Gyroid Wick Structure for Predictable Capillary Heat Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional heat transfer apparatuses, such as vapor chambers and heat pipes, have deficiencies in accurately modeling and designing wick structures for optimal thermal performance due to their random and uncontrollable geometry, leading to unpredictable capillary action and inefficient heat dissipation, especially in high-performance computing systems.
Innovation Solution
The development of a heat transfer apparatus with a wick structure featuring a repeatable, configurable, and controlled geometry, optimized using laws of physics to maximize liquid flow, capillary action, and structural integrity, utilizing a gyroidal geometry and variable pore sizes to enhance thermal conductivity and structural support, particularly targeting hot spots in heat sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional random geometry wick structures are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but thermal performance is unpredictable and capillary action is inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the wick structure from random geometry to controlled geometry by changing key parameters: pore size distribution, pore density, and spatial arrangement are all precisely defined and controlled during manufacturing, enabling predictable capillary action and consistent thermal performance across different devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements location-dependent pore characteristics where different regions of the wick structure have different pore sizes and densities optimized for their specific functions: larger pores near the heat source for rapid liquid supply, smaller pores in condensation regions for efficient vapor condensation, creating non-uniform but controlled geometry
2Productivity
If wick structure geometry is optimized for maximum capillary action, then liquid flow improves, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the balance between capillary action and structural integrity by precisely controlling pore size parameters and wall thickness parameters. The controlled geometry allows calculation of optimal pore dimensions that generate sufficient capillary pressure for rapid liquid flow while maintaining adequate material volume for structural support
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite wick structures combining materials with different properties: porous materials optimized for capillary action paired with structurally robust materials for support, creating a composite that achieves both high liquid flow rates and adequate structural integrity
3Ease of manufacture
If uniform pore size is used throughout the wick structure, then manufacturing is easier, but heat transfer efficiency at hot spots is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements spatially varying pore characteristics where pore size and density are tailored to specific locations: regions with higher heat generation densities have optimized pore structures for maximum liquid supply, while cooler regions have different pore characteristics, creating location-dependent quality that enhances overall thermal management
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the wick structure into multiple zones or segments with different pore size distributions and densities, allowing each segment to be optimized for its specific thermal conditions and heat flux requirements, thereby improving localized heat transfer efficiency
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
This solution results in improved thermal management by optimizing heat transfer efficiency, reducing pressure drop, and increasing structural integrity, achieving up to 53.8% faster fill time compared to conventional copper powder wick structures and 47.8% faster compared to copper mesh structures, while ensuring consistent and predictable performance across multiple heat transfer devices.
Implementation Method 1
The wick structure may comprise a repeatable, configurable, and controlled geometry that is configured to move the working fluid from the condenser section to the evaporator section via capillary action
Implementation Method 2
an evaporator section configured to evaporate the working fluid using heat from a heat source
Implementation Method 3
a condenser section configured to dissipate heat carried by the evaporated working fluid through condensation of the evaporated working fluid
Implementation Method 4
thermal conduction through the wick structure
Data Source
AI summary
A heat transfer apparatus including a housing and a wick structure is provided that is configured to dissipate heat from a heat source. The housing defines a chamber that holds working fluid. The wick structure includes a body and pores defined by the body. The heat transfer apparatus defines an evaporator section configured to evaporate the working fluid using heat from a heat source and a condenser section configured to dissipate heat carried by the evaporated working fluid through condensation of the evaporated working fluid. The wick structure has a repeatable, configurable, and controlled geometry optimized to move the working fluid from the condenser section to the evaporator section via capillary action. The body of the wick structure may have a gyroidal geometry. Associated methods are also provided.