Rack device

Abstract

To provide a highly user-friendly rack device.SOLUTION: A rack device according to an embodiment includes: a rack body with a storage space capable of storing multiple computers arranged vertically inside; and a support mechanism provided at the rack body and supporting one computer among the multiple computers stored in the storage space movably between a first position where the computer is stored in the storage space and a second position where the computer is drawn forward from the first position. The support mechanism has internal cables that connect the one computer to a power cable and a transmission cable while allowing the one computer to move between the first position and the second position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments relate to a rack apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a rack device capable of storing multiple computers arranged vertically inside. The computers are called, for example, rack-mounted type. The rack device has a rail unit consisting of a pair of rails attached to both ends of the computer, allowing the computer to be pulled forward without being completely removed from the rack body. With such a rack device, it is desirable to improve the ease of installation of the computers into the rack body. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-36669 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-159716 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-67879 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a rack device with high workability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The rack device according to the embodiment includes a rack body having a storage space capable of storing a plurality of computers arranged vertically inside the storage space, and a support mechanism provided on the rack body for movably supporting one of the plurality of computers stored in the storage space between a first position where the computer is stored in the storage space and a second position where the computer is pulled out forward from the first position, the support mechanism including a cage having an internal space capable of storing one of the computers, rail units attached to the cage and attached to both sides of the computer, the rail units having a pair of rails for supporting the computer movably between the first position and the second position, and a support mechanism for supporting the computer in a manner that the computer is pulled out forward from the first position. the cage is provided with a first connection section for detachably connecting a power cable for supplying power to one of the computers, and a second connection section for detachably connecting a transmission cable for connecting the one of the computers to a network, and a relay section for relaying the connection between the one of the computers and the power cable and the connection between the one of the computers and the transmission cable; and an internal cable is provided between the one of the computers and the relay section, and connects the one of the computers to the power cable and the transmission cable by connecting the one of the computers to the relay section while allowing the one of the computers to move between the first position and the second position. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1(a) and 1(b) are explanatory diagrams that schematically show a rack apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 2(a) to 2(c) are explanatory diagrams that schematically show a rack apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a rack device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] 4(a) and 4(b) are explanatory diagrams schematically illustrating a rack apparatus according to a third embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a rack device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a rack device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a rack device according to a sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the size ratio between parts, etc. are not necessarily the same as those in reality. Furthermore, even when the same part is shown, the dimensions and ratios may be different depending on the drawing. In the present specification and the drawings, elements similar to those described above with reference to the previous drawings are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0008] (First embodiment) 1(a) and 1(b) are explanatory diagrams that schematically show a rack apparatus according to a first embodiment. As shown in Figures 1(a) and 1(b), the rack apparatus 10 includes a rack body 12 and a support mechanism 14. For convenience, Figures 1(a) and 1(b) illustrate an enlarged portion of the rack apparatus 10 and a cross section of the rack apparatus 10. Figures 1(a) and 1(b) schematically illustrate a portion of the rack apparatus 10 as viewed from the side.

[0009] The rack body 12 has a storage space 12a capable of storing multiple computers 2 arranged vertically inside. The rack body 12 has, for example, multiple support columns 12b, which support the multiple computers 2 arranged vertically inside the storage space 12a.

[0010] The computer 2 is called, for example, a rack-mounted computer. The computer 2 is used as a server, etc. The computer 2 is a computer of a predetermined size standardized by a predetermined standard, such as JIS C 6010 or EIA / ECA-310-E. The computer 2 has an approximately rectangular outer shape. The width of the computer 2 is, for example, 19 inches. The height of the computer 2 is, for example, 1.75 inches. The multiple support columns 12b have, for example, multiple mounting holes arranged at intervals conforming to the standard of the computer 2. The rack body 12 can support multiple computers 2 arranged vertically by attaching the computers 2 to the support columns 12b via the respective mounting holes. The rack device 10 (rack body 12) is sometimes called, for example, a 19-inch rack. However, the configuration of the rack body 12 is not limited to the above and may be any configuration that can support multiple computers 2 arranged vertically within the storage space 12a.

[0011] The support mechanism 14 is provided on the rack main body 12 and supports one of the multiple computers 2 stored in the storage space 12a so that the computer 2 can be moved between a first position where the computer 2 is stored in the storage space 12a and a second position where the computer 2 is pulled out forward from the first position. The first position is, for example, the position shown in FIG. 1(a). The second position is, for example, the position shown in FIG. 1(b). The first position is a position for operating the computer 2. The second position is a position for installing the computer 2 in the rack main body 12, removing the computer 2 from the rack main body 12, and performing maintenance on the computer 2. By allowing the computer 2 to be pulled out forward in this way, the ease of installing, removing, and maintaining the computer 2 can be improved.

[0012] In other words, the computer 2 is attached to the rack main body 12 (each support column 12b) via the support mechanism 14. The support mechanism 14 is attached to each support column 12b, for example, by screwing it through a mounting hole in each support column 12b. The support mechanism 14 is detachably attached to each support column 12b, for example. The support mechanism 14 may be provided integrally with the rack main body 12. The support mechanism 14 does not necessarily have to be configured to be detachable from the rack main body 12.

[0013] The rack apparatus 10 has, for example, a plurality of support mechanisms 14 arranged vertically on the rack body 12. Each of the plurality of computers 2 is attached to the rack body 12 via a respective one of the plurality of support mechanisms 14. The number of the plurality of support mechanisms 14 is the same as the number of computers 2 that can be stored in the storage space 12a. However, the number of the plurality of support mechanisms 14 may be less than the number of computers 2 that can be stored in the storage space 12a. Some of the computers 2 may be attached to the support columns 12b without using the support mechanisms 14, for example, by screwing them into the mounting holes of the support columns 12b. The rack apparatus 10 is required to have at least one support mechanism 14.

[0014] The support mechanism 14 includes a cage 20, a rail unit 22, a relay section 24, and an internal cable 26.

[0015] The cage 20 has an internal space 20a that can accommodate one computer 2. The cage 20 is provided within the storage space 12a of the rack body 12. The cage 20 is attached to each support column 12b, for example, by screws. The cage 20 is detachably attached to the rack body 12, for example, by screws. The support mechanism 14 is attached to the rack body 12 via the cage 20. Note that the cage 20 may be provided integrally with the rack body 12, for example.

[0016] 1(a), when the computer 2 is in the first position, the cage 20 accommodates at least a portion of the computer 2 within the internal space 20a. The cage 20 is, for example, a generally rectangular box with an opening at the front. However, the shape of the cage 20 is not limited to this, and it may be any shape that has an internal space 20a large enough to accommodate one computer 2 and that can be appropriately attached to the rack main body 12.

[0017] The rail unit 22 is attached to the cage 20 and has a pair of rails 30 attached to both side ends of the computer 2, supporting the computer 2 so that it can move between a first position and a second position. That is, the computer 2 is attached to the rack body 12 via the pair of rails 30 and the cage 20. The both side ends of the computer 2 are, in other words, the left and right ends of the computer 2. Each rail 30 is attached to both side surfaces of the approximately rectangular computer 2 in the left-right direction by, for example, screwing, thereby supporting the computer 2 so that it can move in the front-to-rear direction.

[0018] The pair of rails 30 includes, for example, an outer rail 31 and an inner rail 32. The outer rail 31 is attached to the cage 20. For example, the outer rail 31 is attached to the inner surface of the open-box-shaped cage 20 by screwing or the like. The outer rail 31 extends in the front-to-rear direction and supports the inner rail 32 so that it can move in the front-to-rear direction. The inner rail 32 is supported by the outer rail 31 so that it can move in the front-to-rear direction, and is attached to both side surfaces of the computer 2 by screwing or the like. In this way, the computer 2 can be supported so that it can move in the front-to-rear direction as the inner rail 32 moves in the front-to-rear direction.

[0019] In this example, a two-stage rail 30 is shown. However, the rail 30 is not limited to this and may be a three-stage rail or the like. The rail 30 may further include, for example, an intermediate rail provided between the outer rail 31 and the inner rail 32. The configuration of the pair of rails 30 is not limited to the above and may be any configuration that can support the computer 2 so that it can be moved between the first position and the second position.

[0020] The second position may be, for example, any position depending on the amount of movement of each rail 30. In FIG. 1(b), the second position shows a state in which a portion of the computer 2 is pulled out forward of the storage space 12a. The second position may be, for example, a state in which the entire computer 2 is pulled out forward of the storage space 12a. The second position may be any position in which at least a portion of the computer 2 is pulled out forward of the storage space 12a, allowing appropriate installation, removal, maintenance, and the like of the computer 2.

[0021] The relay unit 24 is provided in the cage 20 so as to be located behind the computer 2 in the first position. The relay unit 24 is provided, for example, on the rear part of the cage 20. The relay unit 24 may be provided within the internal space 20a of the cage 20. The position of the relay unit 24 may be any position behind the computer 2 in the first position. The relay unit 24 is detachably attached to the cage 20, for example, by screwing. However, the relay unit 24 may also be provided integrally with the cage 20, for example. The relay unit 24 does not necessarily have to be configured to be detachable from the cage 20.

[0022] The relay unit 24 has a first connection portion 24a for detachably connecting the power cable 4 and a second connection portion 24b for detachably connecting the transmission cable 6. The first connection portion 24a and the second connection portion 24b are provided on the relay unit 24 so as to face, for example, the rear side of the rack main body 12. The power cable 4 is a cable for supplying power to the computer 2. The transmission cable 6 is a cable for connecting the computer 2 to a network such as the Internet. The transmission cable 6 is, for example, a LAN cable.

[0023] The relay unit 24 relays the connection between the computer 2 and the power cable 4, and the connection between the computer 2 and the transmission cable 6. The first connection unit 24a and the second connection unit 24b are, for example, connectors corresponding to the respective cables. The relay unit 24 is, for example, a board on which connectors for connecting the respective cables are mounted. The relay unit 24 may further have a connection unit for connecting, for example, a USB cable. The relay unit 24 only needs to be configured to be able to connect at least the power cable 4 and the transmission cable 6.

[0024] The internal cable 26 is provided between the computer 2 and the relay unit 24, and connects the computer 2 to the relay unit 24 while enabling the computer 2 to move between the first position and the second position, thereby connecting the computer 2 to the power cable 4 and the transmission cable 6. As a result, the computer 2 supported by the support mechanism 14 is connected to the power cable 4 and the transmission cable 6 via the relay unit 24 and the internal cable 26, power is supplied to the computer 2 from the power cable 4, and the computer 2 is connected to the network via the transmission cable 6.

[0025] The internal cable 26 is detachably connected to a connector provided on the rear face of the computer 2. The computer 2 has, for example, a power connector and a network connection connector on its rear face. The internal cable 26 has, for example, a connector that is detachably connected to the power connector of the computer 2 and a connector that is detachably connected to the network connection connector of the computer 2, and is detachably connected to the rear face of the computer 2 via these connectors.

[0026] The cage 20 allows the internal cables 26 to be attached to and detached from the computer 2, for example, from the rear side of the rack main body 12. The cage 20 has an opening for allowing the internal cables 26 to be attached to and detached from the computer 2, for example, from the rear side of the rack main body 12. The opening is provided, for example, in the rear part of the cage 20. The opening is formed, for example, with a size that allows the hand or fingers of an operator attaching or detaching the internal cables 26 to be inserted into the internal space 20a of the cage 20. This allows the internal cables 26 to be attached to and detached from the computer 2 not only from the front side of the rack main body 12 but also from the rear side of the rack main body 12.

[0027] The internal cable 26 is detachably connected to the relay unit 24. The internal cable 26 can be attached to and detached from the relay unit 24 from the rear side of the rack main body 12, for example, through an opening provided in the cage 20. The cage 20 allows the internal cable 26 to be attached to and detached from the relay unit 24 from the rear side of the rack main body 12. For example, when removing the computer 2 from the support mechanism 14 for maintenance, the internal cable 26 may be detached from the relay unit 24 from the rear side of the rack main body 12 and pulled forward together with the computer 2. In this case, the distance from the rear side of the rack main body 12 to the connection point is shorter than when the internal cable 26 is removed from the computer 2 from the rear side of the rack main body 12, for example, and workability from the rear side of the rack main body 12 can be improved. However, the internal cable 26 may also be integrally connected to the relay unit 24 by, for example, soldering.

[0028] The internal cable 26 may be configured as a single cable combining the wiring of the power cable 4 and the wiring of the transmission cable 6, or may be configured as two cables corresponding to the power cable 4 and the transmission cable 6, respectively. The internal cable 26 may be configured in any way that allows the computer 2 to be appropriately connected to the power cable 4 and the transmission cable 6.

[0029] 1(a), the cage 20 provides a space for storing the internal cable 26, for example, by supporting the relay unit 24 at a predetermined distance from the computer 2 in the first position. The internal cable 26 has an appropriate length that allows the computer 2 to move between the first position and the second position, and as shown in FIG. 1(a), when the computer 2 is in the first position, the internal cable 26 is provided between the computer 2 and the relay unit 24 in an S-shaped bent state.

[0030] In addition, the internal cable 26 is provided with moving part protection, such as a protective member or guide such as a Cable Bear (registered trademark), to prevent the internal cable 26 from being pinched between the computer 2 and the cage 20 as the computer 2 moves between the first position and the second position.

[0031] In this way, by setting an appropriate length and protecting the moving parts, the internal cable 26 enables the computer 2 to be connected to the relay unit 24 while allowing the computer 2 to move between the first and second positions. However, the configuration of the internal cable 26 for enabling the computer 2 to be connected to the relay unit 24 while allowing the computer 2 to move between the first and second positions is not limited to the above, and any configuration that allows the computer 2 to move between the first and second positions and connect to the relay unit 24 may be used.

[0032] Rack-mounted computers and servers are thin-type devices that are stacked on a dedicated rack, allowing for efficient placement of multiple devices. This type of device is often attached to adjacent devices on the top and bottom, and rails for pulling out the devices are attached to the left and right sides, so LED indicators and buttons are concentrated on the front, and power supplies and external connectors are concentrated on the back. Because these interfaces are concentrated on the front and back, some devices require opening the case to access the inside when replacing parts that have reached their end of life during maintenance. To access the inside of the case, the front side of the top of the case can be opened as a cover, and this cover can be opened by pulling the case out about halfway from the rack device, eliminating the need to remove the case from the rack each time.

[0033] Although some of the consumable parts can be replaced from the front of the chassis so that maintenance work can be performed without pulling the chassis out of the rack, the current situation is that consumable parts must be placed inside the chassis due to space limitations, etc. Therefore, with rack-mounted equipment, pulling out the chassis is unavoidable.

[0034] For example, there are rack systems in which computers are attached to the rack body via rails so that they can be pulled out, and power cables and transmission cables are connected directly to the back of the computers attached to the rack body. In such rack systems, the cables connected to the back of the computers must take into consideration the movement of the computers when they are pulled out. For example, the cables must be routed with sufficient length to avoid interfering with the movement of the computers, and with protection to prevent pinching. If this is considered for each interface, such as each power cable or transmission cable, along with the location of the connected devices and connectors, the number of combinations becomes enormous. Furthermore, disconnecting and reconnecting cables every time maintenance is performed is inconvenient and introduces the risk of introducing wiring errors when reconnecting.

[0035] In contrast, in the rack apparatus 10 according to this embodiment, the support mechanism 14 has a cage 20, a rail unit 22, a relay section 24, and an internal cable 26, and the movement of the computer 2 between the first position and the second position can be made possible by the internal cable 26. Therefore, in the rack apparatus 10 according to this embodiment, the power cable 4 and the transmission cable 6 can be fixed without considering the movement of the computer 2.

[0036] When attaching the computer 2 to the support mechanism 14, for example, the computer 2 can be easily attached to the rack body 12 by connecting the computer 2 to the internal cables 26 from the front side of the rack body 12 and then attaching the computer 2 to each rail 30, or by attaching the computer 2 to each rail 30 and then connecting the computer 2 to the internal cables 26 from the back side of the rack body 12, without having to perform cable wiring work that takes into account the movement of the computer 2.

[0037] Furthermore, even when it is necessary to remove the computer 2 from the rack device 10 for maintenance or the like, it is only necessary to disconnect the computer 2 from the internal cable 26, and there is no need to perform wiring work on cables taking into account the movement of the computer 2 each time maintenance or the like is performed. Furthermore, the power cable 4 and the transmission cable 6 can be left connected to the relay unit 24, and there is no need to remove the power cable 4 and the transmission cable 6 each time maintenance or the like is performed, which reduces the risk of wiring errors and the like.

[0038] In this way, the rack apparatus 10 according to this embodiment reduces the effort required for wiring cables while taking into consideration the movement of the computer 2, and improves the workability of installing the computer 2 in the rack body 12. Furthermore, for example, there is no need to remove the power cable 4 and the transmission cable 6 every time maintenance is performed, which improves the workability of maintenance.

[0039] 2(a) to 2(c) are explanatory diagrams that schematically show a rack apparatus according to a first embodiment. When removing the computer 2 from the rack body 12 for maintenance or the like, for example, as shown in FIG. 2(a), the internal cables 26 are removed from the computer 2 from the rear side of the rack body 12, and then the computer 2 is pulled forward and removed from each rail 30. This allows the computer 2 to be removed from the rack body 12 (support mechanism 14). The internal cables 26 may be designed to be removable from the rear side or front side of the rack body 12, for example, after the computer 2 is pulled forward.

[0040] For example, as shown in Figure 2(b), the internal cable 26 may be removed from the relay section 24 from the rear side of the rack body 12, and then the computer 2 and the internal cable 26 may be pulled forward and removed from each rail 30, thereby removing the computer 2 and the internal cable 26 from the rack body 12.

[0041] 2(c), the computer 2 may be removed from the rack body 12 together with the cage 20 by removing the internal cable 26 from the relay unit 24 from the rear side of the rack body 12, removing the relay unit 24 from the cage 20, and removing the cage 20 from the rack body 12. In other words, the computer 2, the cage 20, the rail unit 22, and the internal cable 26 may be removed from the rack body 12.

[0042] (Second embodiment) FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a rack apparatus according to the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the rack device 10a further includes a main body side rail unit 40. Note that components that are substantially the same in function and configuration as those in the above embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Also, for convenience, Fig. 3 illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the rack device 10a, and also illustrates a cross section of a portion of the rack device 10a. Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a state in which a portion of the rack device 10a is viewed from above.

[0043] The main body side rail unit 40 is attached to the rack main body 12 and is also attached to both side ends of the cage 20, and has a pair of rails 42 that support the support mechanism 14 so that it can be moved between a third position in which the support mechanism 14 is stored within the storage space 12a and a fourth position in which the support mechanism 14 is pulled out forward from the third position.

[0044] In the rack device 10a, the support mechanism 14 is attached to the rack body 12 via a pair of rails 42. The pair of rails 42 is attached to each support column 12b by, for example, screwing. Each rail 42 is attached to both left and right side surfaces of the substantially rectangular cage 20 by, for example, screwing, thereby supporting the cage 20 (support mechanism 14) so ​​that it can move in the front-rear direction.

[0045] The pair of rails 42 includes, for example, an outer rail 44 and an inner rail 46. The outer rail 44 is attached to the rack main body 12 (each support portion 12b). The outer rail 44 extends in the front-rear direction and supports the inner rail 46 so that it can move in the front-rear direction. The inner rail 46 is supported by the outer rail 44 so that it can move in the front-rear direction, and is attached to both side surfaces of the cage 20 by screws or the like. This allows the support mechanism 14 to be supported so that it can move in the front-rear direction as the inner rail 46 moves in the front-rear direction.

[0046] Like each rail 30 of the support mechanism 14, each rail 42 may be a three-stage rail, etc. The configuration of each rail 42 is not limited to the above, and may be any configuration that can support the support mechanism 14 so that it can move between the third position and the fourth position.

[0047] In this way, the support mechanism 14 may be attached to the rack body 12 via a pair of rails 42. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 2(c), when removing the computer 2 together with the cage 20 from the rack body 12, the work of removing the computer 2 and the cage 20 from the rack body 12 and the work of reattaching the removed computer 2 and cage 20 to the rack body 12 can be made easier.

[0048] (Third embodiment) 4(a) and 4(b) are explanatory diagrams schematically illustrating a rack apparatus according to a third embodiment. As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), in the rack apparatus 10b, the support mechanism 14 has a detection unit 50. Note that, in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), as in Figures 1(a) and 1(b), for convenience, a portion of the rack apparatus 10b is illustrated enlarged and a portion of the rack apparatus 10b is illustrated in cross section. Figures 4(a) and 4(b) schematically illustrate a portion of the rack apparatus 10b as viewed from the side.

[0049] The detection unit 50 detects whether the computer 2 supported on the pair of rails 30 is in the first position. The detection unit 50 is, for example, a mechanical switch. When the computer 2 supported on each rail 30 is in the first position, the detection unit 50 brings the contact portion into contact with the inner rail 32, turning the contact portion on, thereby making it possible to detect that the computer 2 supported on each rail 30 is in the first position.

[0050] When each inner rail 32 and the computer 2 move forward from the first position, the detection unit 50 moves the contact unit away from the inner rail 32 to turn the contact unit off, thereby making it possible to detect that the computer 2 supported on each rail 30 is not at the first position. In other words, the off state of the contact unit enables the detection unit 50 to detect that the computer 2 supported on each rail 30 has moved forward from the first position.

[0051] The detection unit 50 is capable of inputting the detection result, as to whether or not the computer 2 supported on the pair of rails 30 is at the first position, to the computer 2 supported on the pair of rails 30. The detection unit 50 is connected to the relay unit 24, for example, as shown in FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b). The detection unit 50 is capable of inputting the detection result to the computer 2 supported on the pair of rails 30 via the relay unit 24 and the internal cable 26.

[0052] The computer 2 executes, for example, a process of turning off the power (a process of stopping operation) when the detection unit 50 detects that the computer 2 is not in the first position. In other words, the computer 2 executes a shutdown process when the detection unit 50 detects that the computer 2 is not in the first position.

[0053] As described above, in the rack apparatus 10b, the detector 50 detects whether the computer 2 supported by the pair of rails 30 is in the first position and can input the detection result to the computer 2. This allows the computer 2 to execute appropriate processing according to whether the computer 2 is pulled out. For example, when the computer 2 executes a power-off process, forgetting to power off the computer 2 during maintenance, etc., can be prevented. In this case, for example, it is possible to prevent a worker from receiving an electric shock when maintenance is performed on the computer 2 while the computer 2 is still powered. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent an unintended shutdown of the computer 2 due to a power outage, for example, when the internal cable 26 is removed while the computer 2 is still powered. In other words, it is possible to prevent abrupt power cuts to the computer 2. For example, it is possible to prevent a malfunction of the computer 2 due to an unintended shutdown.

[0054] Various devices (computers) of the same or different types are stacked in the rack device. This means that among similar devices, it is necessary to identify the device to be serviced, the parts that need to be replaced, and the cables to be connected. Some devices have a function that lights up an LED called an ID to identify the target device, but if the worker's recognition is incorrect, there is still a possibility that the worker may physically make a mistake. The rack device 10b has a detection unit 50, which reduces operator errors and improves the workability of computer 2 maintenance.

[0055] The detector 50 is not limited to a mechanical switch, but may be, for example, a magnetic sensor such as a Hall element, or an optical sensor such as a photointerrupter. The detector 50 is not limited to a configuration that detects the movement of the inner rail 32, but may be, for example, a configuration that detects the movement of the computer 2 by bringing the contact portion of a mechanical switch into contact with the computer 2. The detector 50 may be attached to the computer 2, for example. The configuration of the detector 50 is not limited to the above, and may be any configuration that can appropriately detect whether the computer 2 supported by the pair of rails 30 is in the first position.

[0056] In addition, for example, the computer 2 may be held in the first position by a holding member such as a screw. In such a case, the detection unit 50 may detect a change from a state in which the holding member holds the computer 2 in the first position to a state in which the holding member releases the holding. For example, the detection unit 50 may detect the removal of a screw that holds the computer 2 in the first position as a change to the release state.

[0057] In the above example, the detection unit 50 is connected to the relay unit 24, and the detection results can be input to the computer 2 via the relay unit 24 and the internal cable 26. However, without being limited to this, for example, if the computer 2 has an input unit or the like, the detection unit 50 may be connected to the computer 2, and the detection results of the detection unit 50 may be input directly to the computer 2. For example, the detection unit 50 and the computer 2 may communicate wirelessly, and the detection results of the detection unit 50 may be input to the computer 2 via wireless communication. The configuration that allows the detection results of the detection unit 50 to be input to the computer 2 is not limited to the above, and any configuration that allows the detection results of the detection unit 50 to be appropriately input to the computer 2 may be used.

[0058] (Fourth embodiment) FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a rack apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, in the rack device 10c, the support mechanism 14 has a restricting portion 52. Note that, in Fig. 5, as in Fig. 1(a) and Fig. 1(b), for convenience, a portion of the rack device 10c is illustrated enlarged and a portion of the rack device 10c is illustrated in cross section. Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a portion of the rack device 10c as viewed from the side.

[0059] The restricting unit 52 switches between a state in which the computer 2 in the first position is restricted from moving from the first position and a state in which the computer 2 in the first position is allowed to move from the first position. The restricting unit 52 has, for example, a movable unit and a drive unit. The movable unit moves to a position in which the computer 2 in the first position is restricted from moving from the first position and a position in which the computer 2 in the first position is allowed to move from the first position. For example, the movable unit restricts the movement of the computer 2 from the first position by engaging with the computer 2 in the first position, and allows the computer 2 to move from the first position by releasing the engagement. The drive unit drives the movable unit and moves it to each position. This allows switching between a state in which the computer 2 in the first position is restricted from moving from the first position and a state in which the computer 2 in the first position is allowed to move from the first position.

[0060] The restricting unit 52 is provided, for example, in the cage 20. The restricting unit 52 may also be provided, for example, in the rack main body 12 (each support 12b) separately from the cage 20. The configuration of the restricting unit 52 is not limited to the above, and may be any configuration that can appropriately switch between a state in which the computer 2 in the first position is restricted from moving from the first position and a state in which the computer 2 in the first position is allowed to move from the first position.

[0061] The restricting unit 52, for example, monitors the operating state of the computer 2 supported by the pair of rails 30. The restricting unit 52 is connected to the relay unit 24, for example, and monitors the operating state of the computer 2 via the relay unit 24 and the internal cable 26. The restricting unit 52 switches between states depending on the operating state of the computer 2. When the computer 2 in the first position is operating (powered on), the restricting unit 52 switches to a state in which movement of the computer 2 in the first position from the first position is restricted. When the computer 2 in the first position is stopped (powered off), the restricting unit 52 switches to a state in which movement of the computer 2 in the first position from the first position is permitted.

[0062] In this way, in the rack apparatus 10c, the restricting unit 52 restricts movement of the computer 2 from the first position while the computer 2 is operating in the first position. This makes it possible to prevent forgetting to turn off the computer 2 during maintenance, etc. This prevents the operator from receiving an electric shock when maintenance is performed on the computer 2 while the computer 2 is still powered, and prevents the computer 2 from being unintentionally shut down due to a power outage. By providing the restricting unit 52, the rack apparatus 10c can prevent operator errors and improve the ease of maintenance of the computer 2.

[0063] The restricting unit 52 does not necessarily have to monitor the operating state of the computer 2. The operating state of the computer 2 may be monitored, for example, by a management device (another computer) that comprehensively manages the states of multiple computers 2 attached to the rack body 12. The restricting unit 52 may switch between a state in which the computer 2 in the first position is restricted from moving from the first position and a state in which the computer 2 in the first position is allowed to move from the first position, based on a command from an external device such as the management device. The method of switching between the states of the restricting unit 52 is not limited to the above and may be any method. The timing of switching between the states of the restricting unit 52 is not limited to the timing of turning on / off the power of the computer 2, but may be any timing at which it is necessary to switch between the states of the restricting unit 52.

[0064] Furthermore, the operating state of the computer 2 is not limited to the on / off state of the power supply of the computer 2. For example, when the computer 2 detects an abnormality in itself, the restriction unit 52 may switch from a state in which movement is restricted to a state in which movement is permitted in response to the detection of the abnormality by the computer 2. In other words, the restriction unit 52 may switch from a state in which movement is restricted to a state in which movement is permitted when maintenance or the like of the computer 2 is required.

[0065] (Fifth embodiment) FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a rack apparatus according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 6, the rack apparatus 10d includes a plurality of support mechanisms 14, a display 60, an operating device 62, and a switch 64. As with Fig. 1(a) and Fig. 1(b), Fig. 6 illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the rack apparatus 10d, and also illustrates a cross section of a portion of the rack apparatus 10d, for convenience's sake. Fig. 6 schematically illustrates a portion of the rack apparatus 10d as viewed from the side.

[0066] The multiple support mechanisms 14 are arranged vertically on the rack body 12. For example, the support mechanisms 14 are arranged vertically and attached to the respective support columns 12b. Each support mechanism 14 of the rack apparatus 10d has a detection unit 50, similar to the support mechanism 14 of the rack apparatus 10b shown in FIG.

[0067] The display 60 is connected to any one of the computers 2 supported by each of the support mechanisms 14, and displays an image (screen) associated with the operation of the connected computer 2. For example, when performing maintenance on the computer 2, the display 60 displays information necessary for maintenance work, such as the status of the connected computer 2. This allows a worker performing maintenance to obtain the information necessary for the work on the target computer 2. The display 60 may be any device, such as a liquid crystal display, that is capable of appropriately displaying an image associated with the operation of the computer 2.

[0068] The controller 62 is connected to one of the computers 2 supported by each of the support mechanisms 14, thereby inputting an operation signal to the connected computer 2. The controller 62 has an operation unit for receiving operation input from an operator or the like, and inputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation input to the operation unit to the connected computer 2. By inputting an operation signal, the controller 62 causes the computer 2 to perform an operation corresponding to the operation signal. The controller 62 causes the computer 2 to perform, for example, a process for changing settings or a process for turning off the power (shutdown process). In other words, the display 60 displays an image corresponding to the operation of the computer 2 that changes based on the operation of the controller 62. The controller 62 may be any device capable of appropriately inputting operation instructions to the computer 2, such as a mouse or a keyboard.

[0069] The switch 64 selectively connects any one of the multiple computers 2 to the display 60 and the controller 62 by switching the wiring path between the multiple computers 2 supported by each of the multiple support mechanisms 14 and the display 60, and the wiring path between the multiple computers 2 and the controller 62. This allows the display of images from each of the multiple computers 2 to be selectively performed on a single display 60, and allows the input of operation signals to each of the multiple computers 2 to be selectively performed on a single controller 62. For example, the number of parts in the rack apparatus 10d can be reduced compared to when multiple display devices 60 and controller devices 62 are provided corresponding to each of the multiple computers 2. For example, the manufacturing cost of the rack apparatus 10d can be reduced.

[0070] In the rack apparatus 10d, the detection unit 50 of each support mechanism 14 inputs the detection result, indicating whether or not the computer 2 supported on the pair of rails 30 is in the first position, to the switch 64. The detection unit 50, for example, is connected to the switch 64 to input the detection result to the switch 64. The detection unit 50 may, for example, be connected to the relay unit 24 to input the detection result to the switch 64 via the relay unit 24 and the transmission cable 6. The detection unit 50 may, for example, input the detection result to the switch 64 via wireless communication. The configuration in which the detection unit 50 inputs the detection result to the switch 64 is not limited to the above, and any configuration that can appropriately input the detection result to the switch 64 may be used.

[0071] The switch 64 switches the wiring path based on the detection results of the detection units 50 of each of the support mechanisms 14. The switch 64 connects the computer 2 that is detected by the detection units 50 as not being in the first position to the display unit 60 and the operation unit 62.

[0072] When the computer 2 is pulled out from the first position, the rack device 10d automatically connects the pulled-out computer 2 to the display 60 and the operating device 62, thereby enabling the display 60 to display information necessary for maintenance and other operations, and the operating device 62 to be used to change settings or turn off the power.

[0073] Therefore, in the rack apparatus 10d, even when the detection unit 50 detects that the computer 2 is not in the first position, the computer 2 does not execute a process to shut down the power supply. Therefore, in the rack apparatus 10d, the detection result of the detection unit 50 does not necessarily need to be input to the computer 2. For example, the detection result of the detection unit 50 may be input to the computer 2 in order to execute a process other than the process to shut down the power supply in response to the computer 2 being pulled out.

[0074] In this way, in the rack apparatus 10d, the switch 64 connects the computer 2 that is detected by the detection unit 50 as not being in the first position to the display 60 and the controller 62. For example, if the computer 2 that is the target of maintenance can be identified from its appearance, such as if an indicator light reporting an abnormality is on or an abnormal noise is being made, the target computer 2 can be automatically connected to the display 60 and the controller 62 simply by pulling out the target computer 2. This can reduce the effort required to connect the display 60 and the controller 62 to each computer 2 or to manually switch the connection of the display 60 and the controller 62 to the computer 2, for example.

[0075] For example, it is possible to prevent work errors such as connecting the display 60 and the operating device 62 to an incorrect computer 2. Furthermore, for example, if the wrong computer 2 is pulled out, the worker can easily notice that the wrong computer 2 has been pulled out by referring to the content displayed on the display 60 after pulling out the computer 2.

[0076] The rack apparatus 10d reduces the effort required to connect the display device 60 and the operating device 62, and can improve the workability of maintenance of the computer 2. When performing maintenance on the computer 2, the display device 60 and the operating device 62 may be connected and the work may be carried out while the computer 2 is powered on. The rack apparatus 10d can improve the workability of such maintenance.

[0077] The switching of the wiring path by the switch 64 may be performed automatically based on the detection result of the detection unit 50, or may be performed manually based on the operation of the operation unit 62, for example.

[0078] (Sixth embodiment) FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a rack apparatus according to the sixth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 7, in the rack apparatus 10e, the plurality of support mechanisms 14 have, instead of the detection units 50, restriction units 52 similar to the support mechanisms 14 of the rack apparatus 10c shown in Fig. 5. Note that, in Fig. 7, as in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b), for convenience, a portion of the rack apparatus 10e is illustrated enlarged and a portion of the rack apparatus 10e is illustrated in cross section. Fig. 7 schematically illustrates a portion of the rack apparatus 10e as viewed from the side.

[0079] In the rack apparatus 10e, the switch 64 links the switching of the wiring path with the switching of the states of the regulating units 52 of each support mechanism 14. The switch 64 switches the wiring path in response to the switching of the states of the regulating units 52 of each of the plurality of support mechanisms 14, and connects the computer 2 that has been permitted to move from the first position by the regulating units 52 to the display 60 and the operating unit 62.

[0080] In the rack device 10e, for example, when the computer 2 detects an abnormality in itself, the regulating unit 52 automatically switches from a state in which movement is restricted to a state in which movement is permitted in response to the detection of the abnormality by the computer 2, and the switch 64 switches the wiring path, so that the computer 2 that has been permitted to move from the first position by the regulating unit 52 is automatically connected to the display 60 and the operating unit 62.

[0081] As a result, in the rack apparatus 10e, even if the computer 2 to be serviced or maintained cannot be identified from its appearance, the restriction by the restricting unit 52 is released, allowing the worker to properly identify the computer 2 to be serviced and preventing work from being performed on the wrong computer 2. Furthermore, the switch 64 automatically connects the computer 2 to the display 60 and the operating device 62, thereby further improving the ease of work in performing service or maintenance on the computer 2.

[0082] The interlocking of the switch 64 and the regulating units 52 of each support mechanism 14 can be achieved, for example, by causing the switch 64 to communicate with each regulating unit 52. Alternatively, for example, the interlocking can be achieved by inputting the same signal (such as an abnormality detection signal) from the computer 2 to the switch 64 and each regulating unit 52. The configuration for interlocking the switch 64 and each regulating unit 52 is not limited to the above and may be any configuration.

[0083] For example, the display 60 and the operator 62 may be connected to the target computer 2 based on an operation signal from the operator 62, and the regulating section 52 of each support mechanism 14 may be operated to release the restriction on the computer 2 to which the display 60 and the operator 62 are connected.

[0084] Note that the above-described embodiments show examples in which the support mechanism 14 is provided on the rack main body 12. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the support mechanism 14 may be provided on, for example, the computer 2. For example, the support mechanism 14 may be attached to and detached from the rack main body 12 (rack device 10) while it is provided on the computer 2. The computer 2 may be configured to include a main body and a support mechanism. The support mechanism supports the main body so that it can move between a first position and a second position pulled out further forward than the first position.

[0085] In this way, when the support mechanism 14 is provided in the computer 2, the connection between the computer 2 (main body) and the relay unit 24 via the internal cable 26 can be performed in advance before the computer 2 is attached to the rack main body 12 (rack device 10). This makes it easier to set the length of the internal cable 26 and protect moving parts, for example. For example, it is easier to prevent the internal cable 26 from interfering with the movement of the main body between the first position and the second position, or to prevent the internal cable 26 from being pinched by the main body, etc., as the main body moves.

[0086] The present embodiment includes the following aspects. (Appendix 1) a rack body having a storage space capable of storing a plurality of computers arranged vertically inside; a support mechanism provided on the rack body, which movably supports one of the plurality of computers stored in the storage space between a first position where the computer is stored in the storage space and a second position where the computer is pulled out forward from the first position; Equipped with The support mechanism includes: a cage having an internal space capable of accommodating one of the computers; a rail unit attached to the cage and attached to both side ends of one of the computers, the rail unit having a pair of rails for supporting the one of the computers movably between the first position and the second position; a relay unit that is provided in the cage so as to be located behind the one computer in the first position, the relay unit having a first connection unit for detachably connecting a power cable for supplying power to the one computer and a second connection unit for detachably connecting a transmission cable for connecting the one computer to a network, and relays the connection between the one computer and the power cable and the connection between the one computer and the transmission cable; an internal cable provided between the one computer and the relay unit, connecting the one computer to the power cable and the transmission cable by connecting the one computer to the relay unit while enabling the one computer to move between the first position and the second position; A rack device having:

[0087] (Appendix 2) A rack device as described in Appendix 1, further comprising a main body side rail unit attached to the rack main body and attached to both side ends of the cage, the main body side rail unit having a pair of rails that support the support mechanism so that the support mechanism can be moved between a third position in which the support mechanism is stored within the storage space and a fourth position in which the support mechanism is pulled out forward from the third position.

[0088] (Appendix 3) The rack device described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the support mechanism further has a detection unit that detects whether one of the computers supported by the pair of rails is in the first position and inputs the detection result to the one of the computers supported by the pair of rails.

[0089] (Appendix 4) The rack device according to any one of appendices 1 to 3, wherein the support mechanism further has a regulating unit that switches between a state in which the one computer located at the first position is restricted from moving from the first position and a state in which the one computer located at the first position is allowed to move from the first position.

[0090] (Appendix 5) The rack device described in Appendix 4, wherein the regulating unit is in a state where movement from the first position is restricted when one of the computers at the first position is in operation, and is in a state where movement from the first position is permitted when one of the computers at the first position is stopped.

[0091] (Appendix 6) a plurality of the support mechanisms arranged in a vertical direction on the rack body; a display that is connected to any one of the computers supported by each of the support mechanisms, and that displays an image in accordance with the operation of the one connected computer; an operating device that is connected to any one of the plurality of computers supported by each of the plurality of support mechanisms, thereby inputting an operating signal to the one connected computer; a switch that selectively connects any one of the plurality of computers to the display and the controller by switching wiring paths between the plurality of computers supported by the plurality of support mechanisms and the display, and between the plurality of computers and the controller; 6. The rack device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising:

[0092] (Appendix 7) each of the plurality of support mechanisms has a detection unit that detects whether one of the computers supported by the pair of rails is at the first position and inputs the detection result to the switch; The rack device described in Appendix 6, wherein the switch switches the wiring path based on the detection results of the detection units of each of the multiple support mechanisms, and connects the computer that is detected by the detection unit to be not in the first position to the display unit and the operating unit.

[0093] (Appendix 8) each of the plurality of support mechanisms has a restriction unit that switches between a state in which the one computer in the first position is restricted from moving from the first position and a state in which the one computer in the first position is allowed to move from the first position; The rack device described in Appendix 6, wherein the switch switches the wiring path in response to the switching of the state of each of the regulating parts of the plurality of support mechanisms, and connects the computer that has been allowed to move from the first position by the regulating part to the display and the operating part.

[0094] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 2...Computer, 4...Power cable, 6...Transmission cable, 10, 10a to 10e...Rack device, 12...Rack body, 14...Support mechanism, 20...Cage, 22...Rail unit, 24...Relay section, 26...Internal cable, 30...Rail, 31...Outer rail, 32...Inner rail, 40...Main body side rail unit, 42...Rail, 44...Outer rail, 46...Inner rail, 50...Detection section, 52...Regulation section, 60...Display unit, 62...Operation unit, 64...Switch,

Claims

1. a rack body having a storage space capable of storing a plurality of computers arranged vertically inside; a support mechanism provided on the rack body, which movably supports one of the plurality of computers stored in the storage space between a first position where the computer is stored in the storage space and a second position where the computer is pulled out forward from the first position; Equipped with The support mechanism includes: a cage having an internal space capable of accommodating one of the computers; a rail unit attached to the cage and attached to both side ends of one of the computers, the rail unit having a pair of rails for supporting the computer so that the computer can be moved between the first position and the second position; a relay section provided in the cage so as to be located behind the one computer in the first position, the relay section having a first connection section for detachably connecting a power cable for supplying power to the one computer and a second connection section for detachably connecting a transmission cable for connecting the one computer to a network, the relay section relaying the connection between the one computer and the power cable and the connection between the one computer and the transmission cable; an internal cable provided between the one computer and the relay unit, connecting the one computer to the power cable and the transmission cable by connecting the one computer to the relay unit while enabling the one computer to move between the first position and the second position; A rack device having:

2. 2. The rack device according to claim 1, further comprising a main body side rail unit attached to the rack main body and to both side ends of the cage, the main body side rail unit having a pair of rails that support the support mechanism so that the support mechanism can be moved between a third position in which the support mechanism is stored within the storage space and a fourth position in which the support mechanism is pulled out forward from the third position.

3. 2. The rack device according to claim 1, wherein the support mechanism further has a detection unit that detects whether one of the computers supported by the pair of rails is in the first position and inputs the detection result to the one of the computers supported by the pair of rails.

4. 2. The rack device according to claim 1, wherein the support mechanism further includes a regulating unit that switches between a state in which the computer in the first position is restricted from moving from the first position and a state in which the computer in the first position is allowed to move from the first position.

5. 5. The rack device according to claim 4, wherein the restricting unit restricts movement from the first position when one of the computers at the first position is in operation, and allows movement from the first position when one of the computers at the first position is stopped.

6. a plurality of the support mechanisms arranged in a vertical direction on the rack body; a display device that is connected to any one of the plurality of computers supported by each of the plurality of support mechanisms, and that displays an image in accordance with the operation of the one connected computer; an operating device that is connected to any one of the plurality of computers supported by each of the plurality of support mechanisms, thereby inputting an operating signal to the one connected computer; a switch that selectively connects any one of the plurality of computers to the display and the controller by switching wiring paths between the plurality of computers supported by the plurality of support mechanisms and the display, and between the plurality of computers and the controller; The rack device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

7. each of the plurality of support mechanisms has a detection unit that detects whether one of the computers supported by the pair of rails is in the first position and inputs the detection result to the switch; The rack device according to claim 6, wherein the switch switches the wiring path based on the detection results of the detection units of each of the plurality of support mechanisms, and connects the computer that is detected by the detection unit to be not in the first position to the display unit and the operating unit.

8. each of the plurality of support mechanisms has a restriction unit that switches between a state in which the one computer in the first position is restricted from moving from the first position and a state in which the one computer in the first position is allowed to move from the first position; The rack device described in claim 6, wherein the switch switches the wiring path in response to the switching of the state of each of the regulating parts of the plurality of support mechanisms, and connects the computer that is allowed to move from the first position by the regulating part to the display and the operating device.

Images