Cooling Cabinet Fan Module With Tool-Free Alignment Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional air cooling methods are inadequate for CPUs and GPUs generating high heat, and existing liquid cooling systems require tool-based fan module replacements, leading to lengthy maintenance times.
Innovation Solution
A modular fan module design with handles, alignment recesses, and quick connectors allows tool-free installation, positioning, and electrical connections, simplifying maintenance and replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If traditional air cooling method is used, then the cooling system is simple, but it is inadequate for CPUs and GPUs generating high heat
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is segmented into modular fan modules that can be independently installed and removed. Each fan module contains a fan assembly and mounting structure, allowing the system to be divided into discrete functional units that address high heat dissipation needs while maintaining manageable complexity through modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from air cooling to liquid cooling by introducing a liquid cooling system with cold plates and coolant circulation. This hydraulic approach enables significantly higher heat dissipation capability for high-performance CPUs and GPUs compared to traditional air cooling methods.
2Temperature
If liquid cooling system is used, then heat dissipation capability is improved, but fan module replacement requires tools and takes long time
Solution Approach 1:
The fan module is segmented as a complete functional unit with pre-assembled components including the fan assembly, mounting brackets, and electrical connections. This segmentation allows the entire fan module to be replaced as a single unit without tools, dramatically reducing maintenance time while maintaining the liquid cooling system's superior heat dissipation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure incorporates dynamic elements such as snap-fit connections and flexible electrical contacts that enable tool-free installation and removal. These dynamic features allow the fan module to be quickly secured or released by simple pushing or pulling actions, reducing maintenance time while ensuring reliable operation during heat dissipation.
3Ease of operation
If modular fan module design is used, then maintenance and replacement are simplified, but positioning and fixation require precision
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure incorporates asymmetric features such as keyed slots, directional guides, and non-symmetric fastening points that provide inherent positioning guidance. These asymmetric elements ensure correct orientation and precise positioning during tool-free installation, eliminating the need for high manufacturing precision while simplifying maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design includes self-aligning features and self-securing mechanisms that automatically position and fix the fan module during installation. The mounting structure provides self-service positioning through features like spring-loaded contacts and automatic engagement elements, reducing the need for precise manual positioning while ensuring reliable fixation.
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
Facilitates rapid and tool-free installation and disassembly of fan modules, reducing maintenance time and manpower requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The cold plate includes a micro-channel structure for heat exchange
Implementation Method 2
the heat generated by the coolant still needs to be dissipated over a large area through the multiple fans cooperated with the heat exchanger
Implementation Method 3
The cold plate includes a micro-channel structure for heat exchange
Implementation Method 4
the heat generated by the coolant still needs to be dissipated over a large area through the multiple fans cooperated with the heat exchanger
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling cabinet and a fan module thereof are disclosed. The fan module is detachably disposed on a mounting base including a square window, an alignment platform and an engagement hole. The alignment platform is disposed at two diagonally opposite corners, and the engagement hole is disposed on the alignment platform. The fan module includes a square housing, an alignment recess and an engagement component. The alignment recess is disposed at two diagonally opposite corners, and recessed from a rear side to a front side of the square housing. The engagement component runs through the alignment recess. When the alignment recess and the alignment platform are aligned, the fan module is accommodated in the mounting base. When the alignment recess and the alignment platform are matched, the engagement component is allowed rotating to engage with the engagement hole, so that the fan module is locked on the mounting base.