External Function Extension Device Liquid Cooling Heat Dissipation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Computer extension cards occupy limited space and generate excessive heat due to impedance, leading to potential damage from accumulated heat if not efficiently dissipated.

Innovation Solution

An external function extension device with a liquid cooling system, comprising a casing, transition circuit board, liquid cooling system, and power supply unit, which includes a transition slot for function extension cards and connecting members for external devices, effectively dissipates heat using a liquid cooling system and power supply unit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If extension cards are installed in the computer to provide additional functions, then the computer functionality is enhanced, but the extension cards occupy limited space and may interfere with each other

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomputer functionalityVSAvoidspace occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into two separate units: a host computer and an external function extension device. The function extension card is relocated from the host computer's internal slot to an external device that connects via USB interface. This segmentation allows the host computer to maintain its compact form factor while the external device houses the extension card, thus resolving the space occupation problem while preserving functionality enhancement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If function extension cards are installed to enhance computer functions, then additional capabilities are provided, but heat is generated due to impedance and may damage electronic components if not dissipated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadditional functionsVSAvoidheat generation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

A liquid cooling system is introduced as an intermediary between the function extension card and the external environment. The cooling system includes a cold plate that contacts the extension card to absorb heat, cooling liquid that circulates through the cold plate to transfer heat away, and a radiator with fan that dissipates heat to the atmosphere. This intermediary cooling mechanism effectively manages the heat generated by the extension card's impedance, preventing component damage while maintaining the card's operational functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple extension cards are installed in limited space, then various functions are provided, but the cards may interfere with each other

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple functionsVSAvoidcard interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The function extension card is moved from the internal dimension (inside the host computer) to an external dimension (separate external device connected via USB). This dimensional transition eliminates physical interference between multiple cards that would occur if they were installed in the same confined internal space. Users can now connect multiple external function extension devices without the cards interfering with each other, as each card operates in its own external housing with adequate spacing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

Prevents space occupation by extension cards and enhances heat dissipation efficiency, allowing for improved operation and reduced risk of damage from heat accumulation.

Implementation Method 1

an external function extension device having a liquid cooling system... use the liquid cooling system to dissipate heat of the function extension card

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLiquid cooling: Convection

Implementation Method 2

The power supply unit is electrically connected to the transition circuit board and the liquid cooling system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS10058009B2External function extension device
Publication Date: 2018.08.21 COOLER MASTER CO LTD
  • US10058009B2 patent drawing
  • US10058009B2 patent drawing
  • US10058009B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An external function extension device includes a casing, a transition circuit board, a liquid cooling system, at least one connecting member and a power supply unit. The transition circuit board, the liquid cooling system and the power supply unit are disposed in the casing. The transition circuit board has a transition slot. The connecting member is connected to the liquid cooling system. The connecting member is used for connecting an external device, such that the liquid cooling system performs liquid cooling function for dissipating heat of the external device. The power supply unit is electrically connected to the transition circuit board and the liquid cooling system. The power supply unit includes an electric connector. The electric connector is used for connecting the external device, such that the power supply unit supplies power to the external device.