 224 are isolated from each other by the casing 225. That is, the stator 223 is isolated from the refrigerant RL. The rotating shaft 222 is located in the center of the pump chamber 123 and is rotatably supported by the casing 225 and the inner wall of the other side X2 of the pump chamber 123 in the first direction.

[0038] The impeller 122 is located in the pump chamber 123. The impeller 122 is mounted on the other side X2 of the first direction of the rotating shaft 222. The rotor 224 rotates due to the magnetic action of the stator 223. As a result, the rotor 224 rotates around the rotating shaft 222 as its axis. The impeller 122 rotates in accordance with the rotation of the rotor 224. In other words, the motor 221 rotates the impeller 122 around the rotating shaft 222.

[0039] The rotation of the impeller 122 pushes out the refrigerant RL in the pump chamber 123, causing it to flow out of the pump outflow passage 125 to the outside of the pump chamber 123. In other words, the pump 121 discharges the refrigerant RL. Along with the discharge of the refrigerant RL, it is drawn in from the pump inflow passage 124 and flows into the pump chamber 123. In this embodiment, the pump outflow passage 125 is connected to pipe 41A or pipe 41B.

[0040] Next, the pump outlet passage 125 will be described with reference to Figures 6A to 67. Figures 6C and 6D are cross-sectional views showing the inside of the pump section 12. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the cooling unit 1. Figures 6C and 6D are cross-sectional views taken in a plane perpendicular to the first direction X, passing through the pump outlet passage 125. Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the cooling unit 1 in a direction inclined with respect to the first direction X.

[0041] The pump outlet passage 125 is, for example, a tubular flow path. The pump outlet passage 125 is arranged parallel to a plane perpendicular to the first direction X. Specifically, the pump outlet passage 125 has a first outlet passage 125a and a second outlet passage 125b.

[0042] The first outflow passage 125a extends from a portion of the inner wall of the pump chamber 123 parallel to the first direction X, and substantially parallel to the other side Z2 in the third direction. One end of the first outflow passage 125a is connected to a portion of the inner wall of the pump chamber 123 parallel to the first direction X.

[0043] The second outflow passage 125b extends parallel to the other side Y2 in the second direction from a position other than both ends of the first outflow passage 125a. One end of the second outflow passage 125b is connected to the first outflow passage 125a. The other end of the second outflow passage 125b is connected to pipe 41A or pipe 41B.

[0044] The check valve 126 is located in the pump outlet passage 125. The check valve 126 blocks the inflow of refrigerant RL into the pump chamber 123 when the pump 121 is stopped. Therefore, the check valve 126 can prevent refrigerant RL from flowing back into the pump chamber 123 of the stopped pump 121 from the pump outlet passage 125 via the connection part 2. As a result, the circulation direction of refrigerant RL in the cooling system 100 can be limited to one direction.

[0045] Specifically, the check valve 126 is located in the first outflow passage 125a at the connection point with the second outflow passage 125b. The check valve 126 is movable along the first outflow passage 125a. The position of the check valve 126 in the first outflow passage 125a changes depending on whether the pump 121 is running or stopped. When the pump 121 is stopped, the check valve 126 is in the first position G1, blocking the first outflow passage 125a and the second outflow passage 125b.

[0046] Meanwhile, while the pump 121 is running, the refrigerant RL is sent out into the pump outlet passage 125. Due to the pressure of the sent-out refrigerant RL, the check valve 126 moves from the first position G1 to the second position G2, which is located on the other end side of the first outlet passage 125a. As a result, the first outlet passage 125a and the second outlet passage 125b are opened.

[0047] Furthermore, when the driven pump 121 stops, the supply of refrigerant RL to the pump outlet passage 125 stops. Therefore, no pressure from the supplied refrigerant RL is applied to the check valve 126. As a result, the check valve 126 moves to the first position G1, for example, by its own weight.

[0048] The check valve 126 may be configured to be pressed toward one end of the first outflow passage 125a by an elastic member such as a spring. For example, the elastic member may be positioned inside the first outflow passage 125a toward the other end of the first outflow passage 125a, relative to the check valve 126.

[0049] Next, with reference to Figures 7 to 11, the flow path from pipe 32A or pipe 32B in the cooling unit 1 to the first heat exchange chamber RH1 will be described. Figures 8 to 11 are cross-sectional views of the cooling unit 1, respectively. Figures 7 to 11 show cross-sectional views of the cooling unit 1 cut at different cross-sections.

[0050] The storage section 13 has a tank section 15. The tank section 15 stores the refrigerant RL. In the storage section 13, the tank section 15 is located on one side X1 in the first direction from the first heat exchange chamber RH1 and the partition section 131. The partition section 131 has a first through-hole 141 that connects the tank section 15 and the first heat exchange chamber RH1. When circulating the refrigerant RL, temporarily storing the refrigerant RL in the tank section 15 prevents air from being carried through the first heat exchange chamber RH1 and mixing into the pump chamber 123. As a result, the refrigerant RL circulates smoothly within the cooling system 101 and contributes to extending the lifespan of the pump 121.

[0051] For example, the cooling unit 11 further has a second heat exchange chamber RH2. The first heat exchange chamber RH1 is located downstream of the second heat exchange chamber RH2 in the flow path of the refrigerant RL. The tank unit 15 has a first tank chamber 151 and a second tank chamber 152. The first tank chamber 151 is located between the second heat exchange chamber RH2 and the first heat exchange chamber RH1 in the flow path of the refrigerant RL. The second tank chamber 152 is located upstream of the second heat exchange chamber RH2 in the flow path of the refrigerant RL. The partition unit 131 further has a second through hole 142 and a third through hole 143. The first through hole 141 connects the first tank chamber 151 and the first heat exchange chamber RH1. The second through hole 142 connects the second heat exchange chamber RH2 and the first tank chamber 151. The third through-hole 143 connects the second tank chamber 152 and the second heat exchange chamber RH2.

[0052] As shown in Figure 10, the second tank chamber 152 has an inlet 153. The inlet 153 is connected to either pipe 32A or pipe 32B shown in Figure 2. Refrigerant RL flows into the second tank chamber 152 from pipe 32A or pipe 32B via the inlet 153. The refrigerant RL that flows into the second tank chamber 152 passes through the third through-hole 143, the second heat exchange chamber RH2, the second through-hole 142, the first tank chamber 151, and the first through-hole 141 in that order to reach the first heat exchange chamber RH1. Therefore, an appropriate flow path for refrigerant RL can be formed in the cooling unit 1. Furthermore, since heat exchange is possible in multiple heat exchange chambers, multiple heat-generating components can be cooled.

[0053] Specifically, the partition portion 131 has a projection 132 that protrudes from the surface of the other side X2 in the first direction toward the other side X2 and extends in the third direction Z. The projection 132 separates the space enclosed by the contact portion 111 and the partition portion 131 into the first heat exchange chamber RH1 and the second heat exchange chamber RH2. In other words, the first heat exchange chamber RH1 and the second heat exchange chamber RH2 are adjacent to each other along the second direction Y.

[0054] The first heat exchange chamber RH1 is located on an axis extending from the heat-generating component C1 toward one side X1 in the first direction. The first tank chamber 151 and the first through-hole 141 are also located on an axis extending from the heat-generating component C1 toward one side X1 in the first direction. Therefore, the refrigerant RL can be efficiently delivered to the first heat exchange chamber RH1, which is in contact with the heat-generating component C1.

[0055] The second through-hole 142 is located away from the first through-hole 141 in one direction Y1. Therefore, the second through-hole 142 is located in one direction X1 of the second heat exchange chamber RH2. The third through-hole 143 is located away from the second through-hole 142 in one direction Y1 and is located in one direction X1 of the second heat exchange chamber RH2.

[0056] Next, the details of the connection section 2A will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 11. The connection section 2A has an external connection pipe 21 and an internal connection pipe 22. In the cooling unit 1, the internal connection pipe 22 extends from the first heat exchange chamber RH1 to one side X1 in the first direction and penetrates the partition section 131 and the tank section 15. The external connection pipe 21 connects the internal connection pipe 22 in cooling unit 1A and the internal connection pipe 22 in cooling unit 1B outside the cooling unit 1. Specifically, one end of the internal connection pipe 22 is connected to the first heat exchange chamber RH1. The other end of the internal connection pipe 22 is connected to the external connection pipe 21.

[0057] As shown in Figure 2, in the cooling device 10A, cooling units 1A and 1B are arranged along a third direction Z that is perpendicular to the first direction X. The external connecting pipe 21 extends along the third direction Z. Therefore, the shape of the cooling unit 1 and the orientation in which the cooling unit 1 is arranged can be standardized. As a result, the cooling device 10A can be configured more compactly.

[0058] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the internal connecting pipe 22 is located on the opposite side of the first through-hole 141 from the pump inlet passage 124. Specifically, the pump inlet passage 124 is located Y2 on the other side in the second direction from the first through-hole 141. The internal connecting pipe 22 is located Y1 on one side in the second direction from the first through-hole 141.

[0059] Therefore, the refrigerant RL that reaches the first heat exchange chamber RH1 through the first through-hole 141 moves toward the pump inlet passage 124 or the internal connecting pipe 22. For example, in the cooling unit 1A, when the pump 121 is running, the refrigerant RL in the first heat exchange chamber RH1 moves toward the other side Y2 in the second direction of the first heat exchange chamber RH1 and is drawn into the pump chamber 123 via the pump inlet passage 124. As a result, the inflow of refrigerant RL into the pump chamber 123 from a stopped pump unit 12 can be reduced.

[0060] On the other hand, when the pump 121 of cooling unit 1A is stopped and the pump 121 of cooling unit 1B is running, the refrigerant RL in the first heat exchange chamber RH1 of cooling unit 1A moves to one side Y1 in the second direction of the first heat exchange chamber RH1, and reaches the first heat exchange chamber RH1 of cooling unit 1B via the internal connecting pipe 22 and external connecting pipe 21 of cooling unit 1A and the internal connecting pipe 22 of cooling unit 1B.

[0061] The refrigerant RL that reaches the first heat exchange chamber RH1 of the cooling unit 1B is drawn into the pump chamber 123 via the pump inlet passage 124 by the suction of the pump 121 of the cooling unit 1B.

[0062] Furthermore, when both the pump 121 of cooling unit 1A and the pump 121 of cooling unit 1B are operating, if the suction pressure of the pump 121 in cooling unit 1A and the suction pressure of the pump 121 in cooling unit 1B are made to be approximately the same, the refrigerant RL in the first heat exchange chamber RH1 will not move to one side Y1 in the second direction of the first heat exchange chamber RH1 and will not pass through the internal connecting pipe 22 and external connecting pipe 21 of cooling unit 1A and the internal connecting pipe 22 of cooling unit 1B. The suction pressure indicates the pressure at which the pump 121 causes the refrigerant RL to flow into the pump chamber 123.

[0063] The above describes an example in which the cooling unit 11 and the pump unit 12 are housed in a single housing unit 13 with reference to Figures 2 to 11. However, in this embodiment, the cooling unit 11 and the pump unit 12 may be arranged separately from each other. In this case, for example, the cooling unit 11 and the pump unit 12 are connected by a pipe or the like. The pipe connecting the cooling unit 11 and the pump unit 12 is an example of a flow path unit 20. The connection unit 2 connects the pipe connecting one cooling unit 11 and the pump unit 12 to the pipe connecting the other cooling unit 11 and the pump unit 12.

[0064] In this embodiment, the cooling device 10A is said to have a first tank chamber 151 and a second tank chamber 152, but it is not limited to this, and the cooling device 10A may have only one tank chamber. Also, in this embodiment, the cooling device 10A is said to have a first heat exchange chamber RH1 and a second heat exchange chamber RH2, but it is not limited to this, and the cooling device 10A may have only one heat exchange chamber. In this case, the partition portion 131 has at least one of the second through hole 142 and the third through hole 143.

[0065] Next, another example of a cooling system will be described with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an overview of a cooling system 102. The cooling system 102 has a cooling device 10B. The cooling system 102 has the opposite circulation direction of the refrigerant RL compared to the cooling system 100 shown in Figure 1. In other words, the arrangement of the cooling section 11 and the pump section 12 in the cooling device 10B is the opposite of that of the cooling device 10. For example, in the example of the cooling device 10A shown in Figures 5 and 6A, the pump inlet passage 124 functions as the outlet passage for the refrigerant RL from the pump chamber 123, and the pump outlet passage 125 functions as the inlet passage for the refrigerant RL into the pump chamber 123. In this case, a check valve is placed in the pump inlet passage 124.

[0066] Next, an example of a cooling system having two cooling devices will be described with reference to Figure 13. Figure 13 shows a cooling system 103 having two cooling devices 10A. The cooling system 103 has two cooling devices 10A and a heat exchanger 51. The heat exchanger 51 is connected to the two cooling devices 10A. In the cooling system 103, the refrigerant RL circulating in one cooling device 10A and the refrigerant RL circulating in the other cooling device 10A are separated inside the heat exchanger 51.

[0067] Next, another example of a cooling system will be described with reference to Figure 14. Figure 14 shows a cooling system 104. The cooling system 104 includes a cooling device 10C, pipe 31, pipe 42, and heat exchanger 50. Pipe 31, pipe 42, and heat exchanger 50 are the same as those of the cooling system 101 shown in Figure 2.

[0068] Compared to the cooling device 10A shown in Figure 2, the cooling device 10C has a cooling unit 1C instead of a cooling unit 1A. Also, the cooling device 10C has a cooling unit 1D instead of a cooling unit 1B. Furthermore, the cooling device 10C has a connection part 2C instead of a connection part 2A. Also, the cooling device 10C has a branch part 3C instead of a branch part 3A. Also, the cooling device 10C has a confluence part 4C instead of a confluence part 4A. The branch part 3C is connected to the cooling unit 1C via pipe 32C and to the cooling unit 1D via pipe 32D. The confluence part 4C is connected to the cooling unit 1C and the cooling unit 1D.

[0069] Next, the cooling unit 1C will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. Figure 15 is a diagram of the cooling unit 1C. The cooling unit 1C has a cooling section 11C, a pump section 12C, and a housing section 13C. The cooling unit 1D has a cooling section 11D, a pump section 12D, and a housing section 13D. Similar to the cooling units 1A and 1B shown in Figure 2, the cooling units 1C and 1D have the same configuration, so the following description will use the cooling unit 1C as an example.

[0070] The cooling unit 11C has the same configuration as the cooling unit 11 shown in Figures 3 to 6D, but a different shape. The pump unit 12C has the same configuration as the pump unit 12 shown in Figures 3 to 6D, but a different shape. The housing unit 13C has the same configuration as the housing unit 13 shown in Figures 3 to 6D, but a different shape.

[0071] Therefore, the arrangement of pipes 32C and 41C in cooling unit 1C differs from that of pipes 32A and 41A in cooling unit 1A. Also, the arrangement of pipes 32D and 41D in cooling unit 1D differs from that of pipes 32B and 41B in cooling unit 1B. Furthermore, the arrangement of connection part 2C in cooling device 10C differs from that of connection part 2A in cooling device 10A.

[0072] Next, the pump section 12C and the housing section 13C will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 16. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of the pump section and the housing section. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view taken in a plane perpendicular to the first direction X, passing through the pump outflow passage 125C.

[0073] The pump section 12C includes the pump 121 shown in Figure 6A and the pump inlet passage 124 shown in Figure 6A. The pump section 12C also includes a pump chamber 123C and a pump outlet passage 125C. The pump chamber 123C has a different shape from the pump chamber 123 shown in Figure 6A. The pump outlet passage 125C has a different configuration and shape from the pump outlet passage 125 shown in Figures 6C and 6D.

[0074] Specifically, the pump outlet passage 125C has a first outlet passage 125c, a second outlet passage 125d, and a guide section 127. The guide section 127 guides the refrigerant RL to the outside of the housing section 13C. The first outlet passage 125c and the second outlet passage 125d connect the pump chamber 123C and the guide section 127. The first outlet passage 125c and the second outlet passage 125d are examples of connecting passages. The pump outlet passage 125C is connected to the junction section 4C.

[0075] The first outflow passage 125c extends from a portion of the inner wall of the pump chamber 123C parallel to the first direction X, substantially parallel to one side of the second direction Y1. One end of the first outflow passage 125c is connected to a portion of the inner wall of the pump chamber 123C parallel to the first direction X. In this embodiment, the inner wall of the first outflow passage 125c is composed of a partition and a housing 13C. In other words, the inner wall of the first outflow passage 125c is composed of multiple members.

[0076] The second outflow passage 125d extends parallel to one side X1 in the first direction from the other end of the first outflow passage 125c. That is, one end of the second outflow passage 125d is connected to the first outflow passage 125c. The other end of the second outflow passage 125d is connected to the guide section 127 shown in Figure 15. In this embodiment, the inner wall of the second outflow passage 125d is composed of a housing section 13C. That is, the inner wall of the second outflow passage 125d is composed of a single member. The second outflow passage 125d is an example of a connection between a connecting passage and a guide section.

[0077] The guide section 127 extends from the inside to the outside of the housing section 13C. Specifically, the guide section 127 extends parallel to one side X1 in the first direction, bends at approximately a right angle to the first direction X, and extends, for example, to one side Z1 in the third direction. One end of the guide section 127 is connected to the other end of the second outflow passage 125d. The other end of the guide section 127 is connected to the junction section 4C. For example, the guide section 127 has an L-shaped pipe and a pipe 41C. The pipe 41C connects the L-shaped pipe and the junction section 4C. For example, the guide section 127 is detachable from the housing section 13C.

[0078] Next, the guide section 127 and the check valve 128 of the cooling device 10C will be described with reference to Figures 17 and 18. Figure 17 is a diagram showing the check valve of the cooling device. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view showing the inside of the guide section, check valve, and housing section.

[0079] As shown in Figure 18, the pump section 12C has a check valve 128. The check valve 128 is located, for example, in the guide section 127.

[0080] As shown in Figure 17, the check valve 128 has a plate-shaped portion 128A, a ring portion 128B, four columnar portions 128C, and a sealing portion 128D. For example, the ring portion 128B is an annular member. The outer diameter of the ring portion 128B is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the guide portion 127. For example, the plate-shaped portion 128A is a disc. The outer diameter of the plate-shaped portion 128A is smaller than the outer diameter of the ring portion 128B. That is, the outer diameter of the plate-shaped portion 128A is smaller than the inner diameter of the guide portion 127. The four columnar portions 128C connect the outer edge of the plate-shaped portion 128A to the surface of the ring portion 128B on the plate-shaped portion 128A side. The sealing portion 128D is positioned on the plate-shaped portion 128A, opposite to the ring portion 128B. For example, the sealing portion 128D is approximately conical or hemispherical in shape with the plate-like portion 128A as its base. Note that the plate-like portion 128A and the ring portion 128B are not limited to circular shapes, but may be shaped to conform to the internal shape of the guide portion.

[0081] The sealing portion 128D has a sealing member 128E. The sealing member 128E is, for example, an O-ring, packing, or gasket. In the example shown in Figure 18, the sealing member 128E is an O-ring. The sealing member 128E is placed on the surface of the sealing portion 128D. The outer diameter of the O-ring is, for example, approximately the same as the width of the flow path of the refrigerant RL that is sealed by the sealing portion 128D. By placing the sealing member 128E in the sealing portion 128D, the flow path of the refrigerant RL can be sealed more reliably.

[0082] Next, the sealing of the refrigerant flow path RL by the check valve 128 will be described with reference to Figures 19 and 20. Figures 19 and 20 are enlarged views of the guide section, check valve, first outflow passage, and second outflow passage in Figure 18. Figure 19 shows the case where the check valve 128 is in the first position G1. Figure 20 shows the case where the check valve 128 is in the second position G2.

[0083] The check valve 128 moves along the first direction X between a first position G1 and a second position G2 in the guide section 127. The second position G2 is located one side X1 in the first direction from the first position G1. The principle of movement of the check valve 128 is the same as that of the check valve 126, so an explanation is omitted.

[0084] When the check valve 128 is in the first position G1, the sealing member 128E of the sealing portion 128D contacts at least a portion of the pump outlet passage 125C. Specifically, the sealing member 128E contacts the inner wall of the second outlet passage 125d in the first position G1. The pump outlet passage 125C is sealed by the contact of the sealing member 128E with the inner wall of the second outlet passage 125d.

[0085] On the other hand, when the check valve 128 is in the second position G2, the sealing member 128E of the sealing portion 128D does not come into contact with the pump outlet passage 125C. Therefore, the pump outlet passage 125C is left open. As described above, the sealing portion 128D is capable of contacting a single component. By the sealing portion 128D contacting a single component, individual differences or manufacturing errors in the flow path of the refrigerant RL can be absorbed, and the flow path of the refrigerant RL can be sealed more reliably. Furthermore, by positioning the check valve 128 in the pump outlet passage 125C, backflow of refrigerant RL into the pump chamber 123C can be prevented more efficiently. In particular, by positioning the check valve 128 in the guide portion 127, the sealing member 128E can be brought into contact with the inner wall of the second outlet passage 125d more easily.

[0086] Furthermore, by setting the direction of movement of the check valve 128 to the first direction X, the direction in which the second outflow passage 125d extends or the direction in which the other end of the second outflow passage 125d opens becomes the first direction X. Therefore, the second outflow passage 125d can be molded more easily in the housing section 13C manufactured by resin molding.

[0087] In this embodiment, the inner wall of the first outflow passage 125c is composed of multiple members, but it is not limited to this, and the inner wall of the first outflow passage 125c may be composed of a single member. For example, the inner wall of the first outflow passage 125c may be composed of a housing section 13C. In other words, both the inner wall of the first outflow passage 125c and the inner wall of the second outflow passage 125d may be composed of a housing section 13C.

[0088] In this embodiment, the sealing portion 128D does not need to have a sealing member 128E. In this case, the inner wall of the refrigerant flow path is sealed by the surface of the sealing portion 128D coming into contact with the inner wall of the refrigerant flow path RL.

[0089] In this embodiment, the check valve 128 is located on the guide portion 127, but it is not limited to this, and the check valve 128 may be located, for example, on the first outflow passage 125c, the second outflow passage 125d, or the pipe 41C. In this case, the direction of movement of the check valve 128 is not limited to the first direction X. Specifically, the check valve 128 moves along the direction in which the first outflow passage 125c, the second outflow passage 125d, or the pipe 41C extends.

[0090] Embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the drawings (Figures 1 to 20). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from its essence. Furthermore, the multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments can be modified as appropriate. For example, some components from all the components shown in one embodiment may be added to the components of another embodiment, or some components from all the components shown in one embodiment may be removed from the embodiment.

[0091] Furthermore, the drawings schematically show each component in order to facilitate understanding of the invention, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown may differ from the actual dimensions due to the convenience of drawing creation. Also, the configuration of each component shown in the above embodiments is merely an example and is not particularly limiting, and it goes without saying that various modifications are possible within the scope that does not substantially deviate from the effects of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0092] This disclosure is applicable to the field of cooling systems. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0093] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D: Cooling Unit 2, 2A, 2C: Connection part 3, 3A, 3C: Branch 4, 4A, 3D: Merging section 10, 10A, 10B, 10C: Cooling device 11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D: Cooling section 12, 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D: Pump section 13, 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D: Storage section 15: Tank section 20, 20A, 20B: Flow channel section 21: External connecting pipe 22: Internal connecting pipe 50, 51: Heat exchanger 100, 101, 102, 103: Cooling system 111: Contact area 121: Pump 123, 123C: Pump Room 124: Pump inlet 125, 125C: Pump outflow channel 125c: 1st outflow channel 125d: 2nd outlet 126, 128: Check valve 127: Information Department 128D: Sealing part 128E: Sealing material 131: Partition 141: First through hole 142: Second through hole 143: Third through hole 151: Tank Room No. 1 152: Second Tank Room C1: Heat-generating component RH1: 1st heat exchange room RH2: 2nd heat exchange room RL: Refrigerant X: 1st direction X1: One side in the first direction X2: First direction, other side

Claims

1. First cooling unit and The second cooling unit, The first pump section and The second pump section, A branching section that splits the refrigerant into two, The first cooling unit and the first pump unit are connected, and a first flow path is provided through which one of the divided refrigerants passes, The second cooling section and the second pump section are connected, and the other half of the divided refrigerant flows through the second flow path section, A merging section that merges the refrigerant that has passed through the first flow path section and the second flow path section, Between the branching section and the merging section, there is a connecting section that fluidly connects the first flow path section and the second flow path section. It has, It further has two cooling units that are separated from each other, Each of the cooling units is One of the first pump section and the second pump section, One of the first cooling unit and the second cooling unit, One of the first flow channel section and the second flow channel section, A housing that connects the pump unit and the cooling unit. It has, The cooling units are arranged in a line along the third direction, The cooling device wherein the connecting portion extends along the third direction and connects the flow path portion in one of the cooling units with the flow path portion in the other cooling unit.

2. The first pump section is, A first pump for circulating the refrigerant, The first pump room in which the first pump is located, A first pump inlet passage through which the refrigerant flows into the first pump chamber, The first pump outlet passage through which the refrigerant flows out of the first pump chamber, A first check valve is placed in the first pump outlet passage and It has, The first check valve, when the first pump is stopped, blocks the inflow of the refrigerant into the first pump chamber. The second pump section is, A second pump for circulating the aforementioned refrigerant, The second pump room in which the second pump is located, A second pump inlet passage through which the refrigerant flows into the second pump chamber, The refrigerant flows out of the second pump chamber through a second pump outlet passage, A second check valve is located in the second pump outlet passage and It has, The cooling device according to claim 1, wherein the second check valve blocks the inflow of the refrigerant into the second pump chamber when the second pump is stopped.

3. In a state where the first pump is running and the second pump is running, The cooling device according to claim 2, wherein the suction pressure when the first pump introduces the refrigerant into the first pump chamber is approximately the same as the suction pressure when the second pump introduces the refrigerant into the second pump chamber.

4. The housing portion is The aforementioned flow channel section, A partition separating the pump section and the cooling section It has, The cooling unit is The contact portion that comes into contact with the heat-generating component, A first heat exchange chamber that exchanges heat from the heat-generating component via the contact portion, It has, The partition is located on one side of the first heat exchange chamber in the first direction. The contact portion is located on the other side of the first heat exchange chamber in the first direction, One of the first pump inlet passages and the second pump inlet passage, or one of the first pump outlet passages and the second pump outlet passage, penetrates the partition and connects the first heat exchange chamber to one of the first pump chambers and the second pump chamber. The cooling apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the connecting portion connects the first heat exchange chamber in one of the cooling units to the first heat exchange chamber in the other cooling unit.

5. The aforementioned storage section further comprises a tank section for storing the refrigerant, The tank section is positioned in the housing section on one side in the first direction from the first heat exchange chamber and the partition section. The cooling device according to claim 4, wherein the partition has a first through-hole connecting the tank and the first heat exchange chamber.

6. The aforementioned connection part is Each of the cooling units has an internal connecting pipe that extends from the first heat exchange chamber to one side in the first direction and penetrates the partition and the tank, External connecting pipes that connect the internal connecting pipes in each of the cooling units to the outside of the cooling unit It has, The cooling device according to claim 5, wherein the two cooling units are arranged along a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

7. The cooling unit further comprises a second heat exchange chamber, The first heat exchange chamber is located downstream of the second heat exchange chamber. The aforementioned tank section is A first tank chamber located between the second heat exchange chamber and the first heat exchange chamber, The second tank chamber is located upstream of the second heat exchange chamber. It has, The aforementioned partition is, A second through-hole connecting the second heat exchange chamber and the first tank chamber, A third through-hole connecting the second tank chamber and the second heat exchange chamber It has, The cooling device according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the first through-hole connects the first tank chamber and the first heat exchange chamber.

8. The cooling device according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein at least one of the first check valve and the second check valve has a sealing portion that can contact a single member.

9. At least a portion of the pump outflow passage is composed of a single member, The cooling device according to claim 8, wherein the sealing portion contacts at least a portion of the pump outlet passage to seal the pump outlet passage.

10. The pump outflow passage is connected to the confluence section, The aforementioned pump outlet passage is A guide section for guiding the refrigerant to the outside of the housing section, A connecting passage connecting the pump room and the guide section. It has, The cooling device according to claim 9, wherein the check valve is arranged in the guide portion.

11. In the connection portion between the connecting passage and the guide portion, the inner wall of the connecting passage is composed of a single member. The check valve moves along the first direction between a first position on the guide portion and a second position located to one side of the first position in the first direction. The cooling device according to claim 10, wherein the sealing portion contacts the inner wall of the connecting passage at the first position in the guide portion.

12. The cooling device according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the sealing portion has a sealing member.

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