Modular data center system, heating system, and method for utilizing exhaust hot air.

Abstract

This improves installation flexibility and energy efficiency, while also making effective use of exhaust hot air. [Solution] The modular data center system comprises a housing, electronic equipment housed inside the housing, a first heat exchanger housed inside the housing that receives heat generated by the electronic equipment, a heat transport path housed inside the housing that transports the heat received by the first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger that transfers the heat transported by the heat transport path to the outside air of the housing, and a hot exhaust air discharge unit provided in the housing that discharges the outside air, to which heat has been transferred by the second heat exchanger, to the outside of the housing as hot exhaust air, and a short-circuit suppression means provided outside the modular data center that suppresses the hot exhaust air discharged from the hot exhaust air discharge unit from passing through the second heat exchanger again.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a modular data center system, a heating system, and a method for utilizing exhaust warm air.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a modular data center in which server units are modularized. The modular data center of Patent Document 1 employs an air-cooling method as a server cooling method. The modular data center of Patent Document 2 has a server rack inside the housing. In the modular data center of Patent Document 2, a part of the warm air after passing through the rack is circulated and merged with the cold air before passing through the rack.

[0003] Patent Document 3 discloses a technique of installing a heat exchanger for cooling a data center near a heat exchanger for heating operation. In this Patent Document 3, the cold air discharged from the heat exchanger for heating operation is introduced into the heat exchanger for cooling the data center, the cold heat discharged from the heat exchanger for heating operation is recovered, and the cooling efficiency of the data center is improved.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In modular data centers like those described in the above-mentioned patent document, miniaturization of the chassis is difficult, and server cooling requires significant energy consumption. Therefore, there is a demand for improved installation flexibility and energy efficiency. Furthermore, in modular data centers like the one described above, there is a demand for the effective utilization of the thermal energy from exhaust hot air.

[0006] This disclosure is made in view of the above circumstances and provides a modular data center system, a heating system, and a method for utilizing exhaust hot air that improve installation flexibility and energy consumption efficiency while effectively utilizing exhaust hot air. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To address the above issues, the following configuration will be adopted. According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a modular data center system comprises a housing, electronic equipment housed inside the housing, a first heat exchanger housed inside the housing that receives heat generated by the electronic equipment, a heat transport path housed inside the housing that transports the heat received by the first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger that transfers the heat transported by the heat transport path to the outside air of the housing, and a hot exhaust air discharge unit provided in the housing that discharges the outside air, on which heat has been transferred by the second heat exchanger, to the outside of the housing as hot exhaust air, and a short-circuit suppression means provided outside the modular data center that prevents the hot exhaust air discharged from the hot exhaust air discharge unit from passing through the second heat exchanger again.

[0008] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, the exhaust hot air utilization method is an exhaust hot air utilization method that utilizes the exhaust hot air of a modular data center system, wherein the exhaust hot air is exhausted by selecting either the space in which the modular data center is located or a space different from the space in which the modular data center is located.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a modular data center system comprises: a housing; electronic equipment housed inside the housing; a first heat exchanger housed inside the housing and receiving heat generated by the electronic equipment; a heat transport path housed inside the housing and transporting the heat received by the first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger that transmits the heat transported by the heat transport path to the outside air of the housing; and a hot exhaust air discharge unit provided in the housing for discharging the hot exhaust air, which has been heated by the second heat exchanger, to the outside of the housing as hot exhaust air; and a short-circuit promoting means detachably provided on the outside of the housing and promoting the passage of the hot exhaust air discharged from the hot exhaust air discharge unit to the outside of the housing back through the second heat exchanger.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, the exhaust hot air utilization method is a method for utilizing exhaust hot air from the above-mentioned modular data center system, and includes the steps of: acquiring information on the heat demand of the exhaust hot air; and making a decision regarding the utilization of short-circuit promotion means based on the information on the heat demand.

[0011] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, the heating system comprises a housing, electronic equipment housed inside the housing, a first heat exchanger housed inside the housing that receives heat generated by the electronic equipment, a heat transport path housed inside the housing that transports the heat received by the first heat exchanger, and a second heat exchanger that transmits the heat transported by the heat transport path to the outside air of the housing. A modular data center comprising: a housing provided in the housing and a hot exhaust air discharge unit that discharges external air, to which heat has been transferred by the second heat exchanger, as hot exhaust air to the outside of the housing; a heating means having a refrigerant compression type heat pump cycle and configured to heat an air-conditioned object; and a guidance means that guides the hot exhaust air discharged from the hot exhaust air discharge unit to a third heat exchanger that functions as an evaporator for the heating means.

[0012] According to a sixth aspect of this disclosure, the exhaust hot air utilization method is a method for utilizing the exhaust hot air of the heating system, wherein the flow rate of the outside air taken into the main body of the confluence suppression unit is adjusted according to the airflow of the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge unit of the modular data center. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to this disclosure, it becomes possible to improve installation flexibility and energy consumption efficiency, as well as to effectively utilize exhaust hot air. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This figure shows the schematic configuration of a modular data center system in the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows the schematic configuration of a modular data center in the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the cooling circuit for the electronic equipment in a modular data center 10. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a second embodiment of the present disclosure, and illustrates the case during winter. [Figure 5] This diagram shows the schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a second embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating the case for summer and the intermediate season. [Figure 6] This figure shows the schematic configuration of the first deflection unit in a second modified example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This figure shows the schematic configuration of the first deflection unit in a third modified example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the schematic configuration of a modular data center system in the third embodiment of this disclosure, and illustrates the case during winter. [Figure 9] This diagram shows the schematic configuration of a modular data center system in the third embodiment of this disclosure, illustrating the case for summer and the intermediate season. [Figure 10]It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart of a method for utilizing exhaust heat in a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a first modification example of a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a second modification example of a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an exhaust port switching structure in a third modification example of a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a fourth modification example of a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a heating system in a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a heating system in a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Next, a modular data center system, a heating system, and a method for utilizing exhaust heat according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described based on the drawings. <First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the modular data center system 100 of the first embodiment includes a modular data center 10 and a short - circuit suppression means 20A.

[0016] (Modular Data Center) FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the modular data center in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a cooling circuit of the electronic equipment of the modular data center 10. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the modular data center 10 includes at least a housing 11, electronic equipment 12, a first heat exchanger 13, a heat transfer path 14, a second heat exchanger 15, and a waste hot air discharge section 16. The modular data center 10 of this embodiment further includes a pressure feeding means 17. The modular data center 10 is also referred to as, for example, a containerized data center. Such a modular data center 10 is transportable like a general container and can be installed in modular units and operated as a data center.

[0017] (Enclosure) The housing 11 defines a housing space for accommodating electronic equipment 12 and the like. In this embodiment, the housing 11 is formed in a box shape that is substantially rectangular. Multiple electronic equipment 12, a first heat exchanger 13, a heat transfer path 14, and a second heat exchanger 15 are installed in the internal space of the housing 11. In addition, a door (not shown) is provided on the side wall 11a of the housing 11, allowing workers to enter and exit the maintenance space provided in the internal space of the housing 11.

[0018] (electronic equipment) The electronic device 12 is housed inside the enclosure 11. In this embodiment, the electronic device 12 is a so-called server, and multiple units are installed inside a single enclosure 11. Examples of cooling methods for the electronic device 12 include liquid cooling and air cooling. Multiple electronic devices 12 may use a mix of liquid cooling and air cooling. Note that in Figure 3, only one of the multiple electronic devices 12 is shown.

[0019] (First heat exchanger) The first heat exchanger 13 is housed inside the casing 11. The first heat exchanger 13 receives heat generated by the electronic equipment 12. Specifically, for example, if the electronic equipment 12 is liquid-cooled, the first heat exchanger 13 cools the secondary refrigerant by exchanging heat between the secondary refrigerant, which has received heat from the electronic equipment 12, and the primary refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 13. On the other hand, if the electronic equipment 12 is air-cooled, the first heat exchanger 13 cools the air inside the casing 11 by exchanging heat between the air inside the casing 11, which has received heat from the electronic equipment 12, and the primary refrigerant supplied to the first heat exchanger 13. As the primary and secondary refrigerants, water, antifreeze (brine), and organic refrigerants such as fluorocarbons applicable to the heat pump cycle can be used. In the following explanation, the case where the electronic equipment 12 is liquid-cooled will be used as an example, and the explanation for the air-cooled case will be omitted.

[0020] (Heat transfer path) The heat transfer path 14 is housed inside the housing 11. The heat transfer path 14 transfers the heat received by the first heat exchanger 13. In this embodiment, the heat transfer path 14 supplies secondary refrigerant liquid from the second heat exchanger 15 to the first heat exchanger 13, and returns the secondary refrigerant liquid that has undergone heat exchange by the first heat exchanger 13 back to the second heat exchanger 15. The heat transfer path 14 is equipped with a pump (not shown) or the like for circulating the secondary refrigerant liquid. Note that the primary and secondary refrigerant liquids may be refrigerants whose phases partially change due to heat transfer.

[0021] (Second heat exchanger) The second heat exchanger 15 transfers the heat transferred by the heat transfer path 14 to the outside air of the housing 11. In this embodiment, the second heat exchanger 15 is positioned to form part of the side wall of the housing 11. Examples of the second heat exchanger 15 include a fin-tube type heat exchanger. The second heat exchanger 15 is formed to allow outside air to flow in from the outside to the inside of the housing 11. When this outside air flows in from the outside to the inside of the housing 11, the second heat exchanger 15 exchanges heat with the primary refrigerant liquid and transfers the heat of the primary refrigerant liquid to the outside air.

[0022] The modular data center 10 may have a heat pump cycle including a condenser, evaporator, refrigerant compressor, and expansion valve (not shown). In this configuration, the evaporator may be provided to cool the air inside the housing 11 that has received heat from the electronic equipment 12 by exchanging heat with the air inside the housing 11, or it may be provided on the heat transport path 14 to cool the primary refrigerant liquid, or it may be provided to cool the secondary refrigerant liquid by exchanging heat with the secondary refrigerant liquid. The condenser may be provided in such a way that at least a portion of it is exposed to the outside of the housing 11, allowing it to release heat to the outside air. In this case, the configuration of the condenser and housing can be similar to that of an outdoor unit in a known air conditioning system. The condenser may also be provided in a way that it can exchange heat with the air taken into the housing 11 and discharge this heat to the outside of the housing 11, thereby releasing heat to the outside of the housing 11.

[0023] (Exhaust hot air discharge section) The exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is provided in the housing 11. The exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is configured to discharge external air that has been heated by the second heat exchanger 15 as exhaust hot air to the outside of the housing 11. In this embodiment, the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is formed on the top plate 11t of the housing 11, which faces vertically upward. In this embodiment, the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is formed to penetrate the top plate 11t in the vertical direction and discharges the exhaust hot air vertically upward. In this embodiment, multiple exhaust hot air discharge sections 16 are formed in a line along one side 11ta of the top plate 11t on the side closer to the second heat exchanger 15. Note that the arrangement and shape of the exhaust hot air discharge sections 16 are not limited to the arrangement and shape described above.

[0024] (Pressure feeding means) The pumping means 17 forcibly exhausts the exhaust hot air from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 toward the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the pumping means 17 forcibly exhausts the exhaust hot air toward the vertically upward direction of the first direction D1. An axial flow fan can be exemplified as the pumping means 17. In this embodiment, one pumping means 17 is provided for each of the multiple exhaust hot air discharge sections 16 described above. When the pumping means 17 is in operation, the pressure inside the housing 11 decreases, promoting the intake of air into the housing 11 through the second heat exchanger 15 as well as through openings and gaps not shown. Here, if the modular data center 10 is equipped with a heat pump cycle and a part of the condenser of the heat pump cycle is exposed to the outside of the housing 11, the exposed part may be positioned to correspond to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16, thereby discharging the air heated by the condenser from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16. In this case, the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 and the pressurizing means 17 can adopt a configuration similar to that of the fan and bell mouth of an outdoor unit in a known cooling system. Alternatively, the condenser may be configured to exchange heat with the air passing through the inside of the housing 11 and to forcibly exhaust it from the exhaust hot air outlet 16.

[0025] (Short-circuit suppression means) As shown in Figure 1, the short-circuit suppression means 20A is provided outside the modular data center 10. The short-circuit suppression means 20A suppresses the occurrence of so-called short circuits, in which exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 of the modular data center 10 passes through the second heat exchanger 15 of the same modular data center 10 again. The short-circuit suppression means 20A has an introduction duct section 21A and a first deflection section 22A. In this embodiment, the short-circuit suppression means 20A will be described using the case where both the introduction duct section 21A and the first deflection section 22A are included as an example, but the short-circuit suppression means 20A may also be provided with only one of the introduction duct section 21A and the first deflection section 22A.

[0026] (first deflection section) The first deflection section 22A changes the direction of the exhaust hot air, which is pumped by the pumping means 17, to a second direction D2 that intersects with the first direction D1. In this first embodiment, the first deflection section 22A changes the direction of the exhaust hot air, which is forcibly exhausted vertically upward, to a horizontal direction that intersects with the vertical direction.

[0027] (First duct) The first deflection section 22A of this embodiment constitutes a part of the first duct 23A through which the exhaust hot air pumped by the pumping means 17 can flow. The first end 23At, which is the base end of the first duct 23A, is connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16. In other words, the entire amount of exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 flows into the first duct 23A. The first duct 23A of this embodiment includes an upper duct section 24A and a side duct section 25A.

[0028] (Upper duct section) The upper duct section 24A is positioned vertically above the housing 11 of the modular data center 10. This upper duct section 24A includes a first deflection section 22A that changes the direction of the exhaust hot air flow, which is discharged in the first direction D1, to the second direction D2. In this embodiment, the upper duct section 24A forms the first end 23At of the first duct 23A and extends from vertically above the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 to the position of one edge of the top plate 11t of the housing 11 in the second direction D2. The upper duct section 24A has a through hole 24h on one end face in the second direction D2 for allowing exhaust hot air to flow into the side duct section 25A.

[0029] (Side duct section) The side duct section 25A is connected to one end of the upper duct section 24A, which has a through hole 24h formed therein. The side duct section 25A communicates with the upper duct section 24A via the through hole 24h. The side duct section 25A extends downward from one end of the upper duct section 24A. In this embodiment, the side duct section 25A is formed along one side wall 11b of the housing 11. The side duct section 25A has an opening 26 and a pipe connection section 27 at a position opposite to the upper duct section 24A in the second direction D2. The opening 26 is formed to allow exhaust hot air to be discharged into the space in which the modular data center 10 is installed. The pipe connection section 27 is formed to allow connection of a pipe 28 for guiding the exhaust hot air to a location away from the modular data center 10.

[0030] (Inlet duct section) The intake duct section 21A guides external air from the modular data center system 100 to the second heat exchanger 15. Here, the direction of the external air flowing into the second heat exchanger 15 is a third direction D3 that intersects the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. In this embodiment, the intake duct section 21A has an intake section 29 that opens facing the opposite direction D2 from the side duct 25 to introduce external air. In this embodiment, the second heat exchanger 15 is positioned closer to the side duct section 25A, on the opposite side D2 from the intake section 29. In other words, the external air introduced from the intake section 29 flows in the second direction D2, then changes direction to the third direction D3, passes through the second heat exchanger 15, and is drawn into the housing 11. Here, the intake duct section 21A may be formed in a duct shape by combining, for example, a frame and a sheet-like member, similar to the first duct 23A.

[0031] (Effects and Benefits) In the modular data center system 100 of the first embodiment described above, a short-circuit suppression means 20A is provided outside the modular data center 10 to suppress the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge unit 16 from passing through the second heat exchanger 15 again. This prevents the modular data center 10 from re-inhaling the exhaust hot air it has discharged. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the rise in temperature of the external air drawn into the modular data center 10 to cool the electronic equipment 12, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the electronic equipment 12. Here, the improvement in cooling efficiency described above is particularly noticeable when, for example, a liquid cooling system using a refrigerant liquid is incorporated, resulting in a larger amount of heat being discharged and the area of ​​the second heat exchanger 15 becoming a large proportion of the surface area of ​​the housing 11. Furthermore, when the modular data center 10 is installed indoors, the air inside tends to stagnate more easily than outdoors, making short circuits more likely. However, by providing the short-circuit suppression means 20A described above, the cooling efficiency of the electronic equipment 12 can be improved even when the modular data center 10 is installed indoors, demonstrating a remarkable effect. Furthermore, if the modular data center 10 also has a heat pump cycle, it effectively removes heat from the air inside the enclosure or from the primary and secondary refrigerants, and promotes the release of heat to the outside of the enclosure, thereby further facilitating the cooling of the electronic equipment 12.

[0032] Furthermore, in the modular data center system 100 of the first embodiment, the short-circuit suppression means 20A has a first deflection section 22A. This makes it possible to discharge the exhaust hot air in any direction. Therefore, depending on the installation status of the modular data center system 100, the exhaust hot air discharged from the modular data center 10 can be kept away from the cooling external air, thereby more effectively suppressing short circuits.

[0033] Furthermore, in the modular data center system 100 of the first embodiment, the short-circuit suppression means 20A includes a first duct 23A through which exhaust hot air can flow, and the first end 23At of the first duct 23A is connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 of the modular data center 10. This allows the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 to be guided and discharged through the first duct 23A to a position far from the inlet section 29 of the inlet duct section 21A, thereby more effectively suppressing short circuits.

[0034] <Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The modular data center system of this second embodiment differs from the modular data center system 100 of the first embodiment described above only in the configuration of the short-circuit suppression means. For this reason, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts as in the first embodiment described above, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0035] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a second embodiment of the present disclosure, and depicts the case during winter. The modular data center 10 in this second embodiment, like the modular data center 10 in the first embodiment described above, includes at least a housing 11, electronic equipment 12, a first heat exchanger 13, a heat transfer path 14, a second heat exchanger 15, and a waste hot air discharge section 16. The modular data center 10 in this second embodiment also further includes a pressure feeding means 17.

[0036] The modular data center system 200 of this second embodiment is installed indoors. This modular data center system 200 is arranged along a wall surface 32i having a window 31. The configurations of the housing 11, electronic equipment 12, first heat exchanger 13, heat transfer path 14, second heat exchanger 15, exhaust hot air discharge section 16, and pressure feeding means 17 are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0037] (Short-circuit suppression means) The short-circuit suppression means 20B is located outside the modular data center 10. The short-circuit suppression means 20B suppresses the occurrence of so-called short circuits, where exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 of the modular data center 10 passes through the second heat exchanger 15 of the same modular data center 10 again. The short-circuit suppression means 20B includes an introduction duct section 21A and a first deflection section 22A. In this embodiment, the short-circuit suppression means 20B is described as having both the introduction duct section 21A and the first deflection section 22A as an example, but the short-circuit suppression means 20B may also have only one of the introduction duct section 21A and the first deflection section 22A.

[0038] (first deflection section) The first deflection section 22A changes the direction of the exhaust hot air, which is pumped by the pumping means 17, to a second direction D2 that intersects with the first direction D1.

[0039] (First duct) In this embodiment, the first deflection section 22A constitutes a part of the first duct 23B through which the exhaust hot air pumped by the pumping means 17 can flow. The first end 23Bt, which is the base end of the first duct 23B, is connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16. As a result, the entire amount of exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 flows into the first duct 23B. The first duct 23B comprises an upper duct section 24A and a side duct section 25B. Here, the first duct may be formed in a duct shape by combining, for example, a frame (in other words, a structural member) and a sheet-like member such as a synthetic resin film.

[0040] (Upper duct section) The upper duct section 24A in this embodiment forms the first end of the first duct 23B and extends from vertically above the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 to the edge 11tb of the top plate 11t of one of the housings 11 in the second direction D2. The upper duct section 24A has a through hole 24h on one side in the second direction D2 for allowing exhaust hot air to flow into the side duct section 25B.

[0041] (Side duct section) The side duct section 25B is connected to one end of the upper duct section in the second direction D2. The side duct section 25B communicates with the upper duct section via a through hole. The side duct section 25B extends downward from the position of the upper duct section 24A. In this embodiment, the upper duct section 24A is formed along the side wall 11b of the housing 11.

[0042] The side duct section 25B includes an opening 26 and a pipe connection section 27. The opening 26 is formed to discharge exhaust hot air in the second direction D2, away from the upper duct section 24A. The opening 26 can discharge exhaust hot air into the space where the modular data center 10 is installed. The pipe connection section 27 is formed to connect to a pipe 28 for guiding the exhaust hot air to a location away from the modular data center 10. The pipe connection section 27 is shown, but is not limited to, an example where it is formed alongside the opening 26 in the third direction D3.

[0043] The side duct section 25B further includes a waste-free discharge section 33. The waste-free discharge section 33 is formed to discharge the exhaust hot air that has flowed into the side duct section 25B to a space different from the space in which the modular data center 10 is located, such as outdoors. In this embodiment, the waste-free discharge section 33 is formed to discharge the exhaust hot air in a third direction D3. When the exhaust hot air is discharged outdoors from the waste-free discharge section 33, the heat of the exhaust hot air is not utilized and is simply released into the atmosphere.

[0044] The side duct section 25B of the modular data center system 200 in this second embodiment is positioned opposite a window 31 formed in the wall surface 32i of the room in which the modular data center system 200 is installed, in a third direction D3. The unused exhaust section 33 of the modular data center system 200 in this second embodiment is capable of exhausting hot exhaust air to the outside through the window 31. The modular data center system 200 in the second embodiment is capable of exhausting air by selecting either the space in which the modular data center 10 is located or a space different from the space in which the modular data center 10 is located.

[0045] (Inlet duct section) The intake duct section 21A has the same configuration as the intake duct section 21A of the first embodiment and guides external air from around the modular data center 10 to the second heat exchanger 15. The intake duct section 21A has an intake section 29. The intake section 29 opens facing the opposite direction D2 from the side duct section 25B to introduce external air. The external air introduced from the intake section 29 flows in the second direction D2, then changes direction in the third direction D3, passes through the second heat exchanger 15, and is drawn into the housing 11.

[0046] (How to use exhaust hot air) The modular data center system 200 of the second embodiment described above exhausts the hot air discharged from the modular data center 10 to either the space where the modular data center 10 is located or a space different from the space where the modular data center 10 is located. In this modular data center system 200 of the second embodiment, the space to which the hot air is discharged is switched between summer / intermediate seasons and winter. Here, the intermediate season refers to the period between summer and winter, such as spring and autumn. Note that there may be no intermediate season.

[0047] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a second embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating the case for summer and the intermediate season.

[0048] As shown in Figure 4, in the exhaust hot air utilization method of the second embodiment, since heating is required in the indoor space during winter, the piping connection section 27 and opening 26 of the modular data center system 200 are opened and the unused discharge section 33 is closed. For example, if the indoor air (outside air) introduced toward the second heat exchanger 15 is 20°C, the exhaust hot air will be about 25°C. As a result, the exhaust hot air is supplied indoors and utilized as part of the air conditioning (heating) system.

[0049] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 5, for example, during the summer and transitional seasons, heating in the indoor space is unnecessary, so the exhaust hot air is released into the outdoor atmosphere from the unused exhaust section 33 of the modular data center system 200. In this case, the piping connections and openings may be closed. For example, if the indoor air (outside air) introduced towards the second heat exchanger 15 is 25°C, the exhaust hot air will be around 30°C.

[0050] (Effects and Benefits) According to the modular data center system 200 and exhaust hot air utilization method of the second embodiment described above, short circuits can be prevented and the cooling efficiency of the electronic equipment 12 can be increased, while exhaust hot air can be effectively utilized as part of indoor heating, etc., as needed. Furthermore, when the indoors are being cooled in the summer, etc., the exhaust hot air can be discharged outdoors, thereby increasing the cooling efficiency of the indoors. Furthermore, if the modular data center 10 also has a heat pump cycle inside the chassis 11, it can effectively remove heat from the air inside the chassis or from the primary and secondary refrigerant liquids that have received heat from the electronic equipment 12. This promotes an increase in the total heat content and / or temperature rise of the exhaust hot air, thereby promoting its effective use for indoor heating in winter. In addition, since the cooling of the electronic equipment 12 is further promoted, insufficient heat dissipation from the electronic equipment is avoided, and the decrease in indoor cooling efficiency in summer is suppressed.

[0051] <First modified example of the second embodiment> In the second embodiment described above, an example was given of exhausting warm air outdoors during the summer and transitional seasons. However, in the case of indoor spaces with high ceilings, such as factories, the unused exhaust section 33 may be formed at a position higher than the opening, and for example, the exhausted warm air may be discharged from the unused exhaust section 33 into the upper space of the indoor space closer to the ceiling. In this way, it is possible to discharge warm air into the indoor space while suppressing the temperature rise in the lower space where workers or other people are present.

[0052] <Second modified example of the second embodiment> In the first duct 23B of the short-circuit suppression means 20B of the second embodiment described above, the case in which the destination of the exhaust hot air is switched by opening and closing the pipe connection part 27, the opening 26, and the unused discharge part 33 was explained. However, the structure for switching the destination of the exhaust hot air is not limited to the above structure.

[0053] Figure 6 shows a schematic configuration of the first deflection unit in a second modified example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. A damper-based switching structure may be used, as in the first deflection section 22B of the second modified example of the second embodiment shown in Figure 6. Specifically, the first deflection section 22B in the second modified example of the second embodiment includes a first exhaust port 34, a second exhaust port 35, a main duct section 36, a first branch duct section 37, a second branch duct section 38, and a first flow path switching section 39.

[0054] The first exhaust port 34 is formed to allow exhaust of hot exhaust air, and the second exhaust port 35 is formed to allow exhaust of hot exhaust air in a direction different from that of the first exhaust port 34. In a second modified example of this second embodiment, the first exhaust port 34 is made capable of exhausting air outdoors, and the second exhaust port 35 is made capable of exhausting air indoors.

[0055] The main duct section 36 is connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16. The entire volume of exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 flows through the main duct section 36. The first branch duct section 37 branches off from the main duct section 36 and directs the exhaust hot air toward the first exhaust port 34. The second branch duct section 38 branches off from the main duct section 36 and directs the exhaust hot air toward the second exhaust port 35.

[0056] The first flow path switching section 39 directs the exhaust hot air flowing through the main duct section 36 to either the first branch duct or the second branch duct. The first flow path switching section 39 is a flow path switching structure using a damper, and by swinging the damper, it is possible to select the duct communicating with the main duct section 36 from the first branch duct section 37 and the second branch duct section 38. This switching structure makes it possible to easily switch the destination of the exhaust hot air.

[0057] The first flow path switching unit 39 may be configured to switch the flow path manually, or, for example, to switch the flow path using an actuator. In this case, since the actuator only needs to be installed in one place, the number of parts can be kept down. Furthermore, the switching of the flow path using an actuator is not limited to manual operation; for example, it may be automatically controlled based on the outdoor temperature or the like.

[0058] Furthermore, the first flow path switching section 39 does not need to be a structure that allows for easy switching of the flow path, and is not limited to a damper-based switching structure. Also, the first flow path switching section 39 may be adjustable in terms of its opening degree. In this case, the ratio of exhaust hot air flowing to the first branch duct and the second branch duct can be adjusted by the first flow path switching section 39. For example, only the necessary amount of exhaust hot air can be discharged indoors, and the remainder can be released outdoors.

[0059] <Third modified example of the second embodiment> Figure 7 shows a schematic configuration of the first deflection unit in a third modified example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. The structure for changing the direction of the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air outlet 16 is not limited to the structure of the first deflection sections 22A and 22B in the first and second embodiments. For example, a flexible duct (first duct) may be used, as shown in Figure 7 for the first deflection section 22F. This simplifies the structure of the first deflection section 22F, makes it easy to switch the destination of the exhaust hot air, and suppresses cost increases.

[0060] <Third Embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. This third embodiment of the modular data center system 300 differs in that it is installed outdoors. For this reason, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts as in the first embodiment described above, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0061] Figure 8 shows a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a third embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating the case during winter. Figure 9 shows a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a third embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating the cases during summer and the intermediate season. As shown in Figure 8, the modular data center system 300 in the third embodiment comprises a modular data center 10 and a short-circuit suppression means 20C. The modular data center 10, like the modular data center 10 of the first embodiment described above, has at least a housing 11, electronic equipment 12, a first heat exchanger 13, a heat transport path 14, a second heat exchanger 15, and a waste hot air discharge section 16. The modular data center 10 of this third embodiment also further has a pressure feeding means 17.

[0062] The modular data center system 300 of this third embodiment is installed outdoors. This modular data center system 300 is arranged along a wall surface 32o having a plurality of windows 31. Specifically, the modular data center system 300 is installed between two windows 31, a first window 31A and a second window 31B, which are spaced apart in a third direction D3. The modular data center 10 is arranged such that the second heat exchanger 15 is located on the side closer to the first window 31A. The configuration of the housing 11, electronic equipment 12, first heat exchanger 13, heat transport path 14, second heat exchanger 15, exhaust hot air discharge section 16, and pressurizing means 17 is the same as in the first embodiment described above, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0063] (Short-circuit suppression means) The short-circuit suppression means 20C is located outside the modular data center 10. The short-circuit suppression means 20C suppresses the occurrence of so-called short circuits, in which exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 of the modular data center 10 passes through the second heat exchanger 15 of the same modular data center 10 again.

[0064] The short-circuit suppression means 20C includes an introduction duct section 21C and a first deflection section 22C. The short-circuit suppression means 20C of the third embodiment includes both the introduction duct section 21C and the first deflection section 22C, and the first deflection section 22C is detachable from the modular data center 10.

[0065] In this third embodiment, the direction of the external air flowing into the second heat exchanger 15 of the modular data center 10 is a third direction D3 that intersects the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. In this embodiment, the direction in which the first window 31A and the second window 31B are spaced apart and the direction of the external air flowing into the second heat exchanger 15 are the same third direction D3.

[0066] (Inlet duct section) The intake duct section 21C guides external air from outside the modular data center 10 to the second heat exchanger 15. In this embodiment, the intake duct section 21C has an intake section 29C at one end 21Ct in the second direction D2 for introducing external air. The intake section 29C faces the indoor space through the first window 31A, allowing indoor air to be introduced into the intake duct section 21C as external air. The external air introduced from the intake section 29C flows in the second direction D2, then changes direction to the third direction D3 and is drawn from the second heat exchanger 15 into the housing 11. In the third embodiment, the example given is that the outer shape of the intake duct section 21C is a rectangular parallelepiped, but the outer shape of the intake duct section 21C is not limited to a rectangular parallelepiped, as long as it is a shape that can guide air from the indoor space to the second heat exchanger 15.

[0067] (First deflection section, first duct) The first deflection section 22C changes the direction of the exhaust hot air, which is pumped by the pumping means 17, to a second direction D2 that intersects with the first direction D1. In the third embodiment, the first deflection section 22C changes the direction from the first direction D1 to a third direction D3, and then further changes it to the second direction D2. In the third embodiment, the first deflection section 22C includes a first duct 23C through which the exhaust hot air pumped by the pumping means 17 can flow. The first end 23Ct, which is the base end of the first duct 23C, is detachably connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16. For example, when the first end 23Ct of the first duct 23C is connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16, the entire amount of exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 flows into the first duct 23C.

[0068] The first duct 23C is positioned vertically above the chassis 11 of the modular data center 10 and forms a flow path for exhaust hot air. The first duct 23C extends vertically above the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 toward the second window 31B in a third direction D3. In this embodiment, the chassis 11 is installed away from the second window 31B in the third direction D3, and the first duct 23C extends to a position closer to the second window 31B than the chassis 11. The first duct 23C has a through-hole 23Ch at one end 23t in the second direction D2 for allowing the exhaust hot air to flow into the building. The through-hole 23Ch faces the indoor space through the second window 31B. In the third embodiment, the case in which the outer shape of the first duct 23C is a rectangular parallelepiped is illustrated, but the outer shape of the first duct 23C is not limited to a rectangular parallelepiped, as long as it is a shape that can guide the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 to the through-hole 23Ch.

[0069] (How to use exhaust hot air) Figure 9 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a third embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating the case for summer and the intermediate season. In the modular data center system 300 of the third embodiment described above, the exhaust hot air discharged from the modular data center 10 is exhausted either into the space where the modular data center 10 is located or into a space different from the space where the modular data center 10 is located. In this modular data center system 300 of the third embodiment, similar to the second embodiment, the space from which the exhaust hot air is discharged is switched between summer / intermediate seasons and winter.

[0070] As shown in Figure 8, in winter, heating is required in indoor spaces, so the first duct 23C (first deflection section 22C) is attached to the exhaust hot air outlet 16. As a result, after the exhaust hot air is discharged from the exhaust hot air outlet 16, it is guided to the first duct 23C and supplied to the indoor space, where it is used as part of the indoor air conditioning. For example, if the indoor air (outside air) introduced towards the second heat exchanger 15 is 20°C, the exhaust hot air will be around 25°C.

[0071] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 9, for example, during the summer and transitional seasons, heating in the indoor space is not required, so the first duct 23C (first deflection section 22C) is removed from the exhaust hot air outlet 16. As a result, the exhaust hot air is released directly into the outdoor atmosphere from the exhaust hot air outlet 16. For example, if the indoor air (outside air) introduced towards the second heat exchanger 15 is 25°C, the exhaust hot air will be around 30°C.

[0072] (Effects and Benefits) According to the modular data center system 300 and exhaust hot air utilization method of the third embodiment described above, by installing the modular data center 10 outdoors, it does not occupy indoor space, and the flexibility of installation for the modular data center 10 can be improved. Furthermore, the short-circuit suppression means 20C prevents short circuits and improves the cooling efficiency of the electronic equipment 12, while the exhaust hot air can be effectively utilized as part of the indoor heating as needed.

[0073] Furthermore, when the indoors is being cooled during the summer, the indoor air can be directed to the second heat exchanger 15 as external air for cooling the electronic equipment 12, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the electronic equipment 12 while the modular data center 10 is installed outdoors.

[0074] Furthermore, in summer and other seasons, the exhaust hot air can be discharged into the outdoor atmosphere, thereby improving the cooling efficiency indoors. Also, in summer and other seasons, the exhaust hot air can be discharged into the outdoor atmosphere simply by removing the first duct 23C, which helps to prevent the shape of the short-circuit suppression means 20C from becoming overly complex.

[0075] <Fourth Embodiment> Next, a modular data center system and a method for utilizing exhaust hot air according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The modular data center 10 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 10 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of a modular data center system in the fourth embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 10, the modular data center system 400 of the fourth embodiment comprises a modular data center 10 and a short-circuit promotion means 40A.

[0076] (Modular data center) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the modular data center 10 includes at least a housing 11, electronic equipment 12, a first heat exchanger 13, a heat transfer path 14, a second heat exchanger 15, and a waste hot air discharge section 16. The modular data center 10 of the fourth embodiment further includes a pressure feeding means 17. The modular data center 10 is also referred to as, for example, a containerized data center. Such a modular data center 10 is transportable like a general container and can be installed in modular units and operated as a data center. The modular data center 10 of this fourth embodiment may be installed indoors or outdoors.

[0077] (Enclosure) The enclosure 11 defines a housing space for accommodating electronic equipment 12 and the like. The enclosure 11 of the fourth embodiment is formed in a box shape that is substantially rectangular. Multiple electronic equipment 12, a first heat exchanger 13, a heat transfer path 14, and a second heat exchanger 15 are installed in the internal space of the enclosure 11. In addition, the enclosure 11 is provided with a door (not shown) on the side wall, allowing workers to enter and exit the maintenance space provided in the internal space of the enclosure 11.

[0078] (electronic equipment) The electronic devices 12 are housed inside the enclosure 11. In this embodiment, the electronic devices 12 are so-called servers, and multiple units are installed inside a single enclosure 11. Examples of cooling methods for the electronic devices 12 include liquid cooling and air cooling. Multiple electronic devices 12 may use a mix of liquid cooling and air cooling methods.

[0079] (First heat exchanger) The first heat exchanger 13 is housed inside the casing 11. The first heat exchanger 13 receives heat generated by the electronic equipment 12. Specifically, for example, if the electronic equipment 12 is liquid-cooled, the first heat exchanger 13 cools the secondary refrigerant liquid by exchanging heat between the secondary refrigerant liquid, which has received heat from the electronic equipment 12, and the primary refrigerant liquid supplied to the first heat exchanger 13. On the other hand, if the electronic equipment 12 is air-cooled, the first heat exchanger 13 cools the refrigerant air by exchanging heat between the refrigerant air, which has received heat from the electronic equipment 12, and the primary refrigerant liquid supplied to the first heat exchanger 13. In the following explanation, the case where the electronic equipment 12 is liquid-cooled will be used as an example, and the explanation for the air-cooled case will be omitted.

[0080] (Heat transfer path) The heat transfer path 14 is housed inside the housing 11. The heat transfer path 14 transfers the heat received by the first heat exchanger 13. In this embodiment, the heat transfer path 14 supplies secondary refrigerant liquid from the second heat exchanger 15 to the first heat exchanger 13, and returns the secondary refrigerant liquid that has been heat-exchanged by the first heat exchanger 13 back to the second heat exchanger 15. The heat transfer path 14 is equipped with a pump (not shown) or the like for circulating the secondary refrigerant liquid.

[0081] (Second heat exchanger) The second heat exchanger 15 transfers the heat transferred by the heat transfer path 14 to the outside air of the housing 11. In this embodiment, the second heat exchanger 15 is positioned to form part of the side wall of the housing 11. Examples of the second heat exchanger 15 include a fin-tube type heat exchanger. The second heat exchanger 15 is formed to allow outside air to flow in from the outside to the inside of the housing 11. When this outside air flows in from the outside to the inside of the housing 11, the second heat exchanger 15 exchanges heat with the primary refrigerant liquid and transfers the heat of the primary refrigerant liquid to the outside air.

[0082] (Exhaust hot air discharge section) The exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is provided in the housing 11. The exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is formed to discharge external air that has been heated by the second heat exchanger 15 as exhaust hot air to the outside of the housing 11. In this embodiment, the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is formed on the top plate 11t of the housing 11, which faces vertically upward. In the fourth embodiment, the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is formed to penetrate the top plate 11t in the vertical direction and discharges the exhaust hot air vertically upward. In the fourth embodiment, multiple exhaust hot air discharge sections 16 are formed in a line along one side 11ta of the top plate 11t on the side closer to the second heat exchanger 15. Note that the arrangement and shape of the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 are not limited to the arrangement and shape described above.

[0083] (Pressure feeding means) The pumping means 17 forcibly exhausts the exhaust hot air from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 toward the first direction D1. In the fourth embodiment, the pumping means 17 forcibly exhausts the external air that has flowed into the housing 11 as exhaust hot air in a direction vertically upward. An axial flow fan can be exemplified as the pumping means 17. In the fourth embodiment, one pumping means 17 is provided for each of the above-mentioned multiple exhaust hot air discharges.

[0084] (Method for promoting short-circuit racing) The short-circuit facilitating means 40A is detachably provided on the outside of the housing 11. The short-circuit facilitating means 40A facilitates the passage of exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 to the outside of the housing 11 back through the second heat exchanger 15. The short-circuit facilitating means 40A of the fourth embodiment has a second deflection section 42A that changes the direction of flow of the exhaust hot air pressurized by the pressurizing means 17 to a second direction D2 that intersects with the first direction D1. The short-circuit facilitating means 40A includes a second duct 43A connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16. The short-circuit facilitating means 40A of the fourth embodiment further comprises a first temperature sensor 44, a second temperature sensor 45, and a control unit 46.

[0085] The second duct 43A illustrated in this fourth embodiment is box-shaped and houses the modular data center 10, forming a connecting passage on the outside of the housing 11 that links the exhaust hot air outlet 16 and the second heat exchanger 15. Here, the portion of the second duct 43A located vertically above the exhaust hot air outlet 16 constitutes the second deflection section 42A. By having the second deflection section 42A in this way, the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air outlet 16 is not discharged to the outside of the second duct 43A but changes direction and is directed again towards the second heat exchanger 15 as cooling outside air, thereby promoting short-circuiting.

[0086] (Exhaust vent) The second duct 43A is equipped with a first exhaust port 47, a second exhaust port 48, and an inlet door 49. The first exhaust port 47 and the second exhaust port 48 are formed to discharge the exhaust hot air flowing through the inner space of the second duct 43A to the outside of the second duct 43A. In this fourth embodiment, each of the first exhaust port 47 and the second exhaust port 48 is provided with an opening / closing mechanism (not shown). The opening / closing mechanism (not shown) is displaceable, for example, between an exhaust position that allows the exhaust hot air to be discharged to the outside of the second duct 43A and a closed position that keeps the exhaust hot air inside the second duct 43A. When the opening / closing mechanism (not shown) is in the closed position, air circulates inside the second duct 43A. In this fourth embodiment, the first exhaust port 47 is connected to a pipe 50 that leads to a destination where the exhaust hot air is used, and the second exhaust port 48 is connected to a pipe 51 that leads the exhaust hot air to an outside, such as outdoors. In this fourth embodiment, the opening and closing of the opening / closing mechanism (not shown) is controlled by a control unit 46. Furthermore, the first exhaust port 47 and the second exhaust port 48 may each be provided with a second pressurizing section that forcibly pumps the exhaust hot air, which is the air inside the second duct 43A, out of the second duct 43A.

[0087] (Introductory door) The inlet door 49 is designed to be openable and closable, and is opened when air needs to be supplied into the second duct 43A. For example, the inlet door 49 may be opened simultaneously when the exhaust port is in the open position.

[0088] (First temperature sensor) The first temperature sensor 44 detects the intake temperature of the external air drawn into the enclosure 11 of the modular data center 10. The information on the intake temperature of the external air detected by the first temperature sensor 44 is transmitted to the control unit 46.

[0089] (Second temperature sensor) The second temperature sensor 45 detects the heat generated by the electronic equipment 12 in the modular data center 10. The information regarding the heat generated by the electronic equipment 12 in the modular data center 10, as detected by the second temperature sensor 45, is transmitted to the control unit 46.

[0090] (Control Unit) The control unit 46 receives information on heat demand from outside the modular data center 10. Based on the heat demand information received from outside the modular data center 10, the control unit 46 makes a decision regarding the use of the short-circuit promotion means 40A. Here, the heat demand information refers to the heat demand at the destination where the exhaust hot air is used. Examples of heat demand information include the amount of thermal energy required at the destination where the exhaust hot air is used. The heat demand information may also include information on the required temperature of the exhaust hot air at the destination where the exhaust hot air is used.

[0091] In this fourth embodiment, the control unit 46 makes a decision regarding the use of the short-circuit promotion means 40A by taking into account not only the information on heat demand, but also the information on the intake temperature of the external air detected by the first temperature sensor 44, and the information on the heat generated by the electronic equipment 12 of the modular data center 10 detected by the second temperature sensor 45. The control unit 46 may also make the above decision based solely on the information on heat demand. Furthermore, the control unit 46 may make the above decision by taking into account the information on heat demand, plus either the information on the intake temperature of the external air detected by the first temperature sensor 44, or the information on the heat generated by the electronic equipment 12 of the modular data center 10 detected by the second temperature sensor 45.

[0092] Furthermore, the control unit 46 of the fourth embodiment is capable of performing control to increase the computing load of the electronic equipment 12 of the modular data center 10. The control unit 46 of the fourth embodiment is capable of performing control to increase the computing load of the electronic equipment 12 of the modular data center 10, at least in accordance with information on heat demand.

[0093] (How to use exhaust hot air) Figure 11 is a flowchart of the exhaust hot air utilization method in the fourth embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 46 first determines whether the temperature of the air in the second duct 43A, i.e., the temperature of the exhaust hot air, is above a predetermined temperature (step S11). Here, the predetermined temperature is the threshold temperature required for the exhaust hot air, which is determined based on the heat demand information. If, as a result of this determination, it is determined that the temperature of the exhaust hot air is not above the predetermined temperature (No in step S11), the process proceeds to the step of promoting short-circuiting (step S12).

[0094] In the process of promoting short-circuiting, the first exhaust port 47 and the second exhaust port 48 are closed. This creates a state in which short-circuiting is promoted within the second duct 43A. This state of promoted short-circuiting continues until the temperature of the exhaust hot air reaches a predetermined temperature or higher. Here, the control unit 46 promotes short-circuiting in the state where, for example, sufficient heat generation temperature of the electronic equipment 12 has been obtained to raise the exhaust hot air to a predetermined temperature or higher. On the other hand, if the heat generation temperature of the electronic equipment 12 is lower than the temperature required to raise the exhaust hot air to a predetermined temperature or higher, or if promoting short-circuiting does not raise the temperature of the exhaust hot air any further, the computational load of the electronic equipment 12 is increased. The temperature of the air in the second duct 43A is the intake temperature of the outside air drawn into the modular data center 10, as detected by the first temperature sensor 44.

[0095] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that the temperature of the exhaust hot air is above a predetermined temperature (Yes in step S11), the use of the exhaust hot air is started (step S13). That is, with the second exhaust port 48 closed by the opening / closing mechanism, the first exhaust port 47 is opened by the opening / closing mechanism, and the exhaust hot air in the second duct 43A is supplied to the user.

[0096] Then, based on the heat demand information, if the use of exhaust hot air is no longer needed, the use of exhaust hot air is terminated (step S14). In this process of terminating the use of exhaust hot air, the control unit 46 closes the first exhaust port 47 with an opening / closing mechanism. After that, the control unit 46 opens the second exhaust port 48 with an opening / closing mechanism and discharges the exhaust hot air in the second duct 43A to the outside of the system (step S15).

[0097] (Effects and Benefits) In the modular data center system 400 of the fourth embodiment described above, since the short-circuit promotion means 40A is detachably provided, the short-circuit promotion means 40A can be removed from the modular data center 10 when the use of exhaust hot air decreases, such as in summer, thus eliminating pressure loss and wasted space that occur when the short-circuit promotion means 40A is installed. Furthermore, if there is a use for the exhaust hot air, such as during winter, the short-circuit promotion means 40A can promote short-circuiting and raise the temperature of the exhaust hot air, thereby increasing the options for utilizing the exhaust hot air. Furthermore, if the modular data center 10 also has a heat pump cycle inside the chassis 11, it can effectively remove heat from the air inside the chassis or from the primary and secondary refrigerants that have received heat from the electronic equipment 12, and promote an increase in the total heat content and / or temperature rise of the exhaust hot air. This further promotes the cooling of the electronic equipment 12 and increases the options for utilizing the exhaust hot air.

[0098] Furthermore, in the modular data center system 400 of the fourth embodiment described above, the short-circuit promotion means 40A is box-shaped and connects the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 and the second heat exchanger 15 outside the housing 11. This makes it easier for the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 to be drawn back into the housing 11 from the second heat exchanger 15, thus effectively promoting short-circuiting.

[0099] Furthermore, according to the exhaust hot air utilization method of the fourth embodiment described above, a decision regarding the use of the short-circuit promotion means 40A can be made based on information on heat demand, making it possible to maintain a balance between the demand and supply of thermal energy.

[0100] Furthermore, in the exhaust hot air utilization method of the fourth embodiment described above, the heat supply and demand information includes information on the temperature of the exhaust hot air required at the usage site (required temperature), so the temperature increase range of the exhaust hot air relative to the required temperature can be optimized.

[0101] Furthermore, in the exhaust hot air utilization method of the fourth embodiment described above, when making a decision regarding the use of the short-circuit promotion means 40A, the information on the intake temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 44 is added to the information on the heat demand, making it possible to grasp the temperature rise range of the exhaust hot air from the modular data center 10 with even greater accuracy.

[0102] Furthermore, in the exhaust hot air utilization method of the fourth embodiment described above, the decision regarding the use of the short-circuit promotion means 40A is made by taking into account the information on the heat generation temperature of the electronic equipment 12 of the modular data center 10, so that it is possible to accurately grasp the amount of thermal energy that can be supplied to the user and the range of temperature increase of the exhaust hot air.

[0103] Furthermore, in the exhaust hot air utilization method of the fourth embodiment described above, it is possible to implement control to increase the computational load of the electronic equipment 12 of the modular data center 10 in accordance with information on heat demand. For example, when there is an upper limit to the amount of available exhaust hot air and the heat demand temporarily increases, the electronic equipment 12 of the modular data center 10 can be used as an auxiliary heater to raise the temperature of the exhaust hot air without increasing the number of components.

[0104] <First Modification of the Fourth Embodiment> Figure 12 shows a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a first modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. In the fourth embodiment described above, a case was described in which one short-circuit promotion means 40A is provided for one modular data center 10. However, a modular data center system is not limited to one in which one short-circuit promotion means 40A is provided for one modular data center 10.

[0105] For example, as shown in Figure 12 of the modular data center system 500, one short-circuit promotion means 40B may be provided for multiple modular data centers 10. In this case, the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 of the multiple modular data centers 10 is discharged into the second duct 43B of the one short-circuit promotion means 40B. Also, the external air (including exhaust hot air) drawn into the multiple modular data centers 10 becomes the air present in the second duct 43B of the one short-circuit promotion means 40B. In other words, with this configuration, the exhaust hot air from one modular data center 10 is drawn into the other modular data center 10, and the exhaust hot air from the other modular data center 10 is drawn into the first modular data center 10. Although Figure 12 illustrates the case with two modular data centers 10, three or more modular data centers 10 may be provided.

[0106] By configuring the system as in the first modified example of the fourth embodiment described above, it is possible to suppress the complexity of the short-circuit promotion means 40A and reduce the number of parts when there are multiple modular data centers 10.

[0107] <Second variation of the fourth embodiment> Figure 13 shows a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a second modification of the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. In the fourth embodiment described above, the case in which exhaust hot air from one modular data center system 400 is supplied to the destination where the exhaust hot air is used was explained. However, as shown in Figure 13, the exhaust hot air discharged from one modular data center system 400 may be supplied as external air to the second heat exchanger 15 of another modular data center system 400. In this case, the exhaust hot air obtained by promoting short-circuiting in the other modular data center system 400 is supplied to the destination where the exhaust hot air is used via piping 50. In other words, the short-circuiting promotion means 40A may supply the exhaust hot air discharged from one modular data center 10 as external air to the second heat exchanger 15 of another modular data center 10. By configuring it in this way, it is possible to rapidly raise the temperature of the exhaust hot air. Note that the number of modular data center systems 400 connected in series may be two or more.

[0108] <Third modified example of the fourth embodiment> Figure 14 shows a schematic configuration of the exhaust port switching structure in a third modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. In the fourth embodiment described above, a case was described in which opening and closing mechanisms are provided at the first exhaust port 47 and the second exhaust port 48, respectively, to switch the destination of the exhaust hot air. However, the structure for switching the destination of the exhaust hot air is not limited to the structure of the fourth embodiment described above. For example, as shown in Figure 14, a damper-based switching structure may be used. Specifically, the switching structure 53 in the third modified example of the fourth embodiment includes a main pipe 54, a supply pipe 55, an exhaust pipe 56, and a second flow path switching section 57. The main pipe 54 is connected to the outlets of the short-circuit promotion means 40A and 40B. The supply pipe 55 branches off from the main pipe 54 and is connected to a destination (not shown) that utilizes the exhaust hot air. The exhaust pipe 56 branches off from the main pipe 54 together with the supply pipe 55 and opens to the outside of the system, such as an outdoor or indoor space. The second flow path switching section 57 guides the exhaust hot air flowing through the main pipe 54 to either the supply pipe 55 or the exhaust pipe 56. The second flow path switching section 57 is a so-called damper-based flow path switching structure, and by swinging the damper, it is possible to select the pipe communicating with the main pipe 54 from the supply pipe 55 and the exhaust pipe 56. By using a switching structure like this second flow path switching section 57, it becomes possible to easily switch the destination of the exhaust hot air.

[0109] The second flow path switching unit 57 may be configured to switch flow paths manually, or, for example, to switch flow paths using an actuator. In this case, since the actuator only needs to be installed in one place, the number of parts can be kept down. Furthermore, the switching of flow paths using an actuator is not limited to manual operation; for example, it may be automatically controlled by the control unit 46 based on information on heat demand or outdoor temperature.

[0110] Furthermore, the second flow path switching section 57 does not need to be a structure that allows for easy switching of the flow path, and is not limited to a damper-based switching structure. Also, the second flow path switching section 57 may be adjustable in terms of its opening degree. In this case, the ratio of exhaust hot air flowing to the supply pipe 55 and the exhaust pipe 56 can be adjusted by the second flow path switching section 57. This makes it possible, for example, to supply only the necessary amount of exhaust hot air to the user and release the remainder outdoors.

[0111] <Fourth modification of the fourth embodiment> Figure 15 shows a schematic configuration of a modular data center system in a fourth modification of the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. In the fourth embodiment and its various modifications described above, the case in which the second ducts 43A and 43B are box-shaped was used as an example, but the second ducts 43A and 43B are not limited to a box shape. For example, as in the second duct 43C of the modular data center system 600 of the fourth modification of the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 15, it may be formed in a cylindrical shape (duct shape) that guides the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 outside the housing 11 to the inlet of the second heat exchanger 15. Note that in Figure 15, the first exhaust port 47 and second exhaust port 48 described above for discharging exhaust hot air from the second duct 43C are not shown. By configuring it as in this fourth modification of the fourth embodiment, the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 can be discharged in any direction, so it is possible to actively guide the exhaust hot air to the inlet of the second heat exchanger 15 and promote short-circuiting more effectively.

[0112] <Fifth Embodiment> Next, the heating system according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The modular data center 10 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 16 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of a heating system in the fifth embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 16, the heating system 700 in the fifth embodiment comprises a modular data center 10, a heating means 60, and an induction means 70.

[0113] (Modular data center) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the modular data center 10 includes at least a housing 11, electronic equipment 12, a first heat exchanger 13, a heat transfer path 14, a second heat exchanger 15, and a waste hot air discharge section 16. The modular data center 10 of the fifth embodiment further includes a pumping means 17. The modular data center 10 is also referred to as, for example, a containerized data center. Such a modular data center 10 is transportable like a general container and can be installed in modular units and operated as a data center. In this fifth embodiment, the case in which the modular data center 10 is installed outdoors will be described as an example. The modular data center 10 may also be installed indoors.

[0114] (Enclosure) The enclosure 11 defines a housing space for accommodating electronic equipment 12 and the like. The enclosure 11 of the fifth embodiment is formed in a box shape that is substantially rectangular. Multiple electronic equipment 12, a first heat exchanger 13, a heat transfer path 14, and a second heat exchanger 15 are installed in the internal space of the enclosure 11. In addition, the enclosure 11 is provided with a door (not shown) on the side wall, allowing workers to enter and exit the maintenance space provided in the internal space of the enclosure 11.

[0115] (electronic equipment) The electronic devices 12 are housed inside the enclosure 11. In this embodiment, the electronic devices 12 are so-called servers, and multiple units are installed inside a single enclosure 11. Examples of cooling methods for the electronic devices 12 include liquid cooling and air cooling. Multiple electronic devices 12 may use a mix of liquid cooling and air cooling methods.

[0116] (First heat exchanger) The first heat exchanger 13 is housed inside the casing 11. The first heat exchanger 13 receives heat generated by the electronic equipment 12. Specifically, for example, if the electronic equipment 12 is liquid-cooled, the first heat exchanger 13 cools the secondary refrigerant liquid by exchanging heat between the secondary refrigerant liquid, which has received heat from the electronic equipment 12, and the primary refrigerant liquid supplied to the first heat exchanger 13. On the other hand, if the electronic equipment 12 is air-cooled, the first heat exchanger 13 cools the refrigerant air by exchanging heat between the refrigerant air, which has received heat from the electronic equipment 12, and the primary refrigerant liquid supplied to the first heat exchanger 13. In the following explanation, the case where the electronic equipment 12 is liquid-cooled will be used as an example, and the explanation for the air-cooled case will be omitted.

[0117] (Heat transfer path) The heat transfer path 14 is housed inside the housing 11. The heat transfer path 14 transfers the heat received by the first heat exchanger 13. In this embodiment, the heat transfer path 14 supplies secondary refrigerant liquid from the second heat exchanger 15 to the first heat exchanger 13, and returns the secondary refrigerant liquid that has been heat-exchanged by the first heat exchanger 13 back to the second heat exchanger 15. The heat transfer path 14 is equipped with a pump (not shown) or the like for circulating the secondary refrigerant liquid.

[0118] (Second heat exchanger) The second heat exchanger 15 transfers the heat transferred by the heat transfer path 14 to the outside air of the housing 11. In this embodiment, the second heat exchanger 15 is positioned to form part of the side wall of the housing 11. Examples of the second heat exchanger 15 include a fin-tube type heat exchanger. The second heat exchanger 15 is formed to allow outside air to flow in from the outside to the inside of the housing 11. When this outside air flows in from the outside to the inside of the housing 11, the second heat exchanger 15 exchanges heat with the primary refrigerant liquid and transfers the heat of the primary refrigerant liquid to the outside air.

[0119] (Exhaust hot air discharge section) The exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is provided in the housing 11. The exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is configured to discharge external air that has been heated by the second heat exchanger 15 as exhaust hot air to the outside of the housing 11. In this embodiment, the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is formed on the top plate 11t of the housing 11, which faces vertically upward. In the fifth embodiment, the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 is formed to penetrate the top plate 11t in the vertical direction and discharges the exhaust hot air vertically upward. In the fifth embodiment, multiple exhaust hot air discharge sections 16 are formed in a line along one side 11ta of the top plate 11t on the side closer to the second heat exchanger 15. Note that the arrangement and shape of the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 are not limited to the arrangement and shape described above.

[0120] (Pressure feeding means) The pumping means 17 forcibly exhausts the exhaust hot air from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 toward the first direction D1. In the fifth embodiment, the pumping means 17 forcibly exhausts the external air that has flowed into the housing 11 toward vertically upward as exhaust hot air. An axial flow fan can be exemplified as the pumping means 17. In the fifth embodiment, one pumping means 17 is provided for each of the above-mentioned multiple exhaust hot air discharges.

[0121] (Heating means, third heat exchanger) The heating means 60 has a refrigerant compression type heat pump cycle and is configured to heat the air-conditioned object. As shown in Figure 16, the refrigerant compression type heat pump cycle includes a third heat exchanger 61, which is a heat exchanger installed outdoors. In other words, both the third heat exchanger 61 and the modular data center 10 exemplified in the fifth embodiment are installed outdoors. The third heat exchanger 61 functions as an evaporator during heating, and during heating, it exchanges heat with the outside air and the refrigerant to evaporate the refrigerant. Note that in Figure 16, only the third heat exchanger 61 is shown, and the other components of the refrigerant compression type heat pump cycle are not shown.

[0122] (Guidance means) The induction means 70 guides the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 to the third heat exchanger 61, which functions as an evaporator. The induction means 70 illustrated in this fifth embodiment guides the exhaust hot air so that it merges with the outside air before being taken into the third heat exchanger 61. The induction means 70 of this fifth embodiment includes an upper duct section 71 and an induction piping section 72.

[0123] (Upper duct) The upper duct section 71 is positioned vertically above the chassis 11 of the modular data center 10. The base end of the upper duct section 71 is connected to the exhaust hot air outlet section 16. As a result, the entire volume of exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air outlet section 16 flows into the upper duct. The upper duct may be formed in a duct shape by combining, for example, a frame (in other words, structural members) and a sheet-like member such as a synthetic resin film. Furthermore, the upper duct of this fifth embodiment changes the direction of the flow of exhaust hot air, which is discharged vertically upward in the first direction D1, to the horizontal direction in the second direction D2. However, the upper duct is not limited to changing the direction of the flow of exhaust hot air to the horizontal direction.

[0124] (Induction piping section) The induction piping section 72 forms a flow path that guides the exhaust hot air from the upper duct section 71 to the vicinity of the third heat exchanger 61. The base end of the induction piping section 72 is connected to the side wall of the upper duct section 71, and the flow path within the induction piping section 72 is in communication with the space within the upper duct section 71. The end of the induction piping section 72 opens near the third heat exchanger 61. As a result, the exhaust hot air guided by the induction piping section 72 is discharged from the opening at the end of the induction piping section 72, merges with the outside air, and is then used for heat exchange in the third heat exchanger 61.

[0125] In Figure 16, an example is shown where multiple induction piping sections 72 and one third heat exchanger 61 are provided. Each of these multiple induction piping sections 72 guides exhaust hot air to the vicinity of the same third heat exchanger 61. However, the third heat exchanger 61 is not limited to one; for example, there may be multiple third heat exchangers 61. In this case, the multiple induction piping sections 72 may be used to guide exhaust hot air to the vicinity of each individual third heat exchanger 61.

[0126] (Effects and Benefits) According to the heating system of the fifth embodiment described above, the exhaust hot air from the modular data center 10 is guided to the vicinity of the third heat exchanger 61, which is the evaporator of the heating means 60. Therefore, the exhaust hot air can be utilized for the evaporation of the refrigerant in the heating means 60. Consequently, the COP (Coefficient of Performance) of the heating means 60 can be improved.

[0127] Furthermore, according to the heating system of the fifth embodiment described above, the exhaust hot air is combined with the outside air before being used for heat exchange in the third heat exchanger 61. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the exhaust hot air from becoming excessively hot and to optimize the temperature of the exhaust hot air. In addition, by combining the exhaust hot air with the outside air, if the exhaust hot air alone does not provide sufficient thermal energy, the necessary thermal energy can be supplemented from the outside air.

[0128] Furthermore, according to the heating system of the fifth embodiment described above, by blowing exhaust warm air onto the third heat exchanger 61, which is an evaporator, during the winter, the temperature of the air drawn into the third heat exchanger 61 increases, and frost formation on the surface of the evaporator can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the performance and capacity of the heating means 60 and to reduce the energy required for defrosting.

[0129] <Sixth Embodiment> Next, a heating system and exhaust hot air utilization method according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The heating system of this sixth embodiment differs from the heating system of the fifth embodiment described above in that the induction means includes a confluence suppression unit. For this reason, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts as in the fifth embodiment described above, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0130] Figure 17 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of a heating system in the sixth embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 17, the heating system 800 of the sixth embodiment comprises a modular data center 10, a heating means 60, and an induction means 70B. The modular data center 10, like the modular data center 10 of the fifth embodiment described above, has at least a housing 11, electronic equipment 12, a first heat exchanger 13, a heat transport path 14, a second heat exchanger 15, and a waste hot air discharge section 16. This modular data center 10 of the fifth embodiment also further has a pressure feeding means 17.

[0131] (Method of heating) The heating means 60 has the same configuration as in the fifth embodiment and includes a third heat exchanger 61. The third heat exchanger 61 functions as an evaporator during heating, and during heating, it exchanges heat with the outside air and the refrigerant to evaporate the refrigerant. As with Figure 16, only the third heat exchanger 61 is shown in Figure 17, and the other components of the refrigerant compression heat pump cycle are not shown.

[0132] (Guidance means) The guidance means 70 guides the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 to the third heat exchanger 61, which functions as an evaporator. The guidance means 70 exemplified in this sixth embodiment includes an upper duct section 71, a guidance piping section 72, and a confluence suppression section 73. The upper duct section 71 has the same configuration as in the fifth embodiment and is located vertically above the housing 11 of the modular data center 10.

[0133] (Induction piping section) The guided piping section 72 forms a flow path that connects the internal space of the upper duct section 71 with the internal space of the confluence suppression section 73. The base end of the guided piping section 72 is connected to the side wall of the upper duct section 71, and the flow path within the guided piping section 72 is connected to the space within the upper duct section 71. Furthermore, the tip of the guided piping section 72 is connected to the side wall of the confluence suppression section 73, and the flow path within the guided piping section 72 is connected to the space within the confluence suppression section 73.

[0134] (Confluence suppression part) The confluence suppression unit 73 is provided around the third heat exchanger 61 to suppress confluence with outside air. The confluence suppression unit 73 comprises a confluence suppression unit body 74 and an outside air intake unit 75. The confluence suppression unit body 74 is formed in a box shape and is provided to cover at least the supply air side of the third heat exchanger 61. By forming the confluence suppression unit body 74 in this way, the confluence of exhaust hot air and outside air before being supplied to the third heat exchanger 61 is suppressed, and the temperature drop of the supply air supplied to the third heat exchanger 61 can be suppressed. The exhaust hot air that has finished heat exchange by the third heat exchanger 61 is released into the atmosphere.

[0135] The outside air intake section 75 is formed inside the confluence suppression section body 74 to allow outside air to be taken in. The outside air intake section 75 is equipped with a flow rate adjustment section 76 that can adjust the flow rate of outside air taken in by the confluence suppression section body 74. The outside air intake section 75 is not normally used, but is used, for example, to take in outside air to compensate for the shortage when the exhaust hot air alone is insufficient to supply air to the third heat exchanger 61. In other words, in the sixth embodiment of the heating system's exhaust hot air utilization method, the flow rate of outside air taken into the confluence suppression unit body 74 is adjusted according to the airflow rate of the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 of the modular data center 10. Note that if a sufficient supply of exhaust hot air can always be secured, the outside air intake section 75 may be omitted.

[0136] (Effects and Benefits) According to the sixth embodiment described above, since the exhaust hot air can be supplied to the third heat exchanger 61 without being released into the atmosphere, the thermal energy of the exhaust hot air can be effectively recovered by the third heat exchanger 61.

[0137] Furthermore, according to the sixth embodiment, since the outside air intake section 75 can take in the necessary amount of outside air for the confluence suppression section body 74, if the exhaust hot air alone is insufficient to provide sufficient air intake to the third heat exchanger 61, the intake of outside air to compensate for this deficiency can ensure sufficient air intake to the third heat exchanger 61.

[0138] <Other embodiments> This disclosure is not limited to the configurations of the embodiments and modifications of each embodiment described above, and design changes are possible without departing from the spirit thereof. For example, the configuration of the fourth embodiment may be combined with the fifth and sixth embodiments described above. Specifically, the modular data center 10 of the fifth and sixth embodiments may be equipped with the short-circuit promotion means 40A and 40B of the fourth embodiment to promote short-circuiting and raise the temperature of the exhaust hot air before supplying the exhaust hot air to the third heat exchanger 61. Furthermore, in this case, similar to the fourth embodiment, information on heat demand may be obtained from the heating means 60 and a decision on the use of the short-circuit promotion means 40A and 40B may be made. Furthermore, the configurations of each modified example of the fourth embodiment may be combined with the fifth and sixth embodiments.

[0139] <Note> The modular data center system, heating system, and exhaust hot air utilization method described in the embodiment can be understood, for example, as follows.

[0140] (1) According to the first embodiment, a modular data center system comprises a housing 11, electronic equipment 12 housed inside the housing 11, a first heat exchanger 13 housed inside the housing 11 and receiving heat generated by the electronic equipment 12, a heat transport path 14 housed inside the housing 11 and transporting the heat received by the first heat exchanger 13, a second heat exchanger 15 that transmits the heat transported by the heat transport path 14 to the outside air of the housing 11, and a hot exhaust air discharge unit 16 provided in the housing 11 that discharges the outside air to which heat has been transferred by the second heat exchanger 15 as hot exhaust air to the outside of the housing 11, and short-circuit suppression means 20A, 20B, 20C provided outside the modular data center 10 and suppressing the hot exhaust air discharged from the hot exhaust air discharge unit 16 from passing through the second heat exchanger 15 again.

[0141] This prevents the modular data center 10 from re-inhaling the exhaust hot air it has discharged. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the rise in temperature of the external air drawn into the modular data center 10 to cool the electronic equipment 12, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the electronic equipment 12.

[0142] (2) According to the second embodiment, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (1), wherein the modular data center 10 further has a pressurizing means 17 that forcibly exhausts the exhaust hot air from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 toward a first direction D1, and the short-circuit suppression means 20A, 20B, 20C have first deflection sections 22A, 22B, 22C, 22F that change the direction of flow of the exhaust hot air pressurized by the pressurizing means 17 toward a second direction D2 that intersects with the first direction D1.

[0143] This makes it possible to discharge the exhaust hot air in any direction. Therefore, depending on the installation situation of the modular data center system, the exhaust hot air discharged from the modular data center 10 can be kept away from the cooling external air, thereby more effectively suppressing short circuits.

[0144] (3) According to the third embodiment, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (2), wherein the short-circuit suppression means 22A, 22B, 22C include first ducts 23A, 23B, 23C through which the exhaust hot air can flow, and the first ends 23At, 23Bt, 23Ct of the first ducts 23A, 23B, 23C are connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 of the modular data center 10.

[0145] This allows the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 to be guided and discharged through the first ducts 23A, 23B, and 23C to a position far from the inlet section 29 of the inlet duct section 21A, thereby more effectively suppressing short circuits.

[0146] (4) According to a fourth embodiment, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (2), wherein the short-circuit suppression means 22B comprises first opening / closing sections 26, 27 capable of exhausting the exhaust hot air that has passed through the first deflection section 22B, and a second opening / closing section 33 capable of exhausting the exhaust hot air that has passed through the first deflection section 22B in a direction different from that of the first opening / closing sections 26, 27.

[0147] This prevents short circuits and improves the cooling efficiency of the electronic equipment 12, while also allowing the exhaust hot air to be effectively utilized as part of the indoor heating system when necessary. Furthermore, when the indoors are being cooled during the summer, the exhaust hot air can be discharged outdoors through windows or other openings, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the indoors.

[0148] (5) According to the fifth aspect, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (4), wherein the first opening / closing section 26 and the second opening / closing section 33 are provided at different positions in the vertical direction relative to each other.

[0149] This allows, for example, in winter, the lower of the first and second opening / closing sections 26 and 33 to be opened to discharge the exhaust air as part of the heating air, while in summer and the transitional seasons, the upper of the first and second opening / closing sections 26 and 33 to be opened to discharge the exhaust air, thereby suppressing the temperature rise in the lower part of the indoor space where workers or other people are present.

[0150] (6) According to the sixth aspect, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (4), wherein either the first opening / closing section 26, 27 or the second opening / closing section 33 is capable of discharging the exhaust hot air outside the space in which the modular data center 10 is located.

[0151] As a result, when the space in which the modular data center 10 is located is being cooled during the summer or other seasons, the exhaust hot air can be discharged outside the space in which the modular data center 10 is located, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the indoor space.

[0152] (7) According to the seventh aspect, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (2), wherein the first deflection section 22F is a flexible duct capable of freely changing the direction in which the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 flows and the direction in which the exhaust hot air is exhausted.

[0153] This simplifies the structure of the first deflection section 22F, allows for easy switching of the exhaust destination of the hot exhaust air, and suppresses cost increases.

[0154] (8) According to the eighth aspect, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (2), wherein the first deflection unit 22B includes a first exhaust port 34 capable of exhausting the exhaust hot air, a second exhaust port 35 capable of exhausting the exhaust hot air in a direction different from the first exhaust port 34, a main duct unit 36 ​​connected to the exhaust hot air discharge unit 16, a first branch duct unit 37 that branches off from the main duct unit 36 ​​and allows the exhaust hot air to flow toward the first exhaust port 34, a second branch duct unit 38 that branches off from the main duct unit 36 ​​and allows the exhaust hot air to flow toward the second exhaust port 35, and a first flow path switching unit 39 that guides the exhaust hot air flowing through the main duct unit 36 ​​to either the first branch duct unit 37 or the second branch duct unit 38.

[0155] This means that the device that drives the first flow path switching unit 39, such as an actuator, only needs to be installed in one place, thus suppressing an increase in the number of parts.

[0156] (9) According to the ninth aspect, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (2), wherein the short-circuit suppression means 20C further comprises an introduction duct section 21C that guides external air from the housing 11 into the housing 11, the modular data center 10 is installed outdoors, the introduction duct section 21C guides indoor air into the housing 11 as external air from the housing 11, and the first deflection section 22C guides exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 of the modular data center 10 into the building.

[0157] By installing the modular data center 10 outdoors in this manner, it does not occupy indoor space, and the flexibility of its installation is improved. Furthermore, the short-circuit suppression means 20C prevents short circuits and improves the cooling efficiency of the electronic equipment 12, while also allowing the exhaust hot air to be effectively utilized as part of the indoor heating system as needed. In addition, when the indoors are being cooled during the summer, indoor air can be guided to the second heat exchanger 15 as external air for cooling the electronic equipment 12, thus improving the cooling efficiency of the electronic equipment 12 while the modular data center 10 is installed outdoors. Furthermore, during the summer, the exhaust hot air can be discharged into the outdoor atmosphere, improving the cooling efficiency of the indoors. Also, during the summer, the exhaust hot air can be discharged into the outdoor atmosphere simply by removing the first duct, thus preventing the short-circuit suppression means from becoming overly complex in shape.

[0158] (10) According to the tenth embodiment, the exhaust hot air utilization method is an exhaust hot air utilization method that utilizes the exhaust hot air of a modular data center system, wherein the exhaust hot air is exhausted by selecting either the space in which the modular data center 10 is located or a space different from the space in which the modular data center 10 is located.

[0159] This allows for more efficient utilization of exhaust air by increasing the number of options for the space to which the exhaust air can be sent, compared to having only one space to utilize the exhaust air.

[0160] (11) According to the eleventh aspect, the exhaust hot air utilization method is an exhaust hot air utilization method that utilizes the exhaust hot air of a modular data center system, wherein the modular data center 10 is located outdoors, and cooling air for the modular data center 10 is introduced from indoors, and the exhaust hot air is introduced indoors.

[0161] As a result, when the indoors is being cooled during the summer, etc., the indoor air can be used as external air for cooling the modular data center 10, thereby improving cooling efficiency while the modular data center 10 is installed outdoors. In addition, during the winter, etc., the exhaust warm air can be effectively utilized as part of the indoor heating air.

[0162] (12) According to the twelfth aspect, a modular data center system comprises a housing 11, electronic equipment 12 housed inside the housing 11, a first heat exchanger 13 housed inside the housing 11 and receiving heat generated by the electronic equipment 12, a heat transport path 14 housed inside the housing 11 and transporting the heat received by the first heat exchanger 13, a second heat exchanger 15 that transmits the heat transported by the heat transport path 14 to the outside air of the housing 11, and a hot exhaust air discharge unit 16 provided in the housing 11 that discharges the outside air, to which heat has been transferred by the second heat exchanger 15, to the outside of the housing 11 as hot exhaust air, and a short-circuit promoting means 40A, 40B detachably provided on the outside of the housing 11 and promoting the passage of the hot exhaust air discharged from the hot exhaust air discharge unit 16 to the outside of the housing 11 back through the second heat exchanger 15.

[0163] As a result, when the use of exhaust hot air decreases, such as during the summer, the short-circuit promotion means 40A and 40B can be removed from the modular data center 10, thereby eliminating the pressure loss and wasted space that occur when the short-circuit promotion means 40A and 40B are installed. Furthermore, if there is a use for the exhaust hot air, such as during winter, the short-circuit promotion means 40A and 40B can be used to promote short-circuiting and raise the temperature of the exhaust hot air, thereby increasing the options for utilizing the exhaust hot air.

[0164] (13) According to the 13th embodiment, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (12), wherein the modular data center 10 further has a pressurizing means 17 that forcibly exhausts the exhaust hot air from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 toward a first direction D1, and the short-circuit promoting means 40A, 40B have second deflection sections 42A, 42B that change the direction of flow of the exhaust hot air pressurized by the pressurizing means 17 toward a second direction D2 that intersects with the first direction D1.

[0165] This allows the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air outlet 16 to be guided toward the inlet of the second heat exchanger 15.

[0166] (14) According to the 14th embodiment, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (12), wherein the short-circuit facilitating means includes a second duct 43A through which the exhaust hot air can flow, and the second duct 43A is connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section 16.

[0167] This allows the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air outlet 16 to flow through the second duct 43A, thereby more effectively promoting short circuit.

[0168] (15) According to the 15th aspect, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (12), wherein the short-circuit promoting means 40A, 40B are box-shaped and form a connecting passage outside the housing 11 that connects the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 and the second heat exchanger 15.

[0169] This makes it easier for the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air outlet 16 to be drawn back into the housing 11 from the second heat exchanger 15, thereby effectively promoting short-circuiting.

[0170] (16) According to the 16th aspect, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (12), comprising a plurality of modular data centers 10, wherein the short-circuit promoting means 40A supplies exhaust hot air discharged from one of the modular data centers 10 as the external air to the second heat exchanger 15 of the other modular data centers 10.

[0171] This makes it possible to rapidly raise the temperature of exhaust air using multiple modular data centers 10.

[0172] (17) According to the 17th aspect, the modular data center system is the modular data center system of (12), wherein the short-circuit promotion means 40B is box-shaped and houses a plurality of modular data centers 10.

[0173] This prevents the short-circuit promotion means 40B from becoming more complex when there are multiple modular data centers 10, and also reduces the number of parts.

[0174] (18) According to the 18th aspect, a modular data center system is the modular data center system of (13), wherein the short-circuit promotion means 40B comprises a supply pipe 55 that supplies the exhaust hot air to a user that utilizes the exhaust hot air, an exhaust pipe 56 that discharges the exhaust hot air to the outside of the short-circuit promotion means 40B without supplying it to the user, and a second flow path switching unit 57 that guides the exhaust hot air to either the supply pipe 55 or the exhaust pipe 56.

[0175] This makes it possible to easily switch the destination of the exhaust hot air.

[0176] (19) According to the 19th aspect, the exhaust hot air utilization method is the exhaust hot air utilization method of the modular data center system of (12), and includes the steps of: acquiring information on the heat demand of the exhaust hot air; and making a decision on the utilization of the short circuit promotion means 40A, 40B based on the information on the heat demand.

[0177] This makes it possible to maintain a balance between the demand and supply of thermal energy.

[0178] (20) According to the 20th aspect, the method for utilizing exhaust hot air is the method for utilizing exhaust hot air of (19), wherein the information on heat demand includes information on the required temperature.

[0179] This allows for optimizing the temperature increase of the exhaust air relative to the required temperature.

[0180] (21) According to the 21st aspect, the exhaust hot air utilization method is the exhaust hot air utilization method of (19), wherein in the step of making a decision regarding the use of the short circuit promotion means 40A, 40B based on the information of the heat demand, the decision is made by adding information of the intake temperature of the external air drawn into the housing 11 to the information of the heat demand.

[0181] This makes it possible to more accurately determine the temperature rise of the exhaust air from the modular data center 10.

[0182] (22) According to the 22nd aspect, the exhaust hot air utilization method is the exhaust hot air utilization method of (19), wherein in the step of making a decision regarding the use of the short circuit promotion means 40A, 40B based on the information of the heat demand, the information of the heat generated by the electronic equipment 12 of the modular data center 10 is added to the information of the heat demand to make the decision.

[0183] This makes it possible to accurately determine the amount of thermal energy that can be supplied to the user and the temperature increase range of the exhaust air.

[0184] (23) According to the 23rd aspect, the exhaust hot air utilization method is the exhaust hot air utilization method of (22), further comprising the step of increasing the computational load of the electronic equipment 12 of the module data center in accordance with the information on the heat demand.

[0185] This allows the electronic equipment 12 of the modular data center 10 to be used as an auxiliary heater, for example, when there is an upper limit to the amount of available exhaust hot air and when the heat demand temporarily increases, thereby raising the temperature of the exhaust hot air without increasing the number of components.

[0186] (24) According to the 24th aspect, the heating system comprises a modular data center 10 comprising: a housing 11; electronic equipment 12 housed inside the housing 11; a first heat exchanger 13 housed inside the housing 11 and receiving heat generated by the electronic equipment 12; a heat transport path 14 housed inside the housing 11 and transporting the heat received by the first heat exchanger 13; a second heat exchanger 15 that transmits the heat transported by the heat transport path 14 to the outside air of the housing 11; and a hot exhaust air discharge unit 16 provided in the housing 11 that discharges the outside air, to which heat has been transferred by the second heat exchanger 15, to the outside of the housing 11 as hot exhaust air; a heating means 60 having a refrigerant compression type heat pump cycle and configured to heat the air-conditioned object; and guidance means 70, 70B that guide the hot exhaust air discharged from the hot exhaust air discharge unit 16 to a third heat exchanger 61 that functions as an evaporator for the heating means 60.

[0187] As a result, the exhaust hot air from the modular data center 10 is directed near the third heat exchanger 61, which is the evaporator of the heating means 60, allowing the exhaust hot air to be used for evaporating the refrigerant in the heating means 60. Therefore, the COP (Coefficient of Performance) of the heating means 60 can be improved. Furthermore, by blowing the exhaust hot air onto the third heat exchanger 61, which is the evaporator, in winter, the temperature of the air drawn into the third heat exchanger 61 increases, suppressing frost formation on the evaporator surface. Therefore, the performance and capacity degradation of the heating means 60 can be suppressed, and the energy required for defrosting can be reduced.

[0188] (25) According to the 25th aspect, the heating system is the heating system of (24), wherein the induction means 70 combines the exhaust hot air with the outside air and guides it to the third heat exchanger 61.

[0189] This prevents the exhaust air from becoming excessively hot and allows for an optimal temperature for the exhaust air. Furthermore, by merging the exhaust air with outside air, if the exhaust air alone does not provide sufficient thermal energy, the necessary thermal energy can be supplemented from the outside air.

[0190] (26) According to the 26th aspect, the heating system is the heating system of (24), wherein the induction means 70 is provided around the third heat exchanger 61 and includes a confluence suppression unit 73 that suppresses confluence with outside air.

[0191] This allows the exhaust hot air to be supplied to the third heat exchanger 61 without being released into the atmosphere, making it possible to effectively recover the thermal energy of the exhaust hot air with the third heat exchanger 61.

[0192] (27) According to the 27th aspect, the heating system is the heating system of (26), wherein the confluence suppression unit 73 comprises at least a confluence suppression unit body 74 surrounding the third heat exchanger 61, and an outside air intake unit 75 inside the confluence suppression unit body 74 that can take in outside air, and the outside air intake unit 75 comprises a flow rate adjustment unit that can adjust the flow rate of the outside air taken into the confluence suppression unit body 74.

[0193] This allows the confluence suppression unit body 74 to take in the necessary amount of outside air. Therefore, if the intake flow rate is insufficient with only exhaust hot air, the intake of outside air to compensate for this deficiency can be ensured to provide sufficient air intake to the third heat exchanger 61.

[0194] (28) According to the 28th aspect, the exhaust hot air utilization method is an exhaust hot air utilization method in the heating system of (27), wherein the flow rate of the outside air taken into the confluence suppression unit body 74 is adjusted according to the air volume of the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge unit 16 of the modular data center 10.

[0195] This allows the flow rate of outside air taken into the confluence suppression unit body 74 to be adjusted according to the airflow rate of the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section 16 of the modular data center 10. [Explanation of symbols]

[0196] 10 Modular Data Centers 11 cabinets 11a side wall 11b One side wall 11t top plate 11ta side 11tb edge 12 Electronic equipment 13 First heat exchanger 14 Heat transfer path 15 Second heat exchanger 16 Hot air exhaust section 17. Pumping means 20A, 20B, 20C Short Circuit Suppression Method 21A, 21C Inlet duct section 21Ct end 22A, 22B, 22C, 22F First deflection section 23A, 23B, 23C First Duct 23At,23Bt,23Ct First end 23t end 23Ch Through hole 24A Upper duct section 24h through hole 25A, 25B Side duct section 26 Opening 27 Pipe connection section 28 Piping 29 Introduction 31 windows 31A First Window 31B Second window 32i, 32o wall surface 33 Unused discharge section (second opening / closing section) 34 First exhaust port 35 Second exhaust port 36 Main duct section 37 First branch duct section 38 Second branch duct section 39 First flow path switching section 40A, 40B Short Circuit Acceleration Method 42A,42B Second deflection section 43A, 43B, 43C Second Duct 44 First temperature sensor 45 Second temperature sensor 46 Control Unit 47 First exhaust port 48 Second exhaust port 49 Introduction Door 50, 51 Piping 53 Switching structure 54 Main piping 55 Supply Piping 56 Exhaust piping 57 Second flow path switching section 60 Heating methods 61 Third heat exchanger 70,70B Guidance means 71 Upper duct section 72 Induction piping section 73 Merging suppression part 74 Merging suppression unit body 75. Outside air intake 76 Flow rate adjustment section 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 Modular Data Center System 700,800 heating systems

Claims

1. The casing and The electronic equipment housed inside the aforementioned enclosure, A first heat exchanger, housed inside the aforementioned enclosure, receives heat generated by the aforementioned electronic equipment, A heat transfer path is housed inside the aforementioned housing and transports the heat received by the first heat exchanger, A second heat exchanger that transfers the heat transported by the heat transport path to the outside air of the housing, The housing is provided with a hot exhaust air discharge unit that discharges the external air, which has been heated by the second heat exchanger, to the outside of the housing as hot exhaust air, A modular data center equipped with, A short-circuit suppression means is provided outside the modular data center to prevent the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge unit from passing through the second heat exchanger again, A modular data center system equipped with these features.

2. The modular data center further includes a pressurizing means for forcibly exhausting the exhaust hot air from the exhaust hot air discharge section in a first direction, The aforementioned short-circuit suppression means is The pumping means has a first deflection unit that changes the direction of the flow of the exhaust hot air, which is pumped by the pumping means, to a second direction that intersects with the first direction. The modular data center system according to claim 1.

3. The short-circuit suppression means includes a first duct through which the exhaust hot air can flow, The first end of the first duct is connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section of the modular data center. The modular data center system according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned short-circuit suppression means is The system includes a first opening / closing section that can exhaust the exhaust hot air that has passed through the first deflection section, and a second opening / closing section that can exhaust the exhaust hot air that has passed through the first deflection section in a direction different from that of the first opening / closing section. The modular data center system according to claim 2.

5. The first opening / closing section and the second opening / closing section are provided at different positions in the vertical direction relative to each other. The modular data center system according to claim 4.

6. Either the first opening / closing section or the second opening / closing section is capable of discharging the exhaust hot air outside the space in which the modular data center is located. The modular data center system according to claim 4.

7. The first deflection section is, This is a flexible duct that can freely change the direction in which the exhaust air flows from the exhaust air outlet and the direction in which the exhaust air is discharged. The modular data center system according to claim 2.

8. The first deflection section is, A first exhaust port from which the aforementioned exhaust hot air can be exhausted, A second exhaust port is provided that can exhaust the exhaust hot air in a direction different from that of the first exhaust port, The main duct section connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section, A first branch duct section that branches off from the main duct section and circulates the exhaust hot air toward the first exhaust port, A second branch duct section that branches off from the main duct section and circulates the exhaust hot air toward the second exhaust port, The system includes a first flow path switching section that guides the exhaust hot air flowing through the main duct section to either the first branch duct section or the second branch duct section. The modular data center system according to claim 2.

9. The short-circuit suppression means further comprises an introduction duct section that guides external air from the housing into the housing, The aforementioned modular data center is installed outdoors, The aforementioned introduction duct section guides indoor air into the enclosure as outside air for the enclosure. The first deflection unit guides the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge unit of the modular data center into the building. The modular data center system according to claim 2.

10. A method for utilizing exhaust hot air from a modular data center system, A method for utilizing exhaust hot air, wherein the exhaust hot air is exhausted to either the space where the modular data center is located or a space different from the space where the modular data center is located.

11. A method for utilizing exhaust hot air from a modular data center system, A method for utilizing exhaust hot air, comprising placing a modular data center outdoors, introducing cooling air for the modular data center from indoors, and introducing the exhaust hot air into the indoors.

12. The casing and The electronic equipment housed inside the aforementioned enclosure, A first heat exchanger, housed inside the aforementioned enclosure, receives heat generated by the aforementioned electronic equipment, A heat transfer path is housed inside the aforementioned housing and transports the heat received by the first heat exchanger, A second heat exchanger that transfers the heat transported by the heat transport path to the outside air of the housing, The housing is provided with a hot exhaust air discharge unit that discharges the external air, which has been heated by the second heat exchanger, to the outside of the housing as hot exhaust air, A modular data center equipped with, A short-circuit promoting means is provided detachably on the outside of the housing and facilitates the hot exhaust air discharged from the hot exhaust air discharge section to the outside of the housing passing through the second heat exchanger again. A modular data center system equipped with these features.

13. The modular data center further includes a pressurizing means for forcibly exhausting the exhaust hot air from the exhaust hot air discharge section in a first direction, The aforementioned short-circuit promotion means is The pumping means has a second deflection unit that changes the direction of the flow of the exhaust hot air, which is pumped by the pumping means, to a second direction that intersects with the first direction. The modular data center system according to claim 12.

14. The short-circuit promotion means includes a second duct through which the exhaust hot air can flow, The second duct is connected to the exhaust hot air discharge section. The modular data center system according to claim 12.

15. The short-circuit promotion means is box-shaped and forms a communication passage on the outside of the housing that connects the exhaust hot air discharge section and the second heat exchanger. The modular data center system according to claim 12.

16. Equipped with multiple modular data centers, The aforementioned short-circuit promotion means is The exhaust hot air discharged from one of the modular data centers is supplied as external air to the second heat exchanger of the other modular data center. The modular data center system according to claim 12.

17. The aforementioned short-circuit promotion means is box-shaped and houses multiple modular data centers. The modular data center system according to claim 12.

18. The aforementioned short-circuit promotion means is A supply pipe that supplies the exhaust hot air to the user who will use it, An exhaust pipe that discharges the exhaust hot air to the outside of the short-circuit promotion means without supplying it to the destination, The system includes a second flow path switching section that guides the exhaust hot air to either the supply pipe or the exhaust pipe. The modular data center system according to claim 13.

19. A method for utilizing exhaust hot air from a modular data center system according to claim 12, A step to obtain information on the heat demand at the destination where the exhaust hot air is used, A method for utilizing exhaust hot air, comprising the step of making a decision regarding the use of short-circuit promotion means based on the aforementioned information on heat demand.

20. The aforementioned heat demand information includes information on the required temperature. The method for utilizing exhaust hot air according to claim 19.

21. In the step of making a decision regarding the use of short-circuit promotion measures based on the aforementioned information on heat demand, The heat demand information is used in conjunction with the intake temperature information of the external air drawn into the housing to make the determination. The method for utilizing exhaust hot air according to claim 19.

22. In the step of making a decision regarding the use of short-circuit promotion measures based on the aforementioned information on heat demand, The heat demand information is combined with information on the heat generated by the electronic equipment in the modular data center to make the determination. The method for utilizing exhaust hot air according to claim 19.

23. The step further includes increasing the computing load of the electronic equipment in the modular data center in accordance with the information on heat demand. The method for utilizing exhaust hot air according to claim 22.

24. The casing and The electronic equipment housed inside the aforementioned enclosure, A first heat exchanger, housed inside the aforementioned enclosure, receives heat generated by the aforementioned electronic equipment, A heat transfer path is housed inside the aforementioned housing and transports the heat received by the first heat exchanger, A second heat exchanger that transfers the heat transported by the heat transport path to the outside air of the housing, The housing is provided with a hot exhaust air discharge unit that discharges the external air, which has been heated by the second heat exchanger, to the outside of the housing as hot exhaust air, A modular data center equipped with, A heating means having a refrigerant compression type heat pump cycle and configured to heat an air-conditioned object, A heating system comprising: an induction means for guiding the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge section to a third heat exchanger that functions as an evaporator for the heating means.

25. The induction means combines the exhaust hot air with the outside air and guides it to the third heat exchanger. The heating system according to claim 24.

26. The induction means includes a confluence suppression unit provided around the third heat exchanger to suppress confluence with the outside air. The heating system according to claim 24.

27. The aforementioned confluence suppression unit comprises at least a confluence suppression unit body surrounding the third heat exchanger, and an outside air intake unit inside the confluence suppression unit body that is capable of taking in outside air. The aforementioned outside air intake unit includes a flow rate adjustment unit that can adjust the flow rate of the outside air taken into the main body of the confluence suppression unit. The heating system according to claim 26.

28. A method for utilizing the exhaust hot air of a heating system according to claim 27, A method for utilizing exhaust hot air, which adjusts the flow rate of outside air taken into the main body of the confluence suppression unit according to the airflow rate of the exhaust hot air discharged from the exhaust hot air discharge unit of the modular data center.

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