Liquid-Level Header for Valve-Free Condenser Flow Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current split condenser systems rely on valves and flow control devices that increase cost, complexity, and potential failure points, complicating refrigerant flow management.
Innovation Solution
A liquid level in a header is used to block vapor communication with condensers, eliminating the need for flow control devices and allowing for efficient control of cooling capacity by selectively distributing cooling media.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If valves and flow control devices are used to stop or limit refrigerant flow into condensers, then cooling capacity control is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes valves and flow control devices from the system entirely, extracting the problematic components that caused complexity. Instead of using mechanical valves to control refrigerant flow, the system relies on natural two-phase flow dynamics and pressure differential to achieve cooling capacity control, thereby eliminating the sources of device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses self-regulating two-phase flow dynamics where the refrigerant automatically distributes itself to condensers based on system conditions. The pressure differential and phase change characteristics enable automatic flow control without external mechanical intervention, allowing the system to self-adjust cooling capacity without complex valve mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If valves and flow control devices are installed to manage refrigerant flow, then cooling distribution is controlled, but potential failure points increase
Solution Approach 1:
By completely removing valves and flow control devices from the refrigerant distribution system, the patent eliminates the mechanical components that serve as potential failure points. The system achieves reliable cooling distribution through passive two-phase flow mechanisms that have no moving parts to fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical valve-based flow control system with a physics-based two-phase flow distribution mechanism. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear, sealing failures, and actuation problems associated with valves, achieving more reliable refrigerant distribution through natural fluid dynamics.
3Adaptability or versatility
If valves are used to control refrigerant flow, then cooling capacity can be adjusted, but cost and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates valves and flow control devices from the system, removing the need for expensive mechanical components and their associated maintenance. The cooling capacity adjustment is achieved through simpler, more cost-effective means using natural two-phase flow behavior and system pressure dynamics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the inherent properties of two-phase refrigerant flow to automatically adjust cooling capacity based on system conditions. This self-regulating behavior eliminates the need for expensive valve actuators, control systems, and maintenance, achieving cost-effective adaptability through physics-based automation.
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 approach simplifies the cooling system, reduces costs, and minimizes failure points by eliminating the need for valves while enhancing cooling capacity control.
Implementation Method 1
By using a liquid level in a header to block vapor communication with a condenser
Implementation Method 2
a heat source to transfer heat to a cooling media
Implementation Method 3
cooling media can be in a first phase when entering the header and in a second phase when exiting the header
Data Source
AI summary
A closed loop cooling system can include a first condenser having a first inlet to receive a cooling media for removing heat from a heat source, a second condenser having a second inlet to receive the cooling media, and a header for being plumbed between a heat source and the condensers. The second condenser can be plumbed in parallel with the first condenser. The header can receive the cooling media from the heat source and selectively distribute the cooling media to either or both of the condensers. The header can have a first outlet fluidically coupled to the first inlet and a second outlet fluidically coupled to the second inlet. The second outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet.