Network equipment, cabinet and data center

Abstract

A network device includes a front panel, a rear panel, and a fan assembly. Wherein the front panel is provided with a plurality of first network components; the rear panel is provided with a plurality of second network components; the fan assembly is arranged on the rear panel and comprises an air duct switching assembly, and the air duct switching assembly is provided with a first working mode and a second working mode; in the first working mode, air flows through the outer wall surfaces of the first network component and the second network component; and in the second working mode, air flows through the outer wall surface of the first network component. According to the invention, on the premise that the output interface capability of the switch is improved, the online maintenance characteristic of the fan assembly is not lost. The fan assembly adapts to two scenes: the first network component needs to dissipate heat, and the second network component does not need to dissipate heat; both the first network component and the second network component need to dissipate heat. When the first network component is cooled, the air resistance is smaller, and the power consumption of the fan is lower.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the field of communication technology, in particular to a network device, a cabinet and a data center. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the field of communication technology, a switch is a network device for expanding a network, which can provide more connection ports for the network to connect more network devices (such as servers), so the number of external ports that can be provided is one of the key indicators of the switch. The existing network device generally only provides external ports in the front panel, which limits the number of external ports. SUMMARY

[0003] To solve the above problems, in the embodiments of the present application, a network device, a cabinet and a data center are provided, which are provided with network component ports on the front panel and the rear panel, so that the switch can provide more external ports.

[0004] To this end, in the embodiments of the present application, the following technical solutions are adopted:

[0005] In a first aspect, the embodiments of the present application provide a network device, comprising a front panel, a rear panel and a fan assembly. The front panel is provided with a plurality of first network components; the rear panel is provided with a plurality of second network components; the fan assembly is arranged on the rear panel, and the fan assembly comprises an air duct switching assembly, which is provided with a first working mode and a second working mode; when the air duct switching assembly is switched to the first working mode, air flows through the outer wall surfaces of the first network components and the second network components under the driving of the fan assembly; when the air duct switching assembly is switched to the second working mode, air flows through the outer wall surface of the first network components under the driving of the fan assembly.

[0006] In the embodiments of the present application, considering that the front panel and the rear panel of the network device are generally panels for providing interactive operation, the first network component is configured on the front panel to provide the first port, and the second network component is configured on the rear panel, thereby solving the problem that the switch can only provide external ports on the front panel and the total number of external ports of the switch is limited. Taking a 2U switch as an example, the front panel can generally provide 64 first ports, which cannot meet the demand of providing more external ports, and in the embodiments of the present application, the front panel of the switch can provide 64 first interfaces, and on the premise of guaranteeing the online maintenance function of the fan assembly and the like, the rear panel can further provide at least 32 second ports, and the provision capacity of the external ports of the switch is improved by at least 50%. In addition, the fan assembly is arranged on the rear panel, that is, on the premise that the output interface capacity of the switch is improved, the online maintenance characteristics of the fan assembly are not lost. The fan assembly can take away the heat generated by the second network component, thereby solving the problem that when the fan assembly is plugged into the rear panel, it is difficult to dissipate heat for the second network component also arranged on the rear panel. The air duct switching assembly is provided with a first working mode and a second working mode. When the air duct switching assembly is switched to the first working mode, the fan assembly can take away the heat generated by the first network component and the second network component at the same time; when the air duct switching assembly is switched to the second working mode, the fan assembly can take away the heat generated by the first network component and the second network component, which indicates that the fan assembly can be adapted to two different scenarios through the adjustment of the air duct switching assembly: the first network component needs to be cooled, and the second network component does not need to be cooled; both the first network component and the second network component need to be cooled. When the first network component needs to be cooled and the second network component does not need to be cooled, the air duct switching assembly is switched to the second working mode, and the air resistance is smaller when the fan assembly cools the first network component, and the fan power consumption is lower.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the network device is a switch, the first network component is a first optical module, and the second network component is a second optical module; a plurality of first ventilation openings are formed in the front panel around the first network component; and a second ventilation opening is arranged on the rear panel around the second network component. When the air duct switching assembly is switched to the first working mode, the first ventilation opening and the second ventilation opening are communicated to form a first air duct; under the drive of the fan assembly, the air in the first air duct flows through the outer wall surface of the first optical module to take away the heat generated by the first optical module, and flows through the outer wall surface of the second optical module to take away the heat generated by the second optical module.

[0008] In the implementation, the switch is provided with a plurality of first optical modules on the front panel, and the first ports provided are optical interfaces; the rear panel is also provided with a plurality of second optical modules, and the second ports provided are optical interfaces. At this time, the first optical modules and the second optical modules all need to be cooled, and the fan assembly can simultaneously cool the first optical modules and the second optical modules without losing the online maintenance feature of the fan assembly.

[0009] In a possible implementation, the network device is a switch, the first network component is a first optical module, and the second network component is an electrical module; a plurality of first air vents are formed on the front panel around the first network component; the fan assembly is provided with a third air vent, which is in communication with the outside. When the air duct switching assembly is switched to the second working mode, the first air vent and the third air vent are in communication to form a second air duct; under the driving of the fan assembly, air in the second air duct flows through the outer wall surface of the first optical module to take away the heat generated by the first optical module.

[0010] In the implementation, another switch is provided, the front panel of the switch is provided with a plurality of first optical modules, and the first ports provided are optical interfaces; the rear panel is also provided with a plurality of electrical modules, and the second ports provided are electrical interfaces. At this time, the first optical modules need to be cooled, the electrical modules do not need to be cooled because they do not generate heat, and the fan assembly needs to cool the first optical modules without losing the online maintenance feature of the fan assembly. Wherein, the air of the fan assembly flows through the surface of the first optical module and is directly discharged to the outside, without flowing through the outer wall surface of the electrical module, so that the air resistance is smaller and the fan power consumption is lower.

[0011] In a possible implementation, the fan assembly further includes a first mounting bracket, and the air duct switching assembly includes an air deflector, which is rotationally connected to the first mounting bracket. Wherein, the air deflector is rotated to the first position, and the air duct switching assembly is switched to the first working mode; the air deflector is rotated to the second position, and the air duct switching assembly is switched to the second working mode.

[0012] In the implementation, a first example of the air duct switching assembly is provided. In the first example, the air duct switching assembly includes an air deflector, which is simpler in structure and lower in cost.

[0013] In a possible implementation, the fan assembly further comprises a first fan, the interior of the first mounting bracket is a cavity structure, the cavity structure is provided with a first slot, a second slot and a third vent, the first fan is fixedly installed in the first slot, and the air deflector is rotatably installed in the second slot; a plurality of first vents are arranged on the front panel around the first network component; a second vent is arranged on the rear panel around the second network component. When the air deflector rotates to a first position, the first slot and the second slot are communicated, the first vent, the first slot, the second slot and the second vent form a first air duct, and the air duct switching assembly is switched to a first working mode; when the air deflector rotates to a second position, the first slot and the third vent are communicated, the first vent, the first slot and the third vent form a second air duct, and the air duct switching assembly is switched to a second working mode.

[0014] In this implementation, the specific structures of the first fan, the air deflector and the first mounting bracket are limited. By rotating the air deflector, the air of the first fan can be switched between flowing out of the second slot and flowing out of the third vent, so that switching between the first air duct and the second air duct is realized.

[0015] In a possible implementation, the fan assembly comprises a second fan and a second mounting bracket, the second fan is connected to the air duct switching assembly, and the air duct switching assembly and the second mounting bracket are slidingly connected. When the second fan slides to a third position, the air duct switching assembly is switched to a first working mode; when the second fan slides to a fourth position, the air duct switching assembly is switched to a second working mode.

[0016] In this implementation, a second example of the air duct switching assembly is provided. In the second example, the air duct switching assembly comprises a second fan, and the second fan can slide to different positions, so that the air duct switching assembly is switched to different working modes. This implementation is more convenient for controlling the position of the second fan and is easy to realize automatic control of the position of the second fan.

[0017] In a possible implementation, the air duct switching assembly comprises a sliding rail assembly, the sliding rail assembly is connected with the second fan and the second mounting bracket respectively, and the sliding rail assembly drives the second fan to slide to the third position and the fourth position.

[0018] In this implementation, the sliding rail assembly can be realized by a screw nut, a gear and a rack or the like. The specific implementation of the sliding rail assembly is not limited in the embodiments of the application.

[0019] In a possible implementation, the fan assembly comprises a third fan and a third mounting bracket, the third fan is connected to the air duct switching assembly, and the air duct switching assembly and the third mounting bracket are rotatably connected. When the third fan rotates to a fifth position, the air duct switching assembly is switched to a first working mode; when the third fan rotates to a sixth position, the air duct switching assembly is switched to a second working mode.

[0020] In the implementation, a third example of the air duct switching assembly is provided. In the third example, the air duct switching assembly includes a third fan, and the third fan can be rotated to different positions so that the air duct switching assembly switches to different working modes. The implementation is more convenient for controlling the position of the third fan and easy to realize automatic control of the position of the third fan.

[0021] In a possible implementation, the air duct switching assembly includes a linkage assembly, and the third fan is mounted on the linkage assembly. The linkage assembly is rotationally connected with the third mounting bracket, and the linkage assembly drives the fan to rotate to the fifth position and the sixth position.

[0022] In the implementation, the air duct switching assembly includes a linkage assembly, such as a parallelogram mechanism, which is convenient for controlling the fan to rotate to the fifth position and the sixth position and has a simple structure and is easy to implement. The embodiments of the application do not limit the specific implementation of the linkage assembly.

[0023] In a possible implementation, the network device includes a heat generating device and a wind shield. The wind shield can be arranged on the heat generating device to block heat generated by the heat generating device from being transmitted to a heat dissipation air duct of the fan assembly, such as the first air duct and the second air duct described above.

[0024] In the implementation, the network device can include multiple heat generating devices, such as processors, processing circuits, and the like. Through the wind shield structure, heat generated by the heat generating device can be blocked from being transmitted to the first air duct and the second air duct, thereby avoiding the adverse effect of heat generated by the heat generating device on heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component.

[0025] In a possible implementation, the network device further includes a liquid cooling water inlet, a cold plate, and a liquid cooling water outlet. The cold plate is in communication with the liquid cooling water inlet and the liquid cooling water outlet, respectively. The cold plate is arranged around the heat generating device, and the wind shield is arranged on the cold plate. The cooling medium flows into the liquid cooling water inlet, flows through the cold plate, and flows out of the liquid cooling water outlet.

[0026] In the implementation, the network device further includes a liquid cooling device, and the wind shield is arranged on the cold plate to block heat of the cooling medium in the cold plate from being transmitted to the heat dissipation channel of the first network component or the first network component and the second network component.

[0027] In a second aspect, the embodiments of the present application provide a cabinet for installing any one of the network devices provided in the first aspect and possible implementation manners thereof, the cabinet comprising a first cabling space arranged at a front side plate and a second cabling space arranged at a rear side plate. The first cabling space is used for accommodating a plurality of first cables connected to a first network component of the front panel, and the first network component is communicatively connected to other network devices through the first cables. The second cabling space is used for accommodating a plurality of second cables connected to a second network component of the rear panel, and the second network component is communicatively connected to other network devices through the second cables.

[0028] In this implementation manner, the cables can be respectively led out from the first cabling space at the front and the second cabling space at the rear to other network devices, thus meeting the requirement of cabling space at the front and the rear when the front and rear panels of the network device both provide ports.

[0029] In a third aspect, the embodiments of the present application provide a data center comprising a plurality of network devices provided in the first aspect and possible implementation manners thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] The accompanying drawings, which are needed for the embodiments or technical description, are briefly introduced as follows.

[0031] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a data center network provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0032] Figure 2a A schematic diagram of an oblique view of a switch provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0033] Figure 2b A schematic diagram of a front panel of a switch provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0034] Figure 2c A schematic diagram of another oblique view of a switch provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0035] Figure 2d A schematic diagram of a rear panel of a switch provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0036] Figure 2e A schematic diagram of a top view of a switch provided in the embodiments of the present application after removing the upper cover;

[0037] Figure 2f A schematic diagram of a top view of a switch provided in the embodiments of the present application after removing the upper cover, the fan assembly and the power supply assembly;

[0038] Figure 3aSchematic view of the oblique view direction of the first example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0039] Figure 3b Schematic view of the first air duct of the first example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0040] Figure 3c Schematic view of the second air duct of the first example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0041] Figure 4a Schematic view of the working process of the first air duct of the first example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0042] Figure 4b Schematic view of the working process of the second air duct of the first example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0043] Figure 5a Schematic view of the first example of the driving assembly of the air deflector of the first example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0044] Figure 5b Schematic view of the second example of the driving assembly of the air deflector of the first example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0045] Figure 5c Schematic view of the third example of the driving assembly of the air deflector of the first example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0046] Figure 6a Schematic view of the second air duct of the second example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0047] Figure 6b Schematic view of the first air duct of the second example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0048] Figure 7a Schematic view of the working process of the first air duct of the second example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0049] Figure 7b Schematic view of the working process of the second air duct of the second example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0050] Figure 7c Schematic view of the movement of the fan assembly to the initial position when the sliding rail assembly moves obliquely of the second example of the air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0051] Figure 7d Fig. 6 is a schematic view of a fan assembly moving to an intermediate position when a slide rail assembly of a second example of an air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application moves obliquely;

[0052] Figure 7e Fig. 7 is a schematic view of a fan assembly moving to a final position when a slide rail assembly of a second example of an air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application moves obliquely;

[0053] Figure 8a Fig. 8 is a schematic view of a second air duct of a third example of an air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0054] Figure 8b Fig. 9 is a schematic view of a first air duct of a third example of an air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0055] Figure 9a Fig. 10 is a schematic view of a working process of a first air duct of a third example of an air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0056] Figure 9b Fig. 11 is a schematic view of a working process of a second air duct of a third example of an air duct switching assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0057] Figure 10a Fig. 12 is a schematic view of a heat dissipation device of a heat generating device provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0058] Figure 10b Fig. 13 is a schematic view of a wind shield corresponding to the heat dissipation device of the heat generating device provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0059] Figure 11a Fig. 14 is a schematic view of an oblique viewing direction of a server provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0060] Figure 11b Fig. 15 is a schematic view of another oblique viewing direction of a server provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0061] Figure 12a Fig. 16 is a schematic view of a front viewing direction of a network equipment group provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0062] Figure 12b Fig. 17 is a schematic view of a rear viewing direction of a network equipment group provided in the embodiments of the present application;

[0063] Figure 12c Fig. 18 is a schematic view of a right viewing direction of a network equipment group provided in the embodiments of the present application; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present application.

[0065] The term "and / or", used in the present specification is a descriptive correlation of associated objects, which means that there can be three relationships, for example, A and / or B can mean that A exists alone, A and B exist together, and B exists alone. The symbol " / " in the present specification means that the associated objects are "or" relationship, for example, A / B means A or B.

[0066] The terms "first" and "second" and the like in the description and claims of the present application are used to distinguish different objects, and are not used to describe a specific order of the objects. For example, the first response message and the second response message are used to distinguish different response messages, and are not used to describe a specific order of the response messages.

[0067] In the embodiments of the present application, the words "exemplary" or "for example" are used to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of the present application should not be construed as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs. In fact, the word "exemplary" or "for example" is used to present concepts in a concrete manner.

[0068] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise specified, "a plurality of" means two or more, for example, a plurality of processing units means two or more processing units, and the like; a plurality of elements means two or more elements, and the like.

[0069] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise specified, "a plurality of" means two or more, for example, a plurality of processing units means two or more processing units, and the like; a plurality of elements means two or more elements, and the like.

[0070] In order to facilitate the understanding of the scheme provided by the embodiments of the present application, first, some terms related to the present scheme are briefly introduced.

[0071] Switch, meaning "switch", is also called network switch, which is a network device for forwarding optical and electrical signals, used to provide sharing service of network resources, and to distribute limited network resources to each client. The main functions include physical addressing, network topology, error checking, frame sequence and flow control. Optionally, the switch also has other functions, such as support for VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network), support for link aggregation, and even some switches have firewall functions.

[0072] A server, also called a server, is a device that provides computing services. Since the server needs to respond to service requests and process them, in general, the server should have the ability to bear the service and guarantee the service. Optionally, the constitution of the server includes processor, hard disk, memory, system bus, etc., that is, the architecture of the server is similar to that of a general-purpose computer.

[0073] An optical module is a module that transmits data using optical signals. It usually contains an optical transmitter and an optical receiver for converting electrical signals into optical signals for transmission or converting optical signals into electrical signals for reception. The optical module is also called an optical interface module, an optical port module, an optical port, etc. Generally, the optical module is a physical interface that connects the optical fiber cable. The optical module usually has types such as SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable), LC (Lucent connector), SC (Subscriber Cable), FC (ferrule contactor), ST (Straight Tip), and MPO (Multiple-fiber push-on). The principle of the optical module is to use total reflection of light from a light-dense medium to a light-lean medium to make the optical signal propagate quickly in the optical fiber. The working mode of the optical module is mainly single-channel working mode of single-receiving / single-transmitting and four-channel working mode of four-receiving / four-transmitting. The interface of the optical module is mainly LC duplex, the information transmission is parameterized by wavelength, the core component is a laser, and the transmission distance can reach 5km to 100km.

[0074] An electrical module is a module that transmits data using electrical signals. It usually contains an electrical transmitter and an electrical receiver. Generally, the electrical module is a physical interface that can transmit electrical signals for transmission and reception of electrical signals. The electrical module is also called an electrical interface module, an electrical port module, an electrical port, etc. The interface of the electrical module is RJ45 (Registered Jack), which is connected with various copper cables, and the transmission distance varies depending on the parameters of the electrical cable, and the transmission distance can reach 100m.

[0075] U (Unit, unit) is a unit representing the external dimensions (such as height) of a network device. Specifically, U is a height unit defined by IEC60297 (19-inch standard), 1U = 44.45mm. A 27U cabinet means that the cabinet can effectively accommodate multiple network devices with a total height of 1210mm (27*44.45mm).

[0076] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a data center network is shown. As Figure 1As shown, in a data center network, each switch 1 can interconnect tens of servers 2 together, and then connect hundreds or thousands of servers 2 into a large network through the upper-level switches 1. The more external ports provided by the switch 1, the more servers 2 can be connected. Therefore, as a network expansion device, the switch 1 can connect more servers 2 if it can provide more external ports for the sub-network. Therefore, the number of external ports that can be provided is one of the key indicators of the switch.

[0077] In one solution, the front end of the switch provides external ports, and the rear end is configured with interfaces for pluggable fan modules and power supply components to achieve hot plugging and online replacement of the fan modules and power supply components.

[0078] In this solution, since only one end provides external ports, the data of the external ports is limited. For example, a 2U switch can only provide about 64 external ports. However, with the increasing demand for large-scale data center networking, the switch is required to provide more and more external ports. At the same time, with the improvement of chip technology, more and more ports can be supported. Therefore, the limited number of external ports provided by the switch has become a bottleneck for the development of large-scale data center networking.

[0079] Therefore, the embodiments of the present application provide a network device, in which a plurality of first network components can be installed on the front panel, and a plurality of second network components can be installed on the rear panel. In one example, the network device is a switch, and the first network components and the second network components are optical modules, so that external ports can be provided on both ends of the switch, and the ability of the switch to provide external ports is improved.

[0080] For example, a 2U switch can provide 64 external interfaces on the front panel. On the premise of ensuring the online maintenance function of hot plugging of fan components, power supply components, etc., the rear panel can provide at least 32 external ports, and the ability of the switch to provide external ports is improved by at least 50%.

[0081] The embodiments of the present application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present application, but not all the embodiments. Those skilled in the art can know that, as technology develops and new scenarios appear, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present application are also applicable to similar technical problems. The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction in the accompanying drawings are for distinguishing the observation angle of the current drawing.

[0082] It should be noted that in an application scenario, the network device is a switch. The first network component includes a first optical module, and the second network component includes a second optical module. Alternatively, the first network component includes a first optical module, and the second network component includes an electrical module. In another application scenario, the network device is a server, the first network component includes a first hard disk, and the second network component includes a second hard disk. In the following, the network device is taken as an example of a switch, the first network component is taken as an example of a first optical module, and the second network component is taken as an example of an electrical module or a second optical module, and an exemplary description is made, but this does not constitute a limitation on the network device. That is, the network device can also be a server and the like, and the related implementation modes and technical effects can be referred to the related description taking the switch as an example. The network component plugged in the front panel or the rear panel includes an optical module, which means that the plugged-in network component can be all optical modules or part of optical modules and part of electrical modules.

[0083] As shown in Figures 2a-2f , the switch includes a frame 100, a first port 210, and a second port 310. The frame 100 includes a front panel 110 and a rear panel 120. The first port 210 is mounted on the front panel 110 and provides an external port for transmitting an optical signal. The second port 310 is mounted on the rear panel 120 and provides an external port for transmitting an optical signal.

[0084] As shown in Figure 2a , optionally, the switch includes a frame 100, the frame 100 includes a front panel 110, and the first port 210 is arranged on the front panel 110 to provide a communication interface to the outside. Each first port 210 corresponds to a first optical module or an electrical module.

[0085] As shown in Figure 2b , optionally, a plurality of first ventilation holes are arranged in the front panel 110, such as the through hole 111 shown in the enlarged part of Figure 2b . The plurality of through holes 111 are arranged on the outside of the first port to provide an air flow channel when the first optical module is cooled. Optionally, the two sides of the switch are also provided with a mounting plate 700, and the mounting plate 700 is provided with a through hole 710 for fixing the switch.

[0086] As shown in Figure 2c , optionally, the frame 100 includes a rear panel 120, and the second port 310 is arranged on the rear panel 120 to provide a communication interface to the outside. Each first port 310 corresponds to a second optical module or an electrical module.

[0087] Optionally, the rear panel 120 is also plugged with a fan assembly 400 and a power supply assembly 500, so that the fan assembly 400 and the power supply assembly 500 can be hot-plugged and maintained online.

[0088] As shown in Figure 2d Optionally, in the rear panel 120, a plurality of second ventilation openings are arranged, such as a plurality of through holes 121 shown in the partial enlarged portion of Figure 2d The plurality of through holes 121 are arranged on the outer side of the second optical module, and are used to provide an air flow passage when the second optical module is cooled.

[0089] As shown in Figure 2e Exemplarily, the first port 210 corresponds to the first optical module 220, and the fan assembly 400 and the power supply assembly 500 are located in the part of the frame 100.

[0090] As shown in Figure 2f Exemplarily, the second port 310 corresponds to the second optical module 320.

[0091] Generally, the switch is less used alone, and the switch is generally provided in a group. In an exemplary scenario, a plurality of switches are inserted side by side into a cabinet, and the front end face and the rear end face of the cabinet are open, and the plurality of switches are respectively plugged into the cabinet from the front end face. The front end face of the plurality of switches in the cabinet is used to improve the external port service, and the rear end face is used to provide online maintenance service, such as hot plug of the vulnerable components, such as fan module, power supply assembly, etc.

[0092] In the embodiment of the application, the frame 100 of the switch is generally provided with a plurality of panels, the first network component is plugged into the front panel, and the second network component is plugged into the rear panel, thereby solving the problem that the switch can only provide external ports on one panel and the total number of external ports of the switch is limited. Taking a 2U switch as an example, the front panel of the switch can provide 64 external interfaces, and on the premise of ensuring the hot plug of the fan assembly, the power supply assembly and the like, the rear panel can at least provide 32 external ports, and the provision capacity of the external ports of the switch is improved by at least 50%.

[0093] In a possible implementation, the front panel 110 and the rear panel 120 are opposite panels in the frame.

[0094] In this implementation, for the box-type switch, generally, the front end face and the rear end face are used as the operable panels to realize communication with the devices outside, online maintenance and the like. When the front panel 110 of the front end face and the rear panel 120 of the rear end face both provide external ports, the port provision capacity of the switch can be significantly improved. In other implementations, for other types of switches, the front panel 110 and the rear panel 120 can also not be opposite panels in the frame, such as adjacent panels.

[0095] In a possible implementation, the network device further comprises: a fan assembly 400. The fan assembly 400 is plugged to the rear panel 120, and the fan assembly 400 is used to take away the heat generated by the first network component or the first network component and the second network component.

[0096] Generally, due to the fact that the switch is connected to multiple servers at the same time, the influence range of the switch failure is large, so generally, the vulnerable components of the switch are designed to be replaced online without affecting the service, such as fan modules, power supply assemblies, etc. The module to be replaced online occupies the space of the panel, which weakens the ability of the switch to provide external ports.

[0097] In this implementation, the front panel 110 can be understood as a front end that provides external ports, and the rear panel 120 can be understood as a rear end that plugs the fan assembly 400, so the fan assembly 400 plugged to the rear panel 120 can take away the heat generated by the first optical module installed on the front panel 110. The second optical module installed on the rear panel 120 can be understood as an additional optical module, which can provide more external ports compared with the existing solutions, and the heat dissipation problem of the additional optical module needs to be further solved. In the embodiment of the present application, the fan assembly 400 plugged to the rear panel 120 can also dissipate heat for the second optical module installed on the rear panel 120, so although the optical module and the corresponding external port are increased, the fan assembly 400 is not increased, that is, it does not occupy more area of the panel (i.e. the rear panel 120), which improves the utilization efficiency of the rear panel 120 and enables the switch to provide more external ports. That is, the fan assembly 400 can take away the heat generated by the first network component, and can also take away the heat generated by the first network component and the second network component in a "shared" manner.

[0098] In a possible implementation, on the outside of the first network component, the front panel 110 is provided with a plurality of first ventilation openings, and on the outside of the second network component, the rear panel 120 is provided with a plurality of second ventilation openings. The fan assembly 400 comprises: a mounting bracket provided with a plurality of third ventilation openings, the third ventilation openings being in communication with the outside; a fan installed on the mounting bracket; and a duct switching assembly installed on the mounting bracket and used to switch between a first air duct and a second air duct formed when the fan is working. The first air duct refers to an air duct formed by the first ventilation openings and the second ventilation openings, and the fan takes away the heat generated by the first network component and the second network component through the first air duct; the second air duct refers to an air duct formed by the first ventilation openings and the third ventilation openings, and the fan takes away the heat generated by the first network component through the second air duct.

[0099] In the implementation, when the first network component and the second network component generate heat when working, the air duct switching component switches the air duct to the first air duct, and the fan carries away the heat generated by the first network component and the second network component through the first air duct, so as to achieve the purpose of dissipating heat for the first network component and the second network component; when the first network component generates heat when working, and the second network component does not generate heat when working, the air duct switching component switches the air duct to the second air duct, and the fan carries away the heat generated by the first network component through the second air duct, so as to achieve the purpose of dissipating heat for the first network component and the second network component. In this way, when the first network component and the second network component generate heat when working, the first network component and the second network component can be dissipated; when the second network component does not generate heat when working, the air duct is switched to the second air duct, and only the first network component is dissipated, so that the air does not pass through the second air vent around the second network component, reducing the resistance when the air flows, and reducing the power consumption of the fan.

[0100] It can be understood that the air duct switching component has two working modes: a first working mode and a second working mode. The air duct switching component can be switched between the first working mode and the second working mode. When the air duct switching component is switched to the first working mode, a first air duct is formed inside the network device, and when the fan assembly works, the air in the first air duct carries away the heat generated by the first network component and the second network component. When the air duct switching component is switched to the second working mode, a second air duct is formed inside the network device, and when the fan assembly works, the air in the second air duct carries away the heat generated by the first network component.

[0101] That is, when the first network component includes a plurality of first optical modules, and the second network component includes a plurality of second optical modules, the air duct switching component is switched to the first air duct, and the fan assembly dissipates heat for the plurality of first optical modules and the plurality of second optical modules. When the first network component includes a plurality of first optical modules, and the second network component includes a plurality of electrical modules, since the electrical modules do not generate heat when working, the air duct switching component is switched to the second air duct, and the fan assembly dissipates heat for the plurality of first optical modules, so that the air does not pass through the second air vent around the second optical module, reducing the resistance when the air flows, and reducing the power consumption of the fan.

[0102] That is, the air duct switching component switches between the first air duct and the second air duct, so that the fan assembly 400 can carry away the heat generated by the first network component, or in a "shared" manner, carry away the heat generated by the first network component and the second network component at the same time.

[0103] The following three examples are used for illustrative purposes, which are intended to illustrate possible implementations of the fan assembly 400, and do not constitute a limitation on the fan assembly 400.

[0104] In the first example, the duct switching assembly includes an air guide plate rotatably connected to a first mounting bracket. When the air guide plate is rotated to a first position, a first vent and a second vent connect to form a first air duct; when the air guide plate is rotated to a second position, the first vent and a third vent connect to form a second air duct. The air guide plate has a simple structure and low cost.

[0105] Optionally, the first mounting bracket has a hollow cavity structure with a first slot, a second slot, and a third vent. The fan is fixedly mounted in the first slot, and the air guide plate is rotatably mounted in the second slot. When the air guide plate is rotated to the first position, the first slot and the second slot are connected, and the first vent, the first slot, the second slot, and the second vent form a first air duct. When the air guide plate is rotated to the second position, the first slot and the third vent are connected, and the first vent, the first slot, and the third vent form a second air duct.

[0106] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 3a to 3c The structure of the first example will be explained.

[0107] like Figure 3a As shown, the fan assembly 400 includes an air duct switching component, which includes a mounting bracket 411 and a fan 412. The fan 412 is mounted on the mounting bracket 411. The fan 412 is also referred to as the first fan, and the mounting bracket 411 is also referred to as the second mounting bracket.

[0108] like Figure 3b As shown, the air duct switching assembly includes an air guide plate 413, which is rotatably connected to a mounting bracket 411. The first position to which the air guide plate 413 rotates is as follows: Figure 3b As shown, when the air guide plate 413 rotates to the first position, under the drive of the fan 412, air enters the fan 412, the first slot at the fan 412 mounting position, and the second slot at the air guide plate 413 mounting position in sequence. After passing through the second slot, the air passes through the second ventilation port around the second network component, thereby achieving heat dissipation for the second network component.

[0109] like Figure 3b As shown, the fan assembly 400 may optionally include a power connector 415. When the fan assembly 400 is plugged into the rear panel of the switch, the power connector 415 is connected to the corresponding interface in the switch, thereby providing power to the fan 412.

[0110] Optionally, the fan assembly 400 also includes a handle 416 for inserting and removing the fan assembly 412.

[0111] Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further comprises an unlocking pedal 417 for locking the fan assembly 412 after the fan assembly 412 is plugged in, and unlocking the locking of the fan assembly 412 after the unlocking pedal 417 is pressed down so as to pull out the fan assembly 412.

[0112] As shown in FIG. 4a, when the second network component needs to be cooled, the air deflector 413 is turned to the first position. When the air deflector 413 is turned to the first position, the air deflector 413 covers the first slot and opens the passage from the first slot to the second slot. Thus, under the driving of the fan 412, the air enters the fan 412, the first slot at the installation position of the fan 412, and the second vent of the second network component in sequence, and then is directly discharged to the outside without passing through the first vent of the first network component, thereby reducing the resistance of the air circulation and improving the power consumption of the fan 412. Figure 3c As shown in FIG. 4b, when the second network component does not need to be cooled, the air deflector 413 is turned to the second position. When the air deflector 413 is turned to the second position, the air deflector 413 covers the first slot and opens the passage from the first slot to the third vent. Thus, under the driving of the fan 412, the air enters the fan 412, the first slot at the installation position of the fan 412, and the third vent of the installation support 411 in sequence, and then is directly discharged to the outside without passing through the second vent of the second network component, thereby reducing the resistance of the air circulation and improving the power consumption of the fan 412.

[0113] The working mode of the first example will be described below in combination with FIGS. 4a and 4b. Figure 4a As shown in FIG. 4a, in the first example, the air deflector 413 is turned to the first position, the first slot and the second slot are communicated, and the first vent, the first slot, the second slot, and the second vent form a first air duct. Specifically, under the driving of the fan 412, the air flows through the first vent around the first network component, thereby cooling the first network component; the air flows through the fan 412 and the first slot; under the guiding of the air deflector 413, the air enters the second slot below; the air enters the second vent around the second network component and flows to the outside, thereby cooling the second network component.

[0114] Figure 4a As shown in FIG. 4b, in the first example, the air deflector 413 is turned to the second position, the first slot and the third vent are communicated, and the first vent, the first slot, and the third vent form a second air duct. Specifically, under the driving of the fan 412, the air flows through the first vent around the first network component, thereby cooling the first network component; the air flows through the fan 412 and the first slot; the air deflector 413 covers the first slot and opens the passage from the first slot to the third vent, the air enters the third vent; the air flows to the outside from the third vent.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 4a, in the first example, the air deflector 413 is turned to the first position, the first slot and the second slot are communicated, and the first vent, the first slot, the second slot, and the second vent form a first air duct. Specifically, under the driving of the fan 412, the air flows through the first vent around the first network component, thereby cooling the first network component; the air flows through the fan 412 and the first slot; under the guiding of the air deflector 413, the air enters the second slot below; the air enters the second vent around the second network component and flows to the outside, thereby cooling the second network component. Figure 4b It should be noted that, optionally, in order to form the first air duct or the second air duct and guide the air into the installation support 411, the space in the frame needs to be sealed to a certain extent. For example, as shown in FIG. 4a, the frame 410 is provided with a sealing member 415.

[0116] Figure 4a ​​As shown, at position A, the outer wall surface of the cover closely abuts the outer wall surface of the mounting bracket 411, which can ensure that the air flows through the fan 412 and the first slot, thereby forming the first air duct or the second air duct.

[0117] Alternatively, the rotation of the air deflector 413 to the first position or the second position can be achieved manually. For example, the fan assembly 400 is pulled out, the air deflector 413 is manually pushed to rotate from the second position to the first position; or the air deflector 413 is manually pulled to rotate from the first position to the second position. This implementation is simple and low in cost.

[0118] Alternatively, as shown, Figure 3b the rotation of the air deflector 413 to the first position or the second position can be achieved by the driving assembly 414 of the air deflector. The driving assembly 414 of the air deflector is exemplarily described below. Figures 5a to 5c

[0119] As shown, Figure 5a the driving assembly 414 includes a spring 414-1, a rotating part 414-2, a rotating part 414-3, a pulley 414-4, a rope 414-5, and a handrail 414-6. The rotating part 414-2 and the rotating part 414-3 can be parts including rotating shafts.

[0120] When the air deflector 413 rotates from the second position to the first position, the handrail 414-6 is pulled; under the action of the rotating part 414-3 and the pulley 414-4, the rope 414-5 is tightened; the air deflector 413 rotates around the rotating part 414-2 to the first position; the handrail 414-6 fixes the rope 414-5; and the spring 414-1 is in a stretched state.

[0121] When the air deflector 413 rotates from the first position to the second position, the fixing of the rope 414-5 by the handrail 414-6 is released; under the action of its own elastic force, the spring 414-1 changes from the stretched state to the normal state and drives the air deflector 413 to rotate around the rotating part 414-2 to the second position.

[0122] As shown, Figure 5b the driving assembly 414 includes a spring 414-1, a rotating part 414-2, a rotating part 414-3, a pulley 414-4, a rope 414-5, and a handrail 414-6. The rotating part 414-2 and the rotating part 414-3 can be parts including rotating shafts.

[0123] ​When the air deflector 413 rotates from the second position to the first position, the handrail 414-6 pulls the rope 414-5; under the action of the rotating component 414-3 and the pulley 414-4, the rope 414-5 is tightened; the air deflector 413 rotates around the rotating component 414-2 to the first position; the handrail 414-6 fixes the rope 414-5; and the spring 414-1 is in a compressed state.

[0124] When the air deflector 413 rotates from the first position to the second position, the handrail 414-6 releases the fixation of the rope 414-5; under the action of the spring force, the spring 414-1 changes from the compressed state to the normal state, and drives the air deflector 413 to rotate around the rotating component 414-2 to the second position.

[0125] As shown in Figure 5c , the driving assembly 414 includes a planar four-bar structure 414-7 and a motor 414-8. When the air deflector 413 rotates from the second position to the first position, the motor 414-8 drives the driving rod to rotate clockwise, and the air deflector 413 rotates around the rotating component 414-2 to the first position. When the air deflector 413 rotates from the first position to the second position, the motor 414-8 drives the driving rod to rotate counterclockwise, and the air deflector 413 rotates around the rotating component 414-2 to the first position.

[0126] In a second example, the fan and the second mounting bracket are slidingly connected; wherein the fan slides to the third position, the first air vent and the second air vent are communicated, and the first air vent and the second air vent form the first air duct; the fan slides to the fourth position, the first air vent and the third air vent are communicated, and the first air vent and the third air vent form the second air duct.

[0127] Optionally, the fan is provided in a plurality, and at least one of the plurality of fans is slidingly connected with the second mounting bracket.

[0128] Optionally, the air duct switching assembly includes a sliding rail assembly, the sliding rail assembly is connected with the fan and the second mounting bracket respectively, and the sliding rail assembly is used to drive the fan to slide to the third position and the fourth position.

[0129] The structure of the second example will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying Figure 6a and Figure 6b .

[0130] As shown in Figure 6aAs shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket. Figure 6b As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket.

[0132] The working mode of the first example will be described below in combination with the accompanying drawings. Figures 7a to 7e The working mode of the first example will be described below in combination with the accompanying drawings.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket. Figure 7a As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket. Figure 7a As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket. Figure 7a As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket.

[0135] As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket. Figure 7b As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket. Figure 7b As shown in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 includes the fan 421 and the mounting bracket 424, and the fan 421 is in sliding connection with the mounting bracket 424. Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further includes a plurality of fans such as the fan 422, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct, ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, and prevent the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component at the same time. The fan 421 is also referred to as a second fan, and the mounting bracket 424 is also referred to as a second mounting bracket.

[0136] It should be noted that the slide rail assembly 423 can be provided in the form of a lead screw nut, a gear rack, etc. to slide the fan 422 to the working position after the fan assembly is pushed to the final position. It can also be a diagonal movement slide rail assembly to slide the fan 422 to the working position during the process of pushing the fan assembly to the final position.

[0137] The following will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings Figures 7c to 7e The diagonal movement slide rail assembly will be described.

[0138] As Figure 7c shown in a second example, the frame 100 is also provided with a diagonal slide rail 423, and the mounting plate of the fan 422 is also provided with a sliding column 424.

[0139] As Figure 7d shown, during the process of pushing the fan assembly to the final position, the sliding column 424 enters the upper section of the diagonal slide rail 423, and as the fan assembly is pushed inward, the sliding column 424 gradually enters the middle section and the lower section of the diagonal slide rail 423.

[0140] As Figure 7e shown, when the fan assembly is pushed to the final position, the sliding column 424 gradually enters a certain position of the lower section of the diagonal slide rail 423, so that the fan 422 enters the working position and can start working.

[0141] Optionally, as Figure 7e shown, the fan assembly further includes a guide shaft 425 for guiding the fan 422 during the process of pushing the fan assembly to the final position to prevent the fan 422 from turning over.

[0142] It should be noted that, as Figures 7c to 7e shown, the lead screw nut, the gear rack, etc. need a motor or other driving device, which is more complex and has a higher cost. However, the structure of the diagonal slide rail 423 and the sliding column 424 can slide the fan 422 to the working position during the process of pushing the fan assembly to the final position, without the need for additional driving devices, and has a simpler structure and a lower cost.

[0143] In a third example, the fan and the mounting bracket are rotationally connected; wherein the fan is rotated to a fifth position, the first air vent and the second air vent are communicated, and the first air vent and the second air vent form a first air duct; the fan is rotated to a sixth position, the first air vent and the third air vent are communicated, and the first air vent and the third air vent form a second air duct.

[0144] Optionally, the fan is provided in a plurality of forms, and at least one of the plurality of fans is rotationally connected with the mounting bracket.

[0145] Optionally, the air duct switching assembly comprises a linkage assembly, the linkage assembly is connected with the fan and the mounting bracket respectively, and the linkage assembly is used to drive the fan to rotate to the fifth position and the sixth position.

[0146] The third example will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings Figure 8a and Figure 8b The structure of the third example will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings

[0147] As shown in Figure 8a , the fan assembly 400 comprises a fan 431, a mounting plate 432, a linkage 433, a triangular plate 434, a handle 435, and a mounting bracket 437. The fan 431 is fixedly connected with the mounting plate 432; the mounting plate 432 is rotatably connected with the mounting bracket 437; the linkage 433 is rotatably connected with the mounting plate 432; the linkage 433 is rotatably connected with the triangular plate 434; the handle 435 is rotatably connected with the triangular plate 434. Exemplarily, the mounting plate 432, the linkage 433, the triangular plate 434, and the mounting bracket 437 form a parallelogram mechanism. Among them, the fan 431 is also referred to as a third fan, and the mounting bracket 437 is also referred to as a third mounting bracket.

[0148] Optionally, the fan assembly 400 further comprises a plurality of fans such as the fan 436, so as to increase the air flow of the first air duct and ensure the heat dissipation of the first network component, preventing the heat dissipation of the first network component from being not timely due to the simultaneous heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component.

[0149] As shown in Figure 8b , by pushing the triangular plate 434 through the handle 435, based on the motion principle of the parallelogram mechanism, the mounting plate 432 and the fan 431 rotate from the sixth position as shown in Figure 8a to the fifth position as shown in Figure 8b .

[0150] Among them, the handle 435 is a folding handle. When the handle 435 is working, the handle 435 can be rotated to the position as shown in Figure 8a for easy operation; when the handle 435 is not working, the handle 435 can be rotated to the position as shown in Figure 8b to reduce the occupied space of the handle 435.

[0151] The working mode of the third example will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings Figure 9a to 9c.

[0152] As shown in Figure 9a , in the third example, the fan 431 rotates to the fifth position, the first air vent and the second air vent are communicated, and the first air vent and the second air vent form the first air duct. Specifically, as shown in Figure 9aAs shown by the solid arrows in FIG. 4, under the driving of the fan 421, the air flows through the first air vent around the first network component, thereby achieving heat dissipation of the first network component; the air flows through the fan 431; the air enters the second air vent around the second network component and flows to the outside, thereby achieving heat dissipation of the second network component.

[0153] Optionally, as shown by the dashed arrows in FIG. 4, the fan assembly 400 further includes a fan 436, under the driving of the fan 436, the air flows through the first air vent around the first network component, thereby achieving heat dissipation of the first network component; the air flows through the fan 436; the air enters the third air vent and flows to the outside, thereby ensuring heat dissipation of the first network component. Figure 9a

[0154] As shown in FIG. 4, in a third example, the fan 431 is rotated to the sixth position, the first air vent and the third air vent are communicated, and the first air vent and the third air vent form a second air duct. Specifically, as shown by the solid arrows in FIG. 4, under the driving of the fan 431, the air flows through the first air vent around the first network component, thereby achieving heat dissipation of the first network component; the air flows through the fan 431; the air enters the third air vent and flows to the outside. In this case, the air flow resistance is small, and the fan power consumption is low. Figure 9b Figure 9b Optionally, the air is dissipated through the second air duct as shown in FIG. 4, and there are various implementation methods. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, after the fan assembly 400 is rotated from the fifth position to the sixth position, the fan 431 blows air in the up-down direction, in order to meet the use requirements, the fan 431 can be rotated by a certain angle, for example, ninety degrees, to achieve left-right blowing, thereby meeting the requirement of providing power for the second air duct; or, the fan 436 as shown in FIG. 4 is added to provide power for the air flow of the second air duct, thereby achieving heat dissipation of the first network component.

[0155] Figure 9b Figure 9b Figure 9b

[0156] In a possible implementation, the network device includes a heat generating device and a wind shield, the wind shield can be arranged on the heat generating device to prevent the heat generated by the heat generating device from being transmitted to the heat dissipation air duct of the fan assembly, such as the first air duct and the second air duct described above.

[0157] ​​​​​​In the implementation, the network device can include a plurality of heat generating devices, such as a processor, a processing circuit, etc., and a wind shield or the like structure can be arranged outside the heat generating devices. The wind shield is a plate of heat insulation material, which can be bent or processed into any shape to match the shape of the heat generating device and is arranged outside the heat generating device. Through the wind shield, the heat generated by the heat generating device can be blocked from being transmitted to the first air duct and the second air duct, avoiding the adverse effect of the heat generated by the heat generating device on the heat dissipation of the first network component and the second network component.

[0158] For example, the heat generating device is a chip, and the device for dissipating heat of the chip is a cold plate. The cold plate is arranged outside the chip, and the cold plate also generates part of the heat, or after the cold plate dissipates heat, the chip still has part of the residual heat; the wind shield is arranged outside the cold plate, and the wind shield can block the heat generated by the chip from being transmitted to the first air duct and the second air duct through the cold plate.

[0159] As shown in Figure 2d and Figure 10a , the switch further includes a chip (not shown), a water inlet 610, a water inlet pipeline 620, a cold plate 630, a water outlet pipeline 640, and a water outlet 650. Specifically, the cooling liquid of the external cooling device enters the water inlet 610, the water inlet pipeline 620, the cold plate 630, the water outlet pipeline 640, and the water outlet 650 in sequence, and the liquid flowing out of the water outlet 650 enters the external cooling device. The cold plate 630 is arranged outside the chip and can take away the heat generated by the chip.

[0160] Optionally, as shown in Figure 10a , the network device includes a power supply assembly 500, and the power supply assembly 500 is plugged into the rear panel 120.

[0161] As shown in Figure 10b , the wind shield 660 is arranged outside the cold plate, and the wind shield 660 is used to block the heat generated by the chip from being transmitted to the first air duct and the second air duct through the cold plate 630, avoiding the adverse effect on the heat dissipation of the first network component or the first network component and the second network component.

[0162] It should be noted that the chip is an example of the heat generating device, that is, the heat dissipating device can also be other devices, which can all block the heat generated by the heat generating device from being transmitted to the first air duct and the second air duct through the heat insulation plate.

[0163] In the embodiments of the present application, the fan assembly and the power supply assembly are supported for online maintenance. The fan assembly is also referred to as a fan module, and the power supply assembly is also referred to as a power supply module. The special air duct (i.e., the air duct switching assembly) formed by the fan module can provide heat dissipation for the optical modules in front of the switch and for the optical modules behind the switch. When the interfaces of the rear panel 120 of the switch are electrical modules, the air duct switching assembly of the fan module supports the requirement of providing heat dissipation only for the optical modules in the front panel 110 in the electrical module scenario.

[0164] As shown in Figure 11a and Figure 11b , the present application also provides a server. As shown in Figure 11a and Figure 11b , the server is another example of a network device other than a switch. In this case, the frame 910 is provided with a front panel 911 and a rear panel 912; the first network component is a plurality of first hard disks 920, which are plugged into the front panel 911; and the second network component is a plurality of second hard disks 930, which are plugged into the rear panel 912. The air duct switching assembly in the fan assembly 400 is switched to the first air duct, and the fan assembly 400 provides heat dissipation for the plurality of first hard disks and the plurality of second hard disks. The fan assembly 400 is described above and will not be described again here.

[0165] That is, the network device in the embodiments of the present application is not limited to a switch, but can also be a server, and the first network component and the second network component are respectively hard disks, so as to achieve the purpose of plugging hard disks into multiple panels, increase the number of hard disks in the server, and improve the performance of the server in data storage, RAID (Redundant Arrays of Independent Disks, an array with redundancy capability composed of independent disks), fault disk replacement, hard disk hot plug, etc. The fan assembly 400 that is hot-plugged can also provide heat dissipation for the plurality of hard disks plugged into the multiple panels.

[0166] As shown in Figure 12a and Figure 12b , on the basis of the fan assembly, the switch and the server provided above, the embodiments of the present application also provide a cabinet 830 and a network device group (an example of a data center), which includes a plurality of network devices and the cabinet 830. The plurality of network devices are plugged into the cabinet 830. Taking the network device as an example of a switch, the cabinet 830 is modified in the embodiments of the present application. On the premise that the wiring space is reserved in the front panel of the cabinet 830, the wiring space is also designed in the rear panel of the cabinet 830, so that the wiring space is provided in the front and rear of the cabinet 830, and the requirement of wiring from the front and rear panels when the front and rear panels of the switch are plugged into external network devices is met.

[0167] As shown in Figure 12aAs shown, several switches are plugged into rack 830. The first port 210 of each switch's front panel 110 communicates with external devices via a first cable 810. Multiple first cables 810 form a cable bundle, which is then routed through the first cabling space of rack 820 before connecting to the external devices. The first cabling space is, for example, as shown... Figure 12a The left and right routing spaces are shown.

[0168] like Figure 12b As shown, several switches are plugged into rack 830. The second port 310 of each switch's front panel 120 communicates with external devices via a second cable 820. Multiple second cables 820 form a cable bundle, which is then routed through the second cabling space of rack 820 before connecting to the external devices. The second cabling space is, for example, as shown... Figure 12b The left and right routing spaces are shown.

[0169] like Figure 12c As shown in this embodiment, in the cabling route of the switch installed in the cabinet 830, the left side is the cable bundle formed by the first cable 810 of the first port 210; the right side is the cable bundle formed by the second cable 820 of the second port 310. That is to say, based on the amount of cabling at the first port 210, the amount of cabling at the second port 310 is increased, thereby increasing the cabling capacity of the entire cabinet 830 by at least 50%.

[0170] For example, after the switch is installed in rack 820, the cables branch off to both sides after exiting the switch, ensuring easy replacement if a single switch fails. This cabling method avoids obstruction during switch insertion and removal. The cables then extend upwards along the side of rack 820. However, due to limited space on the side of rack 820 (approximately 50mm on each side for a standard 19-inch rack), the total cable routing capacity of the rack is limited. In this embodiment, cables can exit from both the front (first cabling space) and rear (second cabling space) to the final device. This means high-speed cables can exit from both the front and rear of the switch, solving the problem of limited cable routing capacity caused by single-sided interfaces in box-type switches, and also addressing the limitation of cabling capacity caused by switches being installed in racks and only being able to route cables from one side of the rack.

[0171] The types, quantities, shapes, installation methods, and structures of components in the technical solutions provided in this application are not limited to the above embodiments. All technical solutions implemented under the principles of this application are within the protection scope of this application. Any one or more embodiments or illustrations in the specification, combined in a suitable manner, are within the protection scope of this application.

[0172] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application. Those skilled in the art should understand that, although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent replacements can be made to some of the technical features. These modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A network device, characterized in that, include: The front panel is equipped with several first network components; The rear panel is equipped with several second network components; A fan assembly is disposed on the rear panel. The fan assembly includes an air duct switching component, which is provided with a first working mode and a second working mode. In one mode, the air duct switching component switches to the first operating mode, and under the drive of the fan component, air flows through the outer walls of the first network component and the second network component; in another mode, the air duct switching component switches to the second operating mode, and under the drive of the fan component, air flows through the outer wall of the first network component.

2. The network device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The network device is a switch, the first network component is a first optical module, and the second network component is a second optical module; around the first network component, the front panel has a plurality of first ventilation openings; around the second network component, the rear panel has a second ventilation opening; In this mode, the air duct switching component switches to the first working mode, and the first vent and the second vent are connected to form a first air duct. Driven by the fan assembly, the air in the first air duct flows through the outer wall of the first optical module and through the outer wall of the second optical module.

3. The network device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The network device is a switch, the first network component is a first optical module, and the second network component is an electrical module; around the first network component, the front panel has a plurality of first ventilation openings; the fan assembly has a third ventilation opening, which is connected to the outside. In this mode, the air duct switching component switches to the second working mode, and the first vent and the third vent are connected to form a second air duct. Driven by the fan assembly, the air in the second air duct flows through the outer wall of the first optical module and carries away the heat generated by the first optical module.

4. The network device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The fan assembly further includes a first mounting bracket, and the air duct switching assembly includes an air guide plate, which is rotatably connected to the first mounting bracket. When the air guide plate is rotated to the first position, the air duct switching component is switched to the first working mode; When the air guide plate is rotated to the second position, the air duct switching component switches to the second working mode.

5. The network device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The fan assembly further includes a first fan. The interior of the first mounting bracket is a cavity structure. The cavity structure is provided with a first slot, a second slot, and a third vent. The first fan is fixedly installed in the first slot, and the air guide plate is rotatably installed in the second slot. Around the first network component, the front panel is provided with a plurality of first vents. Around the second network component, the rear panel is provided with second vents. Wherein, the air guide plate rotates to the first position, the first slot and the second slot are connected, the first vent, the first slot, the second slot and the second vent form a first air duct, and the air duct switching component switches to the first working mode; When the air guide plate rotates to the second position, the first slot and the third vent connect, and the first vent, the first slot and the third vent form a second air duct. The air duct switching component switches to the second working mode.

6. The network device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The fan assembly includes a second fan and a second mounting bracket, the second fan being connected to the air duct switching assembly, and the air duct switching assembly and the second mounting bracket being slidably connected. When the second fan slides to the third position, the air duct switching component switches to the first working mode. The second fan slides to the fourth position, and the air duct switching component switches to the second working mode.

7. The fan assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The air duct switching component includes a slide rail assembly, which is connected to the second fan and the second mounting bracket respectively. The slide rail assembly drives the second fan to slide to the third position and the fourth position.

8. The network device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The fan assembly includes a third fan and a third mounting bracket, the third fan being connected to the air duct switching assembly, and the air duct switching assembly and the third mounting bracket being rotatably connected. When the third fan rotates to the fifth position, the air duct switching component switches to the first working mode; When the third fan rotates to the sixth position, the air duct switching component switches to the second working mode.

9. The network device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The air duct switching assembly includes a linkage assembly, the third fan is mounted on the linkage assembly, the linkage assembly is rotatably connected to the third mounting bracket, and the linkage assembly drives the fan to rotate to the fifth position and the sixth position.

10. The network device according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The network device includes a heat-generating device and a wind shield, the wind shield covering the heat-generating device to prevent the heat generated by the heat-generating device from being transferred to the heat dissipation duct of the fan assembly.

11. The network device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The network device further includes a liquid cooling inlet, a cold plate, and a liquid cooling outlet. The cold plate is connected to the liquid cooling inlet and the liquid cooling outlet, respectively. The cold plate is disposed around the heat-generating device, and the wind shield covers the cold plate. The cooling medium flows in from the liquid cooling inlet, passes through the cold plate, and flows out from the liquid cooling outlet.

12. A server rack, characterized in that, For installing a plurality of network devices as described in any one of claims 1-11, the cabinet includes a first cabling space provided on the front panel and a second cabling space provided on the rear panel; The first cabling space is used to accommodate a plurality of first cables connected to the first network component on the front panel; the second cabling space is used to accommodate a plurality of second cables connected to the second network component on the rear panel.

13. A data center, characterized in that, It includes several network devices as described in any one of claims 1-11.

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