Dual-Capillary Heat Pipe Structure for Lower Thermal Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional capillary structures in heat pipes suffer from higher thermal resistance, occupy excessive space, and are difficult to manufacture, limiting their compatibility with different heat sources.
Innovation Solution
A heat pipe design featuring a first 3D capillary structure inside the body and a 2D capillary structure attached to the pipe wall, bonded together outside the body, with the 2D structure exposing the 3D structure to enhance heat dissipation and reduce thermal resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional capillary structures (mesh and fiber) are used inside the heat pipe body, then the heat pipe can achieve heat dissipation function, but the thermal resistance is higher and the space occupied is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The capillary structure is divided into two separate components: a first capillary structure (3D mesh) and a second capillary structure (2D fiber mat). These two structures are manufactured independently and then assembled together inside the heat pipe body, allowing each to perform its specific function with optimized space utilization and reduced thermal resistance
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from using a single 3D capillary structure to combining a 3D mesh structure with a 2D fiber mat structure. This dimensional differentiation allows the 2D structure to provide capillary action in a planar configuration while the 3D structure provides volumetric support, reducing overall space occupation and thermal resistance
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional capillary structures are used, then the heat pipe can be manufactured, but the manufacturing process is difficult and compatibility with different heat sources is poor
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the capillary structure into two independently manufacturable components (first capillary structure and second capillary structure), each can be optimized for specific heat source configurations. The modular design allows easier assembly and better adaptation to different heat source geometries without complicating the overall manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The combination of 3D mesh and 2D fiber mat creates a universal capillary system that can accommodate various heat source types and configurations. The dual-structure design provides both volumetric and planar capillary action, making it compatible with different heat source geometries while maintaining standardized manufacturing procedures
3Productivity
If a single capillary structure is used inside the heat pipe, then the structure is simple, but the heat transfer efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges two different capillary structures (3D mesh and 2D fiber mat) into a unified capillary system inside the heat pipe. This combination leverages the advantages of both structures - the 3D mesh provides robust volumetric capillary action while the 2D fiber mat enhances planar heat distribution, together achieving superior heat transfer efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The capillary system uses composite construction by combining two different capillary structures with distinct geometries and functions. The 3D mesh and 2D fiber mat work synergistically, creating a composite capillary system that achieves higher heat transfer efficiency than either structure could provide alone
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 design increases heat transfer efficiency by up to 10% and improves compatibility with various heat sources by optimizing the structure's configuration to fit different heat source configurations.
Implementation Method 1
the heat generated by the heat source causes the heat transfer fluid in the evaporating section to evaporate or vaporize
Implementation Method 2
The resulting vapor flows to the condensing section, where it releases the latent heat and condenses back into liquid
Implementation Method 3
which is then guided back to the evaporating section by the capillary structure
Data Source
AI summary
A heat pipe is provided. The heat pipe includes a body, a first capillary structure, and a second capillary structure. The body has a hollow structure. The first capillary structure is disposed inside the body, extends in an axial direction of the body, and has a 3D structure. The second capillary structure surrounds the first capillary structure, is attached to a pipe wall of the body, and has a 2D structure. The first and second capillary structures are bonded together outside the body, and then they are disposed inside the hollow structure. The second capillary structure has an opening, from which the first capillary structure is exposed. The exposed portion of the first capillary structure is in contact with the pipe wall.