Air containment system beam

Abstract

The air containing system beam comprises a main body, the body has a first channel configured to receive a beam connector, a second channel configured to receive an air containment panel, a third channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet seal or a ceiling seal, and a fourth channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet support or a ceiling support. The air containment system beam may also include a fifth channel configured to receive at least one lighting support.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to air containment systems and, more particularly, to data center air containment system beams configured to support various components. Background Art

[0002] In order to control airflow throughout a data center and optimize airflow through the equipment racks located within the data center, it may be necessary to contain the air within aisles to conserve energy and reduce cooling costs by managing airflow. Consequently, air containment systems have been developed to contain and manage air within data centers. The primary structures and methods for air containment within data centers are limited to containment structures that are either self-supporting or supported by other data center equipment (e.g., equipment racks).

[0003] In one known stand-alone air containment system, fully configured IT equipment racks can be deployed or removed from the system as needed. Such stand-alone air containment systems are difficult to customize to meet various customer needs.

[0004] Another type of air containment system incorporates a barrier between the hot exhaust airflow and the cool intake airflow within the IT environment. Separating the hot and cold airflows within the IT environment improves the efficiency and effectiveness of the cooling system supporting critical IT equipment. This separation also allows the cooling system to provide a higher supply air temperature by eliminating the mixing of hot and cold air. This type of system is compatible with row, room, or external cooling solutions and can be used for either cold-aisle or hot-aisle containment.

[0005] Another type of air containment system includes a structural ceiling for suspending components of the air containment system. Such structural ceilings are prefabricated and have limited flexibility in design and placement. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to an air containment system beam comprising a body including a first channel configured to receive a beam connector, a second channel configured to receive an air containment panel, a third channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet seal or a ceiling seal, and a fourth channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet support or a ceiling support.

[0007] Embodiments of the air containment system beam may further include a fifth channel configured to receive at least one lighting support. The fifth channel may be an open channel located at a corner of the body. The first channel may be a closed channel located within the middle portion of the body. The second channel may be an open channel located on a side of the body. The third channel may be an open channel located at the top or bottom of the body. The fourth channel may be an open channel located at the top or bottom of the body. The third channel may include at least one of an upward channel formed in the body and a downward channel formed in the body. The fourth channel may include at least one of an upward channel formed in the body and a downward channel formed in the body. The beam may be made of extruded PVC material. The air containment system beam may further include a connector configured to secure the first beam to the second beam. The connector may include a straight connector configured to connect the mating ends of the first beam and the second beam along a common axis. The connector may include an angled connector configured to connect the mating ends of the first beam and the second beam, with the second beam being perpendicular to the first beam. The air containment structure includes the air containment system beam.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of manufacturing an air containment system beam. In one embodiment, the method includes forming a first channel in an extruded body, the first channel configured to receive a beam connector; forming a second channel in the body, the second channel configured to receive an air containment panel; forming a third channel in the body, the third channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet seal or a ceiling seal; and forming a fourth channel in the body, the fourth channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet support or a ceiling support.

[0009] Embodiments of the method may further include forming a fifth channel in the body, the fifth channel configured to receive at least one lighting support. The fifth channel may be an open channel located at a corner of the body. The first channel may be a closed channel located within the middle portion of the body. The second channel may be an open channel located on a side of the body. The third channel may be an open channel located at the top or bottom of the body. The fourth channel may be an open channel located at the top or bottom of the body. According to the method of claim 15, the third channel comprises at least one of an upward channel formed in the body and a downward channel formed in the body. The fourth channel comprises at least one of an upward channel formed in the body and a downward channel formed in the body. The beam may be made of extruded PVC material. The method may further include securing a connector to the first and second beams. The connector may comprise a straight connector configured to connect the mating ends of the first and second beams along a common axis. The connector may comprise an angled connector configured to connect the mating ends of the first and second beams, with the second beam being perpendicular to the first beam.

[0010] The present disclosure will be more fully understood after reviewing the following drawings, detailed description, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component illustrated in various figures is represented by a like reference numeral. For clarity, not every component is labeled in every figure. For a better understanding of the present disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference, wherein:

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an air containment system beam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a cross-section of the beam shown;

[0014] Figure 3 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an air containment system beam of another embodiment of the present disclosure, the beam being shown supporting components of the air containment system;

[0015] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 a cross-section of the beam shown;

[0016] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of installing the rail connector;

[0017] Figure 6 is a side view of the ceiling seal;

[0018] Figure 7 is a side view of the cabinet seal;

[0019] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of a multi-wall panel;

[0020] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a panel connector;

[0021] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view of the mounting rail;

[0022] Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view of the lighting mounting rail;

[0023] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a light emitting diode (LED) module;

[0024] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a portion of an air containment system showing corner brackets for securing adjacent beams at a corner of the air containment system;

[0025] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 another perspective view of a portion of the air containment system shown;

[0026] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a connector for connecting the butt ends of adjacently placed beams;

[0027] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a tool for securing a corner bracket to a beam; and

[0028] Figure 17-22 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary configuration of an air containing system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] For illustrative purposes only, and not to limit generality, the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure is not limited in its application to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in various ways. In addition, the words and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting. As used herein, "includes," "comprising," "having," "including," "involving," and variations thereof are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and their equivalents as well as additional items.

[0030] A typical data center may be designed to house a plurality of equipment racks, which are designed to house electronic equipment, including but not limited to data processing, network, and telecommunications equipment. Each equipment rack may be configured to include a frame or housing suitable for supporting electronic equipment. The housing includes a front, a rear, opposing sides, a bottom, and a top. The front of each equipment rack may include a front door to allow access to the interior of the equipment rack. The sides of the equipment rack may include one or more panels to enclose the interior area of the rack. The rear of the equipment rack may also include one or more panels or rear doors to provide access to the interior of the equipment rack from the rear of the rack. In some embodiments, the side and rear panels, as well as the front and rear doors, may be made of, for example, perforated metal sheets to allow air to flow into and out of the interior area of the equipment rack. In other embodiments, the front door may include a removable panel.

[0031] The equipment racks are modular in structure and are configured to be rolled into and out of position, for example, within a row in a data center. Once in position, electronic equipment can be positioned within the interior area of the equipment racks. For example, the equipment can be placed on shelves secured within the interior area of the equipment racks. Cables providing electrical and data communications can be routed through the top of the equipment racks, through a cover (or "roof") having an opening in the top of the equipment racks, or through the open top of the equipment racks.

[0032] A data center can be configured with several rows of equipment racks, with the equipment racks arranged so that cool air is drawn into the racks from a cold aisle, while warm or heated air is exhausted from the racks into a hot aisle. In one embodiment, the equipment racks can be arranged in two rows, with the fronts of the equipment racks in the near row arranged in a forward direction and the rears of the equipment racks in the far row arranged in a rearward direction. However, as described above, in a typical data center, there can be multiple rows of equipment racks, wherein the rows can be arranged with the fronts of the equipment racks facing each other to define a cold aisle, and with the rears of the equipment racks facing each other to define a hot aisle. In other configurations, a hot aisle or a cold aisle can be provided between a wall and a row of equipment racks. For example, a row of equipment racks can be spaced apart from a wall, with the rears of the equipment racks facing the wall to define a hot aisle between the wall and the row of equipment racks.

[0033] To address heat buildup and hot spots within a data center or equipment room, as well as to address climate control issues within the data center or computer room, a cooling system is typically provided. In one configuration, the cooling system can be provided as part of the data center infrastructure. In another configuration, the data center's cooling system can be supplemented with CRACs and / or CRAHs. In yet another configuration, a modular cooling system can be provided, in which modular cooling racks are interspersed within rows of equipment racks.

[0034] In one embodiment, a management system can be provided to monitor and display the status of equipment racks, including cooling racks. The management system can operate independently to control the operation of the equipment and cooling racks, and can be configured to communicate with a higher-level network manager or a management system associated with the data center. In some cases, it may be desirable to control the airflow within the hot aisle and the cold aisle, particularly the airflow in the hot aisle. Typically, heat generated by electronic components housed in the equipment racks is exhausted from the rear of the equipment racks into the hot aisle. It may be desirable to contain the hot air for conditioning by a cooling unit, such as the modular cooling unit described above.

[0035] At least some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an air containment system that includes a frame structure that is easily assembled and provides a single, integrated unit that encloses an aisle while facilitating the transport of cooling, electrical, and communications / networking equipment. In one embodiment, the air containment system includes a frame structure having end frames and cross frames that are easily assembled without the use of tools. The air containment system also includes a cantilever arm that supports the equipment, including a cable trough specifically designed to support cables. The air containment system also includes air duct supports that are integrated with the top cover or ceiling panel.

[0036] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to beams for use in manufacturing air containment systems. These beams can be used to mount air containment systems for IT equipment racks or suspended from ceiling support structures, enabling flexible transfer between horizontal roofs and vertical ductwork. In some embodiments, the beams are made of extruded polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material and can be cut to desired lengths on-site. The beams, along with associated panels and accessories, can be used to create other types of containment systems.

[0037] In some embodiments, the beams are designed to simplify and reduce the time and cost of installing the air containment system.

[0038] In some embodiments, the beams can be used with one or more corner connectors to create the framework of the air containment system. Such corner connectors can be secured in place with screw fasteners using a tool (e.g., a hexagonal wrench).

[0039] In some embodiments, the beams enhance the ability to design and fit the air containment system around obstacles.

[0040] In some embodiments, other accessories, such as panels, seals, hanging kits, and rack support kits, may be used with the beams to create and construct a variety of horizontal and vertical air containment structures.

[0041] Referring now to the drawings and more particularly to the Figure 1 and Figure 2 An air containment system beam, sometimes referred to herein simply as a beam, is generally indicated at 10. In one embodiment, beam 10 is made of an extruded plastic material, such as PVC, and is used to support components of the air containment system. Specifically, beam 10 is designed to include a plurality of discrete channels, each of which is configured to releasably secure and support a specific component. Beam 10 is designed to provide flexibility to those designing the air containment system. Because beam 10 is made of a plastic material, an installer can easily cut the beam to a desired length during on-site installation. The person installing the air containment system can use a saw or other type of saw to cut the beam to the desired length.

[0042] In one embodiment, beam 10 includes a body 12 having several separate channels, each designed for a specific purpose. In the illustrated embodiment, body 12 of beam 10 includes a first channel 14, a second channel 16, two third channels 18 and 20, two fourth channels 22 and 24, and a fifth channel 26. First channel 14 is centrally formed within body 12 along its length. First channel 14 is configured to receive a beam connector, such as beam connector 28, to secure one end of beam 10 to the end of an adjacently positioned beam. Beam connector 28, which is used to secure the ends of beams together, is described below. First channel 14 defines a cavity or recess through which the body of the beam connector is secured, thereby securing adjacent beams to one another. As shown, first channel 14 is a closed channel located in the middle or center of the body and includes several inwardly extending flanges, each designated 30, that engage and position the body of the beam connector.

[0043] The beam connector 28 can be configured to include a body having a cross-sectional size and shape suitable for fitting within the opening formed by the first passage 14. A flange 30 of the beam 10 is configured to engage an outer surface of the body of the beam connector 28. This arrangement allows the body of the beam connector 28 to move axially within the opening of the first passage 14, with the flange 30 preventing the beam 10 from moving laterally relative to the beam connector. The beam connector 28 can be configured to connect and secure beams that are coaxial or perpendicular to each other to form a corner of an air containment system.

[0044] The body 12 of the beam 10 also includes a second channel 16 formed along a side of the body. The second channel 16 is provided to receive a portion of an air containment panel, such as a panel portion 32, which will be described below. The second channel 16 defines a slot designed and configured to receive the panel portion 32 of the air containment panel therein. The air containment panel is provided to enclose the space defined by the air containment system. The second channel 16 is an open channel located on the side of the body and includes two opposed open recesses, each indicated at 34, for receiving structural elements of the panel portion 32 of the air containment panel to secure and support the panel portion (and the panel) to the beam 10.

[0045] The panel can be configured to include panel portions 32 disposed on the peripheral edge of the panel. Each panel portion 32 has a cross-section sized and shaped to fit within the second channel 16. Specifically, the panel portions 32 include features sized to fit within recesses 34 formed in the second channel 16. The panel portions 32 extend from the panel, which forms part of the air containment system. This arrangement allows the panel portions 32 of the panel to move axially within the second channel 16, while the features of the panel portions prevent lateral movement of the beam 10 relative to the panel.

[0046] The body 12 of the beam 10 also includes two third channels 18, 20 formed along the top and bottom of the body, respectively. As shown, the third channel 18 is an upwardly facing, open channel configured to receive a ceiling sealing portion 36 of a ceiling seal. The third channel 20 is a downwardly facing, open channel configured to receive a cabinet sealing portion 38 of a cabinet seal. Each of the third channels 18, 20 defines a slot designed and configured to receive its respective sealing portion 36, 38, thereby creating an airtight seal to contain air within the air containment system. The third channel 18 includes two oppositely positioned, open recesses, each indicated at 40, configured to receive the ceiling sealing portion 36 of the ceiling seal to secure the ceiling seal in place. Similarly, the third channel 20 includes two oppositely positioned, open recesses, each indicated at 42, configured to receive the cabinet sealing portion 38 of the cabinet seal to secure the cabinet seal in place.

[0047] The ceiling seal can be configured to include a ceiling seal portion 36 configured to engage within the third duct 18 and releasably connect to the ceiling seal. The cross-sectional size and shape of the ceiling seal portion 36 are adapted to fit within the third duct 18. Specifically, the ceiling seal portion 36 includes features sized to fit within a recess 40 formed in the third duct 18. In one embodiment, the ceiling seal forms an inverted U-shaped seal designed to engage and seal the ceiling. The cabinet seal can be configured to include a cabinet seal portion 38 configured to engage within the third duct 20 and releasably connect to the cabinet seal. The cross-sectional size and shape of the cabinet seal portion 38 are adapted to fit within the third duct 20. Specifically, the cabinet seal portion 38 includes features sized to fit within a recess 42 formed in the third duct 20. The cabinet seal forms a thin panel or barrier for the air containment system.

[0048] The body 12 of the beam 10 also includes two fourth channels 22, 24 formed along the top and bottom of the body, respectively. As shown, the fourth channels 22, 24 are located adjacent to their respective third channels 18, 20 and are narrower than the third channels 18, 20. The fourth channel 22 is an open channel configured to receive a ceiling support member 44. The fourth channel 24 is an open channel configured to receive a cabinet support member 46. Each of the fourth channels 22, 24 defines a slot designed and configured to receive its corresponding support member 44, 46, thereby providing support for the ceiling and the cabinets.

[0049] Ceiling support 44 may be configured to include a body having a cross-sectional size and shape suitable for fitting within fourth channel 22. Similarly, cabinet support 46 may be configured to include a body having a cross-sectional size and shape suitable for fitting within fourth channel 46.

[0050] The body 12 of the beam 10 also includes a fifth channel 26 formed at a corner of the body between the side of the body having the second channel 16 and the bottom of the body having the third channel 20. The purpose of the fifth channel is to support a lighting fixture to illuminate the interior of the air containment system. The fifth channel 26 defines a slot designed and configured to receive a flange 48 of the lighting fixture or other type of support structure to releasably secure the lighting fixture in place. As shown, the fifth channel 26 is an open channel located at a corner of the body 12.

[0051] The lighting fixture can be configured to include a flange 48 and a light emitting diode (LED) module supported by the flange. As shown, the cross-section of the flange 48 is configured to be releasably secured within the fifth channel 26 of the body 12 of the beam 10. The LED module is configured to illuminate the interior of the air containment system.

[0052] refer to Figure 3 and 4 Another embodiment of an air containment system beam is generally indicated at 50. In the illustrated embodiment, beam 50, like beam 10, is made of an extruded plastic material and is used to support components of the air containment system. Beam 50 is constructed similarly to beam 10, with the following differences. Beam 50 is designed to include a number of discrete channels, each configured to support a specific component. Beam 50 is designed to provide flexibility to those designing an air containment system. Because beam 50 is made of a plastic material, the installer can easily cut the beam to the desired length during installation.

[0053] In one embodiment, beam 50 includes a body 52 having several individual channels, each designed for a specific purpose. In the illustrated embodiment, body 52 of beam 50 includes a main channel 54, two first channels 56, 58, two second channels 60, 62, two third channels 64, 66, and two fourth channels 68, 70. Main channel 54 provides structural integrity to beam 50 and extends along its length. As shown, main channel 54 divides beam 10 into an upper portion and a lower portion. Beam 50 is taller than beam 10, and main channel 54 provides additional support and rigidity, enabling the beam to support greater weight.

[0054] The upper body 52 of the beam 50 includes a first channel 56 formed within the body above the main channel 54 and along the length of the beam body. First channel 56 is configured to receive a beam connector, similar to beam connector 28, to secure one end of the beam 50 to the end of an adjacently positioned beam. First channel 56 defines a cavity or recess through which the body of the beam connector is secured, thereby securing the adjacent beams to one another. As shown, first channel 56 is a closed channel and is sized to closely fit within the body of the beam connector.

[0055] The lower body 52 of the beam 50 also includes a first channel 58 formed within the body below the main channel 54 and along the length of the beam body. First channel 58 is configured to receive a beam connector, similar to beam connector 28, to further secure one end of the beam 50 to the end of an adjacently positioned beam. First channel 58 defines a cavity or recess through which the body of the beam connector is secured, thereby securing the adjacent beams to one another. As shown, first channel 58 is a closed channel and is sized to fit snugly within the body of the beam connector.

[0056] The body 52 of the upper portion of the beam 50 also includes a second channel 60 formed along the side of the body of the beam. The second channel 60 is configured to receive an air containment panel and defines a slot designed and configured to receive a flange of the air containment panel or other type of support structure therein. The second channel 60 is an open channel located on the side of the body. Similarly, the body 52 of the lower portion of the beam 50 also includes a second channel 62 formed along the side of the body. The second channel 62 is configured to receive lighting fixtures to illuminate the interior of the air containment system. The second channel 62 defines a slot designed and configured to receive a flange of the air containment panel or other type of support structure therein. The second channel 62 is an open channel located on the side of the body 52 below the second channel 62.

[0057] The upper body 52 of the beam 50 also includes a third channel 64 formed along the top of the beam's body. As shown, the third channel 64 is an upwardly facing, open channel for receiving a ceiling seal. Similarly, the lower body 52 of the beam 50 also includes a third channel 66 formed along the bottom of the beam's body. As shown, the third channel 66 is a downwardly facing, open channel for receiving a cabinet seal. Each of the third channels 64, 66 defines a slot designed and configured to receive its corresponding seal, thereby creating an airtight seal to contain air within the air containment system.

[0058] The upper body 52 of the beam 50 also includes a fourth channel 68 formed along the top of the beam body. As shown, the fourth channel 68 is located adjacent to its corresponding third channel 64 and is narrower than the third channel 64. The fourth channel 68 is an open channel configured to receive ceiling supports. Similarly, the lower body 52 of the beam 50 also includes a fourth channel 70 formed along the bottom of the beam body. As shown, the fourth channel 70 is located adjacent to its corresponding third channel 66 and is narrower than the third channel 66. The fourth channel 70 is an open channel configured to receive cabinet supports. The fourth channels 68 and 70 each define a slot designed and configured to receive their respective supports, thereby providing support for the ceiling and cabinets.

[0059] As described above with reference to the beam connector 28 used with the beam 10, for each first channel 56, 58, the beam connector can be configured to include a body having a cross-sectional size and shape adapted to fit within the opening formed by the first channel 56, 58. This arrangement allows the body of the beam connector to move axially within the opening of the first channel 56, 58 while preventing lateral movement of the beam connector relative to the beam. The beam connector can be configured to connect and secure beams that are coaxial or perpendicular to each other to form a corner of an air containment system.

[0060] refer to Figure 5 , a mounting rail connector is generally indicated at 72. As shown, the mounting rail connector 72 is shaped to fit within each of the second passages 60, 62 of the body 52 of the beam 50. The mounting rail connector 72 includes a flange portion 74 shaped and sized to fit within each of the second passages 60, 62, and a support portion 76 integrally formed with the flange portion. Specifically, the flange portion 74 of the mounting rail connector 72 has a cross-section shaped and sized to fit within each of the second passages 60, 62 of the body 52 of the beam 50. The support portion 76 of the mounting rail connector 72 is configured to support components of the air containment system. For each of the second passages 60, 62, this arrangement allows the flange portion 74 to move axially within the second passage while preventing the mounting rail connector 72 from moving laterally relative to the body 52 of the beam 50.

[0061] For example, refer to Figure 6 and 7 , the mounting rail connector 72 is configured to support a ceiling seal ( Figure 6 ) and cabinet seals usually indicated by 80 ( Figure 7As shown, ceiling seal 78 includes a support structure 82 configured to engage and releasably connect to mounting rail connector 72 on third channel 64, and a seal 84 connected to the support structure. Seal 84 forms an inverted U-shaped seal designed to engage and seal beam 50 to the ceiling. Similarly, cabinet seal 80 includes a support structure 86 configured to engage and releasably connect to mounting rail connector 72 on third channel 66, and a seal 88 connected to the support structure. Seal 88 forms a thin panel or barrier for the air containment system.

[0062] refer to Figure 8-10 , showing the components of the panel connector assembly. Specifically, Figure 8 A multi-wall panel is shown generally at 90, Figure 9 A panel connector is shown, generally designated 92, Figure 10 Mounting rails are shown at 94. Multi-wall panels 90 may be used to form the sides and ceiling of an air containment system. Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the panel connector 92 is configured to be releasably secured to the second channel 60 of the body 52 of the beam 50 and the mounting rail 94. The purpose of the panel connector 92 is to secure the mounting rail 94 to the beam. Once secured, the mounting rail 94 is configured to releasably secure the multi-wall panel 90 to the edge of the multi-wall panel. In the illustrated embodiment, the multi-wall panel 90 is arranged horizontally; however, the beam 50 can be oriented in a manner such that the multi-wall panel is arranged vertically.

[0063] refer to Figure 11 and 12 , showing the components of a lighting fixture assembly. Specifically, Figure 11 A lighting mounting rail is shown generally at 96, Figure 12 A light emitting diode (LED) module is shown generally at 98. Figure 4 , a lighting mounting rail 96 is configured to releasably secure to the second channel 62 of the body 52 of the beam 50 and an LED module 98 (lighting fixture). The LED module 98 is provided for illuminating the interior of the air containment system and can be connected to a suitable power source and switch to activate the LED module.

[0064] refer to Figure 13 and 14Angled corner brackets or connectors 100, 102 are used to secure adjacent beams (e.g., beam 50) at the corners of the air containment system. As shown, the air containment system includes a first type of L-shaped bracket 100 at the corners of the air containment system, the bracket 100 being configured to engage the upper horizontal surface of the beam 50 forming the corner. The air containment system also includes a second type of L-shaped bracket 102 at the corners, the bracket 102 being configured to engage the horizontal inner surface of the beam 50 forming the corner, and being configured to engage both the vertical and horizontal inner surfaces of the beam forming the corner. Screw fasteners, each indicated at 104, are used to secure the brackets 100, 102 to the beam 50. In one embodiment, the screw fasteners 104 are self-tapping screws.

[0065] Reference Figure 15 , a plurality of connectors (each indicated at 106) are used to connect the butt ends of adjacently placed beams 50. As shown, the butt ends of the beams 50 are spaced apart from each other, and each straight connector 106 is located within a channel formed in the outer surface of the beam, each channel indicated at 108. The arrangement is such that the butt ends of the beams 50 move toward each other so as to engage each other, and the connectors 106 are secured to the beams by screw fasteners (e.g., self-tapping screws).

[0066] refer to Figure 16 , the brackets can be secured in place using a tool such as an Allen wrench 110. Specifically, the Allen wrench 110 can be used to secure screw fasteners for the brackets 100, 102 and the connector 106.

[0067] In some embodiments, a method of manufacturing an air containment system beam may include forming a first channel in an extruded body, the first channel configured to receive a beam connector, forming a second channel in the body, the second channel configured to receive an air containment panel, forming two third channels in the body, the third channels configured to receive a cabinet seal and a ceiling seal, and forming two fourth channels in the body, the fourth channels configured to receive a cabinet support and a ceiling support. In one embodiment, the method further includes forming a fifth channel in the body, the fifth channel configured to receive at least one lighting support fixture. The method may include an extrusion process of a plastic material, such as a PVC material.

[0068] In another embodiment, a method of manufacturing an air containment system beam may include forming a main channel in an extruded body, forming two first channels in the body, each of the first channels being configured to receive a beam connector, forming two second channels in the body, the second channels being configured to receive an air containment panel and a lighting support fixture, forming two third channels in the body, the third channels being configured to receive a cabinet seal and a ceiling seal, and forming two fourth channels in the body, the fourth channels being configured to receive a cabinet support and a ceiling panel support. As with the aforementioned method, the method may include an extrusion process of a plastic material, such as a PVC material.

[0069] A data center can be configured with multiple rows of equipment racks, with aisles positioned between the rows. In one embodiment, one row of equipment racks is positioned so that the fronts of the equipment racks face outward, and a second row of equipment racks can be positioned on the opposite side of the aisle, so that the fronts of the equipment racks face outward and the rears of the equipment racks face the rear of the row of equipment racks. In some embodiments, one or more equipment racks can be replaced with cooling racks to provide cooling to the aisle.

[0070] In one embodiment, several rows of equipment racks can be arranged so that hot air is exhausted into the aisle through the rear of the equipment racks. Conversely, several rows of equipment racks can be arranged so that cool air enters the aisle through one or more air duct systems. In another embodiment, air can be directed out of the aisle above the equipment racks. It is well known that warm air rises, creating a situation where the ceiling of a data center may become too hot. This situation may negatively impact the climate control within the data center. The air containment system of embodiments of the present disclosure is designed to control the flow of warm air within the data center and within the spaces between equipment racks. The air containment system is also configured to efficiently accommodate cooling, electrical, and communications / networking equipment.

[0071] In some embodiments, the air containment system includes a frame structure having beams (e.g., beams 10, 50) that provide the primary structural components of the air containment system. As described above, the air containment system also includes connectors, closures, wall and ceiling panels, and other accessories used to complete the air containment system. Embodiments of the air containment system enable equipment racks and other floor-standing, rolling, or otherwise transportable equipment to be rolled, inserted, or otherwise moved into and out of the frame structure of the air containment system without being obstructed by pipes, ductwork, and raceways containing wires, cables, and other transmission devices for electricity, heat, data, and other transmittable media that are to be supported by the frame structure. In certain embodiments, the air containment system may include transport devices specifically for the data center architecture, including electrical conduits, fire extinguishing pipes, chilled water pipes, "supply" and / or "return" air ducts, and other similar guides, channels, or raceways that are intended to be attached to the frame structure rather than the roof structure of the building. For example, the frame structure may be modified to support chilled water pipes.

[0072] refer to Figure 17-22 , shows an exemplary configuration of an air containment system. For example, Figure 17 A low-profile air containment system 112 is shown positioned in an aisle between two rows of equipment racks. Figure 18 A high profile air containment system 114 is shown positioned in an aisle between two rows of equipment racks. Figure 19 A low-profile air containment system 116 is shown positioned in an aisle between a row of equipment racks and a wall. Figure 20 A high profile air containment system 118 is shown positioned in an aisle between a row of equipment racks and a wall. Figure 21 A high-profile air containment system 120 is shown supported by a structure configured to elevate the air containment system. Figure 22 Another high profile air containment system 122 is shown supported by another type of structure configured to elevate the air containment system. During installation, beams are assembled to one another to create the desired configuration.

[0073] Having thus described at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, various alternatives, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such alternatives, modifications, and improvements are intended to fall within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Therefore, the foregoing description is merely illustrative and not restrictive. The limitations of the present disclosure are defined solely in the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An air containment system beam comprising: Subject, including a first channel configured to receive a beam connector, a second channel configured to receive an air receiving panel, a third channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet seal or a ceiling seal, and A fourth channel is configured to receive at least one of a cabinet support or a ceiling support.

2. The air containment system beam of claim 1, further comprising a fifth channel configured to receive at least one lighting support.

3. The air containment system beam of claim 2, wherein the fifth channel is an open channel located at a corner of the body.

4. The air containment system beam of claim 1 , wherein the first channel is a closed channel located within a central portion of the body.

5. The air containment system beam of claim 1, wherein the second channel is an open channel located at a side of the body.

6. The air containment system beam of claim 1, wherein the third channel is an open channel located at the top or bottom of the body.

7. The air containment system beam of claim 1, wherein the fourth channel is an open channel located at the top or bottom of the body.

8. The air containment system beam of claim 1, wherein the third channel comprises at least one of an upward channel formed in the body and a downward channel formed in the body.

9. The air containment system beam of claim 1, wherein the fourth channel comprises at least one of an upward channel formed in the body and a downward channel formed in the body.

10. The air containment system beam of claim 1, wherein the beam is made of an extruded PVC material.

11. The air containment system beam of claim 1 , further comprising a connector configured to secure the first beam to the second beam.

12. The air containment system beam of claim 11, wherein the connector comprises a straight connector configured to connect mating ends of the first and second beams along a common axis.

13. The air containment system beam of claim 11, wherein the connector comprises an angled connector configured to connect mating ends of the first beam and a second beam, the second beam being perpendicular to the first beam.

14. An air containment structure comprising the air containment system beam of claim 1.

15. A method of manufacturing an air containment system beam, the method comprising: forming a first channel in the extruded body, the first channel configured to receive a beam connector; forming a second channel in the body, the second channel configured to receive an air containment panel; forming a third channel in the body, the third channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet seal or a ceiling seal; and A fourth channel is formed in the body, the fourth channel being configured to receive at least one of a cabinet support or a ceiling support.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first channel is a closed channel located in the middle of the body, the second channel is an open channel located on the side of the body, the third channel is an open channel located at the top or bottom of the body, and the fourth channel is an open channel located at the top or bottom of the body.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising forming a fifth channel in the body, the fifth channel configured to receive at least one lighting support.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the fifth channel is an open channel located at a corner of the body.

19. The method of claim 15, further comprising securing a connector to the first beam and the second beam.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the connector comprises at least one of a straight connector configured to connect mating ends of a first beam and a second beam along a common axis, and an angled connector configured to connect mating ends of the first beam and a second beam, the second beam being perpendicular to the first beam.

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