Thermoelectric Generator Integrated Heat Exchanger for Network Node Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communications network nodes face challenges in efficiently powering outdoor equipment, leading to potential overheating and increased maintenance needs due to external power supply requirements and heat dissipation.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a thermoelectric generator within the heat exchanger system, which converts heat from the equipment into electrical power, reducing the need for external power and minimizing internal heat, is implemented. This system includes a plurality of thermocouple devices connected in serial and parallel arrangements to optimize energy recovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If external power supply is used to power network node equipment outdoors, then the equipment can operate continuously, but the equipment generates excessive heat and requires increased cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful waste heat generated by the equipment into useful electrical energy through a thermoelectric generator. The heat exchanger captures waste heat from the equipment and transfers it to the thermoelectric generator, which converts this thermal energy into electricity to power the equipment, thereby transforming the harmful thermal waste into a beneficial power source and reducing the need for external power supply and cooling
2Duration of action of stationary object
If external power supply is used to power network node equipment, then the equipment can operate continuously, but maintenance needs increase due to power supply requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves self-service by generating its own power through the thermoelectric generator that converts waste heat into electricity. This self-powered mechanism eliminates the need for external power connections and reduces maintenance requirements associated with power supply infrastructure, making the remote network node more autonomous and easier to maintain
3Temperature
If heat exchanger is added to manage thermal output, then cooling requirements are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the heat exchanger and thermoelectric generator into an integrated thermal management system. The heat exchanger not only cools the equipment by capturing waste heat but also serves as the heat source for the thermoelectric generator. This dual-function integration reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate cooling and power generation systems
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 solution reduces the external power required for the network nodes, decreases internal heat, and lowers maintenance needs by utilizing waste heat to generate power, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and reducing cooling requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The thermoelectric generator preferably comprises a plurality of thermocouple devices connected in serial and parallel arrangement
Data Source
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AI summary
Communications network node comprising communications equipment (10), an inlet region (3) for coolant to flow towards the equipment and an outlet region (5) for the coolant to flow away from the equipment, a pathway (7a, 7b) from the outlet region to the inlet region, and, a heat exchanger (9) in thermal communication with the pathway.