Compact Modular CPU Cooling Unit with Integrated Heat Exchanger
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CPU cooling systems are not compact and modular, leading to inefficient use of space and independent operation of components like liquid pumps, heat exchangers, and fans, which complicates the cooling process and scalability.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, modular cooling unit integrating a cold plate, air-to-liquid heat exchanger, liquid pump, and associated components into a compact structure that fits within the existing space of a computer case, optimizing airflow and component placement to enhance cooling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate liquid cooling components (pump, heat exchanger, fan) are used independently in the computer case, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system occupies excessive space and lacks modularity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the liquid pump, air-to-liquid heat exchanger, and fan into a single integrated cooling unit that attaches to the CPU. This merging of previously separate components achieves both modularity (as a unified attachable unit) and space efficiency (consolidated volume), directly resolving the technical contradiction between adaptability and space occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated cooling unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: the pump circulates coolant, the heat exchanger transfers heat from liquid to air, and the fan forces air flow through the heat exchanger. This multi-functionality in a single unit enhances adaptability while minimizing the total volume required in the computer case.
2Temperature
If traditional air cooling with heat sinks is used, then the system is simple and occupies minimal space, but it becomes insufficient when CPUs produce higher wattages of waste heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs liquid cooling hydraulics (pump and coolant circulation) combined with air cooling (fan and heat exchanger) in an integrated unit. This approach achieves superior CPU cooling effectiveness for high-wattage processors while maintaining relatively simple device complexity through the compact, pre-integrated design of the cooling components.
3Productivity
If liquid cooling components are designed into the computer case initially, then the system provides adequate cooling capacity, but the components are not compact and do not utilize available space efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cooling system into a modular unit that can be attached to the CPU independently of the case structure. This segmentation allows the cooling components to be compactly arranged around the CPU, efficiently utilizing the space immediately available around the processor rather than requiring distributed placement throughout the case, thereby maintaining high cooling capacity with superior space utilization.
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
The modular unit efficiently utilizes space, improves airflow, and allows for easy scaling and retro-fitting, providing effective cooling for multiple CPUs without modifying the case, thereby enhancing cooling performance and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
heat is extracted by some type of add on cooling assembly that is thermally bonded to the exposed surface
Implementation Method 2
The coolant exiting the cold plate runs through a liquid to air heat exchanger
Implementation Method 3
a fan mounted somewhere on or inside the computer case forced air over the cooling fins
Implementation Method 4
the liquid pump as well
Data Source
AI summary
A modular CPU cooling unit designed to fit within the available space within an existing box or cabinet containing a CPU. The fan, pump and liquid to air cross flow heat exchanger are fitted within the available volume with the fan spaced away from the heat exchanger a suitable distance to pull air through the entire face area of the heat exchanger, even though it is considerably larger than the fan.