Module Unit

Abstract

This provides a module unit that allows modules to be properly connected to each other in the construction of a data center. [Solution] A module unit comprising a plurality of module frames configured in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, a plurality of modules arranged in the internal space of each of the plurality of module frames, and a plurality of paths connecting the internal spaces of the plurality of module frames, wherein each of the plurality of modules includes at least one of a power receiving unit having a high-voltage power receiving function, a transformer connected to the power receiving unit, a power storage unit having a power storage function, a power conditioner having a power conversion function, a server device, a communication device connected to the server device, and a cooling device for cooling the server device, the plurality of module frames are arranged side by side, and the plurality of paths are one of a ventilation path for air, a refrigerant path for refrigerant, and an electrical wire path for electrical wires, and the plurality of paths pass through different positions in the vertical direction.

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present invention relates to a module unit. [[Background Art]]

[0002] Conventionally, servers for an information processing system have been collectively arranged in a data center and integrally operated and managed. In contrast, in consideration of quick recovery in the event of a disaster, a container-type data center in which a server is built in a container for freight transportation has been developed, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0003] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2015-007901 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problems to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0004] In such a container-type data center, since modules such as a server device and a power receiving unit constituting the data center are arranged in one container, there is a problem that the whole becomes large in size, making transportation and installation difficult. Accordingly, the present inventors have conceived a module unit that can be easily transported, installed, and expanded by preparing divided module frames for each of a plurality of modules and arranging these module frames side by side. However, in such a module unit, if routes such as electric wires connecting the respective modules are not appropriately arranged, there is a risk that interference between the routes may occur.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a module unit that can appropriately connect modules to each other when constructing a data center. [[Means for Solving the Problems]]

[0006] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention includes the following aspects. (1) Multiple modular frames arranged in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, A plurality of modules, each arranged in the internal space of the plurality of module frames, It has a plurality of paths connecting the internal spaces of the plurality of module frames, The aforementioned multiple modules are A power receiving unit having high-voltage power receiving capabilities. A transformer connected to the power receiving unit, Energy storage unit with energy storage function, Power conditioner with power conversion function, Server equipment, A communication device connected to the server device, and The server device includes at least one cooling device for cooling the server device, The aforementioned multiple module frames are arranged side by side, The aforementioned multiple routes are A ventilation path that allows air to pass through. Refrigerant pathways through which the refrigerant passes, and It is one of the electrical wire paths through which an electrical wire passes. The aforementioned multiple paths are module units that pass through different positions in the vertical direction. (2) The plurality of paths include the refrigerant path, The refrigerant path is located below the module, as described in (1) above. (3) The plurality of paths include the refrigerant path and the electrical wire path, The refrigerant path is located below the electrical wire path in the module unit described in (1) above. (4) The plurality of paths include the electrical wire paths, The aforementioned electrical wire path is located above or below the module, as described in (1) above. (5) The plurality of paths include power line paths that supply power to the module as electrical line paths, The power line path is located above the module, as described in (1) above. (6) The plurality of routes are The aforementioned electrical line path includes a power line path that supplies power to the module, The aforementioned electrical line path includes a communication line path for propagating signals between the modules, The module unit as described in (1) above, wherein the power line path and the communication line path pass through different positions in the vertical direction. (7) The plurality of routes are The aforementioned ventilation path includes a warm air ventilation path through which warm air flows, The aforementioned ventilation path includes a ventilation path for cold air through which cold air flows, The module unit as described in (1) above, wherein the warm air ventilation path and the cold air ventilation path pass through different positions in the vertical direction. (8) The module frame is rectangular in shape, consisting of a pair of long sides and a pair of short sides when viewed from above and below. Multiple module frames are arranged along the direction in which the shorter side extends, The aforementioned multiple paths are module units according to any one of items (1) to (7) above, extending in the direction in which the shorter side extends. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a module unit can be provided that enables modules to be properly connected to each other in the construction of a data center. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a data center equipped with a module unit of one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a plan view of a module unit according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a part of a module unit according to one embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a boundary portion between two adjacent module frames in a module unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a partition wall according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a modified partition wall. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional structure of a partition wall according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a part of a module unit according to an embodiment, in which a shutter and a return plate are in an open state. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a part of a module unit according to an embodiment, in which a shutter and a return plate are in an open state. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of a module unit according to an embodiment, showing a shutter in a closed state. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of a module unit according to an embodiment, showing a shutter in an open state. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view of a module unit according to an embodiment, showing a return plate in a closed state. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of a module unit according to an embodiment, showing a return plate in an open state. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a part of a module unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a base frame according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing a part of a module unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of a modified side plate. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a module unit according to an embodiment, showing an example of arrangement of a plurality of paths. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of a module unit according to first modification. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of the module unit of Modification Example 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The module unit 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are merely examples, and the embodiments to which the present invention is applied are not limited to the embodiments described below. In all the figures used to illustrate the embodiments, components with the same function are given the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations are omitted.

[0010] Each figure shows the XYZ coordinate system as a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system where appropriate. In the XYZ coordinate system, the Z axis represents the vertical direction Z, where +Z is up and -Z is down. The X axis represents the horizontal direction X, where +X is left and -X is right. The Y axis represents the front and back direction, where +Y is back and -Y is front.

[0011] <Embodiment> (Data center) Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a data center 100 equipped with the module unit 1 of this embodiment. The data center 100 of this embodiment includes a plurality of riser bases 9, module units 1 installed on top of the plurality of riser bases 9, an outdoor chiller 7, and a generator 8. The riser bases 9 are constructed at the site where the data center 100 will be installed. In this embodiment, the plurality of riser bases 9 extend parallel to each other along the left-right direction X. The upper surfaces of the plurality of riser bases 9 are flat surfaces for mounting the module units 1. The generator 8 is a generator that utilizes renewable energy such as solar panels or wind turbines.

[0012] (Module Unit) The module unit 1 comprises a plurality of modules 10, a plurality of module frames 20, a plurality of functional walls 3, and a plurality of base frames 50.

[0013] Multiple modules 10 each have the same or different functions, and are electrically connected to each other to perform the functions of a data center 100 as a whole. That is, multiple modules 10 are connected to each other via electrical wires or the like. Module unit 1 may have multiple modules 10 of the same type.

[0014] Figure 2 is a plan view of the module unit 1 of this embodiment. Each of the multiple modules 10 is at least one of the following: a power receiving unit 11, a transformer 12, a power conditioner 13, a power storage unit 14, a communication device 15, a server device 16, or a cooling device 17.

[0015] As shown in Figure 3, the module unit 1 of this embodiment includes 12 modules 10. The module unit 1 of this embodiment has one power receiving unit 11, one transformer 12, two power conditioners 13, two energy storage units 14, one communication device 15, two server devices 16, and three cooling devices 17.

[0016] The power receiving unit 11 has a high-voltage power receiving function. The power receiving unit 11 is connected to an external high-voltage power supply. The transformer 12 is connected to the power receiving unit 11. In this embodiment, one energy storage unit 14 is arranged individually in the internal space A of one module frame 20.

[0017] The transformer 12 converts the high-voltage power received by the power receiving unit 11 into low-voltage power. In this embodiment, the transformer 12 has a power distribution panel function in addition to its function as a transformer. The power receiving unit 11 and the transformer 12 supply power to each module 10 of the data center 100 when power is supplied stably from an external power source. In this embodiment, one transformer 12 is placed individually in the internal space A of one module frame 20.

[0018] The power conditioner 13 is connected to the generator 8. The power conditioner 13 has a power conversion function. The power conditioner 13 converts the voltage of the power generated by the generator 8 and sends it to the energy storage unit.

[0019] The energy storage unit 14 has an energy storage function. The energy storage unit 14 is connected to the power conditioner 13 and stores the power supplied to the generator 8 via the power conditioner 13. When sufficient power is supplied by the generator 8, the energy storage unit 14 supplies power to each module 10 of the data center 100.

[0020] In this embodiment, the power conditioner 13 and the energy storage unit 14 are arranged in a single module frame 20. The power conditioner 13 and the energy storage unit 14 constitute an Uninterruptible Power System (UPS). Preferably, the UPS is further provided with a temperature control device (not shown) for adjusting the temperature of the energy storage unit 14.

[0021] The communication device 15 has a communication function between the server device 16 and external devices. The communication device 15 is connected to the server device 16 and relays communication with external devices (not shown). In this embodiment, one communication device 15 is arranged individually in the internal space A of one module frame 20.

[0022] The server device 16 is connected to external devices via the communication device 15. The server device 16 performs calculations and provides data in response to requests from external devices. The server device 16 generates heat and tends to become hot when performing calculations. When the server device 16 becomes hot, its reliability is compromised, such as a decrease in calculation processing speed.

[0023] The cooling device 17 is connected to the outdoor chiller 7 via a refrigerant path 63. The cooling device 17 uses low-temperature refrigerant supplied from the outdoor chiller 7 via the refrigerant path 63 to cool the air, and blows this cooled air to cool the server device 16. The communication device 15 is also prone to becoming hot, similar to the server device 16. Therefore, it is preferable that the cooling device 17 cools both the server device 16 and the communication device 15.

[0024] The refrigerant path 63 is a circulation path that circulates between the outdoor chiller 7 and the cooling device 17, but it is simplified in Figures 1 and 2. In this embodiment, the case in which the cooling device 17 has an air-cooled cooling mechanism that cools the server device 16 using air as a medium has been described. However, the cooling device 17 may also have a water-cooled cooling mechanism that cools the server device 16 using water as a medium.

[0025] In this embodiment, one of the three cooling devices 17 is placed individually in the internal space A of one module frame 20. The remaining two cooling devices 17 are each placed together with one server device 16 in the internal space A of one module frame 20. Therefore, the internal space A of the module frame 20 that houses the server device 16 houses a total of the cooling devices 17.

[0026] The types of modules 10 included in the module unit 1 of this embodiment are merely examples. Multiple modules 10 may further include fire extinguishing equipment, storage sections, and extension sections. Fire extinguishing equipment includes fire extinguishers, fire hydrants, fire pumps, and fire extinguishing agents. The storage section provides an area for storing equipment used for maintenance. The extension section provides an area for accommodating racks that do not fit in other modules 10, or an area used to expand the workspace.

[0027] (Module frame) As shown in Figure 1, the module frame 20 is constructed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape by combining at least 12 columnar members 20a. The columnar members 20a are rod-shaped steel materials, such as angle steel, channel steel, or etched steel. In this embodiment, the module frame 20 has several columnar members 20a that reinforce the rectangular parallelepiped shape, in addition to the 12 columnar members 20a that make up each side of the rectangular parallelepiped shape. Each of the internal spaces A of the multiple module frames 20 can accommodate one or more modules 10.

[0028] In this embodiment, the multiple module frames 20 are arranged in a single direction (in this embodiment, the left-right direction X). However, the multiple module frames 20 do not necessarily have to be arranged in a single direction; they may be arranged in an L-shape, T-shape, U-shape, or the like.

[0029] Multiple module frames 20 are connected to one another. The connection between the multiple module frames 20 may be direct or indirect. For example, all module frames 20 may be connected by directly connecting adjacent module frames 20 to each other. Alternatively, all module frames 20 may be connected to each other by fixing all of them to a single connecting member.

[0030] In this embodiment, the module frame 20 is rectangular in shape, consisting of a pair of long sides and a pair of short sides when viewed from the vertical direction Z. In this embodiment, the direction in which the short sides of the module frame 20 extend is the left-right direction X. In this embodiment, multiple module frames 20 are arranged in the left-right direction X in which the short sides extend. According to this embodiment, the overall length of the module unit 1 can be shortened. This makes it easier to install the data center 100 even on a small site.

[0031] Furthermore, the above effect can be obtained if at least two of the multiple module frames 20 constituting the module unit 1 are aligned in the direction in which the shorter sides of the module frames 20 extend. In particular, the above effect can be obtained more significantly if the number of module frames 20 arranged in the direction in which the shorter sides extend (left-right direction X) is greater than the number of module frames 20 arranged in the direction in which the longer sides extend (front-back direction Y).

[0032] According to the module unit 1 of this embodiment, each module 10 is placed in a module frame 20 that are arranged side by side. Therefore, modules 10 can be assembled into multiple module frames 20 within the factory, transported in batches of several module frames 20, and then connected to each other at the site. This makes transportation and installation easier compared to the case where multiple modules 10 are placed in a single container to constitute a data center 100.

[0033] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since the module frames 20 can be assembled in the factory, complex wiring work for each module 10 can be performed in advance in the factory, and only the connection of the modules 10 to each other can be performed on-site to complete the installation of the data center 100. Therefore, the installation of the data center 100 can be carried out quickly and inexpensively.

[0034] In addition, according to this embodiment, the assembly and wiring of the module 10 to the module frame 20 can be performed in advance at the factory, allowing for operational verification of the module 10 within the factory. This reduces the time required for on-site operational verification.

[0035] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, multiple modules 10 are each placed in the internal space A of the module frame 20. Therefore, by partitioning the internal space A of the module frame 20 from each other, it is possible to create an optimal environment for each internal space A that is placed in it. In other words, it becomes possible to set a temperature environment or security environment according to the type of module 10. In particular, when adjusting the temperature of the air in the space where a heat-generating module 10 is placed in order to cool the module 10, the space where the temperature adjustment is performed can be narrowed by separating the internal space A of the module frame 20 where the module 10 is placed from other internal spaces A. Therefore, the energy efficiency of temperature adjustment can be increased compared to when the air in the entire container is cooled. As a result, the temperature adjustment equipment can be miniaturized, and a space-saving and low-cost data center 100 can be constructed.

[0036] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since each module frame 20 is rectangular in shape, other module frames 20 can be connected in any of the four horizontal directions. Therefore, by appropriately arranging multiple module frames 20 to suit the site of installation, it becomes possible to install the data center 100 even on irregularly shaped sites where container-type data centers cannot be installed. Moreover, since module frames 20 can be easily added, the data center 100 can be easily expanded.

[0037] (Functional wall) Each of the multiple functional walls 3 is fixed to the module frame 20. Each of the multiple functional walls 3 includes multiple interior walls 30 and multiple exterior walls 40. The interior walls 30 divide the interior spaces A of the module frame 20 into multiple spaces, or divide the interior spaces A of the module frame 20 into multiple spaces. On the other hand, the exterior walls 40 divide the interior space A of the module frame 20 into the exterior space B.

[0038] In this specification, "external space" refers to the space outside module unit 1. In other words, "external space" is a space that does not belong to any of the internal spaces A of the multiple module frames 20.

[0039] Furthermore, in this specification, "to partition" means to separate two spaces and clearly define the boundary between them, and does not necessarily mean to seal off the space between the two spaces.

[0040] (inner wall) Figure 3 is a perspective view of module unit 1. As shown in Figure 3, the multiple interior walls 30 include multiple partition walls 31 and multiple ceiling panels 32. The partition walls 31 separate the internal spaces A of the module frames 20. The ceiling panels 32 are located inside the internal space A of one module frame 20.

[0041] The ceiling panel 32 is located above the internal space A of the module frame 20. The ceiling panel 32 is a plate-like structure that extends along the horizontal plane (XY plane) and is positioned along the roof panel 42 of the module unit 1.

[0042] The ceiling panel 32 divides the internal space A of one module frame 20 into the space below the ceiling panel 32 and the space above the ceiling panel 32. In other words, the ceiling panel 32 divides the internal space A of one module frame 20 into two spaces aligned in the vertical direction Z.

[0043] Module 10 is placed in the space below the ceiling panel 32. On the other hand, in the space above the ceiling panel 32, in the gap between the ceiling panel 32 and the roof panel 42, a route 60 such as the high-voltage power line route 61a is placed (see Figure 18), as will be described later.

[0044] In this embodiment, a vibration damping device (vibration suppressor) 32a is provided on the upper surface of the ceiling panel 32. The vibration damping device 32a includes a rail section extending in the left-right direction X and the front-rear direction Y, a weight mounted on the rail section, and a damper section that restricts the movement of the weight moving along the rail section. When the module frame 20 vibrates due to an earthquake or wind, the vibration damping device 32a synchronizes the weight with the vibration to suppress the shaking of the module frame 20. In addition, the vibration damping device 32a suppresses the occurrence of shaking in the module frame 20 caused by vibrations when the module 10 is driven.

[0045] In this embodiment, the ceiling panel 32 is located in the internal space A of at least one module frame 20. Similarly, the vibration damping device 32a is provided on at least one ceiling panel 32. Preferably, the vibration damping device 32a is provided on the ceiling panel 32 directly above a module 10 that requires protection from vibration, or a module 10 that generates large vibrations when driven, among the multiple ceiling panels 32.

[0046] As shown in Figure 3, the partition wall 31 is located at the boundary of the internal space A of adjacent module frames 20. The partition wall 31 is fixed to one of the module frames 20.

[0047] In the module unit 1 shown in Figure 2, the partition walls 31 are placed at some of the multiple boundary portions between the module frames 20, and not at some. For example, among the multiple module frames 20, no partition wall 31 is placed between the module frame 20 that houses the power receiving unit 11 and the module frame 20 that houses the transformer 12.

[0048] Each of the multiple module frames 20 is assigned a security level corresponding to the module 10 located in the internal space A. For example, the server device 16, where confidential information is stored, is assigned the highest security level compared to the other modules 10.

[0049] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the boundary between two module frames 20A and 20B with different security levels.

[0050] In Figure 4, of the two module frames 20A and 20B, the one with a higher security level is called the first module frame 20A, and the other one with a lower security level than the first module frame 20A is called the second module frame 20B.

[0051] A partition wall 31 is placed between the internal space A of the first module frame 20A and the internal space A of the second module frame 20B. The partition wall 31 is fastened to the columnar member 20a of the first module frame 20A in the internal space A of the first module frame 20A. Bolts 21a and nuts 21b are used to fasten the first module frame 20A to the columnar member 20a.

[0052] According to this embodiment, both the bolt 21a and the nut 21b are located in the internal space A of the first module frame 20A on the side with a higher security level. Therefore, the partition wall 31 cannot be removed from the internal space A of the second module frame 20B on the side with a lower security level. According to this embodiment, when multiple workers perform maintenance on their respective modules 10, it is possible to prevent workers maintaining modules 10 with a lower security level from accessing modules 10 with a higher security level. This enhances the reliability of the data center 100.

[0053] In this embodiment, the security levels of the multiple modules 10 are set as follows: the server device 16 has the highest security level, followed by the communication device 15, then the cooling device 17, then the power conditioner 13 and energy storage unit 14, and finally the power receiving unit 11 and transformer 12. The partition walls 31 that divide the internal space A of the module frame 20 in which each module 10 is arranged are fastened in the internal space A where the module 10 with the highest security level is located.

[0054] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the partition wall 31 of this embodiment. The partition wall 31 of this embodiment is rectangular in shape. The partition wall 31 also has a rectangular plate-shaped wall body 31b and four reinforcing parts 31c provided at each corner of the wall body 31b. The reinforcing parts 31c are, for example, right-angled triangular plates. The reinforcing parts 31c are fixed to one or both sides of the wall body 31b using rivets or bolts, with their right-angled corners aligned with the corners of the wall body 31b.

[0055] In this embodiment, the partition wall 31 is fixed to the module frame 20, thereby reinforcing the module frame 20. When the module frame 20 shakes, stress tends to concentrate at the corners of the partition wall 31. According to this embodiment, by providing a reinforcing portion 31c at the corner of the partition wall 31, the rigidity and strength of the corner of the partition wall 31 are increased. This makes it possible to increase the rigidity and strength of the module frame 20.

[0056] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a modified partition wall 31P that can be used instead of the partition wall 31 in this embodiment. Compared to the partition wall 31 shown in Figure 5, the modified partition wall 31P has two additional bracing members 31d. The bracing members 31d are rod-shaped members. The bracing members 31d connect the opposing reinforcing parts. The two bracing members 31d intersect each other. According to this embodiment, the rigidity of the module frame 20 can be increased, and the swaying of the module frame 20 can be suppressed more effectively.

[0057] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the cross-sectional structure of the partition wall 31 of this embodiment. The partition wall 31 of this embodiment has a first functional layer 31f that covers one surface of the wall body 31b and a second functional layer 31g that covers the other surface of the wall body 31b.

[0058] In this embodiment, the first functional layer 31f is, for example, a sound-absorbing or sound-insulating layer. That is, the partition wall 31 has a sound-insulating layer. The partition wall 31 having a sound-insulating layer separates the internal space A of the module frame 20 housing the module 10 that emits driving noise when driven from the internal space A of the other module frame 20. As an example, the partition wall 31 having a sound-insulating layer separates the internal space A of the module frame 20 housing the power conditioner 13 and the energy storage unit 14 from the internal space A of the other module frame 20. According to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress noise caused by the driving noise of the module 10, and to suppress vibrations caused by the driving noise from affecting the operation of other modules 10.

[0059] The second functional layer 31g is, for example, an insulating layer. That is, the partition wall 31 has an insulating layer made of insulating material. The partition wall 31 having the insulating layer is placed between the internal space A of the module frame 20 in which the module 10 requiring temperature control is located and the internal space A of another module frame 20. As an example, the partition wall 31 having the insulating layer partitions the internal space A of the module frame 20 housing the power conditioner 13 and the energy storage unit 14 from the internal space A of another module frame 20. According to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the effect of heat generated by other modules 10 on the operation of the module 10 requiring temperature control.

[0060] In this embodiment, the case described is one in which the sound-insulating layer as the first functional layer 31f and the heat-insulating layer as the second functional layer 31g are provided on different surfaces of the wall body 31b. However, each functional layer may be laminated and provided on one surface of the wall body 31b.

[0061] In this embodiment, the case in which the partition wall 31 has multiple functional layers (first functional layer 31f and second functional layer 31g) has been described, but the partition wall 31 may have only one functional layer, or may have no functional layers at all. Furthermore, in addition to the first functional layer 31f and the second functional layer 31g, the partition wall 31 may have a third functional layer that has other functions.

[0062] Furthermore, both the first functional layer 31f and the second functional layer 31g may be salt damage suppression layers for suppressing salt damage. The salt damage suppression layer is formed by applying a paint (for example, a fluorine-based paint) containing components effective in suppressing salt damage. The salt damage suppression layer is provided to suppress salt damage to the wall body 31b, for example, when the wall body 31b is made of steel plate. A partition wall 31 having a salt damage suppression layer is used when the data center 100 is located on the coast. The salt damage suppression layer may also be provided together with the sound insulation layer or heat insulation layer described above.

[0063] Figures 8 and 9 are plan views showing a portion of module unit 1. Figures 8 and 9 mainly show the communication device 15, server device 16, and cooling device 17, and the module frame 20 in which they are housed, among the multiple modules 10 and module frame 20.

[0064] The internal spaces A of the multiple module frames 20 are referred to as the first internal space A1, the second internal space A2, the third internal space A3, and the fourth internal space A4, in order from the right (-X) end of the module unit 1. The first internal space A1 is where the cooling device 17 is located, the second internal space A2 and the third internal space A3 are where the cooling device 17 and the server device 16 are located, and the fourth internal space A4 is where the communication device 15 is located.

[0065] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, in the overall space formed by the connection of the first to fourth internal spaces A1 to A4, multiple modules 10 are arranged in the following order from right (-X) to left (+X): cooling device 17, server device 16, cooling device 17, server device 16, cooling device 17, and communication device 15.

[0066] Multiple modules 10 are provided with air passages Fa and Fb on their front (-Y) and rear (+Y) sides, respectively, for circulating air. In this embodiment, a bypass path F is provided on the left side (+X) of all cooling devices 17. The bypass path F extends in the front-to-back direction Y and connects the air passage Fa on the rear (+Y) side of each module 10 with the air passage Fb on the front (-X) side.

[0067] The cooling device 17 has a fan that blows air from the rear (+Y) to the front (-Y). The cooling device 17 draws in air from the rear (+Y) air passage Fa, cools it, and blows it out into the front (+Y) air passage Fb. As a result, an airflow is formed in the internal space A that passes from the front (+Y) air passage Fb through the inside of the server device 16 and towards the rear (-Y) air passage Fa, thus cooling the server device 16. In other words, the cooling device 17 forms an air circulation path CF in the internal space A that circulates between the cooling device 17 and the server device 16.

[0068] A first partition wall 31A, as one form of partition wall 31, is provided between the first internal space A1 and the second internal space A2. Furthermore, a second partition wall 31B, also as one form of partition wall 31, is provided between the second internal space A2 and the third internal space A3, and between the third internal space A3 and the fourth internal space A4. The first partition wall 31A has a shutter 35. The second partition wall 31B has a shutter 35 and a return plate 36.

[0069] The shutter 35 and the return plate 36 are movable. In Figure 8, both the shutter 35 and the return plate 36 are in the closed position, and in Figure 9, both the shutter 35 and the return plate 36 are in the open position.

[0070] Figures 10 and 11 are perspective views showing the operation of the shutter 35. Figure 10 shows the shutter 35 in the closed state, and Figure 11 shows the shutter 35 in the open state. The shutter 35 is rotatable about a rotation axis J1 that extends along the vertical direction. The shutter 35 may be rotated manually or by a drive device such as a motor.

[0071] As shown in Figure 8, the closed shutter 35 blocks at least a portion of the bypass path F provided on the side of the cooling device 17. As shown in Figure 9, the open shutter 35 rotates 90° around the rotation axis J1 relative to the closed state. This causes the open shutter 35 to open the bypass path F. The shutter 35 can switch between a closed state that blocks the bypass path F and an open state that opens the bypass path F.

[0072] Figures 12 and 13 are perspective views showing the operation of the return plate 36. Figure 12 shows the return plate 36 in the closed state, and Figure 13 shows the return plate 36 in the open state. The return plate 36 is rotatable about a rotation axis J2 that extends along the vertical direction. The return plate 36 may be rotated manually or by a drive device such as a motor.

[0073] As shown in Figure 8, the closed return plate 36 blocks the airflow path between adjacent internal spaces A in the airflow path Fa. As shown in Figure 9, the open return plate 36 rotates 90° around the rotation axis J2 relative to the closed state. As a result, the open return plate 36 connects adjacent internal spaces A in the airflow path Fa. In other words, the return plate 36 can switch between a closed state that blocks the airflow path connecting the internal spaces A and an open state that opens the airflow path.

[0074] Figure 8 shows module unit 1 in a first state where multiple cooling devices 17 are operating in a steady state. In module unit 1 in the first state, the shutter 35 is in a closed state. Therefore, the air in the air passage Fa at the rear (+Y) of the multiple modules 10 does not flow through the detour path F, but mainly passes through the cooling devices 17 and reaches the front (-Y).

[0075] Furthermore, in the module unit 1 in the first state, the return plate 36 is in a closed state. As a result, the air passages Fa on the rear side (+Y) of the multiple modules 10 are blocked between the second internal space A2 and the third internal space A3, and between the third internal space A3 and the fourth internal space A4. Therefore, the two cooling devices 17 located in the first internal space A1 and the second internal space A2 form a circulation path CF that circulates only within the first internal space A1 and the second internal space A2. The cooling device 17 located in the third internal space A3 forms a circulation path CF that circulates only within the third internal space A3.

[0076] In the first state of module unit 1, the output of the cooling device 17 can be adjusted according to the temperature change of each internal space A to adjust each internal space A to an appropriate temperature. Therefore, the overall energy efficiency of module unit 1 can be increased.

[0077] Figure 9 shows the module unit 1 in a second state, which is reached when the cooling efficiency of at least one of the multiple cooling devices 17 decreases or cooling stops. In the module unit 1 in the second state, the shutter 35 and the return plate 36 are in the open state. It is assumed that the cooling efficiency of one of the multiple cooling devices 17 decreases or cooling stops due to the long-term use of the module unit 1. By opening the shutter 35, the bypass path F provided on the side of the cooling device 17 is opened. This allows the air flowing through the air passage on the rear side (+Y) of the multiple modules 10 to bypass the cooling device 17 and be sent to the front side (-Y). In addition, by opening the return plate 36, adjacent internal spaces A can be connected. This makes it possible for the air on the rear side (+Y) to pass through other cooling devices 17 without passing through the cooling device 17 that has stopped or has reduced cooling efficiency.

[0078] In the second state of module unit 1, the function of a cooling device 17 whose cooling efficiency has decreased or has stopped cooling can be compensated for by another cooling device 17. This makes it possible to maintain an appropriate temperature in the internal space A and keep the data center 100 running normally until the cooling device 17 is replaced or repaired. Preferably, the opening and closing of the shutter 35 and return plate 36 is performed by a control device that monitors the temperature of the server device 16.

[0079] (outer wall) As shown in Figure 1, the multiple exterior walls 40 include multiple base plates 41, multiple roof plates 42, and multiple side plates 43.

[0080] The base plate 41 is fixed to the underside of the module 10 and covers the internal space A of the module frame 20 from below. The module 10 is mounted on the top surface of the base plate 41. The roof plate 42 is fixed to the top side of the module 10 and covers the internal space A of the module frame 20 from above. The side plates 43 are fixed to the sides of the module frame 20 and cover the internal space A of the module frame 20 from the sides (horizontally).

[0081] The bottom plate 41 and roof plate 42 are fixed one each to a single module frame 20. On the other hand, the side plates 43 are fixed to the sides of a single module frame 20 that do not have adjacent module frames 20. In addition, some of the side plates 43 are fixed to the module frame 20 via hinge members and function as doors that can be opened to the outside of the module frame 20.

[0082] The bottom plate 41, roof plate 42, and side plate 43 may have reinforcing parts 31c and bracing members 31d as shown in Figures 5 and 6. In other words, the functional wall 3 having reinforcing parts 31c and bracing members 31d may be either an inner wall 30 or an outer wall 40.

[0083] Furthermore, the bottom plate 41, roof plate 42, and side plate 43 may have a first functional layer 31f and a second functional layer 31g as shown in Figure 7. That is, the functional wall 3 having a sound-insulating layer made of sound-absorbing material or sound-insulating material, a heat-insulating layer made of heat-insulating material, or a salt damage suppression layer may be either an inner wall 30 or an outer wall 40.

[0084] As shown in Figure 4, the side panel 43 is fastened to the columnar member 20a of the module frame 20 in the internal space A of the module frame 20. That is, the outer wall 40 is fastened to the module frame 20 in the internal space A. Bolts 22a and nuts 22b are used to fasten the side panel 43 to the columnar member 20a.

[0085] In this embodiment, both the bolt 22a and the nut 22b are located in the internal space A of the module frame 20. Therefore, the side plate 43 cannot be removed from the external space B, making it difficult for outsiders to enter the internal space A from the external space B. Furthermore, it is preferable that the outer wall 40 be made of a material (for example, steel) with sufficient strength so that it cannot be easily destroyed from the external space B.

[0086] The side panel 43 has a waterproofing material 43a provided at the connection point with the module frame 20. In this embodiment, the waterproofing material 43a is a caulking material that is applied in an uncured state and then cured. The waterproofing material may also be a gasket-shaped elastic body sandwiched between the outer wall 40 and the module frame 20. Although Figure 4 shows the waterproofing material 43a provided on the side panel 43, it is preferable that the roof panel 42 and the bottom panel 41 also have waterproofing materials in the same manner.

[0087] According to this embodiment, the presence of a waterproofing material 43a in the exterior wall 40 prevents wind and rain from entering the internal space A of the module frame 20 surrounded by the exterior wall 40. This protects the module 10 in the internal space A from wind and rain, thereby increasing the reliability of the module 10.

[0088] A vibration damping device 32a, as shown in Figure 3, may be provided on the lower surface of the bottom plate 41. That is, the functional wall 3 on which the vibration damping device 32a is provided may be either the inner wall 30 or the outer wall 40. In addition, the functional wall 3 may be provided with a vibration isolation device or a vibration damping device instead of the vibration damping device 32a. That is, the functional wall 3 only needs to have a vibration damping device that suppresses the transmission of vibrations to the module 10 located in the internal space A of the module frame 20, or the transmission of vibrations from the module 10 to the outside.

[0089] As shown in Figure 1, the multiple roof panels 42 are classified into first roof panels 42A and second roof panels 42B. The first roof panels 42A are attached to module frames 20 that require precise temperature control of the internal space A. On the other hand, the second roof panels 42B are attached to module frames 20 that do not require precise temperature control of the internal space A. In this embodiment, the second roof panels 42B are attached to the two module frames 20 located at the left end (+X) of the multiple module frames 20, and the first roof panels 42A are attached to the other module frames 20. Therefore, the first roof panels 42A are attached to the module frame 20 that houses the power conditioner 13, energy storage unit 14, communication device 15, server device 16, or cooling device 17, and the second roof panels 42B are attached to the module frame 20 that houses the power receiving unit 11 or transformer 12.

[0090] Both the first roof panel 42A and the second roof panel 42B have a roof body 42c. The first roof panel 42A further has a shielding plate 42d fixed to the upper surface of the roof body 42c.

[0091] The roof body 42c separates the internal space A and the external space B of the module frame 20. This prevents wind and rain from entering the internal space A of the module frame 20.

[0092] The shielding plate 42d covers the roof body 42c from above. By blocking solar radiation, the shielding plate 42d prevents direct sunlight from hitting the roof body 42c, thereby suppressing an increase in the temperature of the roof body 42c. This suppresses an increase in the temperature of the internal space A of the module frame 20 via the roof body 42c.

[0093] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a part of the module unit 1 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 14, the roof panel 42 has an overhang portion 42e that protrudes further forward (-Y) than the front side panel 43.

[0094] The lower surface of the eaves portion 42e of the second roof panel 42B is provided with an upper ventilation opening 42f consisting of multiple slits. The multiple upper ventilation openings 42f connect the internal space A and the external space B of the module frame 20. The multiple upper ventilation openings 42f function as ventilation openings that ventilate the internal space A of the module frame 20. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the lower surface of the eaves portion 42e of the first roof panel 42A is not provided with openings such as slits, and the lower surface of the eaves portion 42e is closed.

[0095] (Base frame) As shown in Figure 1, the base frame 50 is positioned between the riser base 9 and the module frame 20. The module frame 20 is mounted on the base frame 50. In this way, the base frame 50 supports the module frame 20 and the module 10, which is positioned in the internal space A of the module frame 20, from below.

[0096] In this embodiment, one module frame 20 is mounted on the upper side of one base frame 50. In this embodiment, the shape of the base frame 50 when viewed from above is substantially the same as the shape of the module frame 20 mounted on the base frame 50 when viewed from above. Multiple module frames 20 may be mounted on one base frame 50. Furthermore, the base frames 50 may be stacked in the vertical direction Z.

[0097] In this embodiment, the multiple base frames 50 are arranged in a line in one direction (in this embodiment, the left-right direction X). However, the multiple base frames 50 do not necessarily have to be arranged in a line in one direction, and may be arranged in, for example, an L-shape, a T-shape, a U-shape, etc.

[0098] The base frame 50 in this embodiment is rectangular in shape, consisting of a pair of long sides and a pair of short sides. In this embodiment, multiple base frames 50 are arranged in the left-right direction X along the extension of the short sides. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the total length of the space in which the module unit 1 is installed can be shortened, making it easier to install the data center 100 even on a small site.

[0099] According to this embodiment, by arranging a base frame 50 that supports the module frame 20 below the module frame 20, a space can be formed below the module frame 20. This space below the module frame 20 can be used to pass through paths 60 that connect multiple modules 10 to each other, or to external devices and modules 10.

[0100] The module unit 1 of this embodiment is formed by first installing the base frame 50 at the installation site, and then mounting the module frame 20, which already houses the module 10 in its internal space A, onto the base frame 50. According to this embodiment, after installing the base frame 50, a path 60 is installed inside the base frame 50, and then the module frame 20 is mounted on the base frame 50, making it easy to arrange the path 60 in the space below the module 10.

[0101] According to this embodiment, by arranging the base frame 50 below the module frame 20, the module frame 20 can be installed away from the installation surface. This prevents water from entering the inside of the module frame 20 during rainfall and protects the module 10 placed in the internal space A of the module frame 20 from water ingress. If the position of the module frame 20 relative to the installation surface needs to be raised further, multiple base frames 50 may be stacked in the vertical direction Z.

[0102] The base frame 50 is preferably painted with a salt-resistant coating if the data center 100 is located near the sea. The salt-resistant coating contains a component that is effective in preventing salt damage (for example, a fluorine-based coating).

[0103] The base frame 50 is constructed of a material (e.g., steel) with sufficient strength to prevent it from being easily destroyed from the external space B, and is formed with sufficient thickness. In addition, the base frame 50 has openings of a certain size or larger that are sealed after installation to prevent small animals and the like from easily entering from the external space B.

[0104] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the base frame 50. The base frame 50 is constructed in a rectangular frame shape by combining at least four steel members 51, 52, and 53. The steel members 51, 52, and 53 that make up the base frame 50 are rod-shaped members that extend along the horizontal plane, and are, for example, angle steel, channel steel, or etched steel.

[0105] The base frame 50 of this embodiment has six steel members 51, 52, and 53. The six steel members include two short-side steel members 51, two long-side steel members 52, and two reinforcing steel members 53. The two short-side steel members 51 and the two long-side steel members 52 are arranged in a rectangular frame shape and constitute the outer frame of the base frame 50. The short-side steel members 51 constitute the short sides of the outer frame, and the long-side steel members 52 constitute the long sides of the outer frame. The reinforcing steel members 53 extend parallel to the short-side steel members 51. The two reinforcing steel members 53 connect the opposing long-side steel members 52 and reinforce the outer frame.

[0106] In the base frame 50 of this embodiment, the direction in which the short-side steel members 51 and reinforcing steel members 53 extend is the left-right direction X, and the direction in which the long-side steel members 52 extend is the front-back direction Y. As described above, since the multiple base frames 50 are arranged along the left-right direction X, the long-side steel members 52 of two adjacent base frames 50 face each other in the left-right direction X.

[0107] In this embodiment, the long-side steel member 52 is provided with a plurality of openings 52a. The openings 52a penetrate the long-side steel member 52 in the left-right direction X. The openings 52a provided in two adjacent base frames 50 face each other in the left-right direction X. A path 60, which will be described later, passes through the openings 52a. The reinforcing steel member 53 is provided with openings for weight reduction.

[0108] The base frame 50 is provided with two refrigerant paths 63 and two electrical wiring paths 61b and 61c.

[0109] The refrigerant path 63 is a tubular member through which the refrigerant passes. The refrigerant path 63 includes a refrigerant piping body 63c, a branch pipe section 63d, a first joint section 63p, and a second joint section 63q.

[0110] The refrigerant piping body 63c extends in the left-right direction X. Both ends of the refrigerant piping body 63c are fixed to the long-side steel members 52 of the base frame 50 by joining means such as welding. As a result, the refrigerant path 63 is fixed to the long-side steel members 52. Both ends of the refrigerant piping body 63c are exposed in the left-right direction X through the opening holes 52a of the long-side steel members 52.

[0111] The first joint portion 63p is located at the left (+X) end of the refrigerant piping body 63c. The second joint portion 63q is located at the right (-X) end of the refrigerant piping body 63c. In this embodiment, the first joint portion 63p is male and the second joint portion 63q is female. That is, the first joint portion 63p and the second joint portion 63q have shapes that allow them to be connected to each other. The first joint portion 63p of one of the two base frames 50, which are aligned in the left-right direction X, and the second joint portion 63q of the other are connected to each other.

[0112] According to this embodiment, adjacent base frames 50 each have a refrigerant path 63, and each refrigerant path 63 has joint portions 63p and 63q that connect to other refrigerant paths 63. Therefore, by arranging multiple base frames 50, the refrigerant paths 63 of each base frame 50 can be connected to each other, and the refrigerant paths 63 can be extended in the direction in which the base frames 50 are arranged (in this embodiment, the left-right direction X).

[0113] The branch pipe section 63d branches off from the refrigerant piping body 63c and extends upward. The branch pipe section 63d connects to the internal space A of the module frame 20 and is connected to a module 10 located in the internal space A of the module frame 20. In this embodiment, the module 10 to which the refrigerant piping body 63c is connected is, for example, a cooling device 17.

[0114] In this embodiment, the refrigerant path 63 is, for example, part of the path 60 connecting the outdoor chiller 7 and the cooling device 17. By providing the refrigerant path 63 on the base frame 50, the refrigerant path 63 can be installed simultaneously with the installation of the base frame 50 on the site where it will be installed. Furthermore, by mounting the module frame 20 on the base frame 50, the end of the branch pipe section 63d can be placed in the internal space A of the module frame 20, making it easy to connect the refrigerant path 63 and the module 10.

[0115] The electrical wire paths 61b and 61c are tubular members through which electrical wires pass. The electrical wire paths 61b and 61c extend in the left-right direction X. A terminal box 61d is provided at one end of the electrical wire paths 61b and 61c (in this embodiment, the left side (+X)). That is, the electrical wire paths 61b and 61c have a terminal box 61d. Both ends of the electrical wire paths 61b and 61c are exposed in the left-right direction X through the opening holes 52a of the long-side steel members 52. Both ends of the electrical wire paths 61b and 61c are fixed to the long-side steel members 52 of the base frame 50 by joining means such as welding.

[0116] Inside the terminal box 61d are the electrical wire paths 61b and the ends of the electrical wires that pass through 61b. On the left side (+X) of the terminal box 61d, there is a hole (not shown) that connects to the opening hole 52a. This allows the electrical wires passing through the electrical wire paths 61b and 61c of adjacent base frames 50 to be guided into the terminal box 61d, and the electrical wires to be connected to each other inside the terminal box 61d. Furthermore, the top surface of the terminal box 61d is provided with a hole for pulling the electrical wires upward. The electrical wires pulled upward from the terminal box 61d are guided into the internal space A of the module frame 20 and connected to the module 10 in internal space A.

[0117] According to this embodiment, by providing the electrical wire routes 61b and 61c on the base frame 50, the electrical wire routes 61b and 61c can be installed simultaneously when the base frame 50 is installed on the site to be installed. In particular, by pre-passing the electrical wires through the electrical wire routes 61b and 61c and then connecting the electrical wires of adjacent base frames 50 inside the terminal box 61d after the base frame 50 is installed, the wiring work can be easily completed. Furthermore, by drawing the electrical wires out from the terminal box 61d and guiding them into the upper internal space A of the base frame 50, the electrical wires can be easily connected to the modules 10 located in the internal space A.

[0118] According to this embodiment, adjacent base frames 50 each have electrical wire paths 61b and 61c, and each electrical wire path 61b has a terminal box 61d for drawing in the electrical wires of the other electrical wire paths 61b and 61c. Therefore, multiple base frames 50 can be arranged, and the electrical wires can be connected to each other within the terminal box 61d, and the electrical wire paths 61b and 61c can be extended in the direction in which the base frames 50 are arranged (in this embodiment, the left-right direction X).

[0119] The base frame 50 of this embodiment is provided with electrical wiring paths 61b, 61c and a refrigerant path 63. The electrical wiring paths 61b, 61c and the refrigerant path 63 each extend in the direction in which the base frames 50 are arranged (left-right direction X) and open in this direction (left-right direction X). Therefore, by arranging multiple base frames 50, the electrical wiring paths 61b, 61c and the refrigerant paths 63 of adjacent base frames 50 can be easily connected to each other.

[0120] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing a part of the module unit 1 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 16, the multiple base frames 50 are classified into a first base frame 50A and a second base frame 50B.

[0121] The first base frame 50A is equipped with module frames 20 that require precise temperature control of the internal space A. On the other hand, the second base frame 50B is equipped with module frames 20 that do not require precise temperature control of the internal space A. More specifically, module frames 20 that house a power conditioner 13, energy storage unit 14, communication device 15, server device 16, or cooling device 17 are mounted on the first base frame 50A. On the other hand, module frames 20 that house a power receiving unit 11 or transformer 12 are mounted on the second base frame 50B.

[0122] In this embodiment, the short-side steel members 51 of the second base frame 50B are provided with a plurality of lower ventilation openings 51f consisting of slits. The plurality of lower ventilation openings 51f connect the internal space A and the external space B of the module frame 20 mounted on the second base frame 50B via the inside of the second base frame 50B. The plurality of lower ventilation openings 51f function as ventilation openings that ventilate the internal space A of the module frame 20. On the other hand, the short-side steel members 51 of the first base frame 50A are closed and do not have openings such as slits.

[0123] According to this embodiment, at least one base frame (second base frame 50B) has a lower ventilation opening for ventilating the air in the internal space A of the module frame 20. Therefore, in the module frame 20, which does not require strict temperature control of the internal space A, it is possible to suppress the temperature of the internal space A from becoming too high due to the heat generated by the module 10. This improves the reliability of the operation of the module 10.

[0124] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, an upper ventilation opening 42f is provided in the eaves portion 42e of the second roof plate 42B, which is located above the second base frame 50B where the lower ventilation opening 51f is provided, as shown in Figure 14. The upper ventilation opening 42f ventilates the air in the internal space A of the module frame 20, similar to the lower ventilation opening 51f. According to this embodiment, since ventilation openings (lower ventilation opening 51f and upper ventilation opening 42f) are provided on the lower and upper sides of the internal space A of the module frame 20, air convection can be generated in the internal space A of the module frame 20. This not only makes it easier to prevent the temperature of the internal space A from becoming too high due to the heat generated by the module 10, but also allows the module 10 placed in the internal space A to be effectively cooled by convection.

[0125] In this embodiment, the modules 10 cooled by air convection caused by ventilation openings (lower ventilation opening 51f and upper ventilation opening 42f) are the power receiving unit 11 and the transformer 12. The power receiving unit 11 and the transformer 12 are modules 10 that do not require strict temperature control. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the module frame 20 that houses the power conditioner 13, energy storage unit 14, communication device 15, server device 16, or cooling device 17 is a module 10 that requires strict temperature control. According to this embodiment, the short-side steel member 51 located below and the eaves portion 42e located above are closed off from the internal space A where these modules 10 requiring strict temperature control are located. This makes it easier to adjust the temperature of the internal space A where these modules 10 are located using a temperature control device such as the cooling device 17. In addition, it is possible to suppress the intrusion of small animals, etc. into the internal space A where these modules 10 are located, thereby increasing the reliability of the modules 10. Thus, in the module unit 1 of this embodiment, the lower ventilation opening 51f and the upper ventilation opening 42f are selectively provided according to the type of module 10 arranged in the internal space A that they communicate with.

[0126] In this embodiment, the case in which ventilation openings (lower ventilation opening 51f and upper ventilation opening 42f) are provided in the second roof panel 42B and the second base frame 50B has been described. However, ventilation openings may be provided in other parts (for example, the outer wall 40 such as a side panel). Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of a modified side panel 143 having a lower ventilation opening 143a and an upper ventilation opening 143b for ventilating the internal space A. The ventilation openings only need to be provided in any of the outer walls 40. That is, at least one outer wall 40 may have ventilation openings (lower ventilation opening 143a and upper ventilation opening 143b).

[0127] (route) As shown in Figure 2, the module unit 1 has multiple paths 60. Figure 2 schematically shows some of the multiple paths 60 provided in the module unit 1.

[0128] Multiple paths 60 connect the internal spaces A of multiple module frames 20. Each path 60 only needs to connect the internal spaces A of at least two module frames 20. Each of the multiple paths 60 has a different function.

[0129] As described above, the module frame 20 and base frame 50 of this embodiment are rectangular when viewed from above. Furthermore, the multiple module frames 20 and base frames 50 are arranged along the direction in which their shorter sides extend. In this embodiment, the multiple paths 60 extend along the direction in which their shorter sides extend. According to this embodiment, the paths 60 connecting the multiple modules 10 can be shortened. This reduces resistances such as electrical resistance and airflow resistance in each path 60. Note that if at least two of the multiple module frames 20 constituting the module unit 1 are arranged along the direction in which their shorter sides extend, this effect can be obtained at least in this portion.

[0130] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the arrangement of multiple paths 60. Note that the paths 60 shown in Figure 18 are merely an example, and other arrangements can be adopted. Also, for clarity, Figure 18 shows the case where all paths 60 pass inside, above, or below a single module frame 20. However, each path 60 may pass inside, above, or below different module frames 20.

[0131] The multiple paths 60 include multiple electrical wiring paths 61a, 61b, 61c, multiple ventilation paths 62a, 62b, and multiple refrigerant paths 63. In other words, the multiple paths 60 are any of the ventilation paths 62a, 62b, refrigerant paths 63, and electrical wiring paths 61a, 61b, 61c.

[0132] The electrical wire routes 61a, 61b, and 61c shown in Figure 18 are paths through which electrical wires pass. The multiple electrical wire routes 61a, 61b, and 61c include a high-voltage power line route (power line route) 61a, a low-voltage power line route (power line route) 61b, and a communication line route 61c.

[0133] A high-voltage alternating current of, for example, 600V or more flows through the electrical wires passing through the high-voltage power line path 61a. The electrical wires passing through the high-voltage power line path 61a connect, for example, an external power source (not shown) to the power receiving unit 11, or the power receiving unit 11 to the transformer 12, supplying power to the power receiving unit 11. The electrical wires passing through the high-voltage power line path 61a also connect, for example, the generator 8 to the power conditioner 13, supplying power to the power conditioner 13.

[0134] Electrical wires passing through the low-voltage power line path 61b carry a low-voltage alternating current, for example, around 100V to 200V. These electrical wires connect the transformer 12 or energy storage unit 14 to each module 10, and the transformer 12 or energy storage unit 14 supplies power to each module 10.

[0135] The electrical wires passing through the communication line path 61c are communication lines that connect the modules 10 together and propagate signals between the modules 10.

[0136] In the example shown in Figure 18, the high-voltage power line path 61a is located in the internal space A of the module frame 20, between the roof panel 42 and the ceiling panel 32. In other words, according to this embodiment, an electrical wire path 61a for passing electrical wires is provided between the roof panel 42 and the ceiling panel 32. This makes it possible to secure a space in the internal space A of the module frame 20 that is out of reach of people, thereby making effective use of the internal space A and ensuring the safety of workers.

[0137] A wiring hole 31k is provided in the portion of the partition wall 31 through which the electrical wire path 61a passes. In other words, the functional wall 3 is provided with a wiring hole 31k. Therefore, the position of the electrical wire path 61a can be easily aligned with the wiring hole 31k in the internal space A of the multiple module frames 20.

[0138] The low-voltage power line path 61b and the communication line path 61c pass through the inside of the base frame 50. In the base frame 50 shown in Figure 15, the low-voltage power line path 61b and the communication line path 61c are provided at the same height. However, as shown in Figure 18, the multiple electrical line paths 61b and 61c provided in the base frame 50 may be provided at different positions in the vertical direction Z. When multiple base frames 50 are stacked in the vertical direction Z, the multiple paths 60 provided in the base frame 50 can be easily arranged at different positions in the vertical direction Z.

[0139] The ventilation paths 62a and 62b are paths through which air passes. In the example shown in Figure 18, the ventilation paths 62a and 62b are located in the internal space A of the module frame 20, between the ceiling plate 32 and the bottom plate 41.

[0140] The multiple ventilation paths 62a and 62b in this embodiment include a warm air ventilation path 62a and a cold air ventilation path 62b. The warm air ventilation path 62a and the cold air ventilation path 62b carry air at different temperatures. That is, warm air flows through the warm air ventilation path 62a, and cold air flows through the cold air ventilation path 62b. Here, cold air refers to air cooled by the cooling device 17. Warm air refers to air heated by the waste heat from the module 10 to be cooled.

[0141] In this embodiment, the ventilation path 62a for warm air is located on the rear side (+Y) of module 10. On the other hand, the ventilation path 62b for cold air is located on the front side (-Y) of module 10. According to this embodiment, the ventilation paths 62a and 62b through which warm air and cold air flow can be separated by module 10, thereby suppressing the mixing of warm air and cold air.

[0142] The warm air ventilation path 62a is an air path that includes the air passage Fa shown in Figure 9. Therefore, in this embodiment, the warm air ventilation path 62a can be closed by the return plate 36. On the other hand, the cold air ventilation path 62b is an air path that includes the air passage Fb shown in Figure 9.

[0143] The refrigerant path 63 shown in Figure 18 is a path through which the refrigerant flows. The refrigerant path 63 connects the outdoor chiller 7 and the cooling device 17. The module unit 1 of this embodiment is provided with two parallel refrigerant paths 63. One refrigerant path 63 is the forward path portion through which low-temperature refrigerant flows from the outdoor chiller 7 to the cooling device 17, and the other refrigerant path 63 is the return path portion through which high-temperature refrigerant, which has absorbed heat in the cooling device 17, flows from the cooling device 17 to the outdoor chiller 7.

[0144] The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant path 63 is, for example, water. However, the refrigerant may also be a refrigerant used in a general temperature control system having a heat exchanger, an evaporator, and a compressor, in which case a two-phase gas-liquid refrigerant flows through the refrigerant path 63.

[0145] In the example shown in Figure 18, the two refrigerant paths 63 are located below the base frame 50, between a pair of riser bases 9. One of the two refrigerant paths 63 is positioned above the other. The refrigerant paths 63 may also be fixed to the base frame 50 so as to pass through the inside of the base frame 50, as shown in Figure 15.

[0146] As shown by the dashed lines (double-dotted lines) in Figure 18, the refrigerant path 163 may be located in the internal space A of the module frame 20. In this case, a refrigerant path opening 31h is provided in the portion of the partition wall 31 through which the refrigerant path 163 passes. That is, the functional wall 3 is provided with a refrigerant path opening 31h. Therefore, the position of the refrigerant path 163 can be easily aligned with the refrigerant path opening 31h in the internal space A of multiple module frames 20.

[0147] In addition to these paths 60, the module unit 1 may also be provided with drainage paths for discharging condensation water and other liquids to the outside. In this case, the drainage paths only need to pass below the internal space A of the module frame 20.

[0148] In this embodiment, these multiple paths 60 pass through different positions in the vertical direction Z. Therefore, by setting a position in the height direction for each path 60, the paths 60 do not interfere with each other when combining the base frame 50, module frame 20, and functional wall 3, thereby simplifying the assembly process. In addition, the external paths that connect from outside the module unit 1 to the paths 60 of the module unit 1 also pass through different positions in the vertical direction Z. Therefore, the external paths can be easily connected to their respective paths 60 without interfering with each other.

[0149] Furthermore, when multiple module frames 20 are arranged, for example, in an L-shape or a T-shape, the multiple paths 60 are also configured to bend in an L-shape or branch in a T-shape to match the arrangement of the module frames 20. According to this embodiment, since the multiple paths 60 pass through different positions in the vertical Z direction, it is possible to suppress the complexity or detours of the paths 60 in order to prevent interference between the paths 60 at the bending or branching points.

[0150] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, multiple paths 60 can be arranged at a distance from each other in the vertical direction Z. Therefore, it is possible to suppress mutual influence between the paths 60 due to their proximity. For example, it is possible to suppress noise generation between electrical wire paths 61a, 61b, and 61c. Also, it is possible to suppress heat transfer between multiple ventilation paths 62a, 62b, multiple refrigerant paths 63, or between ventilation paths 62a, 62b and refrigerant paths 63.

[0151] In the example shown in Figure 18, the case where all paths 60 of module unit 1 are located at different positions in the vertical direction Z was described. However, the above-described effect can be obtained for at least two of the multiple paths 60 that pass through different positions in the vertical direction Z.

[0152] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the refrigerant path 63 is located below the module 10. Therefore, even if an external force is applied to the refrigerant path 63 due to an earthquake or the like, the refrigerant is less likely to come into contact with the module 10, and the refrigerant's influence on the module 10 can be suppressed.

[0153] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the refrigerant path 63 is located below the electrical wire paths 61a, 61b, and 61c. In some cases, a highly conductive liquid such as water may flow through the refrigerant path 63 as a refrigerant. According to this embodiment, even if an external force is applied to the refrigerant path 63 due to an earthquake or the like, the refrigerant is less likely to come into contact with the electrical wire paths 61a, 61b, and 61c, and short circuits of the electrical wire paths 61a, 61b, and 61c can be suppressed.

[0154] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the power line paths 61a, 61b, and 61c are positioned above or below the module 10. According to this embodiment, since the power line paths 61a, 61b, and 61c pass through positions offset in the vertical Z direction relative to the module 10, the power line paths 61a, 61b, and 61c are less likely to obstruct work on the module 10.

[0155] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the high-voltage power line path 61a is positioned above the module 10. According to this embodiment, worker safety can be ensured by positioning the high-voltage power line path 61a above the module 10, which is difficult for workers to reach.

[0156] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the power line paths (high-voltage power line path 61a and low-voltage power line path 61b) and the communication line path 61c pass through different positions in the vertical direction Z. According to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress noise in signals propagating through the communication line path 61c caused by electromagnetic waves from the power line paths.

[0157] In particular, it is preferable to arrange the communication line path 61c at a distance in the vertical Z direction from the high-voltage power line path 61a, which is prone to causing noise. In this embodiment, the high-voltage power line path 61a is arranged on the upper side of the module 10, and the communication line path 61c is arranged on the lower side of the module 10. In this embodiment, the high-voltage power line path 61a and the communication line path 61c can be arranged as far apart as possible inside the module unit 1.

[0158] In this embodiment, the warm air ventilation path 62a and the cold air ventilation path 62b pass through different positions in the vertical direction Z. According to this embodiment, since the warm air ventilation path 62a and the cold air ventilation path 62b can be arranged separately, it is possible to suppress the transfer of heat from the air passing through the warm air ventilation path 62a to the air passing through the cold air ventilation path 62b.

[0159] <Example 1> Figure 19 is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of each module 10 of module unit 1A in Modification Example 1. Modification 1's module unit 1A has 12 modules 10. Each of the 12 modules 10 is housed in a different module frame 20. Each module frame 20 is mounted on a base frame 50.

[0160] The module unit 1A of this modified example includes one power receiving unit 11, one transformer 12, two power conditioners 13, two energy storage units 14, two communication devices 15, two server devices 16, and two cooling devices 17.

[0161] The multiple modules 10 are classified into a first group G1 and a second group G2. The first group G1 includes one power receiving unit 11, one transformer 12, one power conditioner 13, one energy storage unit 14, one communication device 15, one server device 16, and one cooling device 17. On the other hand, the second group G2 includes one power conditioner 13, one energy storage unit 14, one communication device 15, one server device 16, and one cooling device 17. In the first group G1 and the second group G2, the multiple modules 10 are arranged linearly in the left-right direction X. A passage C extending in the left-right direction X is provided between the multiple modules 10 of the first group G1 and the multiple modules 10 of the second group G2.

[0162] Both the first group G1 and the second group G2 include a power conditioner 13, an energy storage unit 14, a communication device 15, a server device 16, and a cooling device 17. Modules 10 of the same type that are common to both the first group G1 and the second group G2 are arranged side-by-side in the front-to-back direction Y. This allows modules 10 of the same type to be connected by the shortest path 60. The path 60 connecting modules 10 of the same type passes beneath passage C.

[0163] <Modification 2> Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of each module 10 in module unit 1B of modified example 2. Modification 2's module unit 1B has eight modules 10. Each of the eight modules 10 is housed in a different module frame 20. Each module frame 20 is mounted on a base frame 50.

[0164] The module unit 1B of this modified example includes one power receiving unit 11, one transformer 12, one power conditioner 13, one energy storage unit 14, one communication device 15, two server devices 16, and one cooling device 17.

[0165] Of the multiple modules 10, one power receiving unit 11, one transformer 12, one power conditioner 13, one energy storage unit 14, one communication device 15, one server device 16, and one cooling device 17 are arranged linearly in the left-right direction X. The remaining module 10, the server device 16, is connected to the front side (-Y) of the other server devices 16. Module unit 1B of this modified example can be used when the server device 16 does not fit into the internal space A of one module frame 20. Module unit 1B of this modified example can also be used when the capacity of the server device 16 is expanded.

[0166] Figure 20 illustrates a case where two server devices 16 are each placed in the internal space A of two module frames 20 aligned in the front-to-back direction Y. However, a single server device 16 may be placed across the internal space A of two module frames 20 aligned in the front-to-back direction Y.

[0167] Although embodiments and variations of the present invention have been described above, the configurations and combinations thereof in the embodiments and variations are merely examples, and additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited by the embodiments. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0168] 1,1A,1B...Module unit, 3...Functional wall, 10...Module, 11...Power receiving unit, 12...Transformer, 13...Power conditioner, 14...Energy storage unit, 15...Communication device, 16...Server device, 17...Cooling device, 20...Module frame, 30...Inner wall, 31,31P...Partition wall, 31c...Reinforcement part, 31d...Bracing member, 31f...First functional layer (sound insulation layer, salt damage suppression layer), 31g...Second functional layer (heat insulation layer, salt damage suppression layer), 31h...Holes for refrigerant path, 31k...Wiring hole, 32...Ceiling panel, 32a...Vibration damping device (vibration suppression device), 35...Shutter, 36...Return plate, 40...Outer wall, 42...Roof panel, 42c...Roof body, 42d...Shielding plate, 42e...Eaves, 42f,143b...Upper ventilation opening, 43a...Waterproofing material, 50...Base frame, 63,163...Refrigerant path, 51f,143a...Lower ventilation opening, 60...Path, 61d...Terminal box, 61a...High-voltage power line path (power line path, electrical line path), 61b...Low-voltage power line path (power line path, electrical line path), 61c...Communication line path (electrical line path), 62a...Warm air ventilation path (ventilation path), 62b...Cold air ventilation path (ventilation path), 63p,63q...Joint section, 100...Data center, A...Internal space, B...External space, CF...Circulation path, F...Detour path, X...Left / right direction, Y...Front / back direction, Z...Up / down direction

Claims

1. Multiple modular frames arranged in a rectangular prism shape, A plurality of modules, each arranged in the internal space of the plurality of module frames, It has a plurality of paths connecting the internal spaces of the plurality of module frames, The aforementioned multiple modules are A power receiving unit having high-voltage power receiving capabilities. A transformer connected to the power receiving unit, Energy storage unit with energy storage function, Power conditioner with power conversion function, Server equipment, A communication device connected to the server device, and The server device includes at least one cooling device for cooling the server device, The aforementioned multiple module frames are arranged side by side, The aforementioned multiple routes are A ventilation path that allows air to pass through. Refrigerant pathways through which the refrigerant passes, and It is one of the electrical wire paths through which an electrical wire passes. The aforementioned multiple paths pass through different positions in the vertical direction. Module unit.

2. The aforementioned multiple paths include the refrigerant path, The refrigerant path is located below the module. The module unit according to claim 1.

3. The plurality of paths include the refrigerant path and the electrical wire path, The refrigerant path is located below the electrical wire path. The module unit according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned plurality of paths include the electrical wire paths, The aforementioned electrical wire path is positioned above or below the module. The module unit according to claim 1.

5. The plurality of paths include power line paths that supply power to the module as electrical line paths, The power line path is located above the module. The module unit according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned multiple routes are The aforementioned electrical line path includes a power line path that supplies power to the module, The aforementioned electrical line path includes a communication line path for propagating signals between the modules, The power line path and the communication line path pass through different locations in the vertical direction. The module unit according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned multiple routes are The aforementioned ventilation path includes a warm air ventilation path through which warm air flows, The aforementioned ventilation path includes a ventilation path for cold air through which cold air flows, The aforementioned ventilation path for warm air and the aforementioned ventilation path for cold air pass through different positions in the vertical direction. The module unit according to claim 1.

8. The module frame is rectangular in shape, consisting of a pair of long sides and a pair of short sides when viewed from above. Multiple module frames are arranged along the direction in which the shorter side extends, The aforementioned multiple paths extend in the direction in which the shorter side extends. A module unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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