HEAT PIPE ASSEMBLY

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a heat pipe assembly having a first heat pipe and at least one second heat pipe. The first heat pipe includes an inner wall surface, an outer wall surface, and at least one opening. The inner wall surface surrounds a first cavity, and the outer wall surface faces away from the inner wall surface. The at least one opening penetrates the inner wall surface and the outer wall surface. The at least one second heat pipe includes a second cavity and a connecting port. The connecting port connects the second cavity to the first cavity through the at least one opening.

Description

BACKGROUND

Technical field

The present disclosure is related to a heat pipe assembly, in particular a heat pipe assembly incorporating two or more heat pipes.

Description of related art

General electronic devices or machinery generate high temperatures during operation, prompting manufacturers to install heat pipes for heat dissipation. Heat pipes employ the evaporation and condensation of internal coolant to achieve rapid and uniform temperature control. Specifically, the liquid cooling fluid absorbs heat at the evaporation end, vaporizes, and moves towards the condensation end due to vapor pressure. At the condensation end, the gaseous cooling fluid releases heat, condenses back into a liquid state, and returns to the evaporation end through the internal capillary structure, thus completing the cooling cycle.

Various types of heat pipes are available on the market to accommodate different cooling modules. Generally, tower-type cooling modules use U-shaped heat pipes, which need to be shaped by bending. However, the bending angle of U-shaped heat pipes is limited, which in turn restricts the heat exchange area, and this causes a reduction in the heat transfer efficiency. Therefore, one of the problems that researchers need to solve is how to improve the heat dissipation efficiency of U-shaped heat pipes.

SUMMARY

Various aspects of the present disclosure provide a heat pipe assembly to improve the heat dissipation efficiency of a U-shaped heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat pipe assembly includes a first heat pipe having an inner wall surface, an outer wall surface, and at least one opening, wherein the inner wall surface surrounds a first cavity, the outer wall surface faces away from the inner wall surface, and the at least one opening is disposed on a longitudinal side of the first heat pipe; and at least one second heat pipe having a second cavity and a connecting port that is coupled to the second cavity, the at least one second heat pipe is disposed on the first heat pipe so that the second cavity of the at least one second heat pipe is connected to the first cavity of the first heat pipe via the connecting port and the at least one opening.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first heat pipe further includes a first heat conducting section and two second heat conducting sections, the two second heat conducting sections are connected to opposite ends of the first heat conducting section respectively and protrude in the same direction, and the at least one opening is located in the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the two second heat conducting sections is connected to the opposite ends of the first heat conducting section via a bent section.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe is a flat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second heat pipe have a flanged structure at the connecting port, and the flanged structure is stacked on the outer wall surface of the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first heat conducting section has a recessed portion disposed on the outer wall surface, surrounding the at least one opening, and a flanged structure is disposed in the recessed portion.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a portion of the at least one second heat pipe is inserted into the at least one opening of the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second heat pipe has a tapered structures adjacent to the connecting port, and the tapered structures are arranged in the first cavity of the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first heat conducting section has a recessed portion disposed on the outer wall surface, and the at least one second heat pipe is stacked on the recessed portion of the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first heat pipe has a flanged structure at the at least one opening, and a portion of the at least one second heat pipe is inserted into the flanged structure that is protruding from the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the flanged structure of the first heat pipe has a larger diameter than the second heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first heat pipe has a flanged structure at the at least one opening, and a portion of the at least one second heat pipe is sleeved on the flanged structure that is protruding from the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second heat pipe has a larger diameter than the flanged structure of the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat pipe assembly further includes at least one connecting ring including a narrow diameter ring portion and a wide diameter ring portion, wherein the narrow diameter ring portion of the at least one connecting ring is inserted into the at least one opening of the first heat pipe, and a portion of the at least one second heat pipe is inserted into the wide diameter ring portion of the at least one connecting ring.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one second heat pipe includes a flanged structure having a first surface coupled to the inner wall surface of the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat pipe assembly further includes a first wick structure and at least one second wick structure, wherein the first wick structure is disposed in the first cavity of the first heat pipe, and the at least one second wick structure is disposed in the second cavity of the at least one second heat pipe and connected to the first wick structure.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second wick structure includes two crescent-shaped portions extending out of the connecting port symmetrically disposed in the second cavity.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second wick structure is crescent-shaped and extends out of the connecting port.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second heat pipe is welded to the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat pipe assembly further includes a plurality of third heat pipes disposed to at least one of second heat conducting sections of the first heat pipe and the at least one second heat pipe, extending in a third direction when the at least one of second heat conducting sections of the first heat pipe extends in a first direction and the at least one second heat pipe extends in a second direction.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the heat pipe assembly further includes a third wick structure disposed on the first wick structure in the first cavity of the first heat pipe, and the second wick structure connects to the first wick structure through the third wick structure.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second heat pipe has a pipe wall that abuts the outer wall surface of the first heat pipe, and the at least one second wick structure in the at least one second heat pipe extends into and abuts the first wick structure in the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second heat pipe includes a flanged structure, and a pipe wall of the at least one second heat pipe abuts the outer wall surface of the first heat pipe through the flanged structure that is welded to the outer wall of the first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one connecting ring having an inner surface disposed with a fourth wick structure connects the at least one second heat pipe to the first heat pipe, and one end of the at least one connecting ring is inserted into and attached to the at least one opening of the first heat pipe by welding.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fourth wick structure connects to the first wick structure and the second wick structure of the at least one second heat pipe that covers the connecting ring.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second heat pipe is rectangular with a rectangular opening, the first heat pipe has at least one circular opening that aligns with the rectangular opening of the at least one second heat pipe, and the at least one second heat pipe is attached to the at least one rectangular opening if the first heat pipe by solder.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second heat pipe is rectangular with a rectangular opening, the first heat pipe has at least one rectangular opening that aligns with the rectangular opening of the at least one second heat pipe, and the at least one second heat pipe is attached to the at least one rectangular opening if the first heat pipe by solder.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, one end of the at least one second heat pipe connected to the first heat pipe has a constricted portion.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, one end of the at least one second heat pipe connected to the first heat pipe has a flared portion.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second heat pipe includes two heat pipes that are disposed to the first heat pipe in opposite directions.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one second heat pipe includes two heat pipes that are mounted on an L-shaped first heat pipe.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one second heat pipe includes three second heat pipes are vertically mounted on the first heat pipe, and ends of the first heat pipe oriented in opposing directions.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first heat pipe includes bottom shells and top shells.

According to the embodiments, the heat dissipation efficiency of the heat pipe assembly can be improved by adding a second heat pipe to the first heat pipe. The heat exchange area of the heat pipe assembly can be increased when the width of the heat pipe assembly is limited.

The above description of the present disclosure and the following description of the embodiments are used to demonstrate and explain the principles of the present disclosure and provide a further explanation of the scope of the patent application of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following figures are included to illustrate certain aspects of the embodiments and should not be viewed as exclusive embodiments. The subject matter disclosed is capable of considerable modifications, alterations, combinations, and equivalents in form and function, as will occur to those skilled in the art and having the benefit of this disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a heat pipe assembly combined with fins according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the second heat pipe of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a bottom view of the second heat pipe of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 27 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 30 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 31 is a partial cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly in FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 is a partial cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 33 is a partial cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 34 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 35 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 36 is a structural view of one end of the second heat pipe in one embodiment.

FIG. 37 is a structural view of one end of the second heat pipe in another embodiment.

FIG. 38 is a structural view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 39 is a structural view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 40 is a structural view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 41A-41F illustrate different shapes of the second heat pipe and the second capillary structure according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments described herein are directed to a heat pipe assembly incorporating two or more heat pipes that can increase the heat exchange area and thereby increase heat dissipation efficiency.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the heat pipe assembly combined with fins according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the second heat pipe of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 1.

The heat pipe assembly 10 of this embodiment is designed, for example, to be combined with fins 20 for use in a tower-type heat dissipation module and for thermal coupling with a heat source (not shown). Thermal coupling refers to heat contact or connection through other heat conducting media. The heat pipe assembly 10 includes a first heat pipe 11, a second heat pipe 12, a first capillary structure (e.g. wick structure 13), and a second capillary structure (e.g. wick structure 14). The first heat pipe 11 includes a first heat conducting section 111 and two second heat conducting sections 112. The first heat conducting section 111 is, for example, a flat pipe. The two second heat conducting sections 112 are, for example, round pipes, each connected to opposite ends of the first heat conducting section 111 via a bent section 1121, with the two second heat conducting sections 112 protruding in the same direction. In other words, the first heat pipe 11 is U-shaped.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 1. In FIG. 4, the first heat pipe 11 has a first inner wall surface 113, a first outer wall surface 114, and an opening 115. The first inner wall surface 113 is disposed on the inner side of the first heat pipe 11, extending from the first heat conducting section 111 to the second heat conducting sections 112. The first inner wall surface 113 surrounds a first cavity S1. The first cavity S1 is used, for example, to accommodate a cooling fluid (not shown). The first outer wall surface 114 is disposed on the outer side of the first heat pipe 11, extending from the first heat conducting section 111 to the second heat conducting sections 112. In other words, the first outer wall surface 114 faces away from the first inner wall surface 113. The opening 115 is located in the first heat conducting section 111 and penetrates the first inner wall surface 113 and the first outer wall surface 114 to connect the first cavity S1.

The second heat pipe 12 is, for example, a round pipe and is positioned between the two second heat conducting sections 112 of the first heat pipe 11, and the distance between the second heat pipe 12 and the two second heat conducting sections 112 is, for example, the same. In other words, the second heat pipe 12 is centrally disposed between the two second heat conducting sections 112. In detail, the second heat pipe 12 has a flanged structure 121 at the connecting port 124. The flanged structure 121 is, for example, and is stacked and, for example, directly welded to the first outer wall surface 114 of the first heat conducting section 111 of the first heat pipe 11 by solder 30.

The second heat pipe 12 has a second inner wall surface 122, a second outer wall surface 123, and a connecting port 124. The second inner wall surface 122 is disposed on the inner side of the second heat pipe 12 and surrounds a second cavity S2. The second cavity S2 is used, for example, to accommodate a cooling fluid (not shown). The second outer wall surface 123 is disposed on the outer side of the second heat pipe 12. In other words, the second outer wall surface 123 faces away from the second inner wall surface 122. The connecting port 124 is surrounded by the second inner wall surface 122 and the second outer wall surface 123. The connecting port 124 is coupled to the second cavity S2, and the second cavity S2 is connected to the first cavity S1 of the first heat pipe 11 via the connecting port 124 and the opening 115.

The first wick structure 13 and the second wick structure 14 are, for example, powder sintered materials. The first wick structure 13 is disposed in the first cavity S1 of the first heat pipe 11. The second wick structure 14 is disposed in the second cavity S2 of the second heat pipe 12 and is connected to the first wick structure 13. The second wick structure 14 includes two crescent-shaped parts 141 symmetrically arranged in the second cavity S2. When the cooling fluid absorbs heat from the heat source and evaporates, it can flow back to the heat source through the wick structures 13 and 14, thereby achieving the effect of cooling circulation.

Traditional heat pipes generally used in tower-type heat dissipation modules have a limited heat exchange area and insufficient heat dissipation efficiency due to their limited width by the bending angle of the two bending sections of the first heat pipe Accordingly, the heat pipe assembly 10 of this embodiment adds a second heat pipe 12 between the two first heat conducting sections 111 of the first heat pipe 11. In doing this way, the heat exchange area of the heat pipe assembly 10 can be increased even though the width of the heat pipe assembly 10 is limited, thereby improving the heat dissipation efficiency of the heat pipe assembly 10.

In this embodiment, the two second heat conducting sections 112 of the first heat pipe 11 are round pipes, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the two second heat conducting sections of the first heat pipe may also be flat pipes or in any other shapes if applicable.

In one embodiment, each of the two second heat conducting sections 112 is connected to the opposite ends of the first heat conducting section 111 by a bent section 1121, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, in other embodiments, the two second heat conducting sections can each be connected to the opposite ends of the first heat conducting section by a right-angle section.

In one embodiment, the first heat pipe 11 is U-shaped, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the first heat pipe may have other shapes, such as an L-shape.

In one embodiment, the distance between the second heat pipe 12 and the two second heat conducting sections 112 of the first heat pipe 11 is the same, so that the second heat pipe 12 is centrally disposed between the two second heat conducting sections 112, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the distance between the second heat pipe and the two second heat conducting sections of the first heat pipe may be different. Accordingly, while the second heat pipe is between the two second heat conducting sections 112, it could be closer to one of the two second heat conducting sections 112 and further to the other second heat conducting sections 112.

In one embodiment, the flanged structure 121 of the second heat pipe 12 is directly welded to the first outer wall surface 114 of the first heat conducting section 111 of the first heat pipe 11 by the solder 30, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, for example, the flanged structure 121 of the second heat pipe 12 may be first laser welded and then welded to the first outer wall surface of the first heat pipe by the solder.

In one embodiment, the first wick structure 13 and the second wick structure 14 are connected, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the first wick structure and the second wick structure may be disconnected.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 5.

The heat pipe assembly 10A of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10 of the first embodiment, so the differences between this embodiment and the first embodiment will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10A of this embodiment, the first heat conducting section 111A of the first heat pipe 11A has a recessed portion 111A1. The recessed portion 111A1 is disposed on the first outer wall surface 114A and surrounds the opening 115. The flanged structure 121 of the second heat pipe 12 at the connecting port 124 is, for example, welded to the recessed portion 111A1.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 7.

The heat pipe assembly 10B of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10B of this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12B does not have a flanged structure; instead, it is partially inserted and, for example, welded into the opening 115 of the first heat pipe 11.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 9.

The heat pipe assembly 10C of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10 of the first embodiment, so the differences between this embodiment and the first embodiment will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10C of this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12C does not have a flanged structure; instead, it has a tapered structure 125C adjacent to the connecting port 124C. The second heat pipe 12C is partially inserted and, for example, welded into the opening 115 of the first heat pipe 11, so that the tapered structures 125C are arranged in the first cavity S1 of the first heat pipe 11.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12. FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 11.

The heat pipe assembly 10D of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10D of this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12D does not have a flanged structure. The first heat conducting section 111D of the first heat pipe 11D has a recessed portion 111D1. The recessed portion 111D1 is disposed on the first outer wall surface 114D. The second heat pipe 12D is stacked and, for example, welded to the recessed portion 111D1 of the first heat conducting section 111D of the first heat pipe 11D.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 13.

The heat pipe assembly 10E of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10E of this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12E does not have a flanged structure. The first heat pipe 11E has a flanged structure 116E at the opening 115E. The second heat pipe 12E is partially inserted and, for example, welded to the flanged structure 116E which is protruding from the first heat pipe 11E. The flanged structure 116 E of the first heat pipe 11E has a larger diameter than the second heat pipe 12E. In other words, the flanged structure 116E of the first heat pipe 11E surrounds a portion of the second heat pipe 12E.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 15.

The heat pipe assembly 10F of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10F of this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12F does not have a flanged structure. The first heat pipe 11F has a flanged structure 116F at the opening 115F. The second heat pipe 12F is partially sleeved on and, for example, welded to the flanged structure 116F which is protruding from the first heat pipe 11E. The second heat pipe 12F has a larger diameter than the flanged structure 116F of the first heat pipe 11F. In other words, a portion of the second heat pipe 12F surrounds the flanged structure 116F of the first heat pipe 11F.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18. FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 17.

The heat pipe assembly 10G of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10G of this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12G does not have a flanged structure. The heat pipe assembly 10G further includes a connecting ring 15G. The connecting ring 15G includes a narrow diameter ring portion 15G1 and a wide diameter ring portion 15G2. The narrow diameter ring portion 15G1 is inserted and, for example, welded to the opening 115 of the first heat pipe 11, and a portion of the second heat pipe 12G is inserted and, for example, welded to the wide diameter ring portion 15G2. In other words, the second heat pipe 12G is connected to the first heat pipe 11 by the connecting ring 15G.

In this embodiment, there are only one first heat pipe 11 and one connecting ring 15G, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the number of first heat pipes and the number of connecting rings can also be more than two, and the number of connecting rings corresponds to the number of first heat pipes.

Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20. FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 19.

The heat pipe assembly 10H of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10H of this embodiment, the first heat conducting section 111H of the first heat pipe 11H includes a bottom shell 111H1 and a top shell 111H2. The bottom shell is, for example, welded to the two second heat conducting sections 112 and is located between the two second heat conducting sections 112. The top shell 111H2 is, for example, welded to the bottom shell 111H1. The opening 115 is located at the top shell 111H2, and the first inner wall surface 113 extends from the bottom shell 111H1 to the top shell 111H2. The flanged structure 121H of the second heat pipe 12H is stacked and, for example, welded to the first inner wall surface 113 of the top shell 111H2.

In this embodiment, one of the methods to assemble the heat pipe assembly 10H is hereby described as an example. Before the second heat pipe 12H is assembled to the first heat pipe 11H, the top shell 111H2 has not been welded to the bottom shell 111H1, so the top shell 111H2 is separated from the bottom shell 111H1. When the operator wants to assemble the second heat pipe 12H to the first heat pipe 11H, first, the second heat pipe 12H is passed through the opening 115 located in the top shell 111H2 from the end far away from the connecting port 124H, and the flanged structure 121H of the second heat pipe 12H, for example, is welded to the first inner wall surface 113 of the top shell 111H2. Further, the top shell 111H2 disposed on the second heat pipe 12H, for example, is welded to the bottom shell 111H1. In this way, the assembly of the first heat pipe 11H and the second heat pipe 12H can be completed.

In one embodiment, the second wick structure 14 includes two crescent-shaped portions 141, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the second wick structure can also be composed of a single structure of other shapes. Specifically, please refer to FIG. 21. FIG. 21 is a bottom view of the second heat pipe of the heat pipe assembly according to this embodiment of the present disclosure. The heat pipe assembly 10I of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10 of the first embodiment, so the differences between this embodiment and the first embodiment will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10I of this embodiment, the second wick structure 14I is composed of a single semicircular structure. However, this embodiment is not limited. In other embodiments, the second wick structure may also be composed of a plurality of structures of other shapes.

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The heat pipe assembly 10J of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10J of this embodiment, the heat pipe assembly 10J includes two second heat pipes 12J. The two second heat pipes 12J are positioned between the two second heat conducting sections 112 of the first heat pipe 11, and are, for example, welded to the first heat conducting section 111 of the first heat pipe 11.

In this embodiment, there are only two second heat pipes 12J, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the number of the second heat pipe may be more than two.

FIG. 23 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The heat pipe assembly 10K of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10K of this embodiment, the heat pipe assembly 10K includes a plurality of third heat pipes 16K. The first heat pipe 11 extends in a first direction (e.g. X direction), the second heat pipes 12K extend in a second direction (e.g. Y direction), and the third heat pipes 16K extend in a third direction (e.g. Z direction). The third heat pipes are designed not to interfere with each other. In other words, the first heat pipe 11, the second heat pipes 12K and the third heat pipes 16K are arranged, for example, in a tree-like shape. However, this embodiment is not limited thereto.

In other embodiments, the heat pipe assembly may also include a plurality of fourth heat pipes. These fourth heat pipes are respectively arranged non-parallel to the first heat pipe, the second heat pipes and the third heat pipes, and do not interfere with each other. In Other words, the first heat pipe, the second heat pipes, the third heat pipes and the fourth heat pipes are arranged, for example, in a luxuriant tree-like shape.

Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 24.

The heat pipe assembly 10L of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10L of this embodiment, the first heat conducting section 111L of the first heat pipe 11L is, for example, a semi-flat tube. In other words, the first heat conducting section 111L includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion of the first heat conducting section 111L is flattened and has a plane shape, and the second portion of the first heat conducting section 111L is not flattened and has an arc shape.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The heat pipe assembly 10M of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12M of the heat pipe assembly 10M is, for example, a flat pipe. However, this embodiment is not limited. In other embodiments, the second heat pipe may also be, for example, a semi-flat pipe or rectangular pipe.

Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28. FIG. 27 is an exploded view of a heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly according to the sixteenth embodiment of the present disclosure.

The heat pipe assembly 10N of this embodiment is similar to the heat pipe assembly 10H, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In the heat pipe assembly 10N of this embodiment, the flanged structure 121N of the second heat pipe 12N is, for example, semi-circular. Additionally, the first wick structure 13N disposed in the first cavity SIN of the first heat pipe 11N is not connected to the second wick structure 14N disposed in the second cavity S2N of the second heat pipe 12N.

In this embodiment, the flanged structure 121N of the second heat pipe 12N is semi-circular, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the flanged structure of the second heat pipe may also be, for example, a three-part ring.

In one embodiment, the first wick structure 13N and the second wick structure 14N are not connected, but the embodiment is not limited to. In other embodiments, the first wick structure and the second wick structure may also be connected by powder sintering or directly by welding.

Referring to FIGS. 19 and 27 again. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 27, the first heat pipe 11H and the first heat pipe 11N respectively include bottom shells 111H1 and 111N1 and top shells 111H2 and 111N2. As for assembly, one of examples is that the second heat pipes 12H and 12N are mounted on the bottom shells 111H1 and 111N1, and then the top shells 111H2 and 111N2 are mounted accordingly. However, this embodiment is not limited thereto.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 29, in this embodiment, a third capillary structure (e.g. wick structure 17) is disposed on the first wick structure 13P, and the crescent-shaped portion 141 of the second wick structure 14P is connected to the first wick structure 13P through the third wick structure 17. After the cooling fluid absorbs the heat of the heat source and evaporates, it can flow back to the heat source through the wick structures 13P, 17, and 14P to achieve the effect of cooling circulation.

In this embodiment, the capillary shape of the third wick structure 17 can be circular, square, elliptical, triangular, and other irregular shapes.

In one embodiment, the third wick structure 17 is made of powder sintered materials or a woven mesh.

In one embodiment, the third wick structure 17 and the first wick structure 13P are an integral structure, and in another embodiment of the present disclosure, the third wick structure 17 and the first wick structure 13P can also be a separate structure. In the heat pipe assembly according to this embodiment, since a second heat pipe is added between the two first heat conducting sections of the first heat pipe, the heat exchange area of the heat pipe assembly can be increased even though the width of the heat pipe assembly is limited, thereby improving the heat dissipation efficiency of the heat pipe assembly.

Referring to FIGS. 30 and 31. FIG. 30 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 31 is a partial cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 30. As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, in this embodiment, the pipe wall of the second heat pipe 12P abuts against the outer wall surface of the first heat pipe 11P, and the second wick structure 14P in the second heat pipe 12P extends into the first heat pipe 11P and abuts against the first wick structure 13P in the first heat pipe 11P.

FIG. 32 is a partial cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The heat pipe assembly shown in FIG. 32 is similar to the heat pipe assembly of FIG. 31, so the differences will be described, and the similarities will not be repeated. In this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12P has a flanged structure 121, and the pipe wall of the second heat pipe 12P abuts against the outer wall surface of the first heat pipe 11P through the flanged structure 121, and the flanged structure 121 is, for example, welded to the outer wall of the first heat pipe 11P.

Referring to FIGS. 33 and FIG. 18. FIG. 33 is a partial cross-sectional view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 33, the heat pipe assembly 10G may further include a connecting ring 15G. The second heat pipe 12G is connected to the first heat pipe 11 through the connecting ring 15G. The difference from FIG. 18 is that, in this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12G covers a portion of the connecting ring 15G. Specifically, a fourth capillary structure (e.g. wick structure 18) disposed on an inner surface of the connecting ring 15G is provided, one end of the connecting ring 15G is inserted and, for example, welded to the opening 115 of the first heat pipe 11, the fourth wick structure 18 is connected to the first wick structure 13 and the second wick structure 14P, and the second heat pipe 12G covers one end of the connecting ring 15G.

FIG. 34 is an exploded view of the heat pipe assembly according to the one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 34, in this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12 is rectangular and has a rectangular opening, the opening 115 of the first heat pipe 11 is circular, the rectangular opening is aligned and connected to the opening 115, and the second heat pipe 12 is welded to the opening 115 by solder 30.

FIG. 35 is an exploded view of a heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 35, in this embodiment, the second heat pipe 12 is rectangular and has a rectangular opening, the opening 115 of the first heat pipe 11 is rectangular, the rectangular opening is aligned and connected to the opening 115, and the second heat pipe 12 may or may not be inserted to the opening 115 when the second heat pipe 12 is welded to the opening 115 by solder 30.

Referring to FIGS. 36 and 37. FIG. 36 is a structural view of one end of the second heat pipe according to one embodiment. FIG. 37 is a structural view of another end of the second heat pipe according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 36, in this embodiment, the connecting end of the second heat pipe 12 with the first heat pipe has a constricted portion 126. As shown in FIG. 37, in this embodiment, the connecting end of the second heat pipe 12 with the first heat pipe has a flared portion 127.

FIG. 38 is a structural view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 38, in this embodiment, the two second heat pipe 12 disposed on the first heat pipe 11 are in opposite directions.

FIG. 39 is a structural view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 39, two second heat pipes 12 are mounted on an L-shaped first heat pipe 11.

FIG. 40 is a structural view of the heat pipe assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 40, three second heat pipes 12 are vertically mounted on the first heat pipe 11, with the two ends of the first heat pipe 11 facing opposite directions.

FIGS. 41A-41F illustrate different shapes of the second heat pipe and the second capillary structure according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The second heat pipe can have different structures that can be suitable for the specific application of the heat pipe assembly. In some embodiments, the second heat pipe can have straight pipe structure as shown in FIG. 41A. In some embodiments, the second heat pipe can have a flanged edge as shown in FIGS. 41B, 41D, and 41F. In some embodiments, the second heat pipe can have a narrowed end as shown in FIGS. 41C and 41D. In some embodiments, the second heat pipe can have a widened end as shown in FIGS. 41E and 41F. In some embodiments, the second heat pipe having narrowed end or widened end can also have a flanged edge as shown in FIGS. 41D and 41F.

The second capillary structure can have different lengths that can be suitable for the specific application of the heat pipe assembly. In some embodiments, the second capillary structure can have an extended section that extends out of the connecting opening as shown in the left figures of FIGS. 41A-41F. In some embodiments, the second capillary structure can have the same length as the second heat pipe wall as shown in the right figures, of FIGS. 41A-41F.

Therefore, embodiments disclosed herein are well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those that are inherent therein. The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the embodiments disclosed may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art having the benefit of the teachings herein. Furthermore, no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore evident that the particular illustrative embodiments disclosed above may be altered, combined, or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Of course, the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary embodiments and that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Further, it should be understood that various aspects of the embodiment are not mutually exclusive of each other and can be combined as desired by a person of ordinary skill in the art as a matter of design choices.

The embodiments illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element that is not specifically disclosed herein and/or any optional element disclosed herein. While compositions and methods are described in terms of “comprising,” “containing,” or “including” various components or steps, the compositions and methods can also “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the various components and steps. All numbers and ranges disclosed above may vary by some number. Whenever a numerical range with a lower limit and an upper limit is disclosed, any number and any included range falling within the range is specifically disclosed. In particular, every range of values (of the form, “from about a to about b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a to b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a-b”) disclosed herein is to be understood to set forth every number and range encompassed within the broader range of values. Also, the terms in the claims have their plain, ordinary meaning unless otherwise explicitly and clearly defined by the patentee. Moreover, the indefinite articles “a” or “an,” as used in the claims, are defined herein to mean one or more than one of the elements that it introduces.

Claims

1. A heat pipe assembly comprising: a first heat pipe having an inner wall surface, an outer wall surface, and at least one opening, wherein the inner wall surface surrounds a first cavity, the outer wall surface faces away from the inner wall surface, and the at least one opening is disposed on a longitudinal side of the first heat pipe; andat least one second heat pipe having a second cavity and a connecting port that is coupled to the second cavity, the at least one second heat pipe is disposed on the first heat pipe so that the second cavity of the at least one second heat pipe is connected to the first cavity of the first heat pipe via the connecting port and the at least one opening.

2. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the first heat pipe further comprises a first heat conducting section and two second heat conducting sections, the two second heat conducting sections are connected to opposite ends of the first heat conducting section respectively and protrude in the same direction, and the at least one opening is located in the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe.

3. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein each of the two second heat conducting sections is connected to the opposite ends of the first heat conducting section via a bent section.

4. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein at least a portion of the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe is a flat pipe.

5. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least one second heat pipe has a flanged structure at the connecting port, and the flanged structure is stacked on the outer wall surface of the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe.

6. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein the first heat conducting section has a recessed portion that is disposed on the outer wall surface and surrounds the at least one opening, and a flanged structure is disposed in the recessed portion.

7. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein a portion of the at least one second heat pipe is inserted into the at least one opening of the first heat pipe.

8. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least one second heat pipe has a tapered structures adjacent to the connecting port, and the tapered structures are arranged in the first cavity of the first heat pipe.

9. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein the first heat conducting section has a recessed portion disposed on the outer wall surface, and the at least one second heat pipe is stacked on the recessed portion of the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe.

10. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein the first heat pipe has a flanged structure at the at least one opening, and a portion of the at least one second heat pipe is inserted into the flanged structure that is protruding from the first heat pipe.

11. The heat pipe assembly of claim 10, wherein the flanged structure of the first heat pipe has a larger diameter than the second heat pipe.

12. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein the first heat pipe has a flanged structure at the at least one opening, and a portion of the at least one second heat pipe is sleeved on the flanged structure that is protruding from the first heat pipe.

13. The heat pipe assembly of claim 12, wherein the second heat pipe has a larger diameter than the flanged structure of the first heat pipe.

14. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, further comprising at least one connecting ring including a narrow diameter ring portion and a wide diameter ring portion, wherein the narrow diameter ring portion of the at least one connecting ring is inserted into the at least one opening of the first heat pipe, and a portion of the at least one second heat pipe is inserted into the wide diameter ring portion of the at least one connecting ring.

15. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least one second heat pipe includes a flanged structure having a first surface coupled to the inner wall surface of the first heat conducting section of the first heat pipe.

16. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, further comprising a first wick structure and at least one second wick structure, wherein the first wick structure is disposed in the first cavity of the first heat pipe, and the at least one second wick structure is disposed in the second cavity of the at least one second heat pipe and connected to the first wick structure.

17. The heat pipe assembly of claim 16, wherein the at least one second wick structure includes two crescent-shaped portions extending out of the connecting port.

18. The heat pipe assembly of claim 16, wherein the at least one second wick structure has a semi-circular portion extends out of the connecting port.

19. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one second heat pipe is welded to the first heat pipe.

20. The heat pipe assembly of claim 2, further comprises a plurality of third heat pipes disposed on at least one of the two second heat conducting sections of the first heat pipe and the at least one second heat pipe, the plurality of third heat pipes extend in a third direction while the at least one of second heat conducting sections of the first heat pipe extends in a first direction and the at least one second heat pipe extends in a second direction.

21. The heat pipe assembly of claim 16, further comprises a third wick structure disposed on the first wick structure in the first cavity of the first heat pipe, and the second wick structure connects to the first wick structure through the third wick structure.

22. The heat pipe assembly of claim 16, wherein the at least one second heat pipe has a pipe wall that abuts an outer wall surface of the first heat pipe, and the at least one second wick structure in the at least one second heat pipe extends into and abuts the first wick structure in the first heat pipe.

23. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one second heat pipe includes a flanged structure, and a pipe wall of the at least one second heat pipe abuts the outer wall surface of the first heat pipe through the flanged structure that is welded to the outer wall of the first heat pipe.

24. The heat pipe assembly of claim 16, wherein at least one connecting ring having an inner surface disposed with a fourth wick structure connects the at least one second heat pipe to the first heat pipe, and one end of the at least one connecting ring is inserted into and attached to the at least one opening of the first heat pipe by welding.

25. The heat pipe assembly of claim 24, wherein the fourth wick structure connects to the first wick structure and the second wick structure of the at least one second heat pipe that covers a portion of the connecting ring.

26. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one second heat pipe is rectangular with a rectangular opening, the first heat pipe has at least one circular opening that aligns with the rectangular opening of the at least one second heat pipe, and the at least one second heat pipe is attached to the at least one rectangular opening of the first heat pipe by solder.

27. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one second heat pipe is rectangular with a rectangular opening, the first heat pipe has at least one rectangular opening that aligns with the rectangular opening of the at least one second heat pipe, and the at least one second heat pipe is attached to the at least one rectangular opening of the first heat pipe by solder.

28. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein one end of the at least one second heat pipe connected to the first heat pipe has a constricted portion.

29. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein one end of the at least one second heat pipe connected to the first heat pipe has a flared portion.

30. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one second heat pipe includes two heat pipes that are disposed to the first heat pipe in opposite directions.

31. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one second heat pipe includes two heat pipes that are mounted on an L-shaped first heat pipe.

32. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one second heat pipe includes three second heat pipes that are vertically mounted on the first heat pipe, and ends of the first heat pipe oriented in opposing directions.

33. The heat pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the first heat pipe includes a bottom shell and a top shell.