Micro-Scale Gas Channel Design for Pressure-Driven Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for cooling gases using micro-channel layers face inefficiencies in temperature control due to limitations in pressure differential-induced flow and thermal conductivity across varying geometry and material properties.
Innovation Solution
The design of micro-scale channels with thermally conductive materials and adjustable cross-sectional geometry, combined with a pressure differential system to induce gas flow, enhances temperature control by optimizing flow direction and thermal conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If pressure differential is used to induce gas flow through micro channels, then gas flow is achieved, but temperature control efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the cross-sectional geometry of different micro channel segments. Specific channels have adjusted width and height dimensions to optimize thermal conductivity in regions where temperature control is most critical, while maintaining adequate flow in other regions. This localized geometric optimization resolves the contradiction by enabling both sufficient gas flow and improved temperature control efficiency in different spatial locations within the same heat exchanger system.
2Ease of manufacture
If micro channel geometry is standardized, then manufacturing is simplified, but thermal conductivity varies with geometry and material properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by systematically varying the cross-sectional dimensions (width and height) of micro channels based on their position within the heat exchanger. Rather than using a single standardized geometry, the channel dimensions are adjusted as parameters to optimize thermal conductivity performance. This approach maintains manufacturing feasibility while achieving superior and more consistent thermal conductivity across different operating conditions and locations.
3Reliability
If thermal conductivity is optimized for temperature control, then cooling efficiency improves, but flow direction control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing micro channels with non-uniform cross-sectional geometries that are asymmetric in their optimization approach. Channels in different locations have deliberately different width-to-height ratios and dimensional proportions tailored to their specific thermal and flow requirements. This asymmetric design enables optimized temperature control in each region while the overall pattern remains systematic rather than arbitrarily complex, resolving the contradiction between thermal performance and control complexity.
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 effectively regulates gas temperature through controlled flow and thermal conductivity, improving cooling efficiency across different scales from semiconductor packages to commercial air conditioning systems.
Implementation Method 1
pressure of the gas proximal to the set of inflow openings is atmospheric and the system is such to cause pressure of the gas proximal to the set of outflow openings to be less than atmospheric thereby inducing the gas to flow through the channel
Implementation Method 2
The design of micro-scale channels with thermally conductive materials and adjustable cross-sectional geometry, combined with a pressure differential system to induce gas flow, enhances temperature control by optimizing flow direction and thermal conductivity
Data Source
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AI summary
Materials, components, and methods consistent with the disclosure are directed to the fabrication and use of micro scale channels with a gas, where the micro channel can include a base (110) and a side (120), where the base and the side can be configured to form at least a portion of an inflow opening, and an outflow opening. The micro channel can be configured to accommodate a flow of the gas from the inflow opening to the outflow opening in a first direction substantially perpendicular to a cross section of the micro channel. The side can have a thickness in a range 0.5 μm and 500 μm, where the micro channel with a thickness in a range 0.5 μm and 500 μm is formed, in part, by providing the side on the base.