U.S. patent application number 11/527399 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-29 for liquid cooling apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Takashi Ikeda, Nobuyuki Kondou, Takashi Miwa.
Application Number | 20070068653 11/527399 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37892448 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070068653 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kondou; Nobuyuki ; et
al. |
March 29, 2007 |
Liquid cooling apparatus
Abstract
a liquid cooling apparatus provided on an apparatus having a
heat unit generating heat, and configured to cool the heat unit by
coolant includes; a coolant tank configured to store the coolant; a
radiator configured to cool the coolant; and a coolant pipe which
is a flow path of the coolant and connecting the coolant tank and
the radiator. The coolant tank is arranged adjacent to the radiator
in a horizontal direction when the apparatus disposed statically. A
size of the coolant tank in a vertical direction is larger than a
size of the coolant tank in a horizontal direction when the
apparatus is disposed statically.
Inventors: |
Kondou; Nobuyuki;
(Moriguchi-City, JP) ; Miwa; Takashi; (Higashi
Osaka -City, JP) ; Ikeda; Takashi; (Higashi Osaka
-City, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
NDQ&M WATCHSTONE LLP
1300 EYE STREET, NW
SUITE 1000 WEST TOWER
WASHINGTON
DC
20005
US
|
Assignee: |
Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
Moriguchi
JP
|
Family ID: |
37892448 |
Appl. No.: |
11/527399 |
Filed: |
September 27, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
165/80.4 ;
165/104.32; 348/E9.027 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 1/20 20130101; G06F
2200/201 20130101; F28D 1/0477 20130101; H04N 9/3105 20130101; F28D
2021/0031 20130101; H04N 9/3164 20130101; H04N 9/3144 20130101;
F28D 1/05316 20130101; F28F 9/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
165/080.4 ;
165/104.32 |
International
Class: |
F28D 15/00 20060101
F28D015/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 28, 2005 |
JP |
P2005-282890 |
Feb 28, 2006 |
JP |
P2006-053568 |
Sep 25, 2006 |
JP |
P2006-258960 |
Claims
1. A liquid cooling apparatus provided on an apparatus having a
heat unit generating heat, and configured to cool the heat unit by
coolant comprising: a coolant tank configured to store the coolant;
a radiator configured to cool the coolant; and a coolant pipe which
is a flow path of the coolant and connecting the coolant tank and
the radiator; wherein, the coolant tank is arranged adjacent to the
radiator in a horizontal direction when the apparatus disposed
statically, and a size of the coolant tank in a vertical direction
is larger than a size of the coolant tank in a horizontal direction
when the apparatus is disposed statically.
2. The liquid cooling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, the
coolant pipe connects to a center portion of the coolant tank in a
vertical direction when the apparatus is disposed statically.
3. The liquid cooling apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, the
coolant tank has a shape expanding from the center portion to upper
side and expanding from the center portion to lower side, assuming
a vertical direction as up-down direction when the apparatus is
disposed statically.
4. The liquid cooling apparatus according to claim 2, further
comprising infusion openings for infusing the coolant into the
coolant tank, wherein, the infusion openings are arranged on upper
portion and lower portion of the coolant tank, assuming a vertical
direction as up-down direction when the apparatus is disposed
statically.
5. The liquid cooling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, the
coolant tank includes a pair of cooling tanks, and the pair of
cooling tanks are arranged on the both side of the radiator.
6. A liquid cooling apparatus provided on an apparatus having a
heat unit generating heat, and configured to cool the heat unit by
coolant comprising: a pair of coolant tanks configured to store the
coolant; a radiator configured to cool the coolant; and a coolant
pipe which is a flow path of the coolant and connecting the coolant
tank and the radiator; wherein, the pair of coolant tanks includes
an upper tank arranged on upper side of the radiator and a lower
tank arranged on lower side of the radiator, assuming a vertical
direction as up-down direction when the apparatus is disposed
statically, one part on an upper surface of the upper tank expands
upper than other part on the upper surface of the upper tank, one
part on a lower surface of the lower tank expands lower than other
part on the lower surface of the lower tank, and a shape of the
upper tank is identical with a shape of the lower tank.
7. The liquid cooling apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, one
part on a lower surface of the upper tank expands lower than other
part on the lower surface of the upper tank, and one part on an
upper surface of the lower tank expands upper than other part on
the upper surface of the lower tank.
8. The liquid cooling apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, the
coolant pipe respectively connects to center portions of the upper
tank and the lower tank in a vertical direction when the apparatus
is disposed statically, and the upper tank and the lower tank
respectively have shape expanding from the center portion to upper
side and expanding from the center portion to lower side, assuming
a vertical direction as up-down direction when the apparatus is
disposed statically.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of
priority from prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-282890,
filed on Sep. 28, 2005; prior Japanese Patent Application No.
2006-053568, filed on Feb. 28, 2006; and prior Japanese Patent
Application No. 2006-258960, filed on Sep. 25, 2006; the entire
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a liquid cooling apparatus
configured to cool a heat unit generating heat, by coolant.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] A projection-type image display apparatus provided with a
light source such as a lamp emitting the high brightness light and
a projection lens projecting the light emitted from the light
source on a screen is generally known. The projection type image
display apparatus has a liquid cooling apparatus for cooling the
light source by a coolant, for efficiently suppressing affection
caused by heat that the light source generates.
[0006] Specifically the liquid cooling apparatus has a flow path
where the coolant flows and a radiator cooling the coolant warmed.
The liquid cooling apparatus also has a reserve tank (hereinafter,
upper reserve tank) for temporarily storing the coolant flowed into
the radiator and a reserve tank (hereinafter lower reserve tank)
for temporarily storing the coolant flowed out from the
radiator.
[0007] The liquid cooling apparatus will be described bellow with
reference to FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid cooling
apparatus has pipe 23 connecting an object to be cooled 25 such as
light source and a radiator 200. The object to be cooled 25 is
cooled by circulating coolant through the pipe 23. As a pump 24
pump out the coolant into the pipe 23, the coolant circulates
between the object to be cooled 25 and the radiator 200.
[0008] The radiator 200 has inner radiator pipes 202 where the
coolant passes through, and a heat radiation fin 203 cooling the
coolant. The heat radiation fin 203 is cooled by the wind that blew
to the heat radiation fin 203 from fan 206.
[0009] The liquid cooling apparatus has an upper reserve tank 204
for temporarily storing the coolant flowed into the radiator and a
lower reserve tank 205 for temporarily storing the coolant flowed
out from the radiator.
[0010] The upper reserve tank 204 is arranged on upper side of the
radiator 200 and the lower reserve tank 205 is arranged on lower
side of the radiator 200, assuming a vertical direction as an
up-down direction when the projection-type image display apparatus
disposed statically. Accordingly, a load of the pump 24 pumping out
the coolant into the pipe 23 will be decreased.
[0011] Since, a size of the projection-type image display apparatus
in the up-down direction is restricted, sizes of the upper reserve
tank 204 and the lower reserve tank 205 in the up-down direction
are difficult to be enlarged. On the contrary, a capacity (a
volume) of the upper reserve tank 204 and the lower reserve tank
205 need to be enlarged for saving enough amount of the stored
coolant.
[0012] Therefore, sizes of the upper reserve tank 204 and the lower
reserve tank 205 in a left-right direction (horizontal direction)
are generally larger than the sizes of the upper reserve tank 204
and the lower reserve tank 205 in the up-down direction (vertical
direction).
[0013] A coolant tank 201 storing the coolant is provided on upper
side of the upper reserve tank 204, the coolant infused from an
infusion opening. A layer of air is provided in upper portion of
the coolant tank 201 to improve circulation characteristics of the
coolant (for example, Unexamined Japanese Application No.
2002-357803).
[0014] As the projection-type image display apparatus,
projection-type image display apparatuses of hanging from ceiling
type and of mobile type exist. In the projection-type image display
apparatuses of hanging from ceiling type and of mobile type, since
directions of the projection-type image display apparatuses are
changeable, air may go into the pipe 23 or the like. As the air
goes into the pipe 23, a flow amount of the coolant will be
decreased. Accordingly, efficiency for cooling the object to be
cooled 25 is deteriorated.
[0015] Especially, in the upper reserve tank 204 described above,
since the size in the up-down direction (vertical direction) is
smaller than the size in the left-right direction (horizontal
direction), the air will easily go into the pipe 23 when the
direction of the projection-type image display apparatus (that is,
the liquid cooling apparatus) varies.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] An aspect of a liquid cooling apparatus provided on an
apparatus having a heat unit generating heat, and configured to
cool the heat unit by coolant includes; a coolant tank configured
to store the coolant; a radiator configured to cool the coolant;
and a coolant pipe which is a flow path of the coolant and
connecting the coolant tank and the radiator. The coolant tank is
arranged adjacent to the radiator in a horizontal direction when
the apparatus disposed statically. A size of the coolant tank in a
vertical direction is larger than a size of the coolant tank in a
horizontal direction when the apparatus is disposed statically.
[0017] "Disposing the apparatus statically" is to dispose the
apparatus on the horizontal surface without leaning the
apparatus.
[0018] According this aspect, since the size of the coolant tank in
a vertical direction is larger than the size of the coolant tank in
a horizontal direction, the air merely goes into the coolant pipe,
if the direction of the liquid cooling apparatus varies. The volume
of the coolant tank can be sufficiently kept.
[0019] In an aspect of the liquid cooling apparatus according to
above described aspect, the coolant pipe connects to a center
portion of the coolant tank in a vertical direction when the
apparatus is disposed statically.
[0020] According to this aspect, since the coolant pipe connects to
a center portion of the coolant tank in a vertical direction, the
air merely goes into the coolant pipe, if the liquid cooling
apparatus is disposed upside down.
[0021] In an aspect of the liquid cooling apparatus according to
above described aspect, the coolant tank has a shape expanding from
the center portion to upper side and expanding from the center
portion to lower side, assuming a vertical direction as up-down
direction when the apparatus is disposed statically.
[0022] According to this aspect, since the coolant tank has the
shape expanding from the center portion to upper side and expanding
from the center portion to lower side, the air merely goes into the
coolant pipe, not only if the liquid cooling apparatus is disposed
upside down but if the direction of the liquid cooling apparatus
changes to various directions.
[0023] An aspect of the liquid cooling apparatus according to above
described aspect further includes infusion openings for infusing
the coolant into the coolant tank. The infusion openings are
arranged on upper portion and lower portion of the coolant tank,
assuming a vertical direction as up-down direction when the
apparatus is disposed statically.
[0024] According to this aspect, since the infusion openings are
arranged on upper portion and lower portion of the coolant tank,
one of the infusion openings faces toward upper side, if the liquid
cooling apparatus is disposed upside down. Accordingly, the coolant
is easily infused into the coolant tank.
[0025] In an aspect of the liquid cooling apparatus according to
above described aspect, the coolant tank includes a pair of cooling
tanks, and the pair of cooling tanks are arranged on the both side
of the radiator.
[0026] According to this aspect, since the pair of cooling tanks
are arranged on the both side of the radiator, the air merely goes
into the radiator.
[0027] An aspect of a liquid cooling apparatus provided on an
apparatus having a heat unit generating heat, and configured to
cool the heat unit by coolant includes; a pair of coolant tanks
configured to store the coolant; a radiator configured to cool the
coolant; and a coolant pipe which is a flow path of the coolant and
connecting the coolant tank and the radiator. The pair of coolant
tanks includes an upper tank arranged on upper side of the radiator
and a lower tank arranged on lower side of the radiator, assuming a
vertical direction as up-down direction when the apparatus is
disposed statically. One part on an upper surface of the upper tank
expands upper than other part on the upper surface of the upper
tank, and one part on a lower surface of the lower tank expands
lower than other part on the lower surface of the lower tank. A
shape of the upper tank is identical with a shape of the lower
tank
[0028] According to this aspect, since the one part on the upper
surface of the upper tank expands upper than the other part on the
upper surface of the upper tank, the air gathers around the one
part on the upper surface of the upper tank which expands upper
than the other part on the upper surface of the upper tank.
Therefore, the air merely goes into the coolant pipe, if the
direction of the liquid cooling apparatus varies.
[0029] Since the shape of the upper tank is identical with the
shape of the lower tank, the air merely goes into the coolant pipe,
if the liquid cooling apparatus is disposed upside down.
[0030] In an aspect of the liquid cooling apparatus according to
above described aspect, one part on a lower surface of the upper
tank expands lower than other part on the lower surface of the
upper tank, and one part on an upper surface of the lower tank
expands upper than other part on the upper surface of the lower
tank.
[0031] According to this aspect, since the one part on an upper
surface of the lower tank expands upper than the other part on the
upper surface of the lower tank, the air gathers around the one
part on the upper surface of the lower tank which expands upper
than the other part on the upper surface of the lower tank.
Therefore, the air merely goes into the coolant pipe, if the
direction of the liquid cooling apparatus varies.
[0032] Since the shape of the upper tank is identical with the
shape of the lower tank, the air merely goes into the coolant pipe,
if the liquid cooling apparatus is disposed upside down.
[0033] In an aspect of the liquid cooling apparatus according to
above described aspect, the coolant pipe respectively connects to
center portions of the upper tank and the lower tank in a vertical
direction when the apparatus is disposed statically. The upper tank
and the lower tank respectively have shape expanding from the
center portion to upper side and expanding from the center portion
to lower side, assuming a vertical direction as up-down direction
when the apparatus is disposed statically.
[0034] According to this aspect, since the upper tank and the lower
tank respectively have the shape expanding from the center portion
to upper side and expanding from the center portion to lower side,
the air merely goes into the coolant pipe, not only if the liquid
cooling apparatus is disposed upside down but if the direction of
the liquid cooling apparatus changes to various directions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a liquid cooling
apparatus related to the present invention.
[0036] FIGS. 2A and 2B are explanatory diagrams showing a liquid
cooling apparatus of an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.
2A shows the normal arrangement, and FIG. 2B shows the upside down
arrangement.
[0037] FIGS. 3A and 3B are explanatory diagrams showing another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. FIG. 3A shows the normal arrangement, and FIG.
3B shows the upside down arrangement.
[0038] FIGS. 4A and 4B are explanatory diagrams showing still
another example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment
of the present invention. FIG. 4A shows the normal arrangement, and
FIG. 4B shows the upside down arrangement.
[0039] FIGS. 5A and 5B are explanatory diagrams showing still
another example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment
of the present invention. FIG. 5A shows the normal arrangement, and
FIG. 5B shows the upside down arrangement.
[0040] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0041] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0042] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0043] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0044] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0045] FIGS. 11A to 11D are perspective views respectively showing
examples of the shapes of a coolant tank 22F.
[0046] FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram showing a 45.degree.
oblique arrangement of the liquid cooling apparatus shown in FIG.
10, and FIG. 12B is an explanatory diagram showing a 90.degree.
oblique arrangement of the liquid cooling apparatus shown in FIG.
10.
[0047] FIGS. 13A to 13C are cross sectional views respectively
showing examples of the sectional shapes of the coolant tank
22F.
[0048] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0049] FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0050] FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0051] FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0052] FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention.
[0053] FIG. 19A is a perspective view showing an example of the
shape of a coolant tank 22J, and FIG. 19B is a perspective view
showing an example of the shape of a coolant tank 22K.
[0054] FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in
which the liquid cooling apparatus of the present invention is
applied to a projection-type image display apparatus.
[0055] FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in
which the liquid cooling apparatus of the present invention is
applied to a projection-type image display apparatus.
[0056] FIG. 22 is a reference diagram showing a case where an air
cooling apparatus is applied to the projection-type image display
apparatus.
[0057] FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in
which the liquid cooling apparatus of the present invention is
applied to a projection type image display apparatus.
[0058] FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in
which the liquid cooling apparatus of the present invention is
applied to a projection type image display apparatus.
[0059] FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an
attachment structure of a projection type image display
apparatus.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0060] Hereinafter, a liquid cooling apparatus of an embodiment of
the present invention will be described based on FIGS. 2 to 25.
Incidentally, for convenience of description, the same reference
numerals are respectively given to the same constituents as the
constituents of the liquid cooling apparatus of the conventional
example shown in FIG. 1, and the description thereof is be omitted
in some cases.
[0061] A vertical direction when the apparatus provided with the
liquid cooling apparatus is disposed statically will be described
as an up-down direction, and a horizontal direction when the
apparatus provided with the liquid cooling apparatus is disposed
statically will be described as a left-right direction. "Disposing
the liquid cooling apparatus" is to dispose the liquid cooling
apparatus on the horizontal surface without leaning the liquid
cooling apparatus.
FIRST EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0062] FIGS. 2A and 2B are explanatory diagrams showing an example
of a liquid cooling apparatus of an embodiment of the present
invention. This liquid cooling apparatus is configured to circulate
the coolant between the liquid cooling jacket unit 25 and a
radiator 21A. The radiator 21A includes an inner radiator pipe 21a,
and a radiation fin 21b with a zigzag shape around this inner
radiator pipe 21a. Moreover, at the both of the right and left
sides of this radiator 21A, coolant tanks 22A each with a shape
such as a vertically long square cylinder or a vertically long
circular cylinder are arranged. Each of the coolant tanks 22A has
substantially the same length (height) as the length of the side
faces of the radiator 21A. Connection openings (ports) 22a to be
connected to the inner radiator pipe 21a are respectively formed at
substantially central positions in the longitudinal direction of
the respective coolant tanks 22A. A size of the coolant tank 22A in
the up-down direction is larger than a size of the coolant tank 22A
in the left-right direction. Moreover, connection openings (ports)
to be connected to a coolant circulation pipe 23 (a coolant pipe)
are also respectively formed at the substantially central positions
in the longitudinal direction of the respective coolant tanks 22A.
That is, portions to serve as air pockets in the respective coolant
tanks 22A exist above the respective connection openings (ports).
An infusion opening, where the coolant infused, is provided at each
of the upper and lower ends of each of the coolant tanks 22A. The
coolant circulation pipe 23 is provided with a pump 24, and by
means of this pump 24 the coolant is circulated inside the coolant
circulation pipe 23 and the inner radiator pipe 21a. The coolant
cooled by the radiator 21A is led to a liquid cooling jacket unit
25. An object to be cooled (a heat unit generating heat) is
arranged on top of this liquid cooling jacket unit 25. The coolant
whose temperature increased by absorbing the heat from the object
to be cooled is led to the radiator 21A through the coolant
circulation pipe 23. The heat transmitted to the radiation fin 21b
of the radiator 21A is taken away by air blown from a fan (not
shown).
[0063] With the liquid cooling apparatus of the above-described
configuration, the portions to serve as the air pockets in the
respective coolant tanks 22A will always exist above the respective
connection openings (ports), either in the regular arrangement of
the radiator 21A shown in FIG. 2A or in the upside down arrangement
of the radiator 21A shown in FIG. 2B. Accordingly, it is possible
to use the liquid cooling apparatus in the upside down arrangement
as well. Moreover, as for the whole system of the liquid cooling
apparatus (a set including the radiator, the pump and the like),
modification such as reversing the rotation of the pump and the
like will not be needed even if the liquid cooling apparatus is
arranged upside down. It should be noted that, in the case of the
liquid cooling apparatus, each of the coolant tanks 22A is not
limited to have substantially the same length (height) as the
length of the side faces of the radiator 21A, and may have a
shorter length (height). Moreover, the connection openings may be
positioned slightly off the respective central positions described
above. Moreover, the coolant tank may be incorporated with the
radiator or may be attached to the radiator separately. Moreover,
the fan may also be incorporated with the radiator or may be
attached to the radiator separately. Also in the configuration
examples shown below, the situation is the same.
SECOND EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0064] FIGS. 3A and 3B are explanatory diagrams showing another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. This liquid cooling apparatus differs from the
liquid cooling apparatus shown in FIG. 2 in that it is provided
with a radiator 21B. This liquid cooling apparatus has the
configuration in common with the liquid cooling apparatus shown in
FIG. 2 in every other respect. The radiator 21B includes a
plurality of radiator pipes 21c arranged in parallel between the
upper port portion and the lower port portion, and the radiation
fin 21b around the radiator pipes 21c. Moreover, the inner radiator
pipe 21a extended from the left end face of the upper port portion
of the radiator 21B is connected to the connection opening (port)
22a positioned at the substantially central position in the
longitudinal direction of the left coolant tank 22A, and the inner
radiator pipe 21a extended from the right end face of the lower
port portion of the radiator 21B is connected to the connection
opening (port) 22a positioned at the substantially central position
in the longitudinal direction of the right coolant tank 22A. With
the liquid cooling apparatus of this configuration, the portions to
serve as the air pockets in the respective coolant tank 22A will
always exist above the respective connection openings (ports),
either in the regular arrangement of the radiator 21B shown in FIG.
2A or in the upside down arrangement of the radiator 21B shown in
FIG. 2B. Accordingly, it is possible to use the liquid cooling
apparatus in the upside down arrangement as well.
THIRD EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0065] FIGS. 4A and 4B are explanatory diagrams showing still
another example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment
of the present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling
apparatus shown in FIG. 2 is that the inner radiator pipe 21a is
directly connected to the coolant circulation pipe 23 without
having one of the two coolant tanks 22A provided. With the liquid
cooling apparatus of this configuration, the portion to serve as
the air pocket in the single coolant tank 22A will always exist
above the connection opening (port), either in the regular
arrangement of the radiator 21A shown in FIG. 4A or in the upside
down arrangement of the radiator 21A shown in FIG. 4B. Accordingly,
it is possible to use the liquid cooling apparatus in the upside
down arrangement as well. It should be noted that the inner
radiator pipe 21a to be directly connected to the coolant
circulation pipe 23 may be formed straight and connected
thereto.
FOURTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0066] FIGS. 5A and 5B are explanatory diagrams showing still
another example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment
of the present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling
apparatus shown in FIG. 3 is that one of the two coolant tanks 22A
is not provided. In addition, the inner radiator pipe 21a extended
from the left end face of the upper port portion of the radiator
21B is directly connected to the coolant circulation pipe 23. With
the liquid cooling apparatus of this configuration, the portion to
serve as the air pocket in the coolant tank 22B will always exist
above the connection opening (port), either in the regular
arrangement of the radiator 21B shown in FIG. 5A or in the upside
down arrangement of the radiator 21B shown in FIG. 5B. Accordingly,
it is possible to use the liquid cooling apparatus in the upside
down arrangement as well. It should be noted that the inner
radiator pipe 21a to be directly connected to the coolant
circulation pipe 23 may be formed straight and connected
thereto.
FIFTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0067] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 2 is that two coolant tanks 22B are respectively
provided in place of the two coolant tanks 22A. One coolant tank
22B is arranged in the shape of a hook extending from the left side
to the upper side of the radiator 21A. Another coolant tank 22 is
arranged in the shape of a hook extending from the right side to
the lower side of the radiator 21A. Moreover, the side portions as
well as the upper and lower side portions of the respective coolant
tanks 22B have substantially the same length (height) as the length
of the side faces of the radiator 21A. The connection openings
(ports) 22a to be connected to the inner radiator pipe 21a are
respectively formed at the substantially central positions in the
longitudinal direction of the respective side portions. Moreover,
the connection openings (ports) to be connected to the coolant
circulation pipe 23 are also respectively formed at the
substantially central positions in the longitudinal direction of
the respective side portions. Moreover, each of the coolant tanks
22B has oblique faces substantially perpendicular to an oblique
45.degree. line therebetween, and has infusion openings
respectively in these oblique face portions. With the liquid
cooling apparatus of this configuration, it is possible to use the
liquid cooling apparatus not only in the upside down arrangement
but also in a leaned arrangement, for example, at oblique
45.degree.. It should be noted that this configuration may include
the radiator 21B or may not include one of the coolant tanks 22B.
The infusion openings may be respectively provided at places in the
vertical faces or horizontal faces without forming the oblique
faces. Moreover, the lengths of the side portions as well as the
upper and lower side portions of the respective coolant tanks 22B
may be shorter than the length of each side of the radiator
21A.
SIXTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0068] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 2 is that two coolant tanks 22C are provided
diagonally opposite to one another. Each of the coolant tanks 22C
has a square cylindrical shape or a circular cylindrical shape.
Each of the coolant tanks 22C has the length (height) shorter than
the length of the side faces of the radiator 21A. The connection
openings (ports) 22a to be connected to the inner radiator pipe 21a
are respectively formed at substantially central positions in the
longitudinal direction of the respective coolant tanks 22C.
Moreover, the connection openings (ports) to be connected to the
coolant circulation pipe 23 are also respectively formed at the
substantially central positions in the longitudinal direction of
respective the coolant tanks 22C. That is, the portions to serve as
the air pockets in the respective coolant tanks 22C always exist
above the respective connection openings (ports). In addition, this
configuration may include the radiator 21B or may not include one
of the coolant tanks 22C.
SEVENTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0069] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 2 is that coolant tanks 22D are respectively provided
in the upper and lower sides of the radiator 21A. Each of the
coolant tanks 22D has substantially the same length (width) as the
length of the upper and lower sides of the radiator 21A, and is
arranged obliquely upward to the right. At the right edge of each
of the coolant tanks 22D, the highest part of the coolant tank 22D
is formed, and this part serves as the air pocket in the regular
arrangement. Moreover, at the left edge of each of the coolant
tanks 22D, the lowest part of the coolant tank 22D is formed and
this part serves as the air pocket in the upside down arrangement.
That is, one part (right edge) on the upper surface of the coolant
tank 22D expands upper than the other part (left edge) on the upper
surface of the coolant tank 22D. One part (left edge) on the lower
surface of the coolant tank 22D expands lower than the other part
(right edge) on the lower surface of the coolant tank 22D. The
connection openings (ports) connected to the coolant circulation
pipe 23 are respectively formed at the substantially central
positions in the longitudinal direction of the respective coolant
tanks 22D. Moreover, in the upper coolant tank 22D, the connection
opening (port) 22a to be connected to the inner radiator pipe 21a
is formed in the rightmost lower face, whereas in the lower coolant
tank 22D it is formed in the leftmost upper face. That is, the
portions to serve as the air pockets in the respective coolant
tanks 22D always exist above the respective connection openings
(ports). It should be noted that this configuration may include the
radiator 21B or may not include one of the coolant tanks 22D.
EIGHTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0070] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 8 is that coolant tanks 22E are respectively provided
in the upper and lower sides of the radiator 21A. Each of the
coolant tanks 22E has a substantially square cylindrical shape or a
substantially circular cylindrical shape or the like, the center of
which protrudes upward and downward. That is, the highest part and
the lowest part of each of the coolant tanks 22E are formed at the
central position of the coolant tank 22E. The highest portions
respectively serve as the air pockets in the regular arrangement,
whereas the lowest portions respectively serve as the air pockets
in the upside down arrangement. The connection openings (ports) to
be connected to the coolant circulation pipe 23 are respectively
formed at the substantially central positions in the respective
side faces of the respective coolant tanks 22E. Moreover, the
connection openings (ports) 22a to be connected to the inner
radiator pipe 21a are also formed at the substantially central
positions in the respective side faces of the respective coolant
tanks 22E. That is, the portions to serve as the air pockets in the
respective coolant tanks 22E always exist above the respective
connection openings (ports). It should be noted that this
configuration may include the radiator 21B or may not include one
of the coolant tanks 22E.
NINTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0071] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 2 is that in place of the coolant tanks 22A each
having a straight shape, coolant tanks 22F each having a shape
whose central portion (the portion at which the connection openings
are formed) is narrowed are provided. The portions to serve as the
air pockets and the portions to possibly serve the air pockets in
the respective coolant tanks 22F extend to the right and left from
the corresponding connection openings, i.e., connection opening 22a
between the inner radiator pipe 21a and the coolant tank 22F; and
the connection opening between the coolant circulation pipe 23 and
the coolant tank 22F.
[0072] Each of the coolant tanks 22F has one of shapes shown in
FIGS. 11A to 11D, for example. The coolant tank 22F shown in FIG.
11A has a shape formed by narrowing a center part of a flat square
cylinder from two directions (two faces which are not narrowed are
in parallel to each other). The coolant tank 22F shown in FIG. 11B
has a shape formed by narrowing a center part of a square cylinder
from four directions. The coolant tank 22F shown in FIG. 11C has a
flat cylindrical shape (disk shape) around the connection openings,
and the connection openings exist inside the edge positions of the
circumferential faces of the flat cylindrical shape. The coolant
tank 22F shown in FIG. 11D has a shape formed by narrowing a
central position of a vertically long circular cylindrical shape,
and the connection openings are formed at this central position
(narrowed position).
[0073] FIGS. 12A and 12B show the states where the liquid cooling
apparatus shown in FIG. 10 is leaned. As previously described, the
portions to serve as the air pockets and the portions to possibly
serve as the air pockets in the respective coolant tanks 22F extend
to the right and left from the corresponding connection openings,
i.e., the connection opening 22a between the inner radiator pipe
21a and the coolant tank 22F; and the connection opening between
the coolant circulation pipe 23 and the coolant tank 22F. By this
configuration, even if the radiator 21A is arranged not only at
.+-.90 degrees but also obliquely at other angles, either or both
of the portions to serve as the air pockets and the portions to
possibly serve as the air pockets exist above the connection
opening. Accordingly, air will gather in the air pockets in
whatever way the liquid cooling apparatus is leaned, and thus air
can be almost securely prevented from going into the piping from
the connection openings.
[0074] The shape of the coolant tank 22F is not limited to the
shapes shown in FIG. 11 and may have a sectional shape shown in
FIG. 13A, a sectional shape shown in FIG. 13B, or a sectional shape
shown in FIG. 13C, for example. That is, it suffices that the
portion to serve as the air pocket and the portion to possibly
serve as the air pocket in the coolant tank 22F extend to the right
and left from the connection openings. It should be noted that this
configuration may include the radiator 21B or may not include one
of the coolant tanks 22F.
TENTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0075] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 6 is that coolant tanks 22G are provided in place of
the coolant tanks 22B. While each of the coolant tanks 22G has a
hook shape as in the case of the coolant tank 22B, the portion to
serve as the air pocket in the side portion of one of the coolant
tanks 22G and the portion to possibly serve as the air pocket in
the side portion of another of the coolant tanks 22G extend to the
right and left from the connection openings as in the case of the
coolant tank 22F described above. It should be noted that this
configuration may include the radiator 21B or may not include one
of the coolant tanks 22G.
ELEVENTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0076] FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 7 is that coolant tanks 22H are provided in place of
the coolant tanks 22B. While the two coolant tanks 22H are arranged
diagonally opposite to one another as in the case of the coolant
tanks 22C, the portions to serve as the air pockets and the
portions to possibly serve as the air pockets of the respective
coolant tanks 22H extend to the right and left from the connection
openings as in the case of the coolant tanks 22F described above.
It should be noted that this configuration may include the radiator
21B or may not include one of the coolant tanks 22H.
TWELFTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0077] FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 8 is that coolant tanks 22I are provided in place of
the coolant tanks 22D. While the two coolant tanks 22I are
respectively arranged in the upper and lower sides of the radiator
21A as in the case of the coolant tanks 22D, the portions to serve
as the air pockets and the portions to possibly serve as the air
pockets of the respective coolant tanks 22I extend to the right and
left from the connection openings as in the case of the coolant
tanks 22F described above. It should be noted that this
configuration may include the radiator 21B or may not include one
of the coolant tanks 22I.
THIRTEENTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0078] FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 9 is that coolant tanks 22J are provided in place of
the coolant tanks 22E. While the two coolant tanks 22J are
respectively arranged in the upper and lower sides of the radiator
21A as in the case of the coolant tanks 22E, the portion to serve
as the air pocket and the portion to possibly serve as the air
pocket of the coolant tanks 22J extend to the right and left from
the connection openings as in the case of the coolant tank 22F
described above. Although each of the coolant tanks 22J has a
substantially beer barrel shape (circular sectional shape) as shown
in FIG. 19A, it may have a square sectional shape or the like. It
should be noted that this configuration may include the radiator
21B or may not include one of the coolant tanks 22J.
FOURTEENTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Liquid Cooling Apparatus)
[0079] FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing still another
example of the liquid cooling apparatus of the embodiment of the
present invention. The difference from the liquid cooling apparatus
shown in FIG. 9 is that coolant tanks 22K are provided in place of
the coolant tanks 22E. While the two coolant tanks 22K are
respectively arranged in the upper and lower sides of the radiator
21A as in the case of the coolant tanks 22E, the portion to serve
as the air pocket and portion to possibly serve as the air pocket
of the coolant tanks 22K extend to the right and left from the
connection openings as in the case of the coolant tanks 22F
described above. Although each of the coolant tanks 22K has a
substantially circular cylindrical shape (circular section) as
shown in FIG. 19B, it may have a square cylindrical shape or the
like. It should be noted that this configuration may include the
radiator 21B or may not include one of the coolant tanks 22K.
[0080] Moreover, in the liquid cooling apparatuses described above,
each of the coolant tanks includes two infusion openings
respectively used for the regular arrangement and for the upside
down arrangement, however, it also serves a purpose that the
coolant tank is configured to include only one infusion opening, or
that the coolant tank itself is configured not to include a
infusion opening. Moreover, the coolant tank may be positioned not
only in the surroundings of the radiator 21, but also, away from
the surroundings, in front of or behind the radiator 21 (positions
should keep out of the way of a fan or air blown by the fan).
FIFTEENTH EMBODIMENT
(Configuration of Projection-Type Image Display Apparatus)
[0081] FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration
example in which the liquid cooling apparatus is applied to a
projection-type image display apparatus of a three-plate type. This
projection-type image display apparatus includes three illuminators
51R, 51G and 51B. Each of the illuminators 51 includes an LED
(light emitting diode) 11, a tapered rod integrator 12, a
polarization converter 13, and a rod integrator 15 substantially
shaped like a rectangular parallelepiped. The LEDs 11 are
respectively arranged on top of the liquid cooling jackets 25. The
coolant circulation pipe 23 is connected to the liquid cooling
jackets 25 in series. The coolant coming out of the radiator 21A is
circulated in the following sequence: the liquid cooling jacket 25
used for the red LED 11, the liquid cooling jacket 25 used for the
blue LED 11, and the liquid cooling jacket 25 used for the green
LED 11. By passing lights of the respective colors emitted from the
respective illuminators 51 through liquid crystal display panels
1R, 1G and 1B used for the respective colors, image lights of the
respective colors are generated. Then, the image lights of the
respective colors are combined by means of a cross dichroic prism 2
to provide a color image light. This color image light is projected
by means of a projection lens 3.
[0082] Although, in the configuration example shown in FIG. 20, the
coolant circulation pipe 23 is linked to the three liquid cooling
jackets 25 in series, the three liquid cooling jackets 25 may be
connected in parallel. Moreover, the lowest temperature coolant
coming out of the radiator 21A is led to the liquid cooling jacket
25 used for the red LED 11, but is not limited thereto. For
example, the lowest temperature coolant may be supplied to an LED
(Light emitting diode) or an LD (laser diode) whose emission
characteristic is likely to change with temperature fluctuation.
Moreover, the liquid cooling apparatus of the present invention is
also applicable to a projection-type image display apparatus of a
single plate type. The liquid cooling apparatus of the present
invention is also applicable to a projection-type image display
apparatus whose light source is a lamp. Not only the radiator 21A
but also other type of radiator or the like may be used.
[0083] FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the
arrangement relationship among the optical elements and the
constituents of the liquid cooling apparatus in a configuration in
which the liquid cooling apparatus is applied to a projection-type
image display apparatus, and this view corresponds to the
configuration shown in FIG. 20. Incidentally, FIG. 22 shows a
configuration example for reference in a case where an air cooling
is carried out to the projection-type image display apparatus shown
in FIG. 20. Although an air cooling apparatus requires three sets
of apparatuses (three fans are needed), it is possible to configure
a single set of apparatus in the case of the liquid cooling
apparatus.
SIXTEENTH EMBODIMENT
[0084] Hereinafter, a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention
will be described with reference to the drawing. Note that the
difference from above described fifteenth embodiment will be
described mainly.
[0085] Specifically, in the above described fifteenth embodiment,
the coolant circulation pipe is arranged so as to step over the
projection lens. On the contrary, in the sixteenth embodiment, the
coolant circulation pipe is connects each LEDs in series without
stepping over the projection lens.
(Configuration of Projection-Type Image Display Apparatus)
[0086] Hereinafter, a configuration of the projection-type image
display apparatus according to the sixteenth embodiment of the
present invention will be described. FIG. 23 shows the
projection-type image display apparatus 100 according to the
sixteenth embodiment.
[0087] As shown in FIG. 23, the projection-type image display
apparatus 100 includes a plurality of light sources (a red light
source 125R, a green light source 125G, and a blue light source
125B), a plurality of tapered rod integrators (a tapered rod
integrator 112R, a tapered rod integrator 112G, and a tapered rod
integrator 112B), a plurality of liquid crystal panel (a liquid
crystal panel 101R, a liquid crystal panel 101G, and a liquid
crystal panel 101B), a dichroic prism 102, and a projection lens
103.
[0088] The red light source 125R is such as an LED emitting the red
light. Similarly, The green light source 125G is such as an LED
emitting the green light and the blue light source 125B is such as
an LED emitting the blue light. The red light source 125R, the
green light source 125G, and the blue light source 125B are heat
units generating heat (objects to be cooled).
[0089] The tapered rod integrator 112R unifies the red light
emitted from the red light source 125R. Similarly, the tapered rod
integrator 112G unifies the green light emitted from the green
light source 125G and the tapered rod integrator 112B unifies the
blue light emitted from the blue light source 125B.
[0090] The liquid crystal panel 101R modulates the red light
unified by the tapered rod integrator 112R. Similarly, the liquid
crystal panel 101G modulates the green light unified by the tapered
rod integrator 112G and the liquid crystal panel 101B modulates the
blue light unified by the tapered rod integrator 112B.
[0091] The dichroic prism 102 combines the red light went out from
the liquid crystal panel 101R, the green light went out from the
liquid crystal panel 101G, and the blue light went out from the
liquid crystal panel 101B. The dichroic prism 102 guides the
combined light toward the projection lens 103.
[0092] The projection lens 103 projects the combined light combined
by the dichroic prism 102 on a screen or the like.
[0093] Here, the projection-type image display apparatus has one of
the liquid cooling apparatuses described in the first to fourteenth
embodiments. Specifically, the liquid cooling apparatus has the
radiator 121, the coolant tank 122, the coolant circulation pipe
123, and a pump 124.
[0094] The radiator 121 cools the coolant warmed by the heat unit
such as the red light source 125R, the green light source 125G, or
the blue light source 125B, by means of the heat radiation fins. A
fan 126 facing outside of the projection-type image display
apparatus 100 cools the heat radiation fins provided on the
radiator 121. The fan 126 cools not only the heat radiation fins
but also inner of the projection-type image display apparatus 100
entirely.
[0095] The coolant tank 122 stores the coolant. As described in the
first to fourteenth embodiment, various arrangements and shapes can
be adopted as the arrangement and the shape of the coolant tank
122,
[0096] The coolant circulation pipe 123 is a flow path of coolant
provided around the heat unit such as the red light source 125R,
the green light source 125G, and the blue light source 125B. The
coolant circulation pipe 123 connects to the radiator 121, the pair
of coolant tanks 122, and pump 124. The coolant circulation pipe
123 connects jacket unit (not shown) where the red light source
125R, the green light source 125G, and the blue light source 125B
are arranged.
[0097] The pump 124 pumps out the coolant into the coolant
circulation pipe 123.
[0098] The coolant circulation pipe 123 is preferably arranged so
that the coolant cooled by the radiator 131 cools the light source
having the high energy in sequence, when the light sources are
cooled in series. The fan 126 preferably arranged around the
radiator 121.
SEVENTEENTH EMBODIMENT
[0099] Hereinafter, a seventeenth embodiment of the present
invention will be described with reference to the drawing. Note
that the difference from above described sixteenth embodiment will
be described mainly.
[0100] Specifically, in the above described sixteenth embodiment,
the projection-type image display apparatus has the plurality of
the light sources. On the contrary, in the seventeenth embodiment,
the projection-type image display unit has single white lamp for
the replacement of the plurality of the light sources.
(Configuration of Projection-Type Image Display Apparatus)
[0101] Hereinafter, a configuration of the projection-type image
display apparatus according to the sixteenth embodiment of the
present invention will be described. FIG. 24 shows the
projection-type image display apparatus 100 according to the
sixteenth embodiment. Note that, compositions similar to the above
described sixteenth embodiment (FIG. 23) are designated by the
similar reference numerals.
[0102] As shown in FIG. 24, the projection-type image display unit
includes a white light source 125W for the replacement of the red
light source 125R, the green light source 125G and the blue light
source 125B.
[0103] The white light source 125W is such as an UHP lamp emitting
the white light. The white light source is a heat unit generating
heat (an object to be cooled).
[0104] The projection-type image display unit includes a unifying
means 140 for the replacement of the tapered rod integrator 112R,
the tapered rod integrator 112G, and the tapered rod integrator
112B.
[0105] The unifying means 140 is configured of fly-eye lens,
condenser lens, or the like, and unifies the white light emitted
from the white light source 125W. The unifying means may be
includes a PBS (Polarized Beam Splitter) integrates a polarization
direction of the white light emitted from the white light source
125W.
[0106] The projection-type image display unit includes a separating
means (a mirror 131 through a mirror 135). The mirror 131 through
the mirror 135 may be dichroic mirrors configured to reflect light
having specific wavelength, and may be polarized mirrors configured
to reflect light having specific polarization direction.
EIGHTEENTH EMBODIMENT
[0107] Hereinafter, an eighteenth embodiment of the present
invention will be described with reference to the drawing. In the
eighteenth embodiment, the projection-type image display apparatus
hanged from the ceiling will be described.
(Attachment Structure of Projection-Type Image Display
Apparatus)
[0108] Hereinafter, the attachment structure of the projection-type
image display apparatus 100 according to the eighteenth embodiment
of the present invention will be described. FIG. 25 shows the
attachment structure of the projection-type image display apparatus
100 according to the eighteenth embodiment of the present
invention. Note that, compositions similar to the above described
sixteenth embodiment (FIG. 23) are designated by the similar
reference numerals.
[0109] As shown in FIG. 25, the projection-type image display
apparatus 100 is provided with a hanging furniture 320. The hanging
furniture 320 is attached to an arm unit 330 fixed to the ceiling
or the like.
[0110] According to the respective embodiments, since the size of
the coolant tank 122 in the up-down direction is larger than the
size of the cooling tank 122 in the horizontal direction, the air
merely goes into the coolant circulation pipe 123, assuming the
vertical direction as the up-down direction when the
projection-type image display apparatus 100 disposed
statically.
[0111] Therefore, the decrease in cooling efficiency by the coolant
can be suppressed, and the volume of the coolant tank 122 can be
kept sufficiently.
OTHER EMBODIMENTS
[0112] Moreover, the liquid cooling apparatus of the present
application is not limited to applications to the projection-type
image display apparatus, but can be applied to other apparatuses
such as a personal computer including heat generating members (LED,
CPU and the like). Particularly, the liquid cooling apparatus of
the present application can be used suitably in devices such as: a
device which is turned upside down even temporarily at the time of
assembly; a device which may be loaded upside down at the time of
transportation; a device which may be used upside down in some
cases (for example, an image display device of a ceiling suspension
type and the like); and an on-vehicle device (the apparatus will
also be leaned due to the inclination of the vehicle). Moreover, by
combining the plurality of above-described projection-type image
display apparatuses arranged normally (rear projection television)
with the plurality of above-described projection-type image display
apparatuses arranged upside down on top of the projection-type
image display apparatuses arranged normally, a large-sized image
display device with a multi-screen may be realized. Alternatively,
by combining the plurality of above-described projection-type image
display apparatuses arranged normally (LCD projector) with the
plurality of above-described projection-type image display
apparatuses arranged upside down on top of the projection-type
image display apparatuses arranged normally, an LCD projector for
displaying a high definition image may be realized.
* * * * *