Split PCA Axial Pump for Compact Liquid Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Micro-axial pumps used in liquid cooling systems face challenges in reducing size further due to the addition of controller PCA, which increases the overall height and dimensions, making them unsuitable for compact applications such as PCI card spaces or 1U servers.
Innovation Solution
The controller PCA is integrated within the pump housing in a split configuration straddling the liquid flow path, avoiding an increase in height and dimensions by positioning it in existing open spaces within the pump, allowing for easier assembly and maintaining optimal performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the controller PCA is added to the micro-axial pump, then the pump can be controlled and operated, but the overall height and dimensions of the pump increase, making it unsuitable for compact applications
Solution Approach 1:
The controller PCA is nested within the pump housing, utilizing the existing internal space. The PCA is positioned to straddle the liquid flow path, fitting into the available volume without requiring additional external space, thereby maintaining compact dimensions while adding control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The PCA is oriented transversely to the liquid flow path, utilizing the width dimension rather than increasing the height dimension. This dimensional reorientation allows the PCA to be integrated without increasing the overall pump height, accommodating compact application requirements.
2Length of stationary object
If the controller PCA is integrated within the pump housing, then the pump size is reduced for compact applications, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The PCA is divided into two separate portions that can be independently assembled. Each portion is attached to opposite sides of the housing, allowing for modular assembly. This segmentation simplifies the assembly process by enabling step-by-step installation rather than requiring complex integrated assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The PCA portions are pre-positioned and secured to the housing before final assembly. This preliminary positioning ensures proper alignment and simplifies subsequent assembly steps, reducing overall assembly complexity despite the integrated design.
3Length of stationary object
If the PCA is positioned to straddle the liquid flow path, then the pump dimensions are minimized, but the liquid flow path is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The PCA portions are positioned close to the liquid flow path but maintain sufficient clearance to avoid obstruction. The thin profile of the PCA allows it to straddle the flow path without significantly impeding liquid flow, minimizing the impact on pump productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
An axial pump for delivering liquid coolant to cool an electronic device comprises a conduit defining a liquid flow path for the liquid coolant, an impeller in the conduit, a motor stator configured to drive rotation of the impeller about an axis of rotation parallel to the liquid flow path, and a printed circuit board assembly (PCA). The PCA comprises a first printed circuit board (PCB) portion and a second PCB portion electrically connected together by a connecting portion, with the PCA straddling the conduit such that the first PCB portion is on one lateral side of the conduit and the second PCB portion is on an opposite lateral side of the conduit and the connecting portion extending across the conduit.