PCB Coolant Leak Detection via Conductive Solution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information handling systems face challenges in detecting coolant leaks, particularly due to the non-conductive nature of the coolant, which can lead to short circuits and corrosion, and existing detection methods are ineffective in determining leaks through electrical conductivity.
Innovation Solution
A device with multiple exposed conductors separated by a distance and a material that forms an electrically conductive solution when dissolved by a polar solvent is used, where the resistance value is monitored to detect leaks, and information is provided to indicate the presence of a leak, potentially shutting down the system if a threshold resistance value is reached.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If coolant is used to remove heat from components, then heat removal efficiency is improved, but the risk of short circuits and corrosion increases due to coolant leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection device that uses a separate conductive solution (different from the coolant) to detect leaks. This mediator substance allows the system to monitor for coolant presence without directly exposing electrical components to the coolant, thus reducing short circuit risk while maintaining effective heat removal
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical/electrical contact detection methods with an electrical conductivity-based detection system. By using the conductive properties of the coolant (or conductive solution formed when coolant contacts the detection material) to trigger an alarm, the system substitutes physical proximity sensors with electrical field-based detection, improving reliability
2Device complexity
If existing detection methods are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but leak detection capability is insufficient due to non-conductive coolant properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from monitoring the coolant's inherent non-conductive properties to monitoring the conductive properties of a solution formed when coolant contacts a specific material. This parameter change enables reliable electrical detection while maintaining relatively simple device implementation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite detection mechanism combining non-conductive coolant with a conductive material substrate. When the coolant contacts this composite structure, it forms a conductive solution that can be detected electrically, thus enhancing detection capability without significantly increasing overall system 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
Effectively detects coolant leaks by forming a conductive solution that allows for resistance monitoring, preventing damage from short circuits and corrosion, and enabling timely system shutdown to prevent further damage.
Implementation Method 1
a material that includes substance that forms an electrically conductive solution when dissolved by a polar solvent
Implementation Method 2
forms an electrically conductive solution that allows for resistance monitoring
Data Source
AI summary
In one or more embodiments, a device may include a printed circuit board that includes at least two exposed conductor traces on a first side of the printed circuit board that are not in contact with each other; a material, that includes a substance that forms an electrically conductive solution when dissolved by a polar solvent, in contact with the at least two exposed conductor traces and fastened to at least one of the printed circuit board and the at least two exposed conductor traces; and a fastener on a second side of the printed circuit board, opposite the first side of the printed circuit board, among others.