Two-Phase Cooling Module With Asymmetric Channels for Vapor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current liquid cooling methods for electronic devices face efficiency issues due to vapor generation, requiring additional pumping devices and leading to decreased cooling performance, especially in high-power density applications like semiconductor chips.
Innovation Solution
A two-phase cooling fluid circulation module with asymmetrical protrusions and channels that direct coolant and vapor flow in one direction without external pumping, utilizing materials like aluminum, copper, or silicon, and hydrophobic materials to enhance heat transfer and reduce power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If liquid cooling methods are used to handle high heat generation, then cooling efficiency is improved, but vapor generation occurs leading to decreased cooling performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetrical protrusions with different first and second angles on the cooling plate surface. This asymmetrical geometry creates directional flow characteristics that guide vapor movement away from the heating portion while maintaining liquid coolant contact, thereby improving cooling efficiency while preventing vapor accumulation that would otherwise reduce performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effect of vapor generation into a beneficial flow mechanism. By designing the cooling channel and protrusion geometry to exploit vapor buoyancy and phase change dynamics, the system uses vapor generation to drive natural circulation patterns that enhance heat removal without requiring additional pumping, thus transforming the harmful vapor into a useful flow driver
2Speed
If additional pumping devices are installed to move coolant, then fluid circulation is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a self-circulating cooling system where the cooling plate's asymmetrical protrusions and channel geometry automatically generate fluid circulation through natural convection and phase change forces. The system uses its own operational characteristics (vapor generation, density differences) to drive coolant flow without external pumping devices, achieving self-service operation that reduces both device complexity and power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical pumping systems with a passive fluid dynamics-based circulation mechanism. By utilizing natural convection currents, vapor buoyancy, and carefully designed channel geometries, the system achieves coolant circulation through non-mechanical means, eliminating the need for motors, pumps, and associated control systems
3Ease of operation
If asymmetrical protrusions are designed with different angles, then vapor and coolant flow direction is controlled, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating zones with different protrusion characteristics along the cooling plate. The first and second angles are optimized for specific local flow requirements: one angle promotes vapor departure while the other enhances liquid coolant replenishment. This localized optimization achieves superior flow control without requiring extreme precision across the entire surface, as each zone's geometry is tailored to its specific functional need
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 module increases energy and cooling efficiency by moving vapor and coolant in one direction, reducing the need for external pumping and minimizing power consumption, while maintaining effective heat transfer, thus addressing the efficiency limitations of existing cooling methods.
Implementation Method 1
a first cooling channel extending between the first surface and the second surface in a first direction; a cooling fluid provided in the first cooling channel
Implementation Method 2
a two-phase liquid cooling method, involving latent heat through a phase change in a coolant
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling fluid circulation module includes: a first surface having a planar form and contacting a heating portion; a second surface opposite to the first surface and having a planar form, the second surface being spaced apart from the first surface; a first cooling channel extending between the first surface and the second surface in a first direction; a cooling fluid provided in the first cooling channel; and a plurality of first protrusions arranged along a plane on the second surface on which the first cooling channel extends, wherein each of the plurality of first protrusions may include a first surface inclined from the second surface by a first angle and a second surface inclined from the second surface by a second angle that is different than the first angle.