Dual-Module Liquid Cooling for Computer Cabinet Reliability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid cooling systems for computer cabinets are prone to failures and leaks, leading to shutdowns and occupy excessive space, as they lack redundancy and compact design.
Innovation Solution
A dual-module liquid cooling system with a primary and secondary hydraulic circuit, where one module can activate in case of failure, maintaining constant coolant flow and temperature, with integrated pressure and temperature sensors, and compact design to prevent leaks and optimize energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If liquid cooling systems are used to cool computer cabinets, then cooling efficiency is improved, but the risk of coolant leakage and system failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is divided into multiple independent cooling circuits, each with its own pump and control. This segmentation isolates potential leakages to specific circuits rather than causing system-wide failure, thereby maintaining reliability while preserving cooling efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the coolant by using dielectric fluids with specific electrical and thermal properties. This allows efficient heat transfer while reducing electrical conductivity to minimize leakage risks and electrical hazards.
2Ease of repair
If coolant circulation devices and cooling devices are placed outside computer cabinets, then maintenance access is improved, but the space occupied in computer rooms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling devices and circulation equipment are nested within the computer cabinet structure itself, utilizing the internal space of the cabinet. This eliminates the need for separate external cooling rooms while maintaining full maintenance access through the cabinet's serviceable interfaces.
3Volume of moving object
If the diameter of hydraulic circuits is reduced to fit in computer cabinets, then space consumption is reduced, but the risk of clogging increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the coolant to use low-viscosity, filtration-resistant dielectric fluids. This allows the use of smaller diameter hydraulic circuits that fit within cabinet constraints while minimizing clogging risks through optimized fluid properties.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If cooling systems are shut down in case of failure, then system safety is improved, but continuous operation of computer cabinets cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is segmented into multiple independent circuits with redundant pumps and control systems. When a failure occurs in one circuit, the system automatically isolates the faulty section and redirects cooling capacity through alternative circuits, maintaining continuous operation while preserving safety through automatic shutdown of only the affected segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates redundant cooling circuits and backup pumps that are pre-configured to take over immediately upon detection of a failure. This beforehand cushioning ensures continuous cooling operation without interruption while maintaining safety through automatic failover mechanisms.
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
Ensures continuous operation even in case of module failure or maintenance, reduces space occupancy, and maintains optimal cooling performance with constant coolant flow and temperature, while minimizing hydraulic energy consumption and preventing leaks.
Implementation Method 1
a heat exchanger configured to cool the coolant passing through the secondary hydraulic circuit by heat dissipation through the primary hydraulic circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A computer cabinet includes at least one rackable server cooled by a cooling circuit; a cooling circuit supply device including:two cooling modules, each cooling module including:a primary hydraulic circuit;a secondary hydraulic circuit;a heat exchanger;a pump;a controller to control the pump;a central control unit connected to the controller of each of the cooling modules;the central control unit being capable of activating one of the cooling modules while the other cooling module is inactive.