Open rack frame

Abstract

An electronic equipment rack system can include a plurality of frame assemblies disposed in parallel with one another, a plurality of upper rail crossmembers and a plurality of lower rail crossmembers. The crossmembers can be coupled to the frame assemblies. The crossmembers can support adjacent ones of the frame assemblies in fixed, spaced relation to one another. Each frame assembly can include a first frame post, a second frame post, a first frame crossmember, and a second frame crossmember. The first and second frame posts can be coupled to the first and second frame crossmembers with the fronts of the first and second frame posts facing opposite of each other. The bottom end of each frame post can be coupled to a surface supporting the frame post.

Description

[0001] TITLE OF THE INVENTION

[0002] OPEN RACK FRAME

[0003] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 63 / 587,710 filed October s, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] The present disclosure relates generally to electronic equipment racks and more specifically relates to computing equipment racks, such as those used in data centers.

[0007] Current electronic equipment racks can be overly expensive and complex to manufacture and / or assemble. A need exists in the art for improved electronic equipment racks.

[0008] BRIEF SUMMARY

[0009] Applicant has created new and useful devices, systems and methods for electronic equipment racks. In at least one embodiment, an electronic equipment rack system can include a plurality of frame assemblies disposed in parallel with one another, a plurality of upper rail crossmembers, and a plurality of lower rail crossmembers. In at least one embodiment, the crossmembers can be coupled to the frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, the crossmembers can support adjacent ones of the frame assemblies in fixed, spaced relation to one another. In at least one embodiment, each frame assembly can include a first frame post, a second frame post, a first frame crossmember, and a second frame crossmember. In at least one embodiment, each frame post can have a top end, a bottom end, a centrallongitudinal axis, two sides, a front and a rear. In at least one embodiment, each frame crossmember can have a central longitudinal axis. In at least one embodiment, the first and second frame posts can be coupled to the first and second frame crossmember with the fronts of the first and second frame posts facing opposite of each other. In at least one embodiment, the bottom end of each frame post can be coupled to a surface supporting the frame post. In at least one embodiment, each of the plurality of upper and lower rail crossmembers can have a central longitudinal axis.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the system can include three frame assemblies, four lower rail crossmembers, eight upper rail crossmembers, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the system can thereby include two adjacent electronic equipment racks comprised of a plurality of each of four different structural member types, namely frame posts, frame crossmembers, lower rail crossmembers, and upper rail crossmembers.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, the system can include a plurality of top rail crossmembers. In at least one embodiment, each of the plurality of top rail crossmembers can be coupled to adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies at a location vertically above the upper and lower rail crossmembers. In at least one embodiment, the system can thereby include two adjacent electronic equipment racks comprised of a plurality of each of five different structural member types, namely frame posts, frame crossmembers, lower rail crossmembers, upper rail crossmembers, and top rail crossmembers.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, each of the frame posts, each of the frame crossmembers, each of the lower rail crossmembers, each of the upper rail crossmembers, each of the top rail crossmembers, or any combination thereof can be identical to one another and / or symmetrical. In at least one embodiment,the frame posts of each frame assembly can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, the frame crossmembers of each frame assembly can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the lower rail crossmembers can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the upper rail crossmembers can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the top rail crossmembers can be identical one another and / or can be identical to the upper rail crossmembers. In at least one embodiment, each frame post, each frame crossmember, each lower rail crossmember, each upper rail crossmember, top rail crossmembers, or any combination thereof can be symmetrical about its respective central longitudinal axis.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the system can simplify manufacturing and / or assembly. For example, the structural members of the system can be limited to the five different structural member types discussed above, in which a group type can be identical and / or symmetrical, thereby simplifying manufacturing and / or assembly. That is, within a structural member type, the members can be interchangeable. In at least one embodiment, the structural members of the system can be assembled with mechanical fasteners, thereby simplifying manufacturing and / or assembly.

[0014] In at least one embodiment, the system can include one or more frame mounts which can be coupled to one or more of the frame assemblies, such as to support coupling of the frame assemblies to a surface supporting the electronic equipment racks. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts can be identical. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts can be coupled to any frame posts of the frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts can include a gusseted body having a first member, which can be coupled to the bottom end of a corresponding framepost, and a second member, which can be coupled to the surface supporting the electronic equipment racks. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts can also couple one of the frame cross members to one of the frame posts. In at least one embodiment, the system can include a plurality of ladder rung members, which can be coupled to corresponding pairs of the upper rail crossmembers and / or the top rail crossmembers.

[0015] In at least one embodiment, the system can include a pair of mounting brackets coupled to adjacent frame posts of the plurality of frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, the system can include a first mounting bracket disposed above a second mounting bracket coupled to adjacent frame posts. In at least one embodiment, the first and second mounting brackets can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, the system can include one or more manifolds coupled to the first and second mounting brackets. In at least one embodiment, the system can include one or more busbars coupled to the first and second mounting brackets. In at least one embodiment, the system can include first and second manifolds coupled to the first and second mounting brackets, and a busbar coupled to the first and second mounting brackets. In at least one embodiment, the busbar can be disposed between the first and second manifolds. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the first and second mounting brackets can extend rearwardly of the adjacent frame posts.

[0016] In at least one embodiment, the system can include a first frame assembly on a first end and a second frame assembly on a second end, the second end being longitudinally opposite the first end of the electronic equipment rack system. In at least one embodiment, the system can include an end panel at least partially enclosing the first frame assembly, and / or an end panel at least partially enclosing the second frame assembly. In at least one embodiment, the system can include a first end panel coupled to the first frame assembly and asecond end panel coupled to the second frame assembly. In at least one embodiment, the first and second end panels can be the only side panels in the system. For example, in at least one embodiment, there need not be end panels between the frame assemblies and / or the electronic equipment racks of the system.

[0017] In at least one embodiment, the system can include one or more frame assemblies disposed between the first and second frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies can define an electronic equipment rack space there between. In at least one embodiment, the system can thereby include a row of electronic equipment racks wherein a number of the electronic equipment racks is one less than a number of the plurality of frame assemblies. Or, said another way, the system can include a row of electronic equipment racks, having one more frame assembly than it does electronic equipment racks, thereby economizing the use of frame assemblies within a series of electronic equipment racks. For example, three frame assemblies would include two electronic equipment racks, four frame assemblies would include three electronic equipment racks, five frame assemblies would include four electronic equipment racks, and so on.

[0018] In at least one embodiment, an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure can include a plurality of frame assemblies disposed in parallel with one another, and each frame assembly can include a first frame post and a second frame post, each frame post having a top end, a bottom end, a central longitudinal axis, two sides, a front and a rear, a first frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis, and a second frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis. In at least one embodiment, the first and second frame posts can be coupled to the first and second frame crossmembers with the fronts of the first and second frame posts facing opposite of each other. In at least oneembodiment, the bottom end of each frame post can be arranged for being coupled to a surface supporting the frame post. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of rail crossmembers can be coupled to the plurality of frame assemblies and arranged for supporting adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies in fixed, spaced relation to one another.

[0019] In at least one embodiment, at least one of (a) the first and second frame posts of each frame assembly, (b) the first and second frame crossmembers of each frame assembly, (c) the plurality of rail crossmembers, or (d) any combination thereof, can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, at least two of (a) the first and second frame posts of each frame assembly, (b) the first and second frame crossmembers of each frame assembly, (c) the plurality of rail crossmembers, or (d) any combination thereof, can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of frame assemblies and / or at least one of the plurality of rail crossmembers can be arranged for being coupled to a support structure disposed beside and / or above at least a portion of the electronic equipment rack system.

[0020] In at least one embodiment, an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure can include a plurality of frame assemblies disposed in parallel with one another, and each frame assembly can include a first frame post and a second frame post, each frame post having a top end, a bottom end, a central longitudinal axis, two sides, a front and a rear, a first frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis, and a second frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis. In at least one embodiment, the first and second frame posts can be coupled to the first and second frame crossmembers with the fronts of the first and second frame posts facing opposite of each other. In at least one embodiment, the bottom end of each frame post can be arranged for being coupled to a surface supporting the frame post. In at least one embodiment, aplurality of rail crossmembers can be coupled to the plurality of frame assemblies and arranged for supporting adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies in fixed, spaced relation to one another, with electronic equipment rack space between adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, at least one of (a) the first and second frame posts of each frame assembly, (b) the first and second frame crossmembers of each frame assembly, (c) the plurality of rail crossmembers, or (d) any combination thereof, can be identical to one another.

[0021] In at least one embodiment, the plurality of frame assemblies can include a first frame assembly on a first end of the electronic equipment rack system, a second frame assembly on a second end of the electronic equipment rack system, and one or more frame assemblies disposed between the first and second frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies can have electronic equipment rack space there between, and the system can be or include a row of electronic equipment racks wherein a number of the electronic equipment racks is one less than a number of the plurality of frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of frame assemblies and / or at least one of the plurality of rail crossmembers can be arranged for being coupled to a support structure disposed beside and / or above at least a portion of the electronic equipment rack system.

[0022] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a frame assembly according to the disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a mount according to the disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system having an end panel according to the disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 5 is another partial perspective view of one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a partial rear perspective view of one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another one of many embodiments of a frame assembly according to the disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of some of many embodiments of select components of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an end panel according to the disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 11 is another perspective view of one of many embodiments of an end panel according to the disclosure.

[0034] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The figures described above and the written description of specific structures and functions below are not presented to limit the scope of what Applicant has invented or the scope of the appended claims. Rather, the figuresand written description are provided to teach any person skilled in the art to make and use the inventions for which patent protection is sought. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all features of a commercial embodiment of the inventions are described or shown for the sake of clarity and understanding. Persons of skill in this art will also appreciate that the development of an actual commercial embodiment incorporating aspects of the present inventions will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer’s ultimate goal for the commercial embodiment. Such implementation-specific decisions may include, and likely are not limited to, compliance with system- related, business-related, government-related and other constraints, which may vary by specific implementation, location and from time to time. While a developer’s efforts might be complex and time-consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts would be, nevertheless, a routine undertaking for those of skill in this art having benefit of this disclosure. It must be understood that the inventions disclosed and taught herein are susceptible to numerous and various modifications and alternative forms.

[0036] The use of a singular term, such as, but not limited to, “a,” is not intended as limiting of the number of items. Also, the use of relational terms, such as, but not limited to, “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” “lower,” “down,” “up,” “side,” and the like are used in the written description for clarity in specific reference to the figures and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions or the appended claims. The terms “including” and “such as” are illustrative and not limitative. The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “coupling,” “coupler,” and like terms are used broadly herein and can include any method or device for securing, binding, bonding, fastening, attaching, joining, inserting therein, forming thereon or therein, communicating, or otherwise associating, for example, mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operably, directly or indirectly withintermediate elements, one or more pieces of members together and can further include without limitation integrally forming one functional member with another in a unity fashion. The coupling can occur in any direction, including rotationally.

[0037] Further, all parts and components of the disclosure that are capable of being physically embodied inherently include imaginary and real characteristics regardless of whether such characteristics are expressly described herein, including but not limited to characteristics such as axes, ends, inner and outer surfaces, interior spaces, tops, bottoms, sides, boundaries, dimensions (e.g., height, length, width, thickness), mass, weight, volume and density, among others. In addition, as will also be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefits of the present disclosure, two or more items said to be the same as, or identical to, one another, need not necessarily be completely indistinguishable from one another, unless expressly indicated otherwise. Rather, such relative terms are generally intended to take into consideration the realities and inherent imperfections of manufacturing or otherwise bringing into existence objects that are capable of being physically embodied. Thus, for example, unless expressly indicated otherwise, use of the term “identical” or conjugations thereof are intended to encompass both literal identicality and realistic identicality. Said another way, for instance, two identical objects can be at least about identical, or at least substantially identical.

[0038] Applicant has created new and useful devices, systems and methods for electronic equipment racks. In at least one embodiment, a system according to the disclosure, such as an electronic equipment rack or rack system, can include a plurality of frame assemblies disposed in parallel with one another, which can include a plurality of like frame posts, a plurality of like crossmembers and a plurality of mounts coupled together in an advantageous manner. By utilizing a relatively small number of like components and a relatively openconcept, embodiments of the disclosure can advantageously provide for electronic equipment racks and systems capable of reducing costs and easing considerations around manufacturing, storage, shipping and assembly. In at least one embodiment, a system according to the disclosure can be particularly advantageous in the context of stationary rack installations, such as by reducing costs, weight and complexity involved with containerized data centers or other implementations wherein the racks are generally intended to remain in place relative to a structure supporting the racks.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a frame assembly according to the disclosure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a mount according to the disclosure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system having an end panel according to the disclosure. FIG. 5 is another partial perspective view of one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure. FIG. 6 is a partial rear perspective view of one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another one of many embodiments of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another one of many embodiments of a frame assembly according to the disclosure. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of some of many embodiments of select components of an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an end panel according to the disclosure. FIG. 11 is another perspective view of one of many embodiments of an end panel according to the disclosure. FIGS. 1-11 are described in conjunction with one another.

[0040] In at least one embodiment, an electronic equipment rack system 100 according to the disclosure can include a plurality of frame assemblies 102 disposed in parallel with one another, a plurality of upper rail crossmembers 104, and a plurality of lower rail crossmembers 106. In at least one embodiment, the frame assemblies 102 and the crossmembers 104, 106 can include an electronic equipment rack, or rack space, 108 there between. In at least one embodiment, the electronic equipment rack, or rack space, 108 can receive electronic equipment, such as computing equipment, networking equipment, and / or power distribution equipment, therein.

[0041] In at least one embodiment, the crossmembers 104, 106 can be coupled to the frame assemblies 102. In at least one embodiment, the crossmembers 104, 106 can support adjacent ones of the frame assemblies 102 in fixed, spaced relation to one another. In at least one embodiment, each frame assembly 102 can include two frame posts 110 and two frame crossmembers 112. In at least one embodiment, each frame post 110 can have a top end 114, a bottom end 116, two sides 118, a front 120 and a rear 122. In at least one embodiment, the frame posts 1 10 can be coupled to the frame crossmembers 112 with the fronts 120 of the frame posts 110 facing opposite of each other. In at least one embodiment, the bottom end 116 of each frame post 110 can be coupled to a surface supporting the frame post 110, such as the floor or substructure of a server room. In at least one embodiment, each frame post 102, each upper rail crossmember 104, each lower rail crossmember 106, each frame crossmember 112, or any combination thereof, can have its own central longitudinal axis.

[0042] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include three frame assemblies 102, four lower rail crossmembers 106, eight upper rail crossmembers 104, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, thesystem 100 can thereby include two adjacent electronic equipment racks 108 comprised of a plurality of each of four different structural member types, namely frame posts 110, frame crossmembers 1 12, lower rail crossmembers 106, and upper rail crossmembers 104.

[0043] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include a plurality of top rail crossmembers 124. In at least one embodiment, each of the top rail crossmembers 124 can be coupled to adjacent ones of the frame assemblies 102 at a location vertically above the upper and lower rail crossmembers 104, 106. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can thereby include two adjacent electronic equipment racks 108 comprised of a plurality of each of five different structural member types, namely frame posts 110, frame crossmembers 112, lower rail crossmembers 106, upper rail crossmembers 104, and top rail crossmembers 124.

[0044] In at least one embodiment, each of the frame posts 110, each of the frame crossmembers 112, each of the lower rail crossmembers 106, each of the upper rail crossmembers 104, each of the top rail crossmembers 124, or any combination thereof can be identical to one another and / or symmetrical. In at least one embodiment, the frame posts 1 10 of each frame assembly 102 can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, the frame crossmembers 112 of each frame assembly 102 can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the lower rail crossmembers 106 can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the upper rail crossmembers 104 can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the top rail crossmembers 124 can be identical one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the top rail crossmembers 124 can be identical to the upper rail crossmembers 104. In at least one embodiment, each frame post 110, each frame crossmember 112, each lower rail crossmember 106, each upper railcrossmember 104, each top rail crossmember 124, or any combination thereof can be symmetrical about its respective central longitudinal axis.

[0045] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can simplify manufacturing and / or assembly. For example, the structural members of the system 100 can be limited to the five different structural member types discussed above, which can be identical and / or symmetrical, thereby simplifying manufacturing and / or assembly. In at least one embodiment, the structural members of the system 100 can be assembled with mechanical fasteners, thereby simplifying manufacturing and / or assembly.

[0046] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more frame mounts 126 which can be coupled to one or more of the frame assemblies 102, such as to support coupling of the frame assemblies 102 to a surface supporting the electronic equipment racks 108. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts 126 can be identical. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts 126 can be coupled to any frame posts 110 of the frame assemblies 102. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts 126 can include a gusseted body having a first member 128, which can be coupled to a corresponding frame post 110 such as at the bottom end 116 thereof, and a second member 130, which can be coupled to the surface supporting the electronic equipment racks 108. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts 126 can also couple one of the frame cross members 112 to one of the frame posts 1 10.

[0047] As shown in, e.g., FIGS. 1 , 2 and 5 for illustrative purposes, in at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more frame mounts 126 configured to couple one or more frame posts 110 to a support surface beneath the system 100. As other examples, in at least one embodiment, thesystem 100 can be configured to couple with one or more other supporting surfaces or structures, such as a ceiling, wall, or other supporting structure disposed above, next to, in front of, or behind some or all of the system 100, whether separately or in combination with one another and / or a support surface beneath the system 100. For instance, in at least one embodiment, one or more frame mounts 126 can be coupled to the top end of one or more frame assemblies 102 and configured to couple with an adjacent support structure. As another example, one or more frame mounts 126 can be coupled to one or more frame posts 110, one or more of crossmembers 104, 106, 112, 124, or any combination thereof, and configured to couple with an adjacent support structure.

[0048] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include a plurality of ladder rung members 132, which can be coupled to corresponding pairs of the upper rail crossmembers 104 and / or the top rail crossmembers 124. In at least one embodiment, the ladder rung members 132 together with the upper rail crossmembers 104 and / or the top rail crossmembers 124 can include one or more ladder assemblies 134.

[0049] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include a pair of mounting brackets 136 coupled to adjacent frame posts 110 of the frame assemblies 102. In at least one embodiment, the mounting brackets 136 can support various accessories. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include a first mounting bracket 136 disposed above a second mounting bracket 136 coupled to adjacent frame posts 110. In at least one embodiment, the first and second mounting brackets 136 can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more manifolds 138 coupled to the first and second mounting brackets 136. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more busbars 140 coupled to the first and second mounting brackets 136. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can includefirst and second manifolds 138 coupled to the first and second mounting brackets 136, and a busbar 140 coupled to the first and second mounting brackets 136. In at least one embodiment, the busbar 140 can be disposed between the first and second manifolds 138. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the first and second mounting brackets 136 can extend rearwardly of the adjacent frame posts 1 10.

[0050] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more power distribution unit (PDU) supports 144. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include a plurality of PDU supports 144 for each frame assembly 102. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more PDU mounting brackets 146. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more PDU mounting brackets 146 for each frame assembly 102. In at least one embodiment, each PDU mounting bracket 146 can be secured to each frame assembly 102 through two or more PDU supports 144.

[0051] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more power hangers 148, such as to support or otherwise cooperate with an electrical power distribution system, such as, for example, the Vertiv™ Powerbar iMPB busbar system, or other systems. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more power hangers 148 for each frame assembly 102. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more power hangers 148 for every other frame assembly 102.

[0052] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include a first frame assembly 102 on a first end and a second frame assembly 102 on a second end, the second end being longitudinally opposite the first end of the electronic equipment rack system 100. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include an end panel 150 at least partially enclosing the first frame assembly 102,and / or an end panel 150 at least partially enclosing the second frame assembly 102. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include a first end panel 150 coupled to the first frame assembly 102 and a second end panel 150 coupled to the second frame assembly 102. In at least one embodiment, the first and second end panels 150 can be the only side panels in the system 100. For example, in at least one embodiment, there need not be end panels between the frame assemblies 102 and / or the electronic equipment racks 108 of the system 100.

[0053] In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more frame assemblies 102 disposed between the first and second frame assemblies 102. In at least one embodiment, adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies 102 can define an electronic equipment rack space 108 there between. In at least one embodiment, the system 100 can thereby include a row of electronic equipment racks 108 wherein a number of the electronic equipment racks 108 is one less than a number of the plurality of frame assemblies 102. Or, said another way, the system 100 can include a row of electronic equipment racks 108, having one more frame assembly 102 than it does electronic equipment racks 108. For example, three frame assemblies 102 would include two electronic equipment racks 108, four frame assemblies 102 would include three electronic equipment racks 108, five frame assemblies 102 would include four electronic equipment racks 108, etc.

[0054] In at least one embodiment, the structural members and / or other components of the system 100 can be made of stamped metal. In at least one embodiment, the structural members and / or other components of the system 100 can be made in whole or in part from one or more other materials, such as structural engineered bamboo (SEB) (see, e.g., FIGS. 7-11 ). In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the upper rail crossmembers 104 can be madeof or include SEB. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the lower rail crossmembers 106 can be made of or include SEB. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the frame posts 110 can be made of or include SEB. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the frame crossmembers 112 can be made of or include SEB. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the top rail crossmembers 124 can be made of or include SEB. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the ladder rungs 132 can be made of or include SEB.

[0055] As shown, for instance, in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 7- 11 , in at least one embodiment, one or more of the structural members discussed above can be comprised largely of SEB (or another material, if desired) portions configured to be coupled with one or more metal components, such as sheet metal components. For instance, in at least one embodiment, one or more frame posts 110 can include SEB members having two U-space rails 156 coupled thereto, and / or one or more frame crossmembers 112 can include an SEB member coupled to the frame posts with a pair of frame mounts 126. Similarly, in at least one embodiment, one of more of the upper rail crossmembers 104, lower rail crossmembers 106, and ladder rungs 132 can include an SEB member coupled to one or more metal brackets 152, 154, 156 for facilitating assembly with one or more other components. In at least one embodiment, one or more brackets 152, 154, 156 can include a plurality of openings therein for selectively coupling with an SEB member to facilitate the selective mounting of the SEB member in variable locations or positions as required or desired in accordance with an implementation of the disclosure. In at least one embodiment, one or more end panels can be comprised wholly of SEB. In at least one embodiment, one or more SEB components or members can include a plurality of pilot holesfor facilitating connection with one or more other components, such as brackets 152, 154, 156 or frame posts 110.

[0056] In at least one embodiment, an electronic equipment rack system can include a plurality of frame assemblies disposed in parallel with one another, a plurality of upper rail crossmembers, and a plurality of lower rail crossmembers. In at least one embodiment, the crossmembers can be coupled to the frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, the crossmembers can support adjacent ones of the frame assemblies in fixed, spaced relation to one another. In at least one embodiment, each frame assembly can include a first frame post, a second frame post, a first frame crossmember, and a second frame crossmember. In at least one embodiment, each frame post can have a top end, a bottom end, a central longitudinal axis, two sides, a front and a rear. In at least one embodiment, each frame crossmember can have a central longitudinal axis. In at least one embodiment, the first and second frame posts can be coupled to the first and second frame crossmember with the fronts of the first and second frame posts facing opposite of each other. In at least one embodiment, the bottom end of each frame post can be coupled to a surface supporting the frame post. In at least one embodiment, each of the plurality of upper and lower rail crossmembers can have a central longitudinal axis.

[0057] In at least one embodiment, the system can include three frame assemblies, four lower rail crossmembers, eight upper rail crossmembers, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the system can thereby include two adjacent electronic equipment racks comprised of a plurality of each of fourdifferent structural member types, namely frame posts, frame crossmembers, lower rail crossmembers, and upper rail crossmembers.

[0058] In at least one embodiment, the system can include a plurality of top rail crossmembers. In at least one embodiment, each of the plurality of top rail crossmembers can be coupled to adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies at a location vertically above the upper and lower rail crossmembers. In at least one embodiment, the system can thereby include two adjacent electronic equipment racks comprised of a plurality of each of five different structural member types, namely frame posts, frame crossmembers, lower rail crossmembers, upper rail crossmembers, and top rail crossmembers.

[0059] In at least one embodiment, each of the frame posts, each of the frame crossmembers, each of the lower rail crossmembers, each of the upper rail crossmembers, each of the top rail crossmembers, or any combination thereof can be identical to one another and / or symmetrical. In at least one embodiment, the frame posts of each frame assembly can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, the frame crossmembers of each frame assembly can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the lower rail crossmembers can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the upper rail crossmembers can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, each of the top rail crossmembers can be identical one another and / or can be identical to the upper rail crossmembers. In at least one embodiment, each frame post, each frame crossmember, each lower rail crossmember, each upper rail crossmember, top rail crossmembers, or anycombination thereof can be symmetrical about its respective central longitudinal axis.

[0060] In at least one embodiment, the system can simplify manufacturing and / or assembly. For example, the structural members of the system can be limited to the five different structural member types discussed above, which can be identical and / or symmetrical, thereby simplifying manufacturing and / or assembly. In at least one embodiment, the structural members of the system can be assembled with mechanical fasteners, thereby simplifying manufacturing and / or assembly.

[0061] In at least one embodiment, the system can include one or more frame mounts which can be coupled to one or more of the frame assemblies, such as to support coupling of the frame assemblies to a surface supporting the electronic equipment racks. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts can be identical. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts can be coupled to any frame posts of the frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts can include a gusseted body having a first member, which can be coupled to the bottom end of a corresponding frame post, and a second member, which can be coupled to the surface supporting the electronic equipment racks. In at least one embodiment, each of the frame mounts can also couple one of the frame cross members to one of the frame posts.

[0062] In at least one embodiment, the system can include a plurality of ladder rung members, which can be coupled to corresponding pairs of the upper rail crossmembers and / or the top rail crossmembers.

[0063] In at least one embodiment, the system can include a pair of mounting brackets coupled to adjacent frame posts of the plurality of frameassemblies. In at least one embodiment, the system can include a first mounting bracket disposed above a second mounting bracket coupled to adjacent frame posts. In at least one embodiment, the first and second mounting brackets can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, the system can include one or more manifolds coupled to the first and second mounting brackets. In at least one embodiment, the system can include one or more busbars coupled to the first and second mounting brackets. In at least one embodiment, the system can include first and second manifolds coupled to the first and second mounting brackets, and a busbar coupled to the first and second mounting brackets. In at least one embodiment, the busbar can be disposed between the first and second manifolds. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the first and second mounting brackets can extend rearwardly of the adjacent frame posts.

[0064] In at least one embodiment, the system can include a first frame assembly on a first end and a second frame assembly on a second end, the second end being longitudinally opposite the first end of the electronic equipment rack system. In at least one embodiment, the system can include an end panel at least partially enclosing the first frame assembly, and / or an end panel at least partially enclosing the second frame assembly. In at least one embodiment, the system can include a first end panel coupled to the first frame assembly and a second end panel coupled to the second frame assembly. In at least one embodiment, the first and second end panels can be the only side panels in the system. For example, in at least one embodiment, there need not be end panels between the frame assemblies and / or the electronic equipment racks of the system.

[0065] In at least one embodiment, the system can include one or more frame assemblies disposed between the first and second frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies candefine an electronic equipment rack space there between. In at least one embodiment, the system can thereby include a row of electronic equipment racks wherein a number of the electronic equipment racks is one less than a number of the plurality of frame assemblies. Or, said another way, the system can include a row of electronic equipment racks, having one more frame assembly than it does electronic equipment racks. For example, three frame assemblies would include two electronic equipment racks, four frame assemblies would include three electronic equipment racks, five frame assemblies would include four electronic equipment racks, and so on.

[0066] In at least one embodiment, an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure can include a plurality of frame assemblies disposed in parallel with one another, and each frame assembly can include a first frame post and a second frame post, each frame post having a top end, a bottom end, a central longitudinal axis, two sides, a front and a rear, a first frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis, and a second frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis. In at least one embodiment, the first and second frame posts can be coupled to the first and second frame crossmembers with the fronts of the first and second frame posts facing opposite of each other. In at least one embodiment, the bottom end of each frame post can be arranged for being coupled to a surface supporting the frame post. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of rail crossmembers can be coupled to the plurality of frame assemblies and arranged for supporting adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies in fixed, spaced relation to one another.

[0067] In at least one embodiment, at least one of (a) the first and second frame posts of each frame assembly, (b) the first and second frame crossmembers of each frame assembly, (c) the plurality of rail crossmembers, or (d) any combination thereof, can be identical to one another. In at least oneembodiment, at least two of (a) the first and second frame posts of each frame assembly, (b) the first and second frame crossmembers of each frame assembly, (c) the plurality of rail crossmembers, or (d) any combination thereof, can be identical to one another. In at least one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of frame assemblies and / or at least one of the plurality of rail crossmembers can be arranged for being coupled to a support structure disposed beside and / or above at least a portion of the electronic equipment rack system.

[0068] In at least one embodiment, an electronic equipment rack system according to the disclosure can include a plurality of frame assemblies disposed in parallel with one another, and each frame assembly can include a first frame post and a second frame post, each frame post having a top end, a bottom end, a central longitudinal axis, two sides, a front and a rear, a first frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis, and a second frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis. In at least one embodiment, the first and second frame posts can be coupled to the first and second frame crossmembers with the fronts of the first and second frame posts facing opposite of each other. In at least one embodiment, the bottom end of each frame post can be arranged for being coupled to a surface supporting the frame post. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of rail crossmembers can be coupled to the plurality of frame assemblies and arranged for supporting adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies in fixed, spaced relation to one another, with electronic equipment rack space between adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, at least one of (a) the first and second frame posts of each frame assembly, (b) the first and second frame crossmembers of each frame assembly,(c) the plurality of rail crossmembers, or (d) any combination thereof, can be identical to one another.

[0069] In at least one embodiment, the plurality of frame assemblies can include a first frame assembly on a first end of the electronic equipment rack system, a second frame assembly on a second end of the electronic equipment rack system, and one or more frame assemblies disposed between the first and second frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies can have electronic equipment rack space there between, and the system can be or include a row of electronic equipment racks wherein a number of the electronic equipment racks is one less than a number of the plurality of frame assemblies. In at least one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of frame assemblies and / or at least one of the plurality of rail crossmembers can be arranged for being coupled to a support structure disposed beside and / or above at least a portion of the electronic equipment rack system.

[0070] Other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of the disclosure can be devised without departing from the spirit of Applicant’s disclosure. For example, the devices, systems and methods can be implemented for numerous different types and sizes in numerous different industries. Further, the various methods and embodiments of the devices, systems and methods can be included in combination with each other to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments. Discussion of singular elements can include plural elements and vice versa. The order of steps can occur in a variety of sequences unless otherwise specifically limited. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, interlineated with the stated steps, and / or split into multiple steps. Similarly, elements have been described functionally and can beembodied as separate components or can be combined into components having multiple functions.

[0071] The inventions have been described in the context of preferred and other embodiments and not every embodiment of the inventions has been described. Obvious modifications and alterations to the described embodiments are available to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefits of the present disclosure. The disclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of the inventions conceived of by the Applicant, but rather, in conformity with the patent laws, Applicant intends to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that come within the scope or range of equivalents of the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:1 . An electronic equipment rack system, comprising: a plurality of frame assemblies disposed in parallel with one another, wherein each frame assembly comprises: a first frame post and a second frame post, each frame post having a top end, a bottom end, a central longitudinal axis, two sides, a front and a rear; a first frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis; and a second frame crossmember having a central longitudinal axis; wherein the first and second frame posts are coupled to the first and second frame crossmembers with the fronts of the first and second frame posts facing opposite of each other; and wherein the bottom end of each frame post is configured to be coupled to a surface supporting the frame post; and a plurality of upper and lower rail crossmembers coupled to the plurality of frame assemblies and configured to support adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies in fixed, spaced relation to one another, each of the plurality of upper and lower rail crossmembers having a central longitudinal axis; wherein the first frame post and the second frame post of each frame assembly are identical to one another; wherein the frame crossmembers of the plurality of frame assemblies are identical to one another; wherein each of the plurality of lower rail crossmembers are identical to one another; and wherein each of the plurality of upper rail crossmembers are identical to one another.

2. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 1 , wherein each frame post is symmetrical about its central longitudinal axis.

3. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 1 , wherein each of the frame crossmembers is symmetrical about its central longitudinal axis.

4. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of lower rail crossmembers is symmetrical about its central longitudinal axis.

5. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of upper rail crossmembers is symmetrical about its central longitudinal axis.

6. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 1 , wherein each frame post, each of the frame crossmembers, and each of the plurality of upper and lower rail crossmembers is symmetrical about its respective central longitudinal axis.

7. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of frame assemblies comprises three frame assemblies; and the plurality of lower rail crossmembers comprises four lower rail crossmembers; and the plurality of upper rail crossmembers comprises eight upper rail crossmembers; the system thereby comprising two adjacent electronic equipment racks comprised of a plurality of each of four different structural member types.

8. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 7, further comprisinga plurality of top rail crossmembers, each of the plurality of top rail crossmembers being coupled to adjacent ones of the plurality of frame assemblies at a location vertically above the plurality of upper and lower rail crossmembers; and wherein each of the plurality of top rail crossmembers is identical; the system thereby comprising two adjacent electronic equipment racks comprised of a plurality of each of five different structural member types.

9. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 8, wherein all structural members of the system are selected from the group consisting of the five different structural member types.

10. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 8, wherein all structural members of the system are configured to be assembled with mechanical fasteners.

11. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 8, further comprising one or more frame mounts configured to be coupled to one or more of the plurality of frame assemblies and to support coupling of the plurality of frame assemblies to a surface supporting the electronic equipment racks.

12. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 11 , wherein each of the one or more frame mounts is identical and is configured to be selectively coupled to any frame post of the plurality of frame assemblies.

13. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 12, wherein each of the one or more frame mounts comprises a gusseted body having a first memberconfigured to be coupled to the bottom end of a corresponding frame post and a second member configured to be coupled to the surface supporting the electronic equipment racks.

14. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 12, wherein each of the one or more frame mounts is further configured to couple one of the frame cross members to one of the frame posts.

15. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 8, further comprising a plurality of ladder rung members coupled to corresponding pairs of the plurality of top rail crossmembers.

16. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 1 , further comprising a pair of mounting brackets coupled to adjacent frame posts of the plurality of frame assemblies, wherein the pair of mounting brackets comprises a first mounting bracket disposed above a second mounting bracket.

17. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 16, wherein the first and second mounting brackets are identical to one another.

18. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 16, further comprising one or more manifolds coupled to the first and second mounting brackets.

19. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 16, further comprising one or more busbars coupled to the first and second mounting brackets.

20. The electronic equipment rack system of claim 16, further comprising first and second manifolds coupled to the first and second mounting brackets, and a busbar coupled to the first and second mounting brackets.

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