Digital Micromirror Device Cooling via Liquid Jet and Segmented Block
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for cooling digital micromirror devices in laser imaging modules are inefficient, leading to improper operation, reduced life expectancy, or failure due to high heat generation, especially with limited space for effective cooling.
Innovation Solution
A cooling apparatus and method utilizing a cooling block with a thermal pad and liquid jet system, where a heat sensing device measures temperature and activates a coolant flow through a plate with openings to efficiently transfer heat away from the digital micromirror device, potentially enhanced by a thermoelectric cooling device and uneven surface area for increased heat transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cooling methods are used for the DMD, then the device can operate, but the heat transfer rate is insufficient leading to overheating and reduced reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling block is segmented with multiple channels and openings that divide the cooling liquid flow into multiple paths, increasing the surface area and efficiency of heat transfer from the DMD to the cooling liquid
Solution Approach 2:
A liquid cooling system is implemented where cooling liquid is forced through channels and openings in the cooling block, using hydraulic flow to efficiently remove heat from the DMD, preventing overheating and improving reliability
2Temperature
If more cooling space is provided for the DMD, then heat dissipation improves, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling channels and openings are integrated within the cooling block structure itself, nesting the cooling system within the existing device footprint rather than adding external cooling components, thus improving heat dissipation without significantly increasing overall device volume
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling system utilizes three-dimensional channels and openings within the cooling block, transitioning from two-dimensional surface cooling to volumetric cooling, which increases heat transfer efficiency without proportionally increasing the external dimensions of the cooling apparatus
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a higher heat transfer rate and more efficient cooling, maintaining the digital micromirror device within a safe temperature range, thereby preventing damage and failure, and extending its operational life.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling block coupled to a second side of the thermal pad that is opposite the first side. The cooling block comprises a plate that includes a plurality of openings that generates a liquid jet of a liquid that is forced through the plurality of openings
Implementation Method 2
a thermal pad, wherein a first side of the thermal pad is coupled to a bottom of a housing of the DMD and a cooling block coupled to a second side of the thermal pad
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method for cooling a digital mirror device are disclosed. For example, the apparatus includes a digital mirror device (DMD), a thermal pad, wherein a first side of the thermal pad is coupled to a bottom of a housing of the DMD and a cooling block coupled to a second side of the thermal pad that is opposite the first side. The cooling block includes a plate that includes a plurality of openings that generates a liquid jet of a liquid that is forced through the plurality of openings towards a side of the cooling block coupled to the thermal pad.