Multi-Layer Server Cooling via Vertical Stacking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Automated driving vehicle-mounted computer servers face challenges in compactly and efficiently integrating multiple high-performance components within limited space while maintaining stable operation, particularly due to space constraints and the need for effective cooling.
Innovation Solution
A computer server design featuring multiple layers of fixed plates vertically arranged within a case, with air inlets and outlets for high-pressure airflow generation by fans, and heat sinks for efficient cooling, allowing for the compact integration of components like CPUs, GPUs, and expansion cards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple core components are installed in a vehicle-mounted computer server to achieve high computing capabilities and processing efficiencies, then the computing power and processing efficiency are improved, but the space occupation increases and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal component arrangement to vertical stacking arrangement, utilizing the height dimension of the server case. Multiple fixed plates are stacked vertically, each carrying components, thereby increasing computing power without proportionally increasing the horizontal footprint of the server.
Solution Approach 2:
The server interior is segmented into multiple fixed plates, with each plate carrying a subset of components. This segmentation allows for modular organization of high-performance components (CPUs, GPUs, FPGAs) across multiple layers, enabling efficient space utilization while maintaining high computing capabilities.
2Productivity
If multiple core components are installed to improve computing capabilities, then the processing efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Components are segmented and distributed across multiple fixed plates based on their functional relationships. Each fixed plate can be independently managed and maintained, reducing the operational complexity despite having multiple high-performance components. The segmentation allows for systematic organization of CPUs, GPUs, and FPGAs.
3Volume of moving object
If components are arranged compactly and densely to save space, then the space utilization is improved, but the cooling difficulty increases and stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging components vertically across multiple fixed plates rather than horizontally in a single plane, the patent creates multiple cooling zones and improves airflow distribution. This vertical stacking allows cooling fans to effectively reach components on different levels, solving the cooling difficulty associated with compact horizontal arrangements.
4Volume of moving object
If components are arranged compactly and densely to improve space utilization, then the space occupation is reduced, but the stability of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation into multiple fixed plates provides structural stability and facilitates proper airflow channels between layers. Each fixed plate can be independently secured, and the modular structure allows for better thermal management, thereby maintaining operational stability despite high space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical arrangement creates natural airflow paths from bottom to top, improving heat dissipation and operational stability. This dimensional change allows cooling fans to effectively cool components on all levels, preventing overheating and ensuring stable operation in a compact form factor.
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
This design enables stable operation of high-performance components by efficiently cooling them through high-pressure airflow and heat dissipation, addressing the challenge of space constraints and ensuring reliable performance in automated driving systems.
Implementation Method 1
A first set of fans is provided on an inward-facing side of the air inlet, and a second set of fans is provided on an inward-facing side of the air outlet. The first set of fans and the second set of fans generate a high-pressure airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet.
Implementation Method 2
The component on each of the plurality of layers of fixed plates is cooled by the high-pressure airflow.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer server includes a plurality of layers of fixed plates each having at least one corresponding component provided thereon. An air inlet and an air outlet are provided on side panels of an outer shell of the server case. A first set of fans is provided on an inward-facing side of the air inlet, and a second set of fans is provided on an inward-facing side of the air outlet. The first set of fans and the second set of fans generate a high-pressure airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet. The computer server further comprises at least one first heat sink and a second heat sink, wherein the at least one first heat sink is connected to a heat generating component on the plurality of layers of fixed plates.