Liquid cooling system

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of heat dissipation, and in particular to a liquid cooling system. The liquid cooling system comprises a heat exchange unit, a positive pressure cooling unit, a negative pressure cooling unit, a switching unit and a control unit; the heat exchange unit comprises a plurality of heat exchange plates arranged in parallel; the switching unit is arranged on a pipe connecting the positive pressure cooling unit and the negative pressure cooling unit to the heat exchange unit; the positive pressure cooling unit, the negative pressure cooling unit and the switching unit are all in electrical connection or signal connection to the control unit. The liquid cooling system has three circulation modes. In a first circulation mode, the control unit controls the switching unit to connect the positive pressure cooling unit to the heat exchange unit. In a second circulation mode, the control unit controls the switching unit to switch an abnormal heat exchange plate in the heat exchange unit to connecting to the negative pressure cooling unit, and controls the switching unit to connect the heat exchange plates without an anomaly to the positive pressure cooling unit. In a third circulation mode, the control unit controls the switching unit to connect the negative pressure cooling unit to the heat exchange unit.

Description

A liquid cooling system

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510107522X, filed on January 22, 2025, entitled “A Liquid Cooling System”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of heat dissipation technology, and more particularly to a liquid cooling system. Background Technology

[0003] With the high-power evolution of network and IT equipment and the industry's demand for energy conservation and emission reduction, liquid cooling is being used more and more widely in network and IT equipment. Among them, water-cooled plate liquid cooling (referred to as water cooling) with water as the base medium has the advantages of strong heat dissipation capacity and low cost. However, if water cooling leaks, it will cause short circuit failure of electronic components inside the equipment.

[0004] Application content

[0005] This application provides a liquid cooling system designed to solve the problem of liquid leakage in liquid cooling systems.

[0006] This application embodiment provides a liquid cooling system, the liquid cooling system comprising:

[0007] The heat exchange unit includes multiple sets of heat exchange plates arranged in parallel;

[0008] A positive pressure cooling unit is connected to the heat exchange unit;

[0009] A negative pressure cooling unit is connected to the heat exchange unit;

[0010] A switching unit is installed on the pipeline connecting the positive pressure cooling unit and the negative pressure cooling unit to the heat exchange unit;

[0011] The control unit, the positive pressure cooling unit, the negative pressure cooling unit, and the switching unit are all electrically or signal-connected to the control unit;

[0012] The liquid cooling system has at least a first circulation mode, a second circulation mode, and a third circulation mode;

[0013] In the first cycle mode, the control unit controls the switching unit to connect the positive pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit, and at the same time controls the switching unit to block the connection between the negative pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit;

[0014] In the second cycle mode, the control unit controls the switching unit to switch the heat exchange plate that has malfunctioned in the heat exchange unit to be connected to the negative pressure cooling unit, and at the same time controls the switching unit to connect the heat exchange plate that has not malfunctioned to the positive pressure cooling unit.

[0015] In the third cycle mode, the control unit controls the switching unit to connect the negative pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit, and at the same time controls the switching unit to block the connection between the positive pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit.

[0016] In this embodiment, the liquid cooling system can switch between three circulation modes as needed to maintain normal operation of the liquid cooling system.

[0017] Specifically, a combined liquid cooling system is designed by using negative pressure cooling units and positive pressure cooling units in tandem. When the heat exchange unit is operating normally, the positive pressure cooling unit can be used independently to ensure efficient heat dissipation. If a heat exchange unit malfunctions, the affected heat exchange plate can be connected to the negative pressure cooling unit to prevent leakage and damage. When maintaining the positive pressure cooling unit, the negative pressure cooling unit can be used independently to ensure the liquid cooling system operates normally, continuously dissipating heat from the heat-generating units and preventing excessive heat from affecting normal operation.

[0018] The liquid cooling system of this embodiment simultaneously incorporates both positive and negative pressure cooling units. When a leak is detected in a heat exchanger, that heat exchanger can be switched to the negative pressure cooling unit, while the remaining heat exchangers remain connected to the positive pressure cooling units. This improves the reliability of the liquid cooling system and ensures the heat dissipation efficiency of the heat source units. Furthermore, by providing a negative pressure cooling unit as a backup, which is used less frequently than the positive pressure cooling unit, the components of the negative pressure cooling unit can be simplified, reducing its footprint, lowering deployment complexity, and saving on maintenance costs.

[0019] In one possible design, when the liquid cooling system is in the first circulation mode, the negative pressure cooling unit is in a self-circulating state.

[0020] In this embodiment of the application, when the liquid cooling system is in the first cycle mode, although the negative pressure cooling unit is not connected to the heat exchange unit, the negative pressure cooling unit is always in the start state so that when a heat exchange plate in the heat exchange unit malfunctions, the negative pressure cooling unit can quickly connect to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate, so as to quickly restore the heat dissipation function of the malfunctioning heat exchange plate and reduce the risk of damage to the single plate connected to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate.

[0021] In one possible design, the switching unit includes multiple electrically operated valve groups arranged in parallel, the electrically operated valve groups being disposed on the pipeline connecting the positive pressure cooling unit and the negative pressure cooling unit to the heat exchange unit;

[0022] The control unit controls the opening and closing of the electric valve groups corresponding to the positive pressure cooling unit and the negative pressure cooling unit, and switches the liquid cooling system to the first circulation mode, the second circulation mode or the third circulation mode.

[0023] In this embodiment, the opening and closing of an electric valve assembly controls the connection of the positive or negative pressure cooling unit to the heat exchange plate of the heat exchange unit. This method is easy to control and operate, and allows for remote control in various ways, improving the system's flexibility and convenience. The control system of the electric valve assembly can be precisely adjusted as needed to achieve automated control.

[0024] In one possible design, the switching unit further includes a distributor group, with each of the electric valve groups correspondingly disposed on the side of the distributor group near the heat exchange plate.

[0025] The liquid distributor assembly includes a first liquid distributor, a first liquid return device, a second liquid distributor, and a second liquid return device, and multiple heat exchange plates are connected to the first liquid distributor, the first liquid return device, the second liquid distributor, and the second liquid return device via pipelines;

[0026] The first liquid distributor is connected to the liquid supply line of the positive pressure cooling unit, and the first liquid return device is connected to the liquid return line of the positive pressure cooling unit.

[0027] The second liquid distributor is connected to the liquid supply line of the negative pressure cooling unit, and the second liquid return line is connected to the liquid return line of the negative pressure cooling unit.

[0028] In this embodiment, the first distributor is connected to the supply line of the positive pressure cooling unit, enabling it to distribute the coolant in the positive pressure cooling unit to each heat exchange plate. The first return line is connected to the return line of the positive pressure cooling unit, enabling it to combine the coolant that has absorbed heat in each heat exchange plate and return it to the positive pressure cooling unit. The second distributor is connected to the supply line of the negative pressure cooling unit, enabling it to distribute the coolant in the negative pressure cooling unit to each heat exchange plate. The second return line is connected to the return line of the negative pressure cooling unit, enabling it to combine the coolant that has absorbed heat in each heat exchange plate and return it to the negative pressure cooling unit.

[0029] The embodiments of this application, by setting up a distributor group, facilitate the distribution and return of coolant, simplify the overall structure of the liquid cooling system, and help reduce the space occupied by the liquid cooling system.

[0030] In one possible design, each of the electric valve assemblies includes a first electric three-way valve and a second electric three-way valve;

[0031] Each of the first electric three-way valves is connected to the liquid inlet pipe, the first liquid distributor, and the second liquid distributor of the corresponding heat exchange plate, and each of the second electric three-way valves is connected to the liquid outlet pipe, the first liquid return device, and the second liquid return device of the corresponding heat exchange plate.

[0032] In this embodiment, by selecting a three-way valve liquid distributor (return liquid device) and heat exchange plate, the structure is compact and occupies a small area, which allows for installation in a limited space. It can realize the switching function according to the needs, so that the three-way valve can play a role in multiple circulation modes and meet different needs.

[0033] In one possible design, each of the electric valve assemblies includes a first electric valve, a second electric valve, a third electric valve, and a fourth electric valve;

[0034] The first electric valve is connected to the liquid inlet pipe of the heat exchange plate and the first liquid distributor respectively;

[0035] The second electric valve is connected to the liquid inlet pipe of the heat exchange plate and the second liquid distributor, respectively;

[0036] The third electric valve is connected to the liquid outlet pipe of the heat exchange plate and the first liquid return device respectively.

[0037] The fourth electric valve is connected to the liquid outlet pipe of the heat exchange plate and the second liquid return device.

[0038] In this embodiment of the application, in the first circulation mode, the first electric valve and the third electric valve are in the open state, and the second electric valve and the fourth electric valve are in the closed state, so that the first liquid distributor, the heat exchange unit and the first liquid return device are in the connected state, thereby realizing the connection between the positive pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit.

[0039] In the second circulation mode, the second and fourth electric valves, matched with the malfunctioning heat exchanger plate, are in the open state, while the first and third electric valves are in the closed state. This connects the second distributor, the malfunctioning heat exchanger plate in the heat exchange unit, and the second return valve, thus connecting the negative pressure cooling unit with the malfunctioning heat exchanger plate in the heat exchange unit. Conversely, the first and third electric valves, matched with the normal heat exchanger plate, are in the open state, while the second and fourth electric valves are in the closed state. This connects the first distributor, the normal heat exchanger plate in the heat exchange unit, and the first return valve, thus connecting the positive pressure cooling unit with the normal heat exchanger plate in the heat exchange unit.

[0040] In the third cycle mode, the second and fourth electric valves are in the open state, and the first and third electric valves are in the closed state, so that the second distributor, the heat exchange unit and the second return distributor are in the connected state, realizing the connection between the negative pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit.

[0041] In one possible design, the switching unit further includes a first main electric valve, a second main electric valve, a third main electric valve, and a fourth main electric valve;

[0042] The first main electric valve is installed on the pipeline between the first distributor and the positive pressure cooling unit;

[0043] The second main electric valve is installed on the pipeline between the first return valve and the positive pressure cooling unit;

[0044] The third main electric valve is installed on the pipeline between the second liquid distributor and the negative pressure cooling unit;

[0045] The fourth main electric valve is installed on the pipeline between the second return valve and the negative pressure cooling unit.

[0046] In this embodiment, in the first cycle mode, the first and second main electric valves are open, while the third and fourth main electric valves are closed, allowing the positive pressure cooling unit to connect to the heat exchange unit. In the third cycle mode, the third and fourth main electric valves are open, while the first and second main electric valves are closed, allowing the negative pressure cooling unit to connect to the heat exchange unit. This embodiment allows for direct control of the main electric valves when switching from the first cycle mode to the third cycle mode, simplifying operation.

[0047] In one possible design, the negative pressure cooling unit includes a first liquid storage tank, a vacuum pump, a first liquid pump, and a first heat exchanger.

[0048] The first liquid storage tank is connected to the air pump, and under the action of the air pump, the pressure inside the first liquid storage tank is lower than atmospheric pressure;

[0049] The first liquid storage tank is connected to the first liquid pump, and the coolant in the first liquid storage tank can circulate under the action of the first liquid pump.

[0050] In the first circulation mode, the circulation path of the coolant in the first storage tank is: first storage tank, first pump, first heat exchanger, and first storage tank.

[0051] In the second or third circulation mode, the circulation path of the coolant in the first storage tank is: first storage tank, first pump, first heat exchanger, heat exchange unit, and first storage tank.

[0052] In this embodiment, the positive pressure cooling unit is used when the heat exchange unit is working normally, and the negative pressure cooling unit serves as a backup cooling unit. Typically, when a heat exchange plate in the heat exchange unit malfunctions, the malfunctioning heat exchange plate is connected to the negative pressure cooling unit. In this embodiment, the negative pressure cooling unit only needs a first liquid storage tank, a vacuum pump, a first liquid pump, and a first heat exchanger to meet the heat dissipation needs of the malfunctioning heat exchange plate; no additional components are required.

[0053] In one possible design, the negative pressure cooling unit further includes a fifth electric valve, which is installed on the pipeline connected to the first liquid storage tank after passing through the first heat exchanger.

[0054] In the first cycle mode, the control unit controls the fifth electric valve to open;

[0055] In the second or third cycle mode, the control unit controls the fifth electric valve to close.

[0056] In this embodiment, in the first circulation mode, the control unit controls the fifth electric valve to open, and the coolant in the first storage tank is pumped by the first pump through the first heat exchanger and then flows back to the first storage tank through the fifth electric valve, thus realizing the self-circulation mode of the negative pressure cooling unit.

[0057] In the second or third cycle mode, the control unit controls the fifth electric valve to close. The coolant in the first storage tank, after being pumped by the first pump and flowing through the first heat exchanger, cannot flow directly back to the first storage tank. The coolant needs to pass through the heat exchange unit (or the heat exchange plate in the heat exchange unit that malfunctions) before flowing back to the first storage tank, so that the heated coolant can be transported to the negative pressure cooling unit for heat exchange treatment.

[0058] In one possible design, the negative pressure cooling unit further includes a sixth electric valve and a pressure sensor. The sixth electric valve is disposed on the pipeline between the vacuum pump and the first liquid storage tank, and the pressure sensor is capable of monitoring the pressure value inside the first liquid storage tank.

[0059] When the pressure sensor detects that the pressure value inside the first liquid storage tank is greater than the preset pressure value, the control unit controls the sixth electric valve to open and controls the air pump to start.

[0060] When the pressure sensor detects that the pressure value inside the first liquid storage tank reaches the preset pressure value, the control unit controls the sixth electric valve to close and controls the air pump to stop.

[0061] In this embodiment, a pressure sensor is installed to monitor the pressure in the first liquid storage tank in real time, ensuring that the negative pressure cooling unit is always in a pressure environment below atmospheric pressure. Simultaneously, the vacuum pump can start or stop based on the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor, reducing energy consumption compared to the vacuum pump being constantly on. Furthermore, this embodiment includes a sixth electric valve between the first liquid storage tank and the vacuum pump. This sixth electric valve opens and closes in coordination with the start and stop of the vacuum pump, preventing gas leakage when the vacuum pump stops, thus preventing gas from flowing back into the first liquid storage tank and increasing the pressure inside the tank.

[0062] In one possible design, the positive pressure cooling unit includes a second heat exchanger;

[0063] The first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are connected in parallel; or, the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are connected in series.

[0064] In this embodiment, the negative pressure cooling unit and the positive pressure cooling unit can be separately assembled cooling devices. Alternatively, the negative pressure cooling unit, switching unit, heat exchange unit, and heating unit can be integrated into a single unit, with the positive pressure cooling unit connected to the unit, capable of connecting to the heat exchange unit, and also capable of providing heat exchange to the first heat exchanger in the negative pressure cooling zone unit. Attached Figure Description

[0065] Figure 1 is a block diagram of the liquid cooling system provided in this application;

[0066] Figure 2 is a flowchart of one embodiment of the liquid cooling system provided in this application;

[0067] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the switching unit provided in this application in one embodiment;

[0068] Figure 4 is a flowchart of another embodiment of the liquid cooling system provided in this application;

[0069] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the switching unit provided in this application in another embodiment;

[0070] Figure 6 is a flowchart of another embodiment of the liquid cooling system provided in this application;

[0071] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram from another perspective of Figure 6;

[0072] Figure 8 is a flowchart of one embodiment of the negative pressure cooling unit provided in this application;

[0073] Figure 9 is a flowchart of another embodiment of the negative pressure cooling unit provided in this application;

[0074] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the switching unit provided in this application in another embodiment;

[0075] Figure 11 is a flowchart of another embodiment of the liquid cooling system provided in this application;

[0076] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the switching unit provided in this application in another embodiment.

[0077] Reference numerals: 1-Liquid cooling system; 11-Positive pressure cooling unit; 12-Negative pressure cooling unit; 121-First liquid storage tank; 122-Air pump; 122a-Third quick connector; 123-First liquid pump; 123a-Fourth quick connector; 123b-Fifth quick connector; 124-First heat exchanger; 125-Fifth electric valve; 126-Sixth electric valve; 127-Pressure sensor; 13-Switching unit; 131-Dispenser group; 131a-First dispenser; 131b-First return dispenser; 131c-Second dispenser; 131d-Second return dispenser; 132-Electric valve group; 132a-First electric three-way valve; 132b-Second electric three-way valve; 132c-First electric valve; 132d-Second electric valve; 132e-Third electric valve; 132f-Fourth electric valve; 133-First main electric valve; 134-Second main electric valve; 135-Third main electric valve; 136-Fourth main electric valve; 14-Heat exchange unit; 141-Heat exchange plate; 141a-First quick connector; 141b-Second quick connector; 15-Control unit; 16-Heating unit; 161-Single board. Detailed Implementation

[0078] Liquid cooling is a technology for controlling the heat dissipation of heat-generating devices. Liquid generally circulates in the heat dissipation system of the heat-generating device, thereby carrying away the heat generated by the heat-generating device and achieving the purpose of cooling the heat-generating device.

[0079] Liquid cooling systems are divided into positive pressure liquid cooling systems and negative pressure liquid cooling systems. Setting a liquid cooling system as a positive pressure liquid cooling system alone poses the risk of uncontrollable leakage, while setting a liquid cooling system as a negative pressure liquid cooling system alone poses risks such as limited heat dissipation capacity, high deployment difficulty, high failure rate, and large failure explosion radius.

[0080] To address these technical problems, this embodiment provides a liquid cooling system. It should be noted that the liquid cooling system can be divided into a primary circulation and a secondary circulation. The primary circulation refers to the part that transfers heat from the liquid cooling system to the environment via coolant, typically including components such as a cooling tower, water pump, and cooling pipes. The secondary circulation refers to the part that transfers heat from the heat-generating unit to the liquid cooling system via coolant, typically including components such as heat exchangers, water pumps, and coolant pipes. This embodiment primarily describes the secondary liquid cooling system. In this embodiment, the coolant in the liquid cooling system can be an aqueous solution of deionized water, ethylene glycol, or propylene glycol.

[0081] Figure 1 shows a block diagram of the liquid cooling system 1. The liquid cooling system 1 distributes coolant to the heat-generating units 16 that need cooling, absorbing and carrying away the heat generated by the heat-generating units 16. Subsequently, the heated coolant is transported away from the heat-generating units 16 for heat dissipation treatment. After heat dissipation treatment, the coolant is distributed to the heat-generating units 16 through pipelines, forming a continuous heat dissipation process. The heat-generating units 16 include, but are not limited to, IT heat-generating devices such as servers and memory.

[0082] Please continue to refer to Figure 1. The liquid cooling system 1 includes a positive pressure cooling unit 11, a negative pressure cooling unit 12, a switching unit 13, a heat exchange unit 14, and a control unit 15. The positive pressure cooling unit 11, the negative pressure cooling unit 12, and the switching unit 13 are all electrically or signal connected to the control unit 15.

[0083] In some embodiments, the liquid cooling system 1 may also include a heating unit 16.

[0084] The control unit 15 controls the switching unit 13 to connect the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and / or the negative pressure cooling unit 12 to the heat exchange unit 14. The positive pressure cooling unit 11 and / or the negative pressure cooling unit 12 can distribute the coolant in their respective units to the heat exchange unit 14, which can exchange heat with the heating unit 16, so as to remove the heat generated by the heating unit 16.

[0085] It should be noted that positive pressure cooling unit 11 refers to a system where the ambient pressure at any point in the fluid path of positive pressure cooling unit 11 and its connected heat exchange unit 14 is greater than atmospheric pressure. Fluid leakage will occur if there are defects such as holes in the pipes of positive pressure cooling unit 11 and heat exchange unit 14. Negative pressure cooling unit 12 refers to a system where the ambient pressure at any point in the fluid path of negative pressure cooling unit 12 and its connected heat exchange unit 14 is less than atmospheric pressure. Fluid leakage will not occur if there are defects such as holes in the pipes of negative pressure cooling unit 12 and heat exchange unit 14.

[0086] Furthermore, the heat exchange unit 14 can be installed on the heating unit 16. Alternatively, the heat exchange unit 14 can be arranged around the heating unit 16, as long as it can dissipate heat from the heating unit 16. This embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0087] Figure 2 shows a flowchart of the liquid cooling system 1 in one embodiment. The heat exchange unit 14 includes multiple sets of heat exchange plates 141 arranged in parallel. Each heat exchange plate 141 includes multiple heat exchange blocks arranged in series. The heat generation unit 16 includes multiple sets of single plates 161. Each single plate 161 is equipped with the heat exchange plate 141 to dissipate heat from the single plate 161.

[0088] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the heat exchange plate 141 can be supported by a bracket and arranged around the single plate 161 to dissipate heat from the single plate 161. The specific configuration can be determined according to actual conditions, and this embodiment does not impose any limitations.

[0089] In this embodiment, the liquid cooling system 1 has a first circulation mode, a second circulation mode and a third circulation mode. The liquid cooling system 1 can switch between the three circulation modes as needed to maintain the normal operation of the liquid cooling system 1.

[0090] Specifically, referring to Figure 2, in the first cycle mode, the control unit 15 controls the switching unit 13 to connect the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and the heat exchange unit 14, while simultaneously controlling the switching unit 13 to block the connection between the negative pressure cooling unit 12 and the heat exchange unit 14. That is, in the first cycle mode, the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and the heat exchange unit 14 are connected, while the negative pressure cooling unit 12 and the heat exchange unit 14 are not connected. The positive pressure liquid cooling unit and the heat exchange unit 14 work together to dissipate heat from the heat-generating unit 16, ensuring efficient heat dissipation for the heat-generating unit 16.

[0091] Please continue referring to Figure 2. In the second cycle mode, the control unit 15 controls the switching unit 13 to switch the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 to be connected to the negative pressure cooling unit 12, and simultaneously controls the switching unit 13 to connect the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 to the positive pressure cooling unit 11. That is, in the second cycle mode, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is connected to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14, and the positive pressure cooling unit 11 is connected to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14. By switching the heat exchange plate 141 to the negative pressure liquid cooling unit for liquid supply when a leakage fault occurs in a heat exchange unit 14, the leakage problem of the heat exchange plate 141 is stopped, realizing single-point fault isolation of the heat exchange unit 14, ensuring that both the malfunctioning and malfunctioning heat exchange plates 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 can continue to operate normally, while ensuring the heat dissipation efficiency of the heating unit 16.

[0092] Please refer to Figure 2. In the third cycle mode, the control unit 15 controls the switching unit 13 to connect the negative pressure cooling unit 12 and the heat exchange unit 14, while simultaneously controlling the switching unit 13 to block the connection between the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and the heat exchange unit 14. That is, in the third cycle mode, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is connected to the heat exchange unit 14, while the positive pressure cooling unit 11 is not connected to the heat exchange unit 14. For example, when maintaining the positive pressure cooling system, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 can be connected to the heat exchange unit 14 as a backup cooling unit to ensure normal heat dissipation of the heat-generating unit 16, thereby ensuring the normal operation of the heat-generating unit 16 and greatly reducing the maintenance difficulty of the liquid cooling system 1.

[0093] In this embodiment, a combined liquid cooling system is designed by setting up a negative pressure cooling unit 12 and a positive pressure cooling unit 11 to work together. When the heat exchange unit 14 is working normally, the positive pressure cooling unit 11 can be used alone to connect to the heat exchange unit 14 to ensure heat dissipation efficiency. When the heat exchange unit 14 malfunctions, the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 can be connected to the negative pressure cooling unit 12 to prevent leakage from the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 and damage to the single plate 161. When maintaining the positive pressure cooling unit 11, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 can be used alone to connect to the heat exchange unit 14 to ensure the normal operation of the liquid cooling system 1, continuously dissipating heat from the heat-generating unit 16 and preventing the heat-generating unit 16 from overheating and affecting normal operation.

[0094] Most importantly, the liquid cooling system 1 in this embodiment, by simultaneously providing a positive pressure cooling unit 11 and a negative pressure cooling unit 12, can switch to connecting the negative pressure cooling unit 12 when a leakage abnormality is detected in a heat exchange plate 141, while the remaining heat exchange plates 141 remain connected to the positive pressure cooling plate 161. This improves the reliability of the liquid cooling system 1 and ensures the heat dissipation efficiency of the heat source unit. Furthermore, by providing the negative pressure cooling unit 12 as a backup cooling unit, and given that the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is used less frequently than the positive pressure cooling unit 11, the components of the negative pressure cooling unit 12 can be simplified, reducing its footprint, lowering deployment difficulty, and saving on maintenance costs.

[0095] Please continue referring to Figure 2. The switching unit 13 includes a distributor assembly 131 and multiple parallel-connected electric valve assemblies 132. The distributor assembly 131 and electric valve assemblies 132 are installed on the pipelines connecting the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and the negative pressure cooling unit 12 to the heat exchange unit 14. The electric valve assemblies 132 are located on the side of the distributor assembly 131 closest to the heat exchange unit 14, and the multiple electric valve assemblies 132 are connected to multiple liquid ports of the distributor assembly 131. The control unit 15 can control the opening and closing of the electric valve assemblies 132 connected to each heat exchange plate 141 according to the state of each heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14, so that the heat exchange plate 141 with abnormality is connected to the negative pressure cooling unit 12, and the heat exchange plate 141 without abnormality is connected to the positive pressure cooling unit 11.

[0096] For example, the heat exchange unit 14 includes a first heat exchange plate, a second heat exchange plate, a third heat exchange plate, a fourth heat exchange plate, etc. After the control unit 15 receives information that the second heat exchange plate is leaking, it controls the electric valve assembly 132 to block the connection between the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and the second heat exchange plate, and controls the electric valve assembly 132 to connect the negative pressure cooling unit 12 and the second heat exchange plate. That is, it switches the connection between the negative pressure cooling unit 12 and the second heat exchange plate, so that a negative pressure environment is formed inside the second heat exchange plate, so that the coolant inside the second heat exchange plate will not leak out, thus avoiding damage to the single plate 161 caused by the leakage of the second heat exchange plate. At the same time, the control electric valve assembly 132 keeps the heat exchange plates 141 that have not leaked, such as the first heat exchange plate, the third heat exchange plate, and the fourth heat exchange plate, connected to the positive pressure cooling unit 11, ensuring the heat dissipation efficiency of the heat exchange plates 141 that have not leaked.

[0097] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of the switching unit 13. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the distributor group 131 includes a first distributor 131a, a first return distributor 131b, a second distributor 131c, and a second return distributor 131d. The first distributor 131a is connected to the liquid supply line of the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and can distribute the coolant in the positive pressure cooling unit 11 to each heat exchange plate 141. The first return distributor 131b is connected to the return line of the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and can combine the coolant that has absorbed heat in each heat exchange plate 141 into one line and return it to the positive pressure cooling unit 11. The second distributor 131c is connected to the liquid supply line of the negative pressure cooling unit 12, and can distribute the coolant in the negative pressure cooling unit 12 to each heat exchange plate 141. The second return liquid device 131d is connected to the return liquid line of the negative pressure cooling unit 12, and can combine the coolant that has absorbed heat in each heat exchange plate 141 into one line and return it to the negative pressure cooling unit 12.

[0098] Specifically, when the liquid cooling system 1 is in the first circulation mode, the control unit 15 controls the electric valve assembly 132 to connect the first distributor 131a to the inlet pipe of the heat exchange unit 14, and the outlet pipe of the heat exchange unit 14 to the first return pipe 131b, so that the coolant in the positive pressure cooling unit 11 is circulated and distributed to each heat exchange plate 141 of the heat exchange unit 14, thereby achieving the purpose of cooling the heat-generating unit 16 by the heat exchange unit 14. The electric valve assembly 132 disconnects the second distributor 131c from the inlet pipe of the heat exchange unit 14, and disconnects the outlet pipe of the heat exchange unit 14 from the second return pipe 131d.

[0099] When the liquid cooling system 1 is in the second circulation mode, the electric valve group 132 connects the second distributor 131c to the inlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 that has malfunctioned, and the outlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 that has malfunctioned is connected to the second return pipe 131d, so that the coolant in the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is circulated and distributed to the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 that has malfunctioned, so that the heat exchange plate 141 that has malfunctioned can still cool the corresponding single plate 161. The electric valve assembly 132 connects the first distributor 131a to the inlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14, which is free from abnormalities, and the outlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14, which is free from abnormalities, to the first return pipe 131b, so that the coolant in the positive pressure cooling unit 11 is circulated and distributed to the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14, which is free from abnormalities, so as to achieve the purpose of cooling the corresponding unit by the heat exchange plate 141, which is free from abnormalities.

[0100] When the liquid cooling system 1 is in the third circulation mode, the electric valve assembly 132 connects the second distributor 131c to the liquid inlet management of the heat exchange unit 14, and the liquid outlet pipe of the heat exchange unit 14 is connected to the second return pipe 131d, so that the coolant in the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is circulated and distributed to each heat exchange plate 141 of the heat exchange unit 14, thereby achieving the purpose of cooling the heat-generating unit 16 by the heat exchange unit 14. The electric valve assembly 132 disconnects the first distributor 131a from the liquid inlet pipe of the heat exchange unit 14, and disconnects the liquid outlet pipe of the heat exchange unit 14 from the first return pipe 131b.

[0101] This embodiment uses a distributor group 131 to facilitate the distribution and return of coolant, simplifying the overall structure of the liquid cooling system 1 and reducing the space occupied by the liquid cooling system 1.

[0102] Please refer to Figures 2 and 3. Each electric valve group 132 includes a first electric three-way valve 132a and a second electric three-way valve 132b. Each first electric three-way valve 132a is connected to the liquid inlet pipe, the first liquid distributor 131a and the second liquid distributor 131c of the corresponding heat exchange plate 141. Each second electric three-way valve 132b is connected to the liquid outlet pipe, the first liquid return device 131b and the second liquid return device 131d of the corresponding heat exchange plate 141.

[0103] Specifically, the first electric three-way valve 132a is provided with a first connection port connected to the first liquid distributor 131a, a second connection port connected to the second liquid distributor 131c, and a third connection port connected to the liquid inlet pipe of a heat exchange plate 141. The second electric three-way valve 132b is provided with a fourth connection port connected to the first liquid return device 131b, a fifth connection port connected to the second liquid return device 131d, and a sixth connection port connected to the liquid outlet pipe of a heat exchange plate 141.

[0104] In the first cycle mode, the first and third connection ports of the first electric three-way valve 132a are open, and the second connection port is closed. The fourth and sixth connection ports of the second electric three-way valve 132b are open, and the fifth connection port is closed, so that the first liquid distributor 131a, the heat exchange unit 14 and the first liquid return device 131b are connected, and the positive pressure cooling unit 11 is connected to the heat exchange unit 14.

[0105] In the second circulation mode, the second, third, fifth, and sixth connection ports of the first electric three-way valve 132a and the second electric three-way valve 132b, which are matched with the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141, are in the open state, while the first and fourth connection ports are in the closed state. This allows the second liquid distributor 131c, the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14, and the second liquid return device 131d to be in a connected state, thereby enabling the negative pressure cooling unit 12 to be connected to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14. In the first electric three-way valve 132a and the second electric three-way valve 132b that are matched with the heat exchange plate 141 that has not malfunctioned, the first connection port, the third connection port, the fourth connection port and the sixth connection port are in the open state, and the second connection port and the fifth connection port are in the closed state, so that the first liquid distributor 131a, the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 that has not malfunctioned and the first liquid return device 131b are in the connected state, so as to realize the connection between the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 that has not malfunctioned.

[0106] In the third circulation mode, the second and third connection ports of the first electric three-way valve 132a are open, and the first connection port is closed. The fifth and sixth connection ports of the second electric three-way valve 132b are open, and the fourth connection port is closed, so that the second liquid distributor 131c, the heat exchange unit 14 and the second liquid return device 131d are connected, realizing the connection between the negative pressure cooling unit 12 and the heat exchange unit 14.

[0107] This embodiment uses a three-way valve and a distributor (return valve), resulting in a compact structure and small footprint, allowing for installation in limited spaces. It can switch functions as needed, enabling the three-way valve to function in multiple circulation modes to meet different requirements.

[0108] Figure 4 shows a flowchart of the liquid cooling system in another embodiment, and Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the switching unit in Figure 4. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment, each electric valve group 132 includes a first electric valve 132c, a second electric valve 132d, a third electric valve 132e, and a fourth electric valve 132f. The first electric valve 132c is connected to the liquid inlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 and the first liquid distributor 131a, respectively. The second electric valve 132d is connected to the liquid inlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 and the second liquid distributor 131c, respectively. The third electric valve 132e is connected to the liquid outlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 and the first liquid return device 131b, respectively. The fourth electric valve 132f is connected to the liquid outlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 and the second liquid return device 131d, respectively.

[0109] Please refer to Figures 4 and 5. In the first cycle mode, the first electric valve 132c and the third electric valve 132e are in the open state, and the second electric valve 132d and the fourth electric valve 132f are in the closed state, so that the first liquid distributor 131a, the heat exchange unit 14 and the first liquid return device 131b are in the connected state, realizing the connection between the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and the heat exchange unit 14.

[0110] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, in the second circulation mode, the second electric valve 132d and the fourth electric valve 132f, which are matched with the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141, are in the open state, while the first electric valve 132c and the third electric valve 132e are in the closed state. This connects the second distributor 131c, the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 in heat exchange unit 14, and the second return valve 131d, thus connecting the negative pressure cooling unit 12 with the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 in heat exchange unit 14. Conversely, the first electric valve 132c and the third electric valve 132e, which are matched with the non-malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141, are in the open state, while the second electric valve 132d and the fourth electric valve 132f are in the closed state. This connects the first distributor 131a, the non-malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 in heat exchange unit 14, and the first return valve 131b, thus connecting the positive pressure cooling unit 11 with the non-malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 in heat exchange unit 14.

[0111] Please refer to Figures 4 and 5. In the third cycle mode, the second electric valve 132d and the fourth electric valve 132f are in the open state, and the first electric valve 132c and the third electric valve 132e are in the closed state, so that the second liquid distributor 131c, the heat exchange unit 14 and the second liquid return device 131d are in the connected state, realizing the connection between the negative pressure cooling unit 12 and the heat exchange unit 14.

[0112] In some embodiments, each heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 and each pipe in the switching unit 13 can be connected via quick-connect couplings to facilitate the disassembly or installation of the heat exchange plate 141 and the single plate 161 connected to the heat exchange plate 141, and to facilitate individual maintenance of one of the heat exchange plates 141 and the single plate 161. The quick-connect coupling is a fluid connector, comprising a male and a female connector. When the male and female connectors are separated, their respective valves close, momentarily blocking fluid flow. When the male and female connectors are connected, their respective valves open, allowing fluid to flow.

[0113] Referring to Figures 2 and 4, taking the connection of one of the heat exchange plates 141 as an example, the liquid inlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 is connected to the liquid outlet pipe of the switching unit 13 via a first quick connector 141a, and the liquid outlet pipe of the heat exchange plate 141 is connected to the liquid inlet pipe of the switching unit 13 via a second quick connector 141b. To disassemble the heat exchange plate 141 from the switching unit 13, simply disconnect the male and female connectors of the first quick connector 141a and the second quick connector 141b. To assemble the heat exchange plate 141 from the switching unit 13, connect the male and female connectors of the first quick connector 141a and the second quick connector 141b.

[0114] Figure 6 shows a flowchart of the liquid cooling system 1 in another embodiment, and Figure 7 shows a flowchart from another perspective of Figure 6. Please refer to Figures 6 and 7 together. In this embodiment, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 and the positive pressure cooling unit 11 are simultaneously connected to the heat exchange unit 14. Each liquid distribution branch of the first liquid distributor 131a and the second liquid distributor 131c is provided with a first electric three-way valve 132a, and a second electric three-way valve 132b is provided between each liquid return branch of the first liquid return distributor and the second liquid return distributor 131d, which can realize the switching of any heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 between the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and the negative pressure cooling unit 12.

[0115] Unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the switching unit 13 also includes a first main electric valve 133, a second main electric valve 134, a third main electric valve 135, and a fourth main electric valve 136. The first main electric valve 133 is located on the pipeline between the first distributor 131a and the positive pressure cooling unit 11. The second main electric valve 134 is located on the pipeline between the first return distributor 131b and the positive pressure cooling unit 11. The third main electric valve 135 is located on the pipeline between the second distributor 131c and the negative pressure cooling unit 12. The fourth main electric valve 136 is located on the pipeline between the second return distributor 131d and the negative pressure cooling unit 12.

[0116] In the first cycle mode, the first main electric valve 133 and the second main electric valve 134 are open, while the third main electric valve 135 and the fourth main electric valve 136 are closed, allowing the positive pressure cooling unit 11 to be connected to the heat exchange unit 14. In the third cycle mode, the third main electric valve 135 and the fourth main electric valve 136 are open, while the first main electric valve 133 and the second main electric valve 134 are closed, allowing the negative pressure cooling unit 12 to be connected to the heat exchange unit 14. In this embodiment, the main electric valves can be directly controlled to switch between the first and third cycle modes, facilitating operation.

[0117] Figure 8 shows a flowchart of the negative pressure cooling unit 12. The negative pressure cooling unit 12 includes a first liquid storage tank 121, a vacuum pump 122, a first liquid extraction pump 123, and a first heat exchanger 124. The first liquid storage tank 121 is used to contain coolant. The vacuum pump 122 is connected to the first liquid storage tank 121 through a pipeline. Under the action of the vacuum pump 122, the gas in the first liquid storage tank 121 is extracted, making the pressure in the first liquid storage tank 121 lower than atmospheric pressure. The outlet of the first liquid storage tank 121 is connected to the first liquid extraction pump 123 through a pipeline. Under the action of the first liquid extraction pump 123, the coolant in the first liquid storage tank 121 can circulate. After flowing out of the first liquid extraction pump 123, the coolant flows to the first heat exchanger 124 through a pipeline. The first heat exchanger 124 exchanges heat with the coolant, realizing the cooling of the coolant.

[0118] In this embodiment, the positive pressure cooling unit 11 is used when the heat exchange unit 14 is working normally, and the negative pressure cooling unit 12 serves as a backup cooling unit. Typically, when the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 malfunctions, the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 is connected to the negative pressure cooling unit 12. In this embodiment, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 only needs to be equipped with a first liquid storage tank 121, a vacuum pump 122, a first liquid pump 123, and a first heat exchanger 124 to meet the heat dissipation needs of the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141. No additional components are required, which simplifies the overall structure of the negative pressure cooling unit 12.

[0119] Of course, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 includes, but is not limited to, components such as the first liquid storage tank 121, the air pump 122, the first liquid pump 123, and the first heat exchanger 124. The specific structure of the negative pressure cooling unit 12 can be adjusted according to actual conditions, such as adding or removing components, or adjusting or replacing other components. This embodiment does not limit this. The first heat exchanger 124 can be a plate heat exchanger, with pipes arranged around it. When the coolant flows through the pipes into the plate heat exchanger, the plate heat exchanger exchanges heat with the coolant in the pipes. Alternatively, the first heat exchanger 124 can also adopt other structures, such as a tubular heat exchanger. This embodiment does not limit this. Please refer to Figure 8. When the liquid cooling system 1 is in the first circulation mode, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is in a self-circulation state. In the first circulation mode, the circulation path of the coolant in the first liquid storage tank 121 is: first liquid storage tank 121, first pump 123, first heat exchanger 124, and first liquid storage tank 121. That is to say, the coolant in the first liquid storage tank 121 is pumped by the first pump 123, flows through the first heat exchanger 124, and then flows back to the first liquid storage tank 121, thus circulating repeatedly.

[0120] In this embodiment, when the liquid cooling system 1 is in the first cycle mode, although the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is not connected to the heat exchange unit 14, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is always in the start state so that when a heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 malfunctions, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 can quickly connect to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141, so that the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141 can quickly restore its heat dissipation function and reduce the risk of damage to the single plate 161 connected to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141.

[0121] When the liquid cooling system 1 is in the second or third circulation mode, the circulation path of the coolant in the first storage tank 121 is as follows: first storage tank 121, first pump 123, first heat exchanger 124, heat exchange unit 14, and back to the first storage tank 121. That is, the coolant in the first storage tank 121 is pumped by the first pump 123, flows through the first heat exchanger 124 for heat exchange, and then flows to the heat exchange unit 14 (or the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 that malfunctions), absorbs heat from the heat-generating unit 16, and then flows back to the first storage tank 121, thus repeating the cycle.

[0122] The negative pressure cooling unit 12 also includes a fifth electric valve 125, which is installed on the pipeline connecting the first heat exchanger 124 to the first liquid storage tank 121. In the first circulation mode, the control unit 15 controls the fifth electric valve 125 to open, and the coolant in the first liquid storage tank 121 is drawn by the first pump 123 through the first heat exchanger 124 and then flows back to the first liquid storage tank 121 through the fifth electric valve 125, realizing the self-circulation mode of the negative pressure cooling unit 12.

[0123] In the second or third cycle mode, the control unit 15 controls the fifth electric valve 125 to close. The coolant in the first storage tank 121 is pumped by the first pump 123 and flows through the first heat exchanger 124 but cannot flow directly back to the first storage tank 121. The coolant needs to pass through the heat exchange unit 14 (or the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 that malfunctions) before flowing back to the first storage tank 121, so that the heated coolant can be transported to the negative pressure cooling unit 12 for heat exchange treatment.

[0124] Please continue to refer to Figure 8. The negative pressure cooling unit 12 also includes a sixth electric valve 126 and a pressure sensor 127. The sixth electric valve 126 is installed on the pipeline between the vacuum pump 122 and the first liquid storage tank 121. The pressure sensor 127 can monitor the pressure value in the first liquid storage tank 121 and transmit the pressure value information in the first liquid storage tank 121 to the control unit 15. The control unit 15 determines whether to start the vacuum pump 122 based on the pressure value information.

[0125] Specifically, when the pressure sensor 127 detects that the pressure value inside the first liquid storage tank 121 is greater than the preset pressure value, the control unit 15 controls the sixth electric valve 126 to open, and controls the vacuum pump 122 to start, so that the vacuum pump 122 extracts pressure from the first liquid storage tank 121. When the pressure sensor 127 detects that the pressure value inside the first liquid storage tank 121 reaches the preset pressure value, the control unit 15 controls the sixth electric valve 126 to close, and controls the vacuum pump 122 to stop working.

[0126] This embodiment uses a pressure sensor 127 to monitor the pressure in the first liquid storage tank 121 in real time, ensuring that the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is always in a pressure environment below atmospheric pressure. Simultaneously, the vacuum pump 122 can start or stop based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 127, reducing energy consumption compared to the vacuum pump 122 being constantly on. Furthermore, this embodiment includes a sixth electric valve 126 between the first liquid storage tank 121 and the vacuum pump 122. The sixth electric valve 126 opens and closes in coordination with the start and stop of the vacuum pump 122, preventing air leakage when the vacuum pump 122 stops, thus preventing gas from flowing back into the first liquid storage tank 121 and increasing the pressure within the first liquid storage tank 121.

[0127] In some embodiments, the vacuum pump 122 is connected to the first liquid storage tank 121 via a third quick connector 122a, the inlet pipe of the first liquid pump 123 is connected to the outlet pipe of the first liquid storage tank 121 via a fourth quick connector 123a, and the outlet pipe of the first liquid pump 123 is connected to the pipes arranged around the first heat exchanger 124 via a fifth quick connector 123b. The structures of the third quick connector 122a, the fourth quick connector 123a, and the fifth quick connector 123b can all refer to the quick connector description above, and will not be repeated here in this embodiment.

[0128] Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of the negative pressure cooling unit 12 in another embodiment. Unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 8, in this embodiment, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 includes a first liquid storage tank 121, a vacuum pump 122 and a first liquid pump 123. That is, the first heat exchanger is not provided in this embodiment.

[0129] When the liquid cooling system 1 is in the first circulation mode, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is in a self-circulation state. In the first circulation mode, the circulation path of the coolant in the first liquid storage tank 121 is: first liquid storage tank 121, first pump 123, first liquid storage tank 121. That is to say, the coolant in the first liquid storage tank 121 is pumped by the first pump 123 and then flows back to the first liquid storage tank 121, thus circulating repeatedly.

[0130] In this embodiment, when the liquid cooling system is in the first cycle mode, although the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is not connected to the heat exchange unit, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 is always in the start state so that when a heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 malfunctions, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 can quickly connect to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141, reducing the risk of damage to the single plate 161 connected to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141.

[0131] When the liquid cooling system 1 is in the second or third circulation mode, the circulation path of the coolant in the first storage tank 121 is as follows: first storage tank 121, first pump 123, heat exchange unit 14, and back to the first storage tank 121. That is, the coolant in the first storage tank 121 is pumped by the first pump 123 to the heat exchange unit 14 (or the heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 that malfunctions), flows through the heating unit 16, and then flows back to the first storage tank 121, thus repeating the cycle.

[0132] In this embodiment, when the liquid cooling system 1 is in the second or third circulation mode, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 can be connected to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141, creating a negative pressure environment within the heat exchange plate 141. This prevents liquid leakage from the heat exchange plate 141, reducing the risk of damage to the single plate 161 connected to the malfunctioning heat exchange plate 141. In other words, in this embodiment, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 may not require a first heat exchanger; it can be connected solely for leak prevention, simplifying its structure. All other details can be found in the embodiment shown in Figure 8, and will not be repeated here. In all the above embodiments, the negative pressure cooling unit 12 and the positive pressure cooling unit 11 are independent cooling units, meaning they are separately assembled cooling devices. Specifically, the positive pressure cooling unit 11 includes at least a second liquid storage tank, a second liquid pump, and a second heat exchanger. The coolant in the second liquid storage tank is pumped by the second liquid pump through the second heat exchanger and then flows to the heat exchange unit 14. After absorbing heat from the heat exchange unit 14, it flows back to the second liquid storage tank, and so on in a continuous cycle. The first heat exchanger 124 and the second heat exchanger are connected in parallel, and both exchange heat through external components.

[0133] Figure 10 shows a flowchart of another embodiment of the liquid cooling system 1. In this embodiment, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the negative pressure cooling unit 12, switching unit 13, heat exchange unit 14, and heating unit 16 are integrated into a single unit. The positive pressure cooling unit 11 is connected to the entire unit and can be connected to the heat exchange unit 14, and can also provide heat exchange for the first heat exchanger 124 in the negative pressure cooling zone unit. The first heat exchanger 124 and the second heat exchanger are connected in series. The first heat exchanger 124 receives its liquid exchange from the second heat exchanger, and the liquid that absorbs heat in the first heat exchanger 124 flows back to the second heat exchanger. The remaining details can be found in the embodiment shown in Figure 2, and will not be repeated here.

[0134] Figure 11 shows a flowchart of another embodiment of the liquid cooling system 1. In this embodiment, the negative pressure cooling unit 12, the switching unit 13, the heat exchange unit 14, and the heating unit 16 are integrated into a single unit, and the positive pressure cooling unit 11 is connected to the single unit. Each liquid distribution branch of the first liquid distributor 131a and the second liquid distributor 131c is equipped with a first electric three-way valve 132a, and a second electric three-way valve 132b is provided between each liquid return branch of the first liquid return distributor and the second liquid return distributor 131d, which can realize the switching of any heat exchange plate 141 in the heat exchange unit 14 between the positive pressure cooling unit 11 and the negative pressure cooling unit 12.

[0135] Unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 10, the switching unit 13 further includes a first main electric valve 133, a second main electric valve 134, a third main electric valve 135, and a fourth main electric valve 136. The first main electric valve 133 is disposed on the pipeline between the first liquid distributor 131a and the positive pressure cooling unit 11, the second main electric valve 134 is disposed on the pipeline between the first liquid return device 131b and the positive pressure cooling unit 11, the third main electric valve 135 is disposed on the pipeline between the second liquid distributor 131c and the negative pressure cooling unit 12, and the fourth main electric valve 136 is disposed on the pipeline between the second liquid return device 131d and the negative pressure cooling unit 12.

[0136] In the first cycle mode, the first main electric valve 133 and the second main electric valve 134 are open, while the third main electric valve 135 and the fourth main electric valve 136 are closed, allowing the positive pressure cooling unit 11 to be connected to the heat exchange unit 14. In the third cycle mode, the third main electric valve 135 and the fourth main electric valve 136 are open, while the first main electric valve 133 and the second main electric valve 134 are closed, allowing the negative pressure cooling unit 12 to be connected to the heat exchange unit 14. In this embodiment, the main electric valves can be directly controlled to switch between the first and third cycle modes, facilitating operation.

[0137] Figure 12 shows a flowchart of the liquid cooling system 1 in another embodiment. In this embodiment, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 10, each electric valve assembly 132 includes four two-way electric valves. The remaining details can be found in the embodiment shown in Figure 10, and will not be repeated here.

[0138] In some embodiments, the liquid cooling system 1 may further include a first cooling unit and a second cooling unit. The coolant in the first cooling unit is a water-based working fluid, and the coolant in the second cooling unit is a non-conductive non-aqueous working fluid. When the heat exchange unit 14 is operating normally, the first cooling unit is connected to the heat exchange unit 14. If the heat exchange unit 14 malfunctions (leakage), the connection is switched to the second cooling unit. That is, when the heat exchange unit 14 leaks, the leaked coolant will not damage the devices on the board 161.

[0139] In practical applications, in addition to the aforementioned network and IT equipment, the liquid cooling system solution in this embodiment can also be applied to other equipment that requires heat dissipation, and this embodiment does not limit it here.

[0140] The above descriptions are merely specific implementations of the embodiments of this application, but the protection scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the embodiments of this application should be covered within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of the embodiments of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A liquid cooling system, characterized by, The liquid cooling system includes: The heat exchange unit includes multiple sets of heat exchange plates arranged in parallel; A positive pressure cooling unit is connected to the heat exchange unit; A negative pressure cooling unit is connected to the heat exchange unit; A switching unit is installed on the pipeline connecting the positive pressure cooling unit and the negative pressure cooling unit to the heat exchange unit; The control unit, the positive pressure cooling unit, the negative pressure cooling unit, and the switching unit are all electrically or signal-connected to the control unit; The liquid cooling system has at least a first circulation mode, a second circulation mode, and a third circulation mode; In the first cycle mode, the control unit controls the switching unit to connect the positive pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit, and at the same time controls the switching unit to block the connection between the negative pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit; In the second cycle mode, the control unit controls the switching unit to switch the heat exchange plate that has malfunctioned in the heat exchange unit to be connected to the negative pressure cooling unit, and at the same time controls the switching unit to connect the heat exchange plate that has not malfunctioned to the positive pressure cooling unit. In the third cycle mode, the control unit controls the switching unit to connect the negative pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit, and at the same time controls the switching unit to block the connection between the positive pressure cooling unit and the heat exchange unit.

2. The liquid cooling system of claim 1, wherein, When the liquid cooling system is in the first circulation mode, the negative pressure cooling unit is in a self-circulation state.

3. The liquid cooling system of claim 1, wherein, The switching unit includes multiple electric valve groups arranged in parallel, and the electric valve groups are installed on the pipelines connecting the positive pressure cooling unit and the negative pressure cooling unit to the heat exchange unit; The control unit controls the opening and closing of the electric valve groups corresponding to the positive pressure cooling unit and the negative pressure cooling unit, and switches the liquid cooling system to the first circulation mode, the second circulation mode or the third circulation mode.

4. The liquid cooling system of claim 3, wherein, The switching unit also includes a distributor group, and each of the electric valve groups is correspondingly arranged on the side of the distributor group near the heat exchange plate in each branch. The liquid distributor assembly includes a first liquid distributor, a first liquid return device, a second liquid distributor, and a second liquid return device, and multiple heat exchange plates are connected to the first liquid distributor, the first liquid return device, the second liquid distributor, and the second liquid return device via pipelines; The first liquid distributor is connected to the liquid supply line of the positive pressure cooling unit, and the first liquid return device is connected to the liquid return line of the positive pressure cooling unit. The second liquid distributor is connected to the liquid supply line of the negative pressure cooling unit, and the second liquid return line is connected to the liquid return line of the negative pressure cooling unit.

5. The liquid cooling system of claim 4, wherein, Each of the electric valve assemblies includes a first electric three-way valve and a second electric three-way valve; Each of the first electric three-way valves is connected to the liquid inlet pipe, the first liquid distributor, and the second liquid distributor of the corresponding heat exchange plate, and each of the second electric three-way valves is connected to the liquid outlet pipe, the first liquid return device, and the second liquid return device of the corresponding heat exchange plate.

6. The liquid cooling system of claim 4, wherein, Each of the electric valve assemblies includes a first electric valve, a second electric valve, a third electric valve, and a fourth electric valve; The first electric valve is connected to the liquid inlet pipe of the heat exchange plate and the first liquid distributor respectively; The second electric valve is connected to the liquid inlet pipe of the heat exchange plate and the second liquid distributor, respectively; The third electric valve is connected to the liquid outlet pipe of the heat exchange plate and the first liquid return device respectively. The fourth electric valve is connected to the liquid outlet pipe of the heat exchange plate and the second liquid return device.

7. The liquid cooling system of claim 4, wherein, The switching unit further includes a first main electric valve, a second main electric valve, a third main electric valve, and a fourth main electric valve; The first main electric valve is installed on the pipeline between the first distributor and the positive pressure cooling unit; The second main electric valve is installed on the pipeline between the first return valve and the positive pressure cooling unit; The third main electric valve is installed on the pipeline between the second distributor and the negative pressure cooling unit; The fourth main electric valve is installed on the pipeline between the second return valve and the negative pressure cooling unit.

8. The liquid cooling system of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The negative pressure cooling unit includes a first liquid storage tank, a vacuum pump, a first liquid pump, and a first heat exchanger. The first liquid storage tank is connected to the air pump, and under the action of the air pump, the pressure inside the first liquid storage tank is lower than atmospheric pressure; The first liquid storage tank is connected to the first liquid pump, and the coolant in the first liquid storage tank can circulate under the action of the first liquid pump. In the first circulation mode, the circulation path of the coolant in the first storage tank is: first storage tank, first pump, first heat exchanger, and first storage tank. In the second or third circulation mode, the circulation path of the coolant in the first storage tank is: first storage tank, first pump, first heat exchanger, heat exchange unit, and first storage tank.

9. The liquid cooling system of claim 8, wherein, The negative pressure cooling unit also includes a fifth electric valve, which is installed on the pipeline connected to the first liquid storage tank after passing through the first heat exchanger. In the first cycle mode, the control unit controls the fifth electric valve to open; In the second or third cycle mode, the control unit controls the fifth electric valve to close.

10. The liquid cooling system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The negative pressure cooling unit also includes a sixth electric valve and a pressure sensor. The sixth electric valve is installed on the pipeline between the air pump and the first liquid storage tank, and the pressure sensor can monitor the pressure value inside the first liquid storage tank. When the pressure sensor detects that the pressure value inside the first liquid storage tank is greater than the preset pressure value, the control unit controls the sixth electric valve to open and controls the air pump to start. When the pressure sensor detects that the pressure value inside the first liquid storage tank reaches the preset pressure value, the control unit controls the sixth electric valve to close and controls the air pump to stop.

11. The liquid cooling system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The positive pressure cooling unit includes a second heat exchanger; The first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are connected in parallel; or, the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are connected in series.

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