Remote Intake Conduit for Fan Module Airflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Low airflow regions within computer systems lead to inadequate heat dissipation, causing performance issues or damage to components, as existing cooling methods fail to effectively address airflow limitations.
Innovation Solution
A remote intake system is introduced, comprising a cowling with a remote inlet and outlet, and a conduit that directs air from outside the primary intake path into the fan module, enhancing airflow and heat dissipation in low airflow areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If components are placed to maximize space within the chassis, then space utilization is improved, but airflow to certain regions deteriorates causing low airflow regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cooling function into two separate intake paths: a primary intake path for the fan module and a secondary remote intake path. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each path, enabling components to be placed in space-maximizing positions while dedicated remote intakes ensure airflow reaches previously underserved regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces remote intake ports and conduits as intermediary structures that bridge the gap between the fan module and distant components. These intermediaries transport air from the primary intake path to components located in low airflow regions, resolving the contradiction between space utilization and airflow delivery.
2Device complexity
If the intake path is confined to a limited region around the fan module, then the device complexity is reduced, but components outside this region experience insufficient cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the cooling coverage from a two-dimensional area around the fan module to a three-dimensional distribution throughout the chassis by adding remote intake ports positioned at different locations. This dimensional expansion allows airflow to reach components that were previously outside the effective cooling zone without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If components are placed in regions outside the primary intake path, then space utilization is improved, but heat dissipation effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates remote intake ports and conduits as preliminary cooling infrastructure before components are placed in optimized positions. This preliminary action ensures that airflow pathways are established in advance, allowing components to be positioned for maximum space utilization while guaranteed cooling delivery through the pre-configured remote intake system.
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 remote intake system significantly increases airflow and heat dissipation in low airflow regions, allowing for improved cooling of components and enabling the placement of elements in areas previously unsuitable due to airflow constraints, thereby enhancing thermal performance and system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The remote conduit is configured to transport the air from the remote inlet to the remote outlet
Implementation Method 2
The cowling is configured to direct air into the fan module
Implementation Method 3
The fans generate airflow through the portion. The airflow assists in dissipating heat generated by elements within the computer system
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
The present disclosure describes an intake system (420) for a fan module (406) within a computer system (400). The intake system includes a cowling (422) positioned in line with an intake path of the fan module. The cowling is configured to direct air into the fan module. The system further includes a remote intake (410) that has a remote inlet (412), a remote outlet (414), and a remote conduit (416). The remote inlet is configured to intake air from around an element (402) that is within the computer system and outside of the intake path of the fan module. The remote outlet is configured to discharge the air from the remote inlet into the intake path of the fan module. The remote conduit is configured to transport the air from the remote inlet to the remote outlet.