Multi-Channel Heat Exchanger for Orientation-Independent Two-Phase Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heat pipes are limited by their orientation relative to gravity and require pumping elements, while oscillating heat pipes are bulky and expensive, making them impractical for efficient heat exchange.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanger with angled internal channels and a two-phase working fluid, allowing operation in both conventional and oscillating modes based on inclination, without external pumping elements, and featuring a compact design for easy integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional heat pipes use gravity-based liquid return, then the system is simple and reliable, but the arrangement is greatly limited by orientation relative to gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the channel cross-section (dimensions adapted to achieve Eötvös number ≤ 2) to enable surface tension-driven flow that replaces gravity-dependent operation, allowing the heat pipe to function in various orientations without complex pumping mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical gravity-dependent return mechanism with surface tension forces acting on the two-phase fluid in specially dimensioned channels, eliminating the need for orientation constraints while maintaining simplicity and reliability
2Device complexity
If oscillating heat pipes use serpentine tube design, then external pumping is not required, but the structure is bulky and difficult to arrange
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the heat pipe into straight sections with internal partitions creating multiple channels, replacing the bulky serpentine design while maintaining the oscillating flow mechanism and reducing overall volume for easier system integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses internal partitions to create multi-channel flow paths within a compact structure, effectively utilizing three-dimensional space to achieve oscillating heat pipe functionality without the large footprint of traditional serpentine designs
3Device complexity
If oscillating heat pipes use serpentine tube design, then external pumping is not required, but manufacture is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the heat pipe into straight sections with internal partitions, which are easier and more cost-effective to manufacture than complex serpentine tubes, while still achieving the desired oscillating flow behavior without external pumping
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies channel cross-sectional parameters to achieve Eötvös number ≤ 2, enabling cost-effective manufacturing with standard fabrication techniques while maintaining the passive oscillating operation without expensive complex geometries
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 heat exchanger provides efficient heat exchange across various orientations, maintaining reliability and cost-effectiveness, with thermal resistances comparable to conventional heat pipes and oscillating heat pipes.
Implementation Method 1
At the evaporator, the fluid in the liquid state vaporizes by absorbing thermal energy emitted by the hot source
Implementation Method 2
The vapor then flows through the heat pipe to the other end (commonly called the condenser) located at a heat sink (commonly called the cold source) where it condenses to return to the liquid state. Condensation allows thermal energy to be released to the cold source
Implementation Method 3
each internal channel has a cross-section in which the dimensions are adapted so that the working fluid contained in the internal channel has an Eötvös number Eo that is less than or equal to 2 with Eo=(Δρ*g*Dh2)/σ where σ is the surface tension
Data Source
AI summary
A heat exchanger including a body containing a working fluid and including a first manifold and a second manifold; at least one internal partition being arranged in the body to form at least two internal channels, each internal channel being in fluid communication with the first manifold and with the second manifold; the body being intended to be thermally coupled to a cold source at a first part and to a hot source at a second part, the first part and the second part being connected by an elbow part; and wherein each internal channel has a cross-section in which the dimensions are adapted so that the working fluid contained in the internal channel has an Eötvös number Eo that is less than or equal to 2.