Cooling distribution unit

Abstract

A cooling distribution unit includes an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to determine whether both the temperature sensor associated with the inlet of the secondary closed loop and the temperature sensor associated with the outlet of the secondary closed loop fail. The electronic processor is configured to, in response to determining that the temperature sensor has failed, determine whether the CDU is in a single mode or a group mode. The electronic processor is further configured to, in response to determining that the CDU is in the single mode, determine a temperature difference between a first temperature received from a temperature sensor associated with an inlet of the primary closed loop and a second temperature received from a temperature sensor associated with an outlet of the primary closed loop, and controlling the pressure independent control valve based on the determined temperature difference.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 709,129, filed October 18, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to a cooling distribution unit for guiding heat away from electrical components. Background Technology

[0003] Cooling distribution units (commonly referred to as CDUs) are typically used in data centers to remove heat from computer components such as servers and server racks. CDUs can include, for example, both in-row units and in-rack units. In-row units remove heat from an entire row of server racks or other groups of electrical components, while in-rack units typically remove heat from a single rack or group of electrical components. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one example, a CDU includes: a primary closed loop through which a first fluid circulates; a secondary closed loop through which a second fluid circulates; a pressure-independent control valve; a first temperature sensor associated with an inlet of the primary closed loop; a second temperature sensor associated with an outlet of the primary closed loop; a third temperature sensor associated with an inlet of the secondary closed loop; a fourth temperature sensor associated with an outlet of the secondary closed loop; and an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to determine whether both the third and fourth temperature sensors have failed. The electronic processor is configured to determine, in response to determining that both the third and fourth temperature sensors have failed, whether the CDU is in a single-mode or group-mode. The electronic processor is also configured to determine, in response to determining that the CDU is in the single-mode, a temperature difference between a first temperature received from the first temperature sensor and a second temperature received from the second temperature sensor; and to control the pressure-independent control valve based on the determined temperature difference.

[0005] According to another example, a CDU includes: a secondary closed loop through which a second fluid circulates; a dew point temperature sensor; a pressure-independent control valve; and an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to: receive a temperature of the second fluid determined by a temperature sensor associated with the outlet of the secondary closed loop; receive a temperature threshold; and receive a dew point temperature from the dew point temperature sensor. The electronic processor is also configured to: determine whether the dew point temperature is outside a normal range; and determine whether the dew point temperature sensor is disconnected. The electronic processor is further configured to determine whether the CDU is in single-mode or group-mode in response to determining that the dew point temperature from the dew point temperature sensor is outside the normal range or that the dew point temperature sensor is disconnected. The electronic processor is further configured to determine a dew point temperature threshold, wherein the dew point temperature threshold is a received temperature threshold, and determine whether a determined temperature of the second fluid is below the dew point temperature threshold in response to determining that the determined temperature of the second fluid is below the temperature threshold, to control the pressure-independent control valve to increase the temperature of the second fluid.

[0006] Details of one or more aspects of this disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objects, and advantages of the technology described in this disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings and from the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram based on an example CDU.

[0008] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the CDU.

[0009] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Another perspective view of the CDU.

[0010] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Another perspective view of the CDU.

[0011] Figure 5 It is a block diagram based on an example controller.

[0012] Figure 6 It is by Figure 5 A block diagram of an example method executed by the controller.

[0013] Figure 7 It is based on an example in Figure 1 The circuit diagram of the transformer implemented in the CDU.

[0014] Figure 8 It is based on an example for Figure 1 The graphical user interface of the CDU.

[0015] Figure 9 It is used to operate when the temperature sensor associated with the secondary closed loop fails. Figure 1 A flowchart of an example method of CDU.

[0016] Figure 10 It is used to control when the dew point temperature sensor fails. Figure 1 A flowchart of an example method for controlling the temperature of the second fluid in the secondary closed loop of a CDU. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Figures 1 to 4 An example of the CDU 110 is shown. The CDU 110 can be used in any of a variety of application environments, including, for example, server, data center, medical, semiconductor, and / or industrial applications. The CDU 110 shown is an inline unit, but any concepts described herein related to the CDU 110 can alternatively be used with in-rack units or with any other type of cooling distribution unit.

[0018] refer to Figure 1 CDU 110 typically includes a primary closed loop 114 and a secondary closed loop 118. The primary closed loop 114 circulates a first fluid (e.g., facility water located at and / or otherwise supplied at the data server center). The secondary closed loop 118 circulates a second fluid (e.g., a process aqueous solution comprising 25% propylene glycol and 75% water). Other examples include different first and second fluids within either the primary closed loop 114 or the secondary closed loop 118. Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the primary closed loop 114 includes a conduit (e.g., a stainless steel conduit) through which a first fluid circulates. The secondary closed loop 118 similarly includes a conduit (e.g., a stainless steel conduit) through which a second fluid circulates. In some examples, at least a portion of the conduit for the primary closed loop 114 and / or the secondary closed loop 118 is cylindrical in shape and / or has a circular cross-section. In some examples, at least a portion of the conduit for the primary closed loop 114 and / or the secondary closed loop 118 has linear sections and / or curved sections. Other examples include other types of conduits, including conduits made of other materials (e.g., metals or non-metals), or conduits having other shapes and configurations than those shown.

[0019] In some examples, the first fluid may consist of water or an aqueous solution of propylene glycol with a maximum concentration of 50%, or may include water or an aqueous solution of propylene glycol with a maximum concentration of 50%. In other words, the concentration of the aqueous solution of propylene glycol may have a maximum concentration of 10 mg / L. The second fluid may consist of water or a premixed solution of unsuppressed ethylene glycol or propylene glycol and water, or may include water or a premixed solution of unsuppressed ethylene glycol or propylene glycol and water. The first and second fluids may have a maximum particle size of less than 200 micrometers. Other examples may include other materials and / or material composition and / or particle size of the first and / or second fluids.

[0020] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The secondary closed loop 118 allows a second fluid to circulate through and / or across one or more electrical components 122 to absorb heat from the electrical components 122. The electrical components 122 may include, for example, computer chips or other heated electrical components in one or more servers or server racks. In some examples, a cold plate or other heating device may be positioned above the computer chip, and the conduit of the secondary closed loop may pass through the cold plate or other heating device to absorb heat from the electrical components 122. Once the second fluid in the secondary closed loop 118 has been heated by the electrical components 122, the heated second fluid is directed to the heat exchanger 126.

[0021] Continue to refer to Figure 1 Each of the primary closed loop 114 and the secondary closed loop 118 extends through the heat exchanger 126. In the example shown, the heat exchanger 126 is a liquid-liquid heat exchanger. The primary closed loop 114 extends in the first direction (e.g., as shown in the example). Figure 1 The first fluid is guided upwards (to the left) through the heat exchanger 126, while the secondary closed loop 118 is guided upwards in the second direction (e.g., as shown in the left direction). Figure 1 The second fluid is guided upwards (to the right) through heat exchanger 126. In the example shown, the first direction is parallel to and opposite to the second direction. In other examples, the first and second fluids may be guided in the same direction or in a transverse direction, or the first and second fluids may move in more than one direction within heat exchanger 126.

[0022] Within heat exchanger 126, heat is exchanged between a second fluid and a first fluid. Therefore, at least a portion of the heat absorbed from electrical component 122 is transferred from the second fluid to the first fluid within heat exchanger 126. In some examples, the conduit of the primary closed loop 114 does not contact the conduit of the secondary closed loop 118 within heat exchanger 126, and heat is exchanged through an intermediate material (e.g., through a thermally conductive material). Other examples may include various other types, numbers, or arrangements of heat exchangers 126 besides those shown.

[0023] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The primary closed loop 114 guides the first fluid (after it has been heated in the heat exchanger 126) away from the heat exchanger 126 and to the cooling structure 130. The cooling structure 130 may be located, for example, within a data server center. The cooling structure 130 can be any of a variety of different structures, including a cooling tower or other thermal equipment that removes or otherwise removes heat from the first fluid. In some examples, the cooling structure 130 may include cold plates, fins, and / or other heat-removing structures, and / or may use one or more fans to facilitate heat removal from the first fluid.

[0024] like Figure 1 As shown, once heat has been removed from the first fluid at cooling structure 130, the first fluid then circulates back towards heat exchanger 126. Similarly, once heat has been removed from the second fluid at heat exchanger 126, the second fluid circulates back towards electrical component 122. This circulation through each of the primary closed loop 114 and secondary closed loop 118 can continue (e.g., as long as electrical component 122 is generating heat), such that heat is continuously absorbed from the electrical component and transported to heat exchanger 126, where heat is then transferred to the first fluid and primary closed loop 114, and finally discarded at cooling structure 130.

[0025] Continue to refer to Figure 1Each closed loop in the primary closed loop 114 and the secondary closed loop 118 may include one or more pumps to pump a first fluid and a second fluid through conduits. In the illustrated example, the primary closed loop 114 includes one or more pumps (not shown) located within the data server center (e.g., at the location of cooling structure 130 or elsewhere within the data server center) to pump a first fluid (e.g., facility water) through the primary closed loop 114. The secondary closed loop 118 includes a first pump 134 and a second pump 138. The first pump 134 and the second pump 138 are redundant pumps, positioned along parallel conduits within the closed loop such that if one pump fails, the other pump can continue to operate the overall flow of the second fluid within the secondary closed loop 118. The first pump 134 and the second pump 138 can be any type of pump capable of pumping the second fluid. In some examples, the first pump 134 and the second pump 138 are identical pumps having the same dimensions and / or rated parameters. In some examples, one or more of the first pump 134 or the second pump 138 are centrifugal pumps. Other examples include other types of pumps and multiple pumps. For example, in some examples, the secondary closed loop 118 may include only a single pump, or it may include more than two pumps. Generally, the first pump 134 and / or the second pump 138 may generate a flow rate between 100 gallons per minute (GPM) and 200 GPM, such as 125 GPM, 140 GPM, 160 GPM, or other values ​​and ranges.

[0026] Continue to refer to Figure 1 In some examples, the secondary closed loop 118 includes a refill tank 142 and a replenishment pump 146 for adding additional second fluid to the secondary closed loop 118. Additionally, in some examples, the secondary closed loop 118 includes at least one expansion tank for controlling the total pressure and flow rate of the second fluid in the secondary closed loop 118. In the illustrated example, the secondary closed loop 118 includes a first expansion tank 150 and a second (e.g., redundant) expansion tank 154. Other examples may include only a single expansion tank or more than two expansion tanks.

[0027] Additionally, both the primary closed loop 114 and the secondary closed loop 118 may include one or more valves (e.g., pressure control valves, check valves, pressure-independent control valves, etc.) that operate to control the total pressure and / or flow rate of fluid passing through CDU 110. In the example shown, the primary closed loop 114 includes a pressure-independent control valve 158.

[0028] Continue to refer to Figure 1In the illustrated example, CDU 110 includes a housing 162 (e.g., an outer shell). Housing 162 may include a steel frame (e.g., with interconnected vertical and / or horizontal frame members), or it may be another type of frame, or be formed of a different material. In some examples, housing 162 includes one or more doors (e.g., pivotally connected or otherwise attached to the frame). Other examples besides those shown may include housings 162 of various other types, sizes, and / or shapes. In the illustrated example, housing 162 includes a first outlet 166, at which a primary closed loop 114 exits the housing, and a first fluid is delivered to cooling structure 130. Housing 162 also includes a first inlet 170 at which the primary closed loop 114 enters the housing, and where the first fluid is then directed to a heat exchanger 126 (e.g., located within housing 162). The housing 162 also includes a second outlet 174 and a second inlet 178, a secondary closed loop 118 exits the housing at the second outlet 174, and a second fluid is sent to the electrical component 122, enters the housing at the second inlet 178, and is then directed to the heat exchanger 126.

[0029] Continue to refer to Figure 1 In some examples, the CDU 110 additionally includes one or more sensors for measuring pressure, temperature, or other aspects of the system. In the example shown, the CDU 110 includes multiple pressure and temperature sensors generally located at a first outlet 166, a first inlet 170, a second outlet 174, and a second inlet 178. Figure 1 (Illustrated as "PT" and "RTD" in Chinese). For example, CDU 110 may include a temperature sensor 180 associated with a first inlet 170 of the primary closed loop 114, a temperature sensor 183 associated with a first outlet 166 of the primary closed loop 114, a temperature sensor 184 associated with a second inlet 178 of the secondary closed loop 118, and a temperature sensor 186 associated with a second outlet 174 of the secondary closed loop. Figure 1 As shown, the CDU 110 may include redundant pressure and temperature sensors (e.g., in case one or more sensors fail or provide inaccurate readings).

[0030] In some examples, these sensors (e.g., wired or wireless) are connected to controller 182 ( Figures 1 to 4This controller 182 may be connected to other devices that receive signals regarding the pressure and temperature of the first and second fluids. In the illustrated example, the controller 182 is located on and / or within the housing 162 and may include or be connected to an input / output device that displays a user interface (e.g., a graphical user interface, such as a color touchscreen). In some examples, the controller 182 is positioned remotely from the housing 162. In some examples, the controller 182 may be used to monitor pressure, monitor temperature, and / or control the flow rate and pressure differential of the second fluid.

[0031] Figure 5 It shows that according to some aspects Figures 2 to 4 A block diagram of controller 182. Controller 182 specifically includes an electronic processor 500, a memory 502, and an input / output (I / O) interface 504. The electronic processor 500, memory 502, and I / O interface 504 communicate via one or more control and / or data buses. Figure 5 Only one example of controller 182 is shown. Controller 182 may include more or fewer components and may perform functions other than those explicitly described herein.

[0032] In some examples, the electronic processor 500 is implemented as a microcontroller with a separate memory (such as memory 502). In other examples, the electronic processor 500 may be implemented as a microcontroller with memory 502 on the same chip. In still other examples, the electronic processor 500 may be implemented partially or entirely as, for example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc., and may not require memory 502 or may be modified accordingly.

[0033] In the example shown, memory 502 includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (or medium) that stores instructions received and executed by electronic processor 500 to perform the functions of CDU 110 described herein. Memory 502 may include, for example, a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area and data storage area may include combinations of different types of memory, such as non-volatile read-only memory, non-volatile flash memory, and volatile random access memory. In some embodiments, memory 502 stores instructions that, when executed by electronic processor 500, cause electronic processor 500 to perform the functions described herein.

[0034] The controller 182 receives feedback regarding the status of the CDU 110 from temperature sensors 510 (including one or more of the temperature sensors 180, 183, 184, and / or 186 described above), pressure sensor 512, dew point temperature sensor 514, and flow meter 516. In some examples, temperature sensors 510 are mounted near the inlet and outlet locations of the primary closed loop 114 and the secondary closed loop 118 (e.g., first outlet 166, first inlet 170, second outlet 174, and second inlet 178). Temperature sensors 510 are configured to sense the fluid temperature at their respective locations. Temperature sensors 510 are configured to provide the controller 182 with a temperature signal indicating the fluid temperature.

[0035] Pressure sensor 512 is also mounted near the inlet and outlet locations of the primary closed loop 114 and the secondary closed loop 118 (e.g., first outlet 166, first inlet 170, second outlet 174, and second inlet 178). Pressure sensor 512 is configured to measure fluid pressure at its respective location. Pressure sensor 512 is configured to provide a pressure signal indicating the fluid pressure to controller 182.

[0036] A dew point temperature sensor 514 is configured to provide a dew point signal to the controller 182, indicating the current dew point temperature and the ambient air temperature. Flow meters 516 are installed on the first outlet 166 and the second outlet 174, and these flow meters 516 are configured to provide the controller 182 with a flow signal indicating the flow rate of fluid exiting the housing 162 via the first outlet 166 and the second outlet 174.

[0037] The controller 182 can be configured to control the valve 518 to control the flow rate of fluid within the CDU 110. For example, the regulating ball valve 518 can be located at a first outlet 166, a first inlet 170, a second outlet 174, and / or a second inlet 178 to control the inflow and outflow of fluid into and out of the primary closed loop 114 and / or the secondary closed loop 118. The valve 518 may also include a pressure-independent control valve 158.

[0038] The controller 182 can be configured to receive input from and / or send output to the input / output device 519. The input / output device 519 may be a microphone, speaker, display device (e.g., touch screen), or a combination thereof.

[0039] The controller 182 may include and / or be electrically connected to a capacitor 520, which is used to store energy to provide power to the controller 182.

[0040] Figure 6A flowchart of a method 600 for operating CDU 110 is shown. This method 600 can be implemented by controller 182 using, for example, electronic processor 500.

[0041] In the event of a power outage, an automatic restart algorithm can be executed at step 610. The automatic restart algorithm begins when a power drop and / or power failure is detected for a given duration. During operation, method 600 includes storing the current operating settings in, for example, memory 502 at step 612. In one example, the operating settings are stored continuously in memory 502. At step 614, in the event of a detected power drop and / or power failure, the most recent operating settings are resent to CDU 110 upon power restoration.

[0042] Capacitor 520 ( Figure 5 It is configured to store enough energy to provide power to make the CDU 110 run for a given amount of time. In one example, the CDU 110 can withstand a full second of power outage without intervention.

[0043] Go to Figure 7 In one example, CDU 110 includes a transformer 700 that supplies 24V AC power to a pressure-independent control valve 158. For a 380V or 400V input power supply, the 400V tap 710 of the transformer 700 is connected to the pressure-independent control valve 158. For a 460V or 480V input power supply, the 460V tap 712 of the transformer 700 is connected to the pressure-independent control valve 158.

[0044] In one example, an automatic restart algorithm is implemented when the CDU 110 is in remote mode. Figure 8 The service menu 800 of CDU 110, displayed on a user interface such as input / output device 519, is shown. The user can select the local / remote control button 810 to switch between local control mode and remote control mode. In one example, local control is active when the local / remote control button is selected. An option to set a local control timeout is available. If the local control timeout is activated, CDU 110 can switch to remote control mode after the timeout has elapsed. If the local control timeout is not activated, CDU 110 will remain in local control mode unless manually set to remote control mode.

[0045] Figure 9An example method 900 for operating a CDU (e.g., CDU 110) in the event of a failure of a temperature sensor associated with a secondary closed loop is illustrated. In some embodiments, method 900 begins at block 905 when electronic processor 500 determines whether each temperature sensor associated with the second inlet 178 of the secondary closed loop 118 (e.g., temperature sensor 184 and each of one or more residual temperature sensors configured to provide an alternative temperature measurement in the event of a failure of temperature sensor 184) and each temperature sensor associated with the second outlet 174 of the secondary closed loop 118 (e.g., temperature sensor 186 and each of one or more residual temperature sensors configured to provide an alternative temperature measurement in the event of a failure of temperature sensor 186) has failed. Electronic processor 500 may determine that a temperature sensor has failed when the temperature sensor fails to provide a temperature to electronic processor 500 or provides an unrealistic or impractical temperature to electronic processor 500.

[0046] In response to determining that each temperature sensor associated with the second inlet 178 of the secondary closed loop 118 and each temperature sensor associated with the second outlet 174 of the secondary closed loop 118 has failed, at block 910, the electronic processor 500 determines whether CDU 110 is in single mode or group mode. CDU 110 is in group mode when another currently idle CDU is available or can be used to perform the function currently being performed by CDU 110. CDU 110 is in single mode when no other currently idle CDU is available to perform the function currently being performed by CDU 110.

[0047] In some implementations, in response to determining that each temperature sensor associated with the second inlet and each temperature sensor associated with the second outlet has malfunctioned, the electronic processor 500 also generates a warning message. For example, the warning message may be a visual or auditory message output via the input / output device 519.

[0048] When the electronic processor 500 determines that the CDU 110 is in single mode, at block 915, the electronic processor 500 determines the temperature difference between a first temperature received from a temperature sensor 180 associated with the first inlet 170 of the primary closed loop 114 and a second temperature received from a temperature sensor 183 associated with the first outlet 166 of the primary closed loop 114.

[0049] At block 920, electronic processor 500 controls pressure-independent control valve 158 based on a determined temperature difference. In one example embodiment, the predetermined temperature difference is 10 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, electronic processor 500 controls pressure-independent control valve 158 based on a determined temperature difference by determining whether the temperature difference is less than, greater than, or equal to a predetermined temperature threshold. In response to determining that the temperature difference is less than the predetermined temperature threshold, electronic processor 500 controls pressure-independent control valve 158 to decrease its opening, thereby reducing the flow rate of the first fluid through heat exchanger 126. In response to determining that the temperature difference is greater than the predetermined temperature threshold, electronic processor 500 controls pressure-independent control valve 158 to increase its opening, thereby increasing the flow rate of the first fluid through heat exchanger 126. In response to determining that the temperature difference is greater than the predetermined temperature threshold, electronic processor 500 maintains (neither increases nor decreases) the opening of pressure-independent control valve 158 to maintain the flow of the first fluid through heat exchanger 126.

[0050] In some embodiments, when the electronic processor 500 determines that the CDU 110 is in group mode, the electronic processor 500 stops the cooling operation at block 925 and transmits a message to an idle CDU at block 930 to start the cooling operation. In some embodiments, when the electronic processor 500 receives a message from an idle CDU confirming that it has started the cooling operation, the electronic processor 500 stops the cooling operation of the CDU 110.

[0051] Figure 10 An example flowchart of a method 1000 for controlling the temperature of a second fluid in the secondary closed loop 118 of a CDU 110 in the event of a failure of the dew point temperature sensor 514 is provided. In some embodiments, method 1000 begins at block 1005 when electronic processor 500 receives the temperature of the second fluid determined by a temperature sensor (e.g., temperature sensor 186 or residual temperature sensor) associated with the second outlet 174 of the secondary closed loop 118. At block 1010, electronic processor 500 may receive a temperature threshold. For example, electronic processor 500 may receive a temperature threshold from input / output device 519 when a user or operator inputs the temperature threshold via a touchscreen of input / output device 519.

[0052] At block 1015, electronic processor 500 can receive dew point temperature from dew point temperature sensor 514. In some embodiments, at block 1020, electronic processor 500 determines whether the dew point temperature from dew point temperature sensor 514 is outside the normal range or whether dew point temperature sensor 514 is disconnected. In some embodiments, the normal range is -40°C to 80°C or -40°F to 176°F.

[0053] In some embodiments, when the dew point temperature from the dew point temperature sensor 514 is within the normal range and the dew point temperature sensor 514 is connected, the electronic processor 500 determines a dew point temperature threshold as a predetermined number of degrees above the dew point temperature. The electronic processor 500 also determines whether the determined temperature of the second fluid is below the dew point temperature threshold, and in response to determining that the determined temperature of the second fluid is below the dew point temperature threshold, controls the pressure-independent control valve 158 to increase the temperature of the second fluid before it circulates through and / or circulates across one or more electrical components 122. Increasing the temperature of the second fluid prevents condensation from forming on the piping of the secondary closed loop 118 when the temperature of the second fluid drops below the dew point temperature threshold before it circulates through and / or circulates across one or more electrical components 122. Condensation forming on the piping of the secondary closed loop 118 could potentially damage the electrical components 122.

[0054] In some embodiments, when the electronic processor 500 determines that the dew point temperature from the dew point temperature sensor 514 is outside the normal range or that the dew point temperature sensor 514 is disconnected, the electronic processor 500 determines at block 1025 whether the CDU 110 is in single mode or group mode. In some embodiments, when the electronic processor 500 determines that the dew point temperature from the dew point temperature sensor 514 is outside the normal range or that the dew point temperature sensor 514 is disconnected, the electronic processor 500 generates a warning. For example, the warning may be a visual or auditory message output via the input / output device 519.

[0055] When the electronic processor 500 determines that CDU 110 is in single mode, the electronic processor 500 determines at block 1030 that the dew point temperature threshold is the received temperature threshold (the temperature threshold received at block 1010). In some embodiments, at block 1035, the electronic processor 500 determines whether the determined temperature of the second fluid is below the dew point temperature threshold. When the determined temperature of the second fluid is below the dew point temperature threshold, the electronic processor 500 may control the pressure-independent control valve 158 at block 1040 to increase the temperature of the second fluid before it circulates through and / or circulates across one or more electrical components 122.

[0056] In some embodiments, when the electronic processor 500 determines that the CDU 110 is in group mode, at block 1045, the electronic processor 500 stops the cooling operation, and at block 1050, transmits a message to the idle CDU to start the cooling operation. In some embodiments, when the electronic processor 500 receives a message from the idle CDU confirming that it has started the cooling operation, the electronic processor 500 stops the cooling operation of the CDU 110.

[0057] In the example shown, the CDU 110 has overall dimensions of 31.5 inches × 47.4 inches × 84.5 inches and a total weight of approximately 1400 pounds. Other examples may include a variety of different sizes and weights, including those smaller and larger than those shown, and those smaller or larger than those shown. Additionally, in the example shown, the CDU 110 can provide cooling capacity of 550 kW (approaching a temperature difference of 4°C) and 1100 kW (approaching a temperature difference of 8°C). Other examples may include other values ​​and ranges of cooling capacity, including those smaller or larger than those shown.

[0058] Benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may lead to or make any benefit, advantage, or solution occur or become more apparent should not be construed as key, essential, or necessary features or elements of any or all claims. This disclosure is limited only by the appended claims, including any modifications made during the pending period of this application and all equivalents of those claims published.

[0059] In this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, etc., may be used only to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between these entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “has,” “having,” “includes,” “including,” “contains,” “containing,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus that includes, has, contains, or contains a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or other elements inherent to such a process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus.

[0060] It should also be noted that multiple hardware and software-based devices and multiple different structural components can be utilized in various embodiments. Aspects, features, and examples may include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules, which, for the purposes of discussion, may be illustrated and described as if most components were implemented solely in hardware. However, those skilled in the art, and based on a reading of this specification, will recognize that, in at least one instance, the electronic aspects of the invention may be implemented in software executable by one or more processors (e.g., stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium). Therefore, it should be noted that this disclosure may be implemented using multiple hardware and software-based devices and multiple different structural components. For example, the “control unit” and “controller” described in the specification may include one or more electronic processors, one or more memories including a non-transitory computer-readable medium, one or more input / output interfaces, and various connectors (e.g., system buses) for connecting components.

[0061] Unless otherwise expressly indicated in the context of the use of the articles “a,” “one,” and “the,” these articles should not be interpreted as meaning “one” or “only one.” Rather, they should be interpreted as meaning “at least one” or “one or more.” Similarly, unless otherwise expressly indicated in the context of use, when the terms “the” or “the” are used to refer to a noun previously introduced by the indefinite articles “a” or “one,” “the” and “the” mean “at least one” or “one or more.”

[0062] It should also be understood that although some of the accompanying drawings show hardware and software located within a particular device, these depictions are for illustrative purposes only. In some embodiments, the illustrated components may be combined or divided into separate software, firmware, and / or hardware. For example, instead of being located within and executed by a single electronic processor, logic and processing may be distributed among multiple electronic processors. Regardless of how they are combined or divided, hardware and software components may reside on the same computing device or may be distributed among different computing devices connected by one or more networks or other suitable connectors or links.

[0063] Therefore, in the claims, if the apparatus or system is claimed to include, for example, an electronic processor or other element configured in a certain way, for example, to perform multiple determinations, then the claim or claim element should be interpreted as referring to one or more electronic processors (or other elements), any one of which is configured as claimed, for example, to jointly perform some or all of those multiple determinations. To reiterate, those electronic processors and processes can be distributed.

[0064] This summary of the disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly determine the nature of the technical disclosure. It should be understood that it is not intended to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the foregoing detailed description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various examples for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. The approach of this disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention to require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the appended claims, the inventive subject matter lies in fewer than all features of a single disclosed example. Therefore, the appended claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, wherein each claim is independently claimed as a separate subject matter.

[0065] Specific examples have been described in the foregoing specification. However, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. Therefore, this specification and drawings should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this teaching.

Claims

1. A cooling distribution unit (CDU), comprising: A primary closed loop, wherein the first fluid circulates through the primary closed loop; A secondary closed loop, wherein a second fluid circulation occurs through the secondary closed loop; Pressure-independent control valve; A first temperature sensor, which is associated with the inlet of the primary closed loop; A second temperature sensor is associated with the outlet of the primary closed loop; A third temperature sensor, which is associated with the inlet of the secondary closed loop; A fourth temperature sensor, which is associated with the outlet of the secondary closed loop; and An electronic processor, the electronic processor being configured to: Determine whether both the third and fourth temperature sensors have failed; and In response to determining that both the third and fourth temperature sensors have failed, determine whether the CDU is in single-mode or group-mode; and In response to determining that the CDU is in the single mode, Determine the temperature difference between a first temperature received from the first temperature sensor and a second temperature received from the second temperature sensor; and The pressure-independent control valve is controlled based on the determined temperature difference.

2. The CDU according to claim 1, wherein, The electronic processor is configured to control the pressure-independent control valve based on a determined temperature difference by determining whether the temperature difference is less than, greater than, or equal to a predetermined temperature threshold.

3. The CDU according to claim 2, wherein, In response to determining that the temperature difference is less than the predetermined temperature threshold, the electronic processor is configured to control the pressure-independent control valve to reduce the opening of the pressure-independent control valve.

4. The CDU according to claim 2, wherein, In response to determining that the temperature difference is greater than the predetermined temperature threshold, the electronic processor is configured to control the pressure-independent control valve to increase the opening of the pressure-independent control valve.

5. The CDU according to claim 2, wherein, In response to determining that the temperature difference is greater than the predetermined temperature threshold, the electronic processor is configured to maintain the opening of the pressure-independent control valve.

6. The CDU according to claim 2, wherein, The predetermined temperature difference is 10 degrees Celsius.

7. The CDU according to claim 1, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to: In response to determining that the CDU is in the group mode, Stop the cooling operation; and Send a message to the idle CDU to initiate the cooling operation.

8. The CDU according to claim 1, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to: In response to the determination that both the third and fourth temperature sensors have failed, a warning message is generated.

9. The CDU of claim 1, further comprising a fifth temperature sensor associated with the inlet of the secondary closed loop and a sixth temperature sensor associated with the outlet of the secondary closed loop. in, The fifth temperature sensor is a residual temperature sensor, configured to provide backup temperature measurement should the third temperature sensor fail. The sixth temperature sensor is a residual temperature sensor, which is configured to provide backup temperature measurement if the fourth temperature sensor fails.

10. The CDU according to claim 9, wherein, The electronic processor is configured to determine whether each of the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth temperature sensors has malfunctioned.

11. The CDU according to claim 10, wherein, In response to determining that each of the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth temperature sensors has failed, the electronic processor is configured to: Determine whether the CDU is in the single mode or the group mode; and In response to determining that the CDU is in the single mode, the temperature difference between the first temperature received from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature received from the second temperature sensor is determined, and the pressure-independent control valve is controlled based on the determined temperature difference.

12. A cooling distribution unit (CDU), comprising: A secondary closed loop, wherein a second fluid circulation occurs through the secondary closed loop; Dew point temperature sensor; Pressure-independent control valves; and An electronic processor, the electronic processor being configured to: Receive the temperature of the second fluid determined by a temperature sensor associated with the outlet of the secondary closed loop; Receive temperature threshold; Receive the dew point temperature from the dew point temperature sensor; Determine whether the dew point temperature is outside the normal range; Determine whether the dew point temperature sensor is disconnected; and In response to determining that the dew point temperature from the dew point temperature sensor is outside the normal range or that the dew point temperature sensor is disconnected, it is determined whether the CDU is in single mode or group mode; and In response to determining that the CDU is in single mode, Determine the dew point temperature threshold, wherein the dew point temperature threshold is a received temperature threshold; Determine whether the determined temperature of the second fluid is below the dew point temperature threshold; and In response to determining that the determined temperature of the second fluid is below the temperature threshold, the pressure-independent control valve is controlled to increase the temperature of the second fluid.

13. The CDU according to claim 12, wherein, The normal range is between 40 degrees Celsius and 80 degrees Celsius.

14. The CDU according to claim 12, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to: In response to determining that the dew point temperature is within the normal range and that the dew point temperature sensor is connected, a dew point temperature threshold is determined. Wherein, the dew point temperature threshold is a predetermined degree higher than the dew point temperature.

15. The CDU according to claim 14, wherein, The electronic processor is configured to: Determine whether the determined temperature of the second fluid is lower than the dew point temperature threshold.

16. The CDU according to claim 15, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to: In response to determining that the determined temperature of the second fluid is below the dew point temperature threshold, the temperature of the second fluid is increased.

17. The CDU according to claim 12, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to: In response to determining that the CDU is in the group mode, Stop the cooling operation; and Send a message to the idle CDU to initiate the cooling operation.

18. The CDU according to claim 12, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to: A warning message is generated in response to determining that the dew point temperature from the dew point temperature sensor is outside the normal range or that the dew point temperature sensor is disconnected.

19. The CDU according to claim 12, further comprising a primary closed loop, wherein, The first fluid circulation occurs through the primary closed loop.

20. The CDU of claim 19, further comprising a heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from the second fluid in the secondary closed loop to the first fluid in the primary closed loop.

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