MEMS Vibrational Cooling for Aircraft LED Thermal Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-power light systems, such as aircraft exterior LED systems, face inefficiencies and reduced lifespan due to high operating temperatures, as conventional heat dissipation methods are inadequate, leading to potential weight increases and derating of the systems.
Innovation Solution
A microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device with a first arm, second arm, permanent magnet, and coil is integrated into the light assembly, where the coil's electrical energization generates a Lorentz force causing the fan structure to vibrate relative to the magnet, providing efficient cooling for the light source printed circuit board assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If standard heat dissipation methods are used, then heat can be transferred to the front lens, but cooling efficiency is insufficient and operating temperature remains high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a MEMS device with a vibrating fan structure actuated by a coil and permanent magnet assembly. The fan structure vibrates at high frequency to enhance heat dissipation from the light emitting assembly, directly addressing the insufficient cooling efficiency of standard methods while maintaining system reliability through active thermal management
2Temperature
If extended surface areas are added for natural cooling, then cooling capacity increases, but device weight increases by 20-30%
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive mechanical cooling structures (extended surfaces) with an active MEMS-based vibrational cooling system. This substitution achieves enhanced cooling capacity through controlled vibration rather than increased surface area, thereby avoiding the 20-30% weight penalty associated with extended cooling surfaces
3Power
If high-power light systems operate at high temperatures, then power output is maintained, but system lifespan decreases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous active cooling through the MEMS device to maintain optimal operating temperatures during sustained high-power operation. The vibrational cooling mechanism operates continuously to remove heat as it is generated, enabling the system to maintain both high power output and extended lifespan by preventing thermal degradation over time
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 effectively cools high-power light systems, extending their lifespan, allowing operation closer to rated values, reducing weight penalties, and offering precise, efficient cooling with minimal inertia and wear, thus enhancing visibility and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
When the coil is electrically energized, a Lorentz force is generated that causes the fan structure to vibrate relative to the at least one permanent magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device and a light assembly that includes the MEMS device. The MEMS device includes a first arm, a second arm, at least one permanent magnet, a fan structure, and a coil. The first arm has a first arm first end and a first arm second end. The second arm is coupled to, and is spaced apart from, the first arm and has a second arm first end and a second arm second end. The at least one permanent magnet is coupled to the first arm second end. The fan structure is coupled to, and extends in cantilever manner from, the second arm second end and includes a connection end and a free end. The coil is disposed on or within the fan structure. When the coil is electrically energized, a Lorentz force is generated that causes the fan structure to vibrate relative to the permanent magnet.