Self-Cooling Stretchable Circuit With Liquid Metal Conduits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stretchable electronics used for high-power applications near human skin face thermal isolation issues, leading to excessive heat generation and discomfort due to the lack of effective heat dissipation.
Innovation Solution
A self-cooling stretchable electrical circuit design featuring a platform made of elastic materials with internal fluid conduits filled with electrically conductive liquids, where a heat sink is integrated to dissipate heat generated by the circuit components, and a pump circulates the liquid to enhance thermal coupling with the heat sink.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If liquid metal traces are used to form electrical components for high-power applications, then electrical conductivity and power capability are improved, but heat generation increases causing thermal discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a liquid metal as an intermediary cooling medium that serves dual functions: it acts as the electrically conductive material for power transmission and simultaneously serves as the coolant for heat dissipation. The liquid metal circulates through conduits positioned adjacent to heat-generating electrical components, absorbing heat and transporting it to external heat sinks, thereby resolving the thermal discomfort issue while maintaining high power capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid metal performs multiple functions within the system: it provides electrical conductivity for power transmission, acts as a cooling fluid for heat dissipation, and serves as the working medium for both electrical and thermal management. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve high power capability while effectively managing heat generation, eliminating the need for separate conductive and cooling systems.
2Reliability
If conventional stretchable electronics are attached to skin for monitoring applications, then sensing capability is achieved, but thermal isolation causes excessive heat buildup
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid metal circulating through the conduit acts as a thermal intermediary between the skin-mounted electronics and external heat sinks. It absorbs excess heat from the electronics and transports it away from the skin interface, maintaining a safe operating temperature while preserving the sensing capability of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs hydraulic circulation of liquid metal through sealed conduits to achieve active thermal management. The fluid circulation mechanism enables continuous heat removal from the skin-mounted electronics, preventing thermal buildup while maintaining device functionality and reliability.
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 design significantly reduces heat-related discomfort by allowing higher current usage while maintaining a safe operating temperature, enabling more practical and comfortable high-power applications on or near the skin.
Implementation Method 1
the heated liquid from the electrical component thermally couples with the heat sink so that the heat sink dissipates the heat from the liquid
Implementation Method 2
A pump then circulates the electrically conductive liquid, either continuously or discontinuously (e.g., in drops), through the conduit
Data Source
AI summary
Self-cooling stretchable electrical circuits with a conduit forming an electrical component and containing electrically conductive liquid are disclosed. They are formed of a platform made of a stretchable material. At least one fluid conduit is formed in the platform and the conduit is formed into an electrical component and filled with the electrically conductive liquid metal. A portion of the conduit is positioned adjacent a heat sink while a pump circulates the liquid through the conduit wherein the metal is cooled at the heat sink.