Liquid-Cooled Node Leak Drainage for PCB Short-Circuit Prevention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid leakage monitoring systems for liquid cooling heat dissipation apparatuses in server technologies face challenges in achieving 100% coverage and timely detection, leading to potential damage from coolant spills across multiple nodes and electronic components.
Innovation Solution
A node and electronic device design incorporating a drainage pipe with a specific gap outside the liquid pipe, connected to a liquid receiving tray with a first liquid leakage sensor, which sends an alarm signal upon detection of coolant, and includes a liquid isolation area to contain leaks, reducing the risk of coolant spreading and facilitating prompt action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flat cable structure is used for connections, then the device can be disassembled and reassembled, but connection reliability deteriorates due to repeated stress on connection parts
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separable modules (first electronic device and second electronic device) connected through a connector, allowing independent disassembly and reassembly while maintaining reliable connections through dedicated contact structures
Solution Approach 2:
Connection parts are pre-formed with specific geometries (protrusions and recesses) that guide proper alignment and reduce stress during connection, preventing damage before it occurs
2Reliability
If connection parts are made robust to withstand repeated stress, then connection reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connection functions (mechanical attachment, electrical connection, alignment guidance) are merged into an integrated connector assembly, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides structural support, electrical connectivity, and alignment features, eliminating the need for separate dedicated parts for each function
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
Enhances monitoring coverage and timeliness, preventing damage by containing leaks and allowing for immediate response to liquid pipe leakage, thereby minimizing losses and protecting electronic components.
Implementation Method 1
A first liquid leakage sensor is disposed in the liquid receiving tray. When detecting that there is leaked coolant in the liquid receiving tray, the first liquid leakage sensor sends an alarm signal
Implementation Method 2
When leakage occurs in the liquid pipe, leaked coolant flows in the drainage pipe, and does not flow randomly, to prevent a problem such as a short circuit on the circuit board. The drainage pipe is connected to a liquid receiving tray, and the leaked coolant flows through the drainage pipe into the liquid receiving tray
Implementation Method 3
The liquid pipe is disposed on the circuit board, and is configured to dissipate heat for the electronic component on the circuit board
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
This application provides a node and an electronic device. The node includes a structural module, a circuit board, a liquid pipe, and a liquid leakage monitoring apparatus. The circuit board is securely mounted on the structural module, and an electronic component including a chip is disposed on the circuit board. The liquid pipe is disposed on the circuit board, and is configured to dissipate heat for the electronic component on the circuit board. The liquid leakage monitoring apparatus includes a drainage pipe sleeved outside the liquid pipe. There is a specific gap between the drainage pipe and the liquid pipe. When leakage occurs in the liquid pipe, leaked coolant flows in the drainage pipe, and does not flow randomly, to prevent a problem such as a short circuit on the circuit board. The drainage pipe is connected to a liquid receiving tray, and the leaked coolant flows through the drainage pipe into the liquid receiving tray. A first liquid leakage sensor is disposed in the liquid receiving tray. When detecting that there is leaked coolant in the liquid receiving tray, the first liquid leakage sensor sends an alarm signal, so that a system or an operator can store data or cut off power supply, to reduce a loss caused by leakage of the liquid pipe.