Server Module Cooling Pipe Orientation for PCB Insertion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing configurations for cooling electronic components on printed circuit boards often result in cooling pipes interfering with other components when the insertion/withdrawal direction of the printed circuit board is not aligned with the connection direction of the cooling pipes, making it difficult to insert or remove the board.

Innovation Solution

A module and server design where the connection pipe extends in a direction different from the insertion/withdrawal direction of the connection terminal portion, allowing the substrate to be easily inserted and withdrawn without interfering with other components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If the cooling pipe extends from the edge of the printed circuit board opposite to the connector edge, then the cooling function is achieved, but the cooling pipe interferes with other components during insertion and withdrawal

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecooling functionVSAvoidinsertion and withdrawal

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection pipe extends from a position on the edge of the printed circuit board that is different from both the connector edge and the opposite edge. This spatial repositioning in a different dimension allows the pipe to exit the board without interfering with components in the insertion/withdrawal path, resolving the contradiction between achieving cooling function and maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the insertion/withdrawal direction of the printed circuit board is not aligned with the connection direction of the cooling pipes, then flexibility in board orientation is achieved, but the cooling pipes interfere with other components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveboard orientation flexibilityVSAvoidcomponent interference

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection pipe is positioned at a specific local region on the board edge that is optimized for its function. By selecting a particular exit position on the edge (neither at the connector edge nor at the opposite edge), the design achieves both adaptability in board orientation and avoidance of component interference in the insertion/withdrawal path

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 easy insertion and withdrawal of the substrate by positioning the connection pipe in a manner that avoids interference with other components, improving the operational efficiency of the module and server.

Implementation Method 1

a cooling unit that cools a heat-generating component provided on the substrate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat transfer: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS11246242B2Module, and server

Publication Date: 2022.02.08 NEC PLATFROMS LTD

AI summary

A module including a substrate; a cooling unit that cools a heat-generating component provided on the substrate; a connection terminal portion provided on the substrate; and a connection pipe that is connected to the cooling unit and that extends in a direction different from a direction of at least one of insertion and withdrawal of the connection terminal portion, wherein the connection pipe extends from a side towards the connection terminal portion.