Redundant Coolant Pump Module With Hot-Swap Valve Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current liquid cooling systems require pumps to remain operational at all times, leading to unnecessary computer downtime when pumps need replacement or maintenance, and disconnecting malfunctioning pumps can result in coolant leaks.
Innovation Solution
A coolant distribution unit with electronically controlled ball valves allows for hot-swappable pumps, enabling seamless transition to a functional pump without disrupting coolant flow, using a manifold system with separation and merge manifolds to maintain circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single pump is used in the liquid cooling system, then the system structure is simple, but the system downtime increases when pump maintenance or replacement is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the cooling circulation into multiple independent pump units (first pump and second pump), each capable of operating independently. This segmentation allows one pump to be maintained while the other continues cooling operations, reducing system downtime without significantly increasing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter from single-pump mode to dual-pump redundant mode. By configuring multiple pumps with flow diversion capability, the system maintains cooling effectiveness while enabling maintenance of individual pumps without shutting down the entire system.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If connectors are closed to prevent leaking during pump removal, then coolant leakage is prevented, but the pump replacement process becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by closing the flow control valve on the operational pump before removing the malfunctioning pump. This pre-closes the coolant path, preventing leakage during pump removal without requiring complex connector closure procedures. The automated valve control simplifies the operation while maintaining leak prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical connector closure with automated electronic flow control valves. The valve control input automatically actuates the valve to close the coolant path, eliminating the need for operators to manually close complex connectors, thereby preventing leakage while simplifying the replacement process.
3Reliability
If multiple pumps are used in the liquid cooling system, then system reliability improves during maintenance, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both pumps are configured with identical inlet and outlet connectors that can connect to the same coolant distribution manifold. This universal configuration allows either pump to serve any cooling zone and enables seamless failover. The standardized multi-functional design maintains reliability while controlling complexity through interchangeability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coolant distribution manifold acts as an intermediary between the multiple pumps and the cooling zones. It provides a centralized control point for flow distribution and enables the pumps to be added, removed, or maintained without affecting the overall system architecture, thus managing complexity while maintaining reliability.
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
Enables continuous operation of the cooling system during pump replacement or maintenance, preventing coolant leaks and minimizing downtime by ensuring uninterrupted coolant circulation.
Implementation Method 1
The quick connector of each pump has a motorized ball valve that may be rotated to an open position to allow coolant flow
Implementation Method 2
The pump modules each have a pair of quick connectors for the liquid coolant... The pump modules circulate liquid coolant to a manifold unit
Implementation Method 3
the cooling liquid source includes a closed loop cooling system and an open loop cooling system to facilitate heat exchange
Data Source
AI summary
A pump module for a coolant distribution unit for cooling a heat-generating component is disclosed. A manifold unit has a supply connector to supply coolant to the heat-generating component and a collection connector to collect coolant from a heat exchanger. A first replaceable pump circulates coolant and includes an inlet connector having a valve powered by a first motor. An outlet connector has a valve powered by a second motor. The first pump has an input to activate the motors to move the valves between an open position allowing coolant flow and a closed position. A second pump has an inlet and an outlet coupled to the manifold. The second pump circulates coolant from the inlet to the outlet. The first pump may be disconnected from the manifold unit by activating the motors to close the valves, while the second pump continues to circulate coolant through the manifold unit.