Air baffle for managing cooling air re-circulation in an electronic system

Abstract

An airflow management apparatus is used in an electronic system and includes a flexible air baffle that mounts on a chassis of an electronic device in an arrangement and obstructs air flow between an air inlet vent and an air exhaust vent of the electronic device. The flexible air baffle has a thickness that extends across a gap to contact an adjacent vertically-stacked electronic device.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] Electronic systems and equipment such as computer systems, network interfaces, storage systems, and telecommunications equipment are commonly enclosed within a cabinet or housing for support, physical security, and efficient usage of space. Electronic equipment contained within the enclosure generates a significant amount of heat. Thermal damage may occur to the electronic equipment unless the heat is removed. [0002] Low-profile computer system installations present significant thermal management difficulties. For example, Electronics Industry Association (EIA) standard racks are commonly used to house electronic equipment. In relatively large systems, for example 2U or larger where “U” is the measuring unit for racks and rack-mountable components with 1U=1.75″ or 44.45 mm, most cooling air enters through the front of the enclosure and exits through the rear. For low-profile systems, the enclosure front is significantly blocked by hard drives and m...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes an apparatus and method for reducing heated exhaust air from electronic devices. The apparatus includes a flexible air baffle that obstructs air flow between the air inlet and exhaust vents of the device. The baffle is mounted on the device's chassis and has a thickness that extends across a gap to contact an adjacent surface. The technical effect of this invention is to improve the cooling efficiency of electronic devices and prevent overheating, which can prolong their lifespan and reduce the likelihood of malfunctions.

Problems solved by technology

Electronic equipment contained within the enclosure generates a significant amount of heat.

Thermal damage may occur to the electronic equipment unless the heat is removed.

Low-profile computer system installations present significant thermal management difficulties.

However, an unimpeded and direct airflow path exists between the enclosure inlet and exit allowing hot exhaust air to re-circulate from the devices to the inlet vent, a problem that is exacerbated by cable blockage of airflow exiting the rear of the enclosure.

Re-circulation of heated air can create thermal difficulties that may result in system overheating and failure.

If airflow patterns allow re-usage of air that is previously heated by electronic equipment, attempts to cool electronic equipment can fail and less effective heat transfer from the equipment to the cooling airflow can result.

In some circumstances insufficient heat transfer can take place and the equipment may overheat and potentially sustain thermal damage.

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