Thermal conditioning system, thermal conditioning kit, data center system, and backup system

Abstract

The invention discloses a thermal regulation system, a thermal regulation kit, a data center system and a standby system. The thermal regulation system is used for preheating a standby system for the data center. The thermal conditioning system includes a heat transfer module having a first fluid conduit that circulates a first coolant fluid from the data center through the heat transfer module and a second fluid conduit that circulates a second coolant fluid from the heat transfer module through the backup system. The first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are thermally connected via a heat transfer module such that heat is transferred from the first coolant fluid to the second coolant fluid to the backup system.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the priority of European Patent Application No. 24305175.2, entitled "THERMAL REGULATION SYSTEM FOR ABACK - UP SYSTEM FOR A DATA CENTER", filed on January 31, 2024, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present technology generally relates to a thermal regulation system for a backup system, such as a backup generator, associated with a data center. Background Art

[0004] A data center is a dedicated facility designed to house and manage a large number of electronic devices, such as servers, processors, etc., for processing, storing, and transmitting data.

[0005] To ensure uninterrupted service and continuous operation, in the event of a power grid failure or other power outage, a data center relies on a backup system, such as a backup generator. The startup and performance of a backup generator can be affected by various weather conditions (e.g., cold weather conditions and / or climate). To mitigate the impact of weather on performance, a backup generator is equipped with a thermal regulation system to pre - heat the cooling system of the backup generator, thereby ensuring that the backup generator can start and operate reliably. Generally, the thermal regulation system uses a coolant heater, such as a water coolant heater, to regulate the temperature of the backup generator, and the thermal regulation system is controlled by a temperature sensor to raise and / or maintain a coolant temperature of approximately 40°C.

[0006] Therefore, there is an interest in developing a system for thermally regulating a backup system associated with a data center. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure are based on the understanding by developers of the disadvantages associated with conventional thermal regulation systems associated with backup systems, such as backup generators and batteries.

[0008] Specifically, developers have found that conventional backup systems incorporating a closed - loop thermal regulation system are inefficient. The thermal regulation of the backup system is driven by electricity in the range between 4 kW and 18 kW to raise and / or maintain a predetermined temperature. Generally, these systems include heating elements connected to an external power source (e.g., the power grid).

[0009] Standby generators typically use coolant heaters, such as water coolant heaters. The coolant fluid circulates in a closed loop between the coolant heater and the standby generator to regulate the temperature of the standby generator. Similarly, the battery uses an electric heater to transfer heat to the coolant fluid, which circulates in a closed loop between the battery and the heater.

[0010] These thermal regulation systems operate continuously during the colder seasons of the year, resulting in significant power consumption, higher operating costs, and an increased environmental impact due to increased carbon emissions. In addition, the continuous operation of the thermal regulation systems leads to increased wear and tear of the equipment, resulting in greater operating and capital expenditures for maintenance, replacement, and / or purchase of new equipment. Moreover, these systems typically operate independently of other infrastructure within the data center, limiting opportunities for integration, scalability, and energy efficiency improvements.

[0011] Broadly speaking, the present disclosure provides a system for thermally regulating a standby system using thermal energy from a data center. Specifically, the thermal regulation system thermally connects the standby system to the data center to transfer heat from the data center to the standby system, thereby preheating the standby system to the temperature required for normal operation and functionality. This alleviates the need for the standby system to have its own dedicated closed-loop thermal regulation system that operates continuously. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, power consumption is significantly reduced.

[0012] According to one aspect of the technology, a thermal regulation system is provided that includes: a heat transfer module; a first fluid conduit that circulates a first coolant fluid from the data center and through the heat transfer module; a second fluid conduit that circulates a second coolant fluid through the heat transfer module and to the standby system; and the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are thermally connected via the heat transfer module such that heat is transferred from the first coolant fluid to the second coolant fluid to reach the standby system.

[0013] In some embodiments, the thermal regulation system further includes at least one of the following: a first fluid bypass system fluidly connected to the first fluid conduit for bypassing the flow of the first coolant fluid through the heat transfer module; and a second fluid bypass system fluidly connected to the second fluid conduit for bypassing the flow of the second coolant fluid through the heat transfer module.

[0014] In some embodiments, the thermal regulation system further includes a sensor operably connected to the second fluid conduit for detecting a fluid characteristic of the second coolant fluid.

[0015] In some embodiments, the thermal regulation system further includes a pump fluidly connected to at least one of the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit.

[0016] In some embodiments, the heat transfer module includes a heat exchanger, the first fluid conduit being configured to circulate a first coolant fluid through the heat exchanger, and the second fluid conduit being configured to circulate a second coolant fluid through the heat exchanger.

[0017] In some embodiments, the heat transfer module includes: a first heat exchanger, the first fluid conduit being configured to circulate a first coolant fluid through the first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger, the second fluid conduit being configured to circulate a second coolant fluid through the second heat exchanger; an intermediate fluid conduit that circulates an intermediate coolant fluid, the intermediate fluid conduit having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion circulating the intermediate coolant fluid through the first heat exchanger and the second portion circulating the intermediate coolant fluid through the second heat exchanger; the first fluid conduit and the first portion of the intermediate fluid conduit being thermally connected via the first heat exchanger such that heat is transferred from the first coolant fluid to the intermediate coolant fluid flowing through the first portion; and the second fluid conduit and the second portion of the intermediate fluid conduit being thermally connected via the second heat exchanger such that heat is transferred from the second coolant fluid to the intermediate coolant fluid flowing through the second portion.

[0018] In some embodiments, the thermal regulation system further includes a backup system; and in response to heat being transferred from the first coolant fluid to the second coolant fluid, the backup system is preheated to a predetermined temperature.

[0019] In some embodiments, the backup system is a backup generator.

[0020] In some embodiments, the backup system includes a backup heat transfer module for transferring heat from the second coolant fluid to the backup system.

[0021] In some embodiments, the backup system does not have an independent thermal regulation system.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided a kit for thermal regulation, the kit including: the thermal regulation system as described above; a first connector configured to connect the thermal regulation system to a data center; and a second connector configured to connect the thermal regulation system to a backup system.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present technology, a data center system is provided, the data center system comprising: the thermal regulation system as described above; a data center; and a standby system, the standby system being electrically connected to the data center; in response to heat being transferred from a first coolant fluid to a second coolant fluid, the standby system is preheated to a predetermined temperature.

[0024] In some embodiments, the data center system further comprises a dry cooler, the dry cooler being fluidly connected to at least one of the data center and the thermal regulation system.

[0025] In some embodiments, the standby system is a standby generator.

[0026] In some embodiments, the standby system does not have an independent thermal regulation system.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present technology, a data center system is provided, the data center system comprising: a data center; a standby system, the standby system being electrically connected to the data center; and a thermal regulation system for preheating the standby system, the thermal regulation system thermally connecting the data center and the standby system such that heat is transferred from the data center to the standby system to preheat the standby system to a predetermined temperature.

[0028] In some embodiments, the standby system is a standby generator.

[0029] In some embodiments, the data center system further comprises a dry cooler, the dry cooler being fluidly connected to at least one of the data center and the thermal regulation system.

[0030] In some embodiments, the standby system does not have an independent thermal regulation system.

[0031] According to one aspect of the present technology, a standby system for a data center is provided, the standby system being connectable to a thermal regulation system, the standby system comprising: a fluid pipeline for circulating a standby system coolant fluid to preheat the standby system to a predetermined temperature; and a standby system heat transfer module, the standby system heat transfer module being thermally connected to the fluid pipeline and capable of being thermally connected to a cooling system of the data center; the standby system heat transfer module being configured to transfer heat transmitted by the cooling system of the data center to the standby system coolant fluid in the fluid pipeline of the standby system.

[0032] In some embodiments, the standby system is a standby generator.

[0033] In some embodiments, the standby system does not have an independent thermal regulation system.

[0034] In the context of this specification, unless otherwise explicitly specified, an electronic device may refer to, but is not limited to, a "server", an "electronic device", an "operating system", a "system", a "computer-based system", a "controller unit", a "monitoring device", a "control device", and / or any combination thereof suitable for the currently relevant task.

[0035] In the context of this specification, unless otherwise explicitly specified, terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. are used as adjectives only for the purpose of allowing the nouns modified by these terms to be distinguished from each other, rather than for the purpose of describing any specific relationship between these nouns.

[0036] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents.

[0037] As used herein, the term "and / or" shall be regarded as specifically disclosing each of the two specified features or components, whether or not it has the other feature or component. For example, "A and / or B" shall be regarded as specifically disclosing (i) A, (ii) B, and (iii) each of A and B, as if each were separately set forth herein.

[0038] Embodiments of the present technology all have at least one of the above objects and / or aspects, but do not necessarily have all of the above objects and / or aspects. It should be understood that some aspects resulting from the attempt to achieve the above objects of the present technology may not satisfy that object and / or may satisfy other objects not specifically enumerated herein.

[0039] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the drawings, and the appended claims. Description of the Drawings

[0040] For a better understanding of the present technology and other aspects and additional features thereof, reference is made to the following description used in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

[0041] Figure 1 A functional block diagram of a data center system having a thermal regulation system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the thermal regulation system being connected to a data center and a backup system;

[0042] Figure 2 A functional block diagram and a circuit diagram of a thermal regulation system including a heat transfer module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown; Figure 1 of the thermal regulation system;

[0043] Figure 3 shows a functional block diagram and a circuit diagram of a thermal regulation system having Figure 2 a heat transfer module Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the thermal regulation system including a pump associated with a standby system fluid circuit;

[0044] Figure 4 shows a functional block diagram and a circuit diagram of a thermal regulation system having Figure 2 a heat transfer module Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the thermal regulation system including a sensor associated with a standby system fluid circuit;

[0045] Figure 5 shows a functional block diagram and a circuit diagram of a thermal regulation system Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the thermal regulation system having an alternative embodiment of a heat transfer module;

[0046] Figure 6 shows a functional block diagram and a circuit diagram of a thermal regulation system having Figure 5 a heat transfer module Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the thermal regulation system including a pump associated with an intermediate fluid circuit and a pump associated with a standby system fluid circuit;

[0047] Figure 7 shows a functional block diagram and a circuit diagram of a thermal regulation system having Figure 5 a heat transfer module Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the thermal regulation system including a pump and a sensor associated with an intermediate fluid circuit;

[0048] Figure 8 shows a functional block diagram and a circuit diagram of a data center system Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the data center system including a first connector fluidly connecting the thermal regulation system to the data center and a second connector fluidly connecting the thermal regulation system to a standby system.

[0049] It should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly stated herein, the drawings are not drawn to scale. Detailed Description

[0050] The examples and conditional language recited herein are primarily intended to assist the reader in understanding the principles of the technology and are not intended to limit the scope of the technology to these specifically recited examples and conditions. It will be understood that those skilled in the art can devise various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, nevertheless embody the principles of the technology.

[0051] In addition, for the sake of understanding, the following description may describe a relatively simplified implementation form of the present technology. As those skilled in the art will understand, various implementation forms of the present technology may have greater complexity.

[0052] In some cases, examples that are considered helpful modifications of the present technology may also be set forth. This is done only to aid understanding and is not intended to limit the scope of the present technology or to delimit the boundaries of the present technology. These modifications are not an exhaustive list, and those skilled in the art may make other modifications while still remaining within the scope of the present technology. In addition, the absence of an example of a modification should not be construed as precluding modification and / or that the described content is the only way to implement the element of the present technology.

[0053] Furthermore, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects and implementation forms of the present technology, as well as specific examples of the present technology, are intended to cover structural and functional equivalents of the present technology, whether currently known or developed in the future.

[0054] A data center houses many rack-mounted electronic devices such as servers, processors, etc. In use, the electronic processing components generate a large amount of heat, which is removed or at least dissipated to avoid electronic component failure and ensure continuous and efficient operation. To regulate and discharge the heat generated by the electronic devices, the data center typically implements a thermal management system to transfer excess heat from the electronic devices to a coolant fluid circulating through the data center. The heat generated by the electronic devices is transferred to the coolant fluid, thereby increasing the temperature of the coolant fluid while decreasing the temperature of the electronic devices. Typically, the warmed coolant fluid leaves the data center, where it circulates through a dry cooler that uses ambient air to cool the coolant fluid. The coolant fluid leaves the dry cooler and is recirculated through the data center.

[0055] Based on these basic principles, we will now consider some non-limiting examples to illustrate various implementation forms of aspects of the present disclosure.

[0056] Broadly speaking, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a thermal regulation system that uses thermal energy discharged from a data center to regulate the temperature of a standby system, such as a standby generator and / or a standby battery. The thermal regulation system is thermally connected to the data center and the standby system to allow transfer of thermal energy.

[0057] Refer to Figure 1, depicts a functional block diagram of a data center system 10. The data center system 10 includes a data center 12 that houses electronic devices such as servers, processors, etc., which are configured to process, store, and transmit data. The data center 12 includes a cooling system to circulate a data center coolant fluid 24 through the data center 12 to dissipate the heat of the electronic devices.

[0058] To ensure uninterrupted service and continuous operation, the data center system 10 includes a backup system 14 that is electrically connected to the data center 12 to provide electricity in the event of a power grid failure and / or other power outages. In some embodiments, the backup system includes at least one backup generator. In other embodiments, the backup system 14 may include at least one battery. It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the backup system 14 may include a combination of a backup generator and a battery.

[0059] The data center system 10 also includes a thermal regulation system 100 that is fluidly connected to the data center 12 and forms at least a part of the cooling system of the data center 12. The thermal regulation system 100 is fluidly connected to the backup system 14. The thermal regulation system 100 thermally connects the data center 12 and the backup system 14 such that thermal energy is transferred between the data center 12 and the backup system 14. Specifically, the thermal regulation system 100 promotes the thermal management of the data center 12 and the temperature control of the backup system 14 by using the heat generated by the electronic devices of the data center 12 to raise and / or maintain a predetermined temperature of the backup system 14, thereby reducing the impact of cold weather conditions on the performance and operation of the backup system 14. In some cases, the predetermined temperature is about 40 °C. This means that no separate thermal regulation system is required to preheat the backup system 14 and / or maintain the temperature of the backup system 14. The thermal regulation system 100 will be described in more detail below. In some cases, the thermal regulation system 100 may be referred to as a heat recovery system.

[0060] The data center system 10 includes a dry cooler system 16 to further facilitate the thermal management of the data center 12. The dry cooler system 16 includes at least one dry cooler assembly fluidly connected to the data center 12. Generally, the dry cooler assembly uses a heat exchanger and a fan to reduce the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24. Specifically, the data center coolant fluid 24 is received by the heat exchanger of the dry cooler assembly, where the data center coolant fluid 24 transfers heat to the ambient air drawn in by the fan, thereby cooling the data center coolant fluid 24. Then, the heated air is discharged, and the now-cooled data center coolant fluid 24 is ultimately recirculated back to the data center 12. It is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the dry cooler system 16 may be omitted.

[0061] The data center system 10 further includes a pump system 18 that is fluidly connected to the data center 12 and the dry cooler system 16 to facilitate the circulation of the data center coolant fluid 24 between the dry cooler system 16 and the data center 12. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, multiple pump systems 18 may be positioned along the data center fluid loop 20 to facilitate circulation between the data center 12, the thermal conditioning system 100, and the dry cooler system 16. It is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the pump system 18 may be omitted.

[0062] As Figure 1 shown, the data center system 10 includes a data center fluid loop 20 and a standby system fluid loop 22. The data center fluid loop 20 circulates the data center coolant fluid 24 between the data center 12, the thermal conditioning system 100, the dry cooler system 16, and the pump system 18. The data center coolant fluid 24 may be a dielectric liquid or a non-dielectric liquid, and the data center coolant fluid 24 may be, for example but not limited to, water, ethylene glycol, oil, or a combination thereof. In this embodiment, the data center coolant fluid 24 is water.

[0063] The standby system fluid loop 22 circulates a standby system coolant fluid 26 between the standby system 16 and the thermal conditioning system 100. The standby system coolant fluid 26 may be a dielectric liquid or a non-dielectric liquid, and the standby system coolant fluid 26 may be, for example but not limited to, water, ethylene glycol, oil, or a combination thereof. In this embodiment, the standby system coolant fluid 26 is water. As Figure 1 shown, the standby system fluid loop 22 forms a closed-loop circuit. In other words, the standby system coolant fluid 26 flows from the standby system 16 through the thermal conditioning system 100 and back to the standby system 16. In alternative embodiments, the standby system coolant fluid 26 may flow from a coolant source.

[0064] Referring to Figures 2 to 7, various embodiments of the thermal regulation system 100 will now be described in detail. The thermal regulation system 100 includes a heat transfer module 102 that thermally connects the data center 12 to the standby system 14.

[0065] The thermal regulation system 100 includes a data center fluid conduit 104 that is positioned to pass through the heat transfer module 102. The data center fluid conduit 104 forms at least a part of the data center fluid loop 20 such that the data center coolant fluid 24 circulates through the heat transfer module 102 from the data center 12 via the data center fluid conduit 104. The thermal regulation system 100 further includes a standby system fluid conduit 106 that is positioned to pass through the heat transfer module 102. The standby system fluid conduit 106 forms at least a part of the standby system fluid loop 22 such that the standby system coolant fluid 26 circulates through the heat transfer module 102 via the standby system fluid conduit 106 to the standby system 14. The data center fluid conduit 104 and the standby system fluid conduit 106 are thermally connected via the heat transfer module 102, and heat can be transferred from the data center coolant fluid 24 to the standby system coolant fluid 26. The standby system coolant fluid 26 is then circulated to the standby system 14 to preheat the standby system 14 to a predetermined temperature and / or maintain the temperature of the standby system 14 at a predetermined temperature.

[0066] As Figures 2 to 4 shown, the heat transfer module 102 includes a liquid-liquid heat exchanger 108. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 108 is a plate heat exchanger. The data center fluid conduit 104 is positioned to pass through a first side of the heat exchanger 108, while the standby system fluid conduit 106 is positioned to pass through a second side of the heat exchanger 108 such that heat is transferred from the data center coolant fluid 24 to the standby system coolant fluid 26.

[0067] During use, the data center coolant fluid 24 flows through the data center 12, where heat is transferred from the electronic devices to the data center coolant fluid 24, thereby reducing the temperature of the electronic devices and increasing the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24. The data center coolant fluid 24 circulates from the data center 12 via the data center fluid conduit 104 to the heat exchanger 108. The data center coolant fluid 24 exits the heat exchanger 108 and flows to the dry cooler system 16.

[0068] The standby system coolant fluid 26 circulates from the standby system 14 to the heat exchanger 108. The standby system coolant fluid 26 flows through the heat exchanger 108 via the standby system fluid conduit 106. After leaving the heat exchanger 108, the standby system coolant fluid 26 returns to the standby system 14.

[0069] Within the heat exchanger 108, the standby system coolant fluid 26 has a lower temperature than the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24 (the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24 has been raised by the electronic devices within the data center 12). Thus, within the heat exchanger 108, heat is transferred from the warmer data center coolant fluid 24 to the cooler standby system coolant fluid 26. Accordingly, the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24 is reduced, while the temperature of the standby system coolant fluid 26 is raised.

[0070] The cooled data center coolant fluid 24 exits the heat exchanger 108 and flows through the dry cooler system 16, where the temperature can be further reduced before the cooled data center coolant fluid 24 ultimately returns to the data center 12 to again facilitate thermal management of the electronic devices.

[0071] The warmed standby system coolant fluid 26 exits the heat exchanger 108 and flows towards the standby system 14. In some embodiments, the standby system 14 includes an internal fluid conduit 105 (as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 8 ) for circulating an internal coolant fluid 107. The standby system 14 may further include a standby system heat transfer module 109 that thermally connects the standby system 14 to the data center 12 via a thermal regulation system 100. The standby system heat transfer module 109 transfers heat from the standby system coolant fluid 26 to the internal coolant fluid 107, which is then circulated through the standby system 14 to preheat the standby system 14 to a predetermined temperature and / or maintain the temperature of the standby system 14 at a predetermined temperature. In some cases, the standby system heat transfer module 109 may include a liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger, such as a plate heat exchanger.

[0072] In other embodiments, the standby system heat transfer module may be omitted. The standby system coolant fluid 26 may then be circulated through the standby system 14 to facilitate preheating the standby system 14 to a predetermined temperature and / or maintaining the temperature of the standby system 14 at a predetermined temperature.

[0073] Exemplary temperatures of the data center coolant fluid 24 as it flows through the data center fluid circuit 20 will now be described. In some embodiments, the data center coolant fluid 24 exits the data center 12 at a temperature state of about 47°C. The data center coolant fluid 24 is circulated from the data center 12 to the heat exchanger 108 of the thermal conditioning system 100. As the data center coolant fluid 24 flows through the heat exchanger 108, heat is transferred from the data center coolant fluid 24 to the standby system coolant fluid 26, where the data center coolant fluid 24 may experience a temperature change of up to 5°C. In one example, the data center coolant fluid 24 is about 43°C when it exits the heat exchanger 108. The data center coolant fluid 24 is circulated from the heat exchanger 108 to the dry cooler system 16, where the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24 is further reduced. When exiting the dry cooler system 16, the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24 is about 27°C before being circulated through the data center 12.

[0074] In Figures 5 to 7 An alternative embodiment of the heat transfer module 102 is depicted. In this embodiment, the heat transfer module 102 includes a first liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger 110 and a second liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger 112 and an intermediate fluid circuit 114 located between the first liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger 110 and the second liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger 112. In some embodiments, each of the first heat exchanger 110 and the second heat exchanger 112 is a heat exchanger plate. The intermediate fluid circuit 114 includes an intermediate fluid conduit 116 that circulates an intermediate coolant fluid 118. The intermediate coolant fluid 118 can be a dielectric liquid or a non-dielectric liquid, and the intermediate coolant fluid 118 can be, for example but not limited to, water, ethylene glycol, oil, or a combination thereof. In this embodiment, the intermediate coolant fluid 118 is water. In some embodiments, the intermediate fluid circuit 114 is a closed loop circuit. In an alternative embodiment, the intermediate fluid circuit 114 can be connected to a source for supplying the intermediate coolant fluid 118.

[0075] The data center fluid conduit 104 is positioned to pass through a first side of the first heat exchanger 110, and a portion 120 of the intermediate fluid conduit 116 is positioned to pass through a second side of the first heat exchanger 110. Thus, heat is transferred from the data center coolant fluid 24 to the intermediate coolant fluid 118, which flows through the portion 120 of the intermediate fluid conduit 116 that is positioned to pass through the first heat exchanger 110.

[0076] A portion 122 of the intermediate fluid conduit 116 is positioned to pass through a first side of the second heat exchanger 112, and the standby system fluid conduit 106 is positioned to pass through a second side of the second heat exchanger 112. Accordingly, heat is transferred from the intermediate coolant fluid 118 to the standby system coolant fluid 26, the intermediate coolant fluid 118 flowing through the portion 122 of the intermediate fluid conduit 116 that is positioned to pass through the second heat exchanger 112.

[0077] During use, the data center coolant fluid 24 flows through the cooling system of the data center 12, wherein heat is transferred from the electronic equipment to the data center coolant fluid 24, thereby reducing the temperature of the electronic equipment and increasing the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24. The data center coolant fluid 24 circulates from the data center 12 via the data center fluid conduit 104 to the first heat exchanger 110. The data center coolant fluid 24 exits the first heat exchanger 108 and flows to the dry cooler system 16. The cooled data center coolant fluid 24 flows through the dry cooler system 16, in which the temperature is further reduced. The data center coolant fluid 24 returns from the dry cooler system 16 to the data center 12 to again facilitate the thermal management of the electronic equipment.

[0078] Within the first heat exchanger 110, the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24 is higher than the temperature of the intermediate coolant fluid 118 circulating through the first heat exchanger 110. Accordingly, heat is transferred from the warmer data center coolant fluid 24 to the cooler intermediate coolant fluid 118. The temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24 is reduced, while the temperature of the intermediate coolant fluid 118 flowing through the portion 120 of the intermediate fluid conduit 116 is increased. The warmed intermediate coolant fluid 118 exits the first heat exchanger 110 and flows to the second heat exchanger 112.

[0079] The standby system coolant fluid 26 circulates from the standby system 14 to the second heat exchanger 112. The standby system coolant fluid 26 flows through the second heat exchanger 112 via the standby system fluid conduit 106. After exiting the second heat exchanger 112, the standby system coolant fluid 26 returns to the standby system 14.

[0080] Within the second heat exchanger 112, the standby system coolant fluid 26 has a temperature lower than that of the intermediate coolant fluid 118 (the temperature of the intermediate coolant fluid 118 has been elevated by heat transfer in the first heat exchanger 110). Within the second heat exchanger 112, heat is transferred from the warmer intermediate coolant fluid 118 to the cooler standby system coolant fluid 26. Accordingly, the temperature of the intermediate coolant fluid 118 circulating through portion 122 of the intermediate fluid conduit 116 is reduced, while the temperature of the standby system coolant fluid 26 is elevated. After leaving the second heat exchanger 112, the cooled intermediate coolant fluid 118 flows to the first heat exchanger 110.

[0081] The warmed standby system coolant fluid 26 leaves the second heat exchanger 112 and flows to the standby system 26. In some embodiments, the standby system 14 includes an internal fluid conduit 105 (as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 8 ) for circulating an internal coolant fluid 107. The standby system 14 may also include a standby system heat transfer module 109 that thermally connects the standby system 14 to the data center 12 via the thermal regulation system 100. The standby system heat transfer module 109 transfers heat from the standby system coolant fluid 26 to the internal coolant fluid 107, which is then circulated through the standby system 14 to preheat the standby system 14 to a predetermined temperature and / or maintain the temperature of the standby system 14 at a predetermined temperature. In some cases, the heat transfer module may include a liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger, such as a plate heat exchanger.

[0082] In other embodiments, the standby system heat transfer module may be omitted. The standby system coolant fluid 26 may then be circulated through the standby system 14 to facilitate preheating the standby system 14 to a predetermined temperature and / or maintaining the temperature of the standby system 14 at a predetermined temperature.

[0083] The thermal regulation system 100 may also include a bypass system to divert flow through a bypass away from the heat transfer module 102. As shown in Figures 2 to 7 , the thermal regulation system 100 includes a first bypass system 124 and a second bypass system 126.

[0084] The first bypass system 124 is associated with the data center fluid circuit 20. Specifically, the first bypass system 124 is fluidly connected to the data center fluid conduit 104 to redirect the flow of the data center coolant fluid 24. In some embodiments, the first bypass system 124 includes at least one of the following: a bypass valve, a bypass pump, a bypass channel, a bypass sensor, and other bypass components that cooperate to alter the flow of the data center coolant fluid 24. For example, as shown in Figures 2 to 7As shown, the first bypass system 124 includes a plurality of bypass valves 128 disposed along the data center fluid conduit 104, and also includes a bypass channel 130 to divert flow away from the heat transfer module 102.

[0085] The second bypass system 126 is associated with the standby system fluid circuit 22. Specifically, the second bypass system 126 is fluidly connected to the standby system fluid conduit 106 to redirect the flow of the standby system coolant fluid 26. In some embodiments, the second bypass system 126 includes at least one of the following: a bypass valve, a bypass pump, a bypass channel, a bypass sensor, and other bypass components that cooperate to alter the flow of the standby system coolant fluid 26. For example, as Figures 2 to 7 shown, the second bypass system 126 includes a plurality of bypass valves 132 disposed along the standby system fluid conduit 106, and also includes a bypass channel 134 to divert flow away from the heat transfer module 102.

[0086] Specifically referring to Figure 7 , the thermal regulation system 100 may also include an intermediate bypass system 136 that is associated with the intermediate fluid circuit 114 to redirect the flow of the intermediate coolant fluid 118. In some embodiments, the intermediate bypass system 136 includes at least one of the following: a bypass valve, a bypass pump, a bypass channel, a bypass sensor, and other bypass components that cooperate to alter the flow of the intermediate system coolant fluid 118. For example, as Figure 7 shown, the intermediate bypass system 136 includes a plurality of bypass valves 138.

[0087] It should be appreciated that the thermal regulation system 100 may include any number and any combination of the first bypass system 124, the second bypass system 126, and the intermediate bypass system 136 (if applicable). It is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the bypass systems 124, 126, 136 may be omitted.

[0088] Referring to Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the thermal regulation system 100 may also include at least one pump to facilitate circulation through the associated fluid circuits.

[0089] As Figure 3 and Figure 6 shown, the thermal regulation system 100 includes a pump 140 associated with the standby system fluid circuit 22. The pump 140 is fluidly connected to the standby system fluid conduit 106 to facilitate the circulation of the standby system coolant fluid 26.

[0090] As Figures 5 to 7As shown, the thermal regulation system 100 includes a pump 142 associated with an intermediate fluid circuit 114. The pump 142 is fluidly connected to an intermediate fluid conduit 116 to facilitate circulation of an intermediate coolant fluid 118.

[0091] It is contemplated that a pump may be associated with a data center fluid circuit 20 (not shown), the pump being fluidly connected to a data center fluid conduit 104 to facilitate circulation of a data center coolant fluid 24.

[0092] It should be understood that the thermal regulation system 100 may include any number and any combination of pumps associated with the data center fluid circuit 20, the standby system fluid circuit 22, and the intermediate fluid circuit 114 (if applicable). It is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, one or more pumps may be omitted.

[0093] Referring Figure 4 and Figure 7 , the thermal regulation system 100 includes sensors for detecting fluid characteristics of the respective coolant fluids. In some embodiments, the thermal regulation system 100 may include at least one of the following: a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a flow sensor, and any other sensor for detecting fluid characteristics of the respective coolant fluids.

[0094] As Figure 4 shown, the thermal regulation system 100 may also include a pressure sensor 144 and a temperature sensor 146 associated with the standby system fluid circuit 22. The pressure sensor 144 is operatively connected to a standby system fluid conduit 106 for detecting the pressure of a standby system coolant fluid 26. The temperature sensor 146 is operatively connected to the standby system fluid conduit 106 for detecting the temperature of the standby system coolant fluid 26. In this embodiment, the pressure sensor 144 and the temperature sensor 146 are positioned downstream of the heat exchanger 108 and upstream of the standby system 14 to detect the pressure and temperature of the standby system coolant fluid 26 as it exits the heat exchanger 108. It is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the pressure sensor 144 and the temperature sensor 146 may be positioned at any location along the standby system fluid circuit 22. It is also contemplated that any type and any number of sensors may be operatively connected to the standby system fluid conduit 106 for detecting fluid characteristics of the standby system coolant fluid 26.

[0095] As Figure 7As shown, the thermal regulation system 100 includes a pressure sensor 148 and a temperature sensor 150 associated with an intermediate fluid circuit 114. The pressure sensor 148 is operably connected to an intermediate fluid conduit 116 for detecting the pressure of the intermediate coolant fluid 118. The temperature sensor 150 is operably connected to the intermediate fluid conduit 116 for detecting the temperature of the intermediate coolant fluid 118. In this embodiment, the pressure sensor 148 and the temperature sensor 150 are arranged downstream of the first heat exchanger 110 and upstream of the second heat exchanger 112 to detect the pressure and temperature of the intermediate coolant fluid 118 as it exits the first heat exchanger 110. It is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the pressure sensor 148 and the temperature sensor 150 may be located at any position along the intermediate fluid circuit 114. It is also contemplated that any type and any number of sensors may be operably connected to the intermediate fluid conduit 116 to detect the fluid characteristics of the intermediate coolant fluid 118.

[0096] Although not shown, it should be understood that any number and type of sensors may be associated with the data center fluid circuit 20 and operably connected to the data center fluid conduit 104 to detect the fluid characteristics of the data center coolant fluid 24.

[0097] It is contemplated that the thermal regulation system 100 may use any combination of one or more sensors associated with the data center fluid circuit 20, the standby system fluid circuit 22, and the intermediate fluid circuit 114 (if applicable), i.e., a combination of type and / or number. It is also contemplated that one or more sensors may be omitted.

[0098] Referring to Figures 2 to 7 , the thermal regulation system 100 further includes at least one resistor 152 for further heating the temperature of the standby system coolant fluid 26 upstream of the standby system 14. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the resistor 152 may be omitted.

[0099] In some embodiments, the thermal regulation system 100 includes a controller (not shown) communicatively connected to at least one of the following: the first bypass system 124, the second bypass system 126, and the intermediate bypass system 136 (if applicable). The controller may selectively actuate the corresponding bypass systems 124, 126, 136 to redirect the flow of the corresponding fluid circuits 20, 22, 114. The controller may be configured to receive signals from the sensors 144, 146, 148, 150, and based on the signals received by the controller, the controller may actuate the corresponding bypass systems 124, 126, 136. In a specific example, referring toFigure 4 In the thermal regulation system 100 shown, the controller can receive signals from the pressure sensor 144 and / or from the temperature sensor 146. In response to one or more of the received signals, the controller actuates the second bypass system 126 to redirect the standby system coolant fluid 26 toward or away from the heat transfer module 102.

[0100] In some embodiments, the controller is communicatively coupled to at least one of the one or more pumps 140, 142 associated with the standby system fluid loop 22, the intermediate fluid loop 114 (if applicable), and the data center fluid loop 20. The controller can selectively actuate the corresponding one or more pumps 140, 142. The controller can be configured to receive signals from sensors 144, 146, 148, 150, and based on the signals received by the controller, the controller can actuate the corresponding one or more pumps 140, 142.

[0101] In some embodiments, the controller is communicatively coupled to the at least one resistor 152. The controller can selectively actuate the resistor 152 to further heat the standby system coolant fluid 26 before it circulates through the standby system 14. The controller can be configured to receive a signal from the temperature sensor 146 associated with the standby system fluid loop 22 to detect the temperature of the standby system coolant fluid 26. In response to receiving the signal, the controller can actuate the resistor 152 to provide additional heating if needed.

[0102] It is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the controller can be omitted.

[0103] Referring to Figure 8, the thermal regulation system 100 can be connected to the standby system 14 via connectors 154, 156. The connectors 154, 156 can be configured to be applicable to various standby system configurations. In some embodiments, the connectors 154, 156 include a first connector 154 for connecting the thermal regulation system 100 to the data center 12 and a second connector 156 for connecting the thermal regulation system 100 to the standby system 14. This enables the thermal regulation system 100 to be applicable to various configurations of the standby system 14, thereby enabling expansion for a larger data center 12 and enabling retrofitting of older data center 12 and standby system 14 configurations. In certain embodiments, the first connector 154 and the second connector 156 are 3 / 4" free nuts. It is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the first connector 154 and the second connector 156 can be any other size and / or other type of connector. Although the first connector 154 and the second connector 156 are described as connectors of the same size and type, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the first connector 154 and the second connector 156 can have different configurations from each other.

[0104] In some embodiments, the thermal regulation system 100 can be disposed within a housing that houses the standby system 14, and the second connector 156 is connected to the standby system 14. The first connector 154 can be positioned outside the housing to connect to the thermal regulation system 100. Thus, the connectors 154, 156 fluidly connect the thermal regulation system 100 to the standby system 14.

[0105] Although the thermal regulation system 100 has been described as transferring heat from the data center coolant fluid 24 to the standby system coolant fluid 26 (thus heating the standby system coolant fluid 26 and cooling the data center coolant fluid 24), it should be understood that, conversely, the thermal regulation system 100 can provide cooling for the standby system coolant fluid 26. In other words, within the heat transfer module 102, the standby system coolant fluid 26 can have a temperature higher than that of the data center coolant fluid 24. Thus, heat can be transferred from the standby system coolant fluid 26 to the data center coolant fluid 24, such that the temperature of the standby system coolant fluid 26 is reduced and the temperature of the data center coolant fluid 24 is increased.

[0106] Although the various features of the thermal regulation system 100 have been described separately, it should be understood that any combination of these features can be used, and the disclosed embodiments are exemplary.

[0107] As introduced herein, the disclosed embodiments provide a thermal regulation system 100 for a backup system 14 of a data center 12. The embodiments introduced herein disclose thermally connecting the backup system 14 to the cooling system of the data center 12. That is, the embodiments introduced herein disclose using excess thermal energy from the data center 12 to preheat and / or maintain the temperature of the backup system 14. The thermal regulation system 100 includes a heat transfer module 102 to thermally connect the data center 12 to the backup system 14. Specifically, the heat transfer module 102 facilitates transferring heat from the data center coolant fluid 24 to the backup system coolant fluid 26. As disclosed herein, the backup system coolant fluid 26 may circulate through a backup system heat transfer module 109 to transfer heat from the backup system coolant fluid 26 to an internal coolant fluid 107. In other words, the backup system heat transfer module 109 thermally connects the backup system 14 to the data center 12 via the thermal regulation system 100. Alternatively, the backup system coolant fluid 26 may directly circulate through the backup system 14 to preheat the backup system 14 to a predetermined temperature and / or maintain the backup system 14 at a predetermined temperature.

[0108] The disclosed embodiments of the thermal regulation system 100 provide various benefits, including but not limited to, reducing energy consumption by leveraging excess thermal energy from the data center 12, which in some cases can reduce or eliminate the need for additional electric heaters associated with the backup system 14. The reduction in energy consumption can result in significant cost savings in terms of the operating expenses of the data center 12 (associated with reducing the energy consumption itself) and capital expenditures (associated with reducing or eliminating the need for maintenance, repair, and / or providing additional electric heaters). Additionally, the reduction in energy consumption also reduces the carbon footprint of the data center 12, thus contributing to a more environmentally friendly operation of the data center. The applicability of the thermal regulation system 100 to connect to various configurations of the backup system 14 via connectors 154, 156 can provide users with the ability to expand the thermal regulation system 100 (thereby allowing the thermal regulation system 100 to adapt to data centers of different sizes and layouts) and the ability to retrofit existing data centers without major infrastructure changes.

[0109] In view of the various disclosures regarding thermal regulation systems for backup systems of data centers, it should be understood that while the embodiments introduced herein are described with reference to specific features and structures, it is apparent that various modifications and combinations can be made without departing from these disclosures. Accordingly, the specification and drawings should be regarded only as illustrative of the implementations or embodiments discussed, and of the principles of the implementations or embodiments as defined by the appended claims, and should be regarded as covering any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents falling within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A thermal regulation system (100) for preheating a standby system (14) for a data center (12), the thermal regulation system comprising: A heat transfer module (102); A first fluid pipe (20) that circulates a first coolant fluid from the data center (12) and through the heat transfer module (102); A second fluid pipe (22) that circulates a second coolant fluid through the heat transfer module (102) and to the standby system (14); and The first fluid pipe (20) and the second fluid pipe (22) are thermally connected via the heat transfer module (102) such that heat is transferred from the first coolant fluid to the second coolant fluid to reach the standby system (14).

2. The thermal regulation system (100) according to claim 1, the thermal regulation system (100) further comprising at least one of the following: A first fluid bypass system (124) fluidly connected to the first fluid pipe (20) for bypassing the flow of the first coolant fluid through the heat transfer module (102); and A second fluid bypass system (126) fluidly connected to the second fluid pipe (22) for bypassing the flow of the second coolant fluid through the heat transfer module (102).

3. The thermal regulation system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, the thermal regulation system (100) further comprising a sensor operably connected to the second fluid pipe (22) for detecting a fluid property of the second coolant fluid.

4. The thermal regulation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The heat transfer module (102) includes a heat exchanger, the first fluid pipe (20) is configured to circulate the first coolant fluid through the heat exchanger, and the second fluid pipe (22) is configured to circulate the second coolant fluid through the heat exchanger.

5. The heat conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The heat transfer module (102) includes: A first heat exchanger (110), the first fluid pipe is configured to circulate the first coolant fluid through the first heat exchanger (110); A second heat exchanger (112), the second fluid pipe (22) is configured to circulate the second coolant fluid through the second heat exchanger (112); An intermediate fluid pipe (116) that circulates an intermediate coolant fluid, the intermediate fluid pipe having: A first portion that circulates the intermediate coolant fluid through the first heat exchanger (110); and A second portion that circulates the intermediate coolant fluid through the second heat exchanger (112); The first fluid pipe (20) and the first part of the intermediate fluid pipe are thermally connected via the first heat exchanger (110) such that heat is transferred from the first coolant fluid to the intermediate coolant fluid flowing through the first part; and The second fluid pipe (22) and the second part of the intermediate fluid pipe are thermally connected via the second heat exchanger (112) such that heat is transferred from the second coolant fluid to the intermediate coolant fluid flowing through the second part.

6. The thermal regulation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the thermal regulation system (100) further comprises: The standby system (14); wherein, in response to heat being transferred from the first coolant fluid to the second coolant fluid, the standby system (14) is preheated to a predetermined temperature.

7. The thermal regulation system (100) according to claim 6, wherein, The standby system (14) is a standby generator.

8. A kit for thermal regulation, the kit comprising: The thermal regulation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7; A first connector (154) configured to connect the thermal regulation system (100) to the data center (12); And A second connector (156) configured to connect the thermal regulation system (100) to the standby system (14).

9. A data center system, the data center system comprising: The thermal regulation system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7; A data center (12); And A standby system (14) electrically connected to the data center (12); wherein, in response to heat being transferred from the first coolant fluid to the second coolant fluid, the standby system (14) is preheated to a predetermined temperature.

10. The data center system according to claim 9, the data center system further comprising a dry cooler fluidly connected to at least one of the data center (12) and the thermal regulation system (100).

11. A data center system, the data center system comprising: A data center (12); A standby system (14) electrically connected to the data center (12); And A thermal regulation system (100) for preheating the standby system (14), the thermal regulation system (100) thermally connecting the data center (12) and the standby system (14) such that heat is transferred from the data center (12) to the standby system (14) to preheat the standby system (14) to a predetermined temperature.

12. The data center system according to claim 11, wherein: The standby system (14) is a standby generator.

13. The data center system according to claim 11 or 12, the data center system further comprising a dry cooler fluidly connected to at least one of the data center (12) and the thermal regulation system (100).

14. The data center system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The standby system (14) does not have an independent thermal regulation system (100).

15. A standby system (14) for a data center (12), the standby system (14) being connectable to a thermal regulation system (100), the standby system (14) comprising: A fluid conduit that circulates a standby system coolant fluid to preheat the standby system (14) to a predetermined temperature, and A standby system heat transfer module (109) that is thermally connected to the fluid conduit and is thermally connectable to a cooling system of the data center (12); wherein, The standby system heat transfer module (109) is configured to transfer heat transmitted by the cooling system of the data center (12) to the standby system coolant fluid of the fluid conduit of the standby system (14).

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