Device for cooling computer hardware for storing and processing data, immersed in a natural aquatic environment, corresponding storage system and immersion method

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (100) for cooling computer hardware (105), configured to operate while immersed in a natural aquatic environment (110), comprising: - a leaktight external wall (115) configured to be in contact with the natural aquatic environment (110), the external wall (115) forming an internal volume (120) configured to store a heat-exchanging dielectric liquid (125), and - at least one piece of computer hardware (105) located in the internal volume (120) and configured to be in contact with the dielectric liquid (125).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE OF THE INVENTION: COMPUTER EQUIPMENT COOLING DEVICE FOR DATA STORAGE AND PROCESSING, IMMERSED IN A NATURAL AQUATIC ENVIRONMENT, CORRESPONDING STORAGE SYSTEM AND IMMERSION METHOD

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to a computer hardware cooling device, a data storage and processing system, and a method for immersing a data storage and processing system.

[0005] It is particularly applicable to the field of immersion-cooled data storage and processing infrastructures. Specifically, it enables the creation of a cooling system for underwater immersion data storage and processing systems.

[0006] STATE OF THE ART

[0007] The approaches described in this section are approaches that could be pursued, but not necessarily approaches that have been previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, it should not be assumed that any of the approaches described in this section constitutes prior art simply because of its inclusion in this section.

[0008] Modern solutions for cooling data centers have evolved considerably to meet increasing demands for power density and energy efficiency. Key methods include air cooling, liquid cooling, evaporative cooling, and immersion cooling.

[0009] We are familiar with air-cooling systems for data centers. Such systems are generally implemented using air conditioning and intelligent ventilation systems, drawing hot air from IT equipment and expelling it outside the data center.

[0010] Data center cooling systems using liquid ("water cooling") are well-known. Such systems involve the use of water or refrigerant circuits to extract heat from computer equipment.

[0011] We are familiar with evaporative cooling systems for data centers. Such systems use water to cool the ambient air, thereby reducing the temperature inside the data storage center.

[0012] We now know of immersion cooling systems. Such systems involve immersing computer equipment in a refrigerant fluid.

[0013] However, these solutions can be hampered by capacity limitations and high energy consumption. The technological background of the invention is known in the United States of America (US 10 285309).

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The general concept of the invention consists of implementing a data storage and processing system submerged in a natural aquatic environment, designed to provide a secure and sustainable data storage and processing environment under aquatic conditions. The system includes a computer hardware cooling device containing a dielectric liquid. This device has a main structure made of a corrosion-resistant material, providing protection against the aquatic elements.

[0016] Such a system combines immersion cooling of at least one piece of computer equipment within a device with submersion in a natural aquatic environment, enabling more efficient heat transfer and a significant reduction in energy consumption. Furthermore, deployment in a natural aquatic environment offers considerable installation potential.

[0017] The invention allows for the safe submersion of the data storage and processing system at various depths, while ensuring effective protection against corrosion and other environmental damage. The invention is as defined in claims 1, 7, and 11.

[0018] PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the drawbacks of the state of the art.

[0020] Accordingly, in a first aspect, the present invention relates to a computer hardware cooling device for data storage and processing, configured to operate while immersed in a natural aquatic environment, which comprises:

[0021] - a watertight outer wall, configured to be in contact with the natural aquatic environment, said outer wall forming an internal volume configured to store a heat-exchange dielectric liquid, and

[0022] - at least one piece of computer equipment located in the internal volume and configured to be in contact with the dielectric liquid, which also includes a retention system, positioned in the internal volume (120), comprising:

[0023] - a storage compartment, configured to be independent of at least one piece of computer hardware (105) and

[0024] - at least one drainage element, configured to direct water seeping from a leak to the storage compartment. Thanks to these arrangements, the IT equipment is cooled by double immersion, thus exploiting the natural cooling advantages of a natural aquatic environment and offering a viable alternative to traditional land-based installations. The heat produced by each piece of IT equipment is transferred by convection at several levels from each piece of equipment to the water in the natural aquatic environment. The first level of convection is from the IT equipment to the dielectric fluid. The second level of convection is from the dielectric fluid to the outer wall of the device. The third level of convection is from the outer wall to the natural aquatic environment.

[0025] These provisions allow for the cooling of computer hardware cooling devices while drastically reducing electrical energy consumption.

[0026] Furthermore, the sealing of the device that is the subject of the invention ensures the safe operation of each piece of computer equipment.

[0027] Also, the device which is the subject of the invention, being able to be totally filled with incompressible dielectric liquid, makes it possible to eliminate the effects of pressure in a natural aquatic environment with a great depth.

[0028] The biodegradable dielectric liquid reduces environmental risks in the event of a leak in a device covered by the invention. In the event of a major incident or sabotage of a device covered by the invention, resulting in the total loss of each piece of computer equipment and the release of all the dielectric liquid into the natural aquatic environment, the liquid, being less dense than the water in the natural aquatic environment, will rise to the surface. The dielectric liquid can then be pumped directly to avoid any environmental risk.

[0029] Furthermore, these features allow for the capture and containment of any water from the natural aquatic environment that might enter the device. This minimizes potential damage to critical IT equipment. Additionally, operational continuity can be ensured while the device is being removed from the natural aquatic environment for corrective maintenance.

[0030] In some embodiments, the device also includes a control and monitoring system configured to detect a leak in the outer wall and / or control operating parameters of the inner volume.

[0031] These embodiments allow for real-time monitoring of the device's status, particularly the environmental conditions of the internal volume. Specialized sensors can be integrated to collect this data in real time and transmit it to a central management unit. This unit analyzes the data to identify trends or anomalies that could indicate imminent problems, such as overheating of each piece of computer equipment and / or the dielectric fluid. If an operating threshold is exceeded, automatic notifications can be sent to maintenance personnel, triggering rapid interventions to remove the device from the natural aquatic environment. In some embodiments, the containment system is configured to activate when a leak is detected within the internal volume.

[0032] These embodiments allow for the rapid capture of water from the natural aquatic environment that has infiltrated the device. Furthermore, the automation of the retention system enables efficient management of the infiltrated water by quickly directing it to the storage compartment while the device is being raised from the natural aquatic environment for corrective maintenance.

[0033] In some embodiments, the device also includes a system for circulating the dielectric liquid within the internal volume.

[0034] These embodiments ensure efficient heat transfer between each immersed computer component and the dielectric liquid used as a cooling agent.

[0035] In some embodiments, the outer wall has a main watertight opening.

[0036] These embodiments allow for the installation of each piece of computer equipment within the internal volume of the device and the filling of the device with dielectric fluid. The sealing of the main opening ensures that the dielectric fluid remains within the device. Furthermore, the main opening allows for maintenance operations.

[0037] In some embodiments, the outer wall comprises an anti-corrosive material.

[0038] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a data storage and processing system, which comprises:

[0039] - at least one device,

[0040] - a device for immersing at least one of said devices in the natural aquatic environment, and

[0041] - an electrical and network connection of at least one said device to a base station positioned outside the natural aquatic environment.

[0042] These embodiments allow for controlled immersion of the devices in the natural aquatic environment and reliable, secure connectivity between the platform and each submerged piece of IT equipment. The immersion device can be remotely operated from the base station, thus providing precise deployment during immersion.

[0043] The base station allows the power allocated to each piece of equipment, in particular the servers of the device that is the subject of the invention, to be managed in order not to exceed the operating thresholds of the dielectric liquid.

[0044] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system further includes an anchoring support for at least one device, comprising at least one fixing element, configured to maintain the device close to a floor in the natural aquatic environment.

[0045] These embodiments allow the device to remain in place even under harsh environmental conditions and to withstand hydrodynamic forces, water currents, and weather conditions, thus ensuring a secure attachment of the submerged device. Furthermore, device movement is minimized, ensuring its stability during operation in the natural aquatic environment, particularly in deep water.

[0046] In optional embodiments, the data storage and processing system includes a flotation support for at least one device, and includes:

[0047] - at least one floating element, configured to support at least one of said device,

[0048] - at least one attachment element, configured to hold at least one of said floating elements submerged.

[0049] These embodiments ensure the buoyancy and stability of the system while maintaining it submerged in the natural aquatic environment at the desired depth. The devices are thus kept at a specific depth below the surface of the water in the natural aquatic environment.

[0050] In addition, the fastening element ensures that the support remains securely fixed and in place on the ground.

[0051] The support provides increased resistance to the conditions of the natural aquatic environment and ensures the safety and durability of the devices and each piece of computer equipment.

[0052] In optional embodiments, the data storage and processing system includes a means for varying the immersion depth of at least one device as a function of the temperature in the internal volume.

[0053] These embodiments allow the position of the devices to be adjusted according to the conditions of the natural aquatic environment. The means of variation provides significant flexibility and adaptability, enabling the device to be adapted to each natural aquatic environment in which it is immersed.

[0054] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system further includes a device for managing the temperature in the internal volume of at least one said device as a function of an immersion depth of the device.

[0055] These embodiments allow the temperature of the device's internal volume to be adjusted according to environmental conditions. The temperature management system enables efficient temperature control of each device within the natural aquatic environment, ensuring optimal performance of each piece of computer equipment.

[0056] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system further includes at least one structural element configured to act as an artificial reef and / or to integrate into an aquatic culture.

[0057] These methods of implementation make it possible to offer habitats adapted to colonization by aquatic life.

[0058] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method for immersing a data storage and processing system which comprises:

[0059] - a step of filling a device with a dielectric liquid, - a step of immersing at least one piece of computer equipment into the device through the main opening,

[0060] - a step of fixing at least one of said computer hardware items into the device,

[0061] - a step of sealing the device,

[0062] - a step involving the electrical and network connection of the device to at least one platform,

[0063] - a step of immersing the device using an immersion device in a natural aquatic environment and

[0064] - a drainage stage, configured to direct water seeping from a sealing breach to a storage compartment of a retention system.

[0065] Since the advantages, goals and particular characteristics of the process are similar to those of the device and system which are the subject of the invention, they are not recalled here.

[0066] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0067] Other advantages, purposes and particular features of the invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of a computer hardware cooling device, a data storage and processing system and a method for immersing a data storage and processing system, which are the subject of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0068] Figure 1 schematically and in perspective represents one embodiment of a computer hardware cooling device that is the subject of the invention.

[0069] Figure 2 schematically and in perspective represents one embodiment of a data storage and processing system that is the subject of the invention.

[0070] Figure 3 schematically and in perspective represents one embodiment of an anchoring support for a data storage and processing system of the [Fig. 2],

[0071] Figure 4 schematically and in perspective represents one embodiment of a flotation support for a data storage and processing system of the [Fig. 2],

[0072] Figure 5 schematically and in perspective represents one embodiment of a structural element of a data storage and processing system from [Fig. 2],

[0073] Figure 6 schematically represents, in the form of a flowchart, a succession of specific steps in the process that is the subject of the present invention and

[0074] Figure 7 schematically and in perspective represents a second embodiment of an anchoring support for a data storage and processing system of the [Fig. 2],

[0075] DESCRIPTION OF IMPLEMENTATION METHODS

[0076] The present description is given by way of non-limiting attribution, each feature of an embodiment being able to be advantageously combined with any other feature of any other embodiment.

[0077] It should be noted from the outset that the figures are not to scale. As will be understood from this description, various inventive concepts can be implemented by one or more of the methods or devices described below, several examples of which are provided here. The actions or steps performed in the implementation of the method or device can be ordered in any appropriate manner. Consequently, it is possible to construct embodiments in which the actions or steps are performed in a different order than that illustrated, which may include performing certain acts simultaneously, even if they are presented as sequential acts in the illustrated embodiments.

[0078] The expression "and / or," as used in this document, should be understood as meaning "one or the other or both" of the elements thus joined, that is, elements that are present conjunctively in some cases and disjunctively in others. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" should be interpreted in the same way, that is, "one or more" of the elements thus joined. Other elements may also be present, other than those specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, whether or not they are related to those specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, a reference to "A and / or B", when used in conjunction with an open language such as "including", may refer, in one embodiment, to A only (possibly including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (possibly including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to A and B (possibly including other elements); etc.

[0079] As used here in this document, "or" should be understood inclusively.

[0080] As used in this document, the expression "at least one," when referring to a list of one or more elements, should be understood as meaning at least one element chosen from one or more elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each element specifically enumerated in the list of elements and not excluding any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for the optional presence of elements other than those specifically identified in the list of elements to which the expression "at least one" refers, whether or not they are related to those specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B", or, equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") may refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, A, without B present (and possibly including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, B, without A present (and possibly including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, A, and at least one, possibly including more than one, B (and possibly including other elements); etc.

[0081] In this document, all transitional expressions such as "comprising", "including", "carrying", "having", "containing", "implying", "holding", "composed of", and others, should be understood as open, that is, as meaning including but not limited to. Only the transitional expressions "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" should be understood as closed or semi-closed transitional expressions, respectively.

[0082] In this document, the terms "superior" and "high" refer to what is at the top when the device of the invention is installed in a natural aquatic environment.

[0083] Throughout the description, the terms "lower" and "bottom" refer to what is at the bottom when the device that is the subject of the invention is installed in a natural aquatic environment.

[0084] Figure 1, which is not to scale, shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a device 100 for cooling computer hardware 105 for data storage and processing, which is the subject of the present invention.

[0085] The device 100 of the invention can have variable dimensions depending on the storage and processing capacity required. The device 100 of the invention may, for example, have a cylindrical, parallelepiped, or any other shape suitable for housing at least one computer hardware component 105. Preferably, the device 100 of the invention has a rectangular shape. The enclosure may have several faces. The device 100 of the present invention can be manufactured by bending, welding, casting, or stamping.

[0086] Such computer hardware 105 can be any electronic component known to those skilled in data storage and processing. Examples of such computer hardware 105 include a server, a storage array, a power supply, a security system, or a processor. Such computer hardware 105 generates heat, through the Joule effect, when in operation. Preferably, the device 100 of the invention comprises several pieces of computer hardware 105.

[0087] In some embodiments, the device 100 of the invention is configured to operate while immersed in a natural aquatic environment 110. Preferably, the device 100 of the invention is watertight. The device 100 of the invention can be partially or totally immersed in the natural aquatic environment 110.

[0088] The device 100 of the invention is preferably fully immersed at a predetermined depth in the natural aquatic environment 110. In other words, the device 100 of the invention can be submerged in the natural aquatic environment 110. Preferably, the device 100 of the invention is positioned near the bottom of the natural aquatic environment 110. For example, once the device 100 of the invention is installed in the natural aquatic environment, the immersion depth remains substantially the same.

[0089] A natural aquatic environment 110 can be a natural aquatic environment or a natural aquatic body of water. A natural aquatic environment 110, for example, is an ocean, a sea, a lake, a river, a groundwater aquifer, a spring, a stream, a pond, a loch, a lagoon, a reservoir, or a river. In some embodiments, the device 100 of the invention comprises a watertight outer wall 115, configured to be in contact with the natural aquatic environment 110.

[0090] In some embodiments, the outer wall 115 forms an internal volume 120 configured to store a heat-exchange dielectric fluid 125. The device 100 of the invention can be partially or totally filled with dielectric fluid 125. Preferably, the volume of dielectric fluid 125 is substantially equal to the internal volume 120 remaining after the installation of the components and each piece of computer equipment 105 in the device 100 of the invention. In other words, the dielectric fluid 125 can cover each piece of computer equipment 105. Preferably, the device 100 of the invention is totally filled with dielectric fluid 125 when installed in a deep, natural aquatic environment 110. The dielectric fluid 125 can be of any type known to those skilled in the art.For example, the dielectric fluid 125 is a mineral oil, a synthetic oil, a fluorocarbon-based fluid, a synthetic ester, or another specific dielectric fluid. Preferably, the dielectric fluid 125 is biodegradable. The heat-exchange dielectric fluid 125 may have high thermal conductivity. In other words, the dielectric fluid 125 is preferentially a heat transfer fluid. Such a dielectric fluid may have a lower density than the density of water from the natural aquatic environment 110. A water-coagulating additive may also be added to the internal volume 120. Such an additive is preferably miscible with the dielectric fluid 125. Preferably, the dielectric fluid is incompressible.

[0091] In some embodiments, the device 100 of the invention further comprises at least one computer component 105 located within the internal volume 120 and configured to be in contact with the dielectric fluid 125. The internal volume 120 is, for example, sized according to each computer component 105. The device may include, within its internal volume 120, retaining elements (not shown) for each computer component 105, such as rails or edges on an internal wall of the device. Each computer component 105 is, for example, attached to the retaining elements by fastening systems such as screws and nuts or any other fastening system well known to those skilled in the art.

[0092] Each piece of computer equipment 105 can be in direct contact with the dielectric liquid 125. The dielectric liquid 125 can absorb the heat produced by at least one piece of computer equipment 105. In other words, the dielectric liquid 125 can transfer heat from at least one piece of computer equipment 105 to the liquid 125. In other words, the heat from at least one piece of computer equipment 105 can be transferred by convection to the dielectric liquid 125 with which it is in contact.

[0093] In some embodiments, the device 100 of the invention further comprises a circulation system 130 for the dielectric fluid 125 within the internal volume 120. The system can generate a controlled flow of the dielectric fluid 125 within the internal volume. The heat from each piece of computer equipment 105 can be transferred by convection to the dielectric fluid 125 moving around and / or through each piece of computer equipment 105. The circulation system 130 may include:

[0094] - at least one pump (not shown),

[0095] - at least one heat exchanger (not shown) positioned on a surface of at least one piece of computer equipment,

[0096] - at least one impurity and particle filter (not shown) and / or

[0097] - a reservoir (not shown) of dielectric liquid.

[0098] The dielectric liquid 125 preferentially undergoes heat exchange with the outer wall 125. In other words, the dielectric liquid 125 can transfer the absorbed heat from at least one computer component 105 to the outer wall 115. The outer wall 115, for example, undergoes heat exchange with the natural aquatic environment 110. In other words, the outer wall 125 can transfer the absorbed heat from the dielectric liquid 125 to the natural aquatic environment 110. The device 100 of the invention preferably has the capacity to dissipate a quantity of heat.

[0099] In some embodiments, the outer wall 115 includes a watertight main opening 135. Preferably, the main opening 135 is positioned on the upper part of the device 100 of the invention. The watertightness of the main opening 135 can be achieved by a gasket made of a material suitable for aquatic environments. Such a gasket is, for example, an EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) gasket resistant to the aquatic environment in which the device 100 of the invention is immersed. For example, the main opening 135 is a face of the wall 115 that is detachable from the device 100 of the invention. The outer wall 115 may further include fastening elements 136 for attaching the main opening to the outer wall 115. Such fastening elements 136 can be screw-nut systems or any other system known to those skilled in the art.The seal can be achieved by a predetermined tightening torque of the fasteners 136. Preferably, the main opening 135 comprises a material similar to the material of the outer wall 115.

[0100] In some variations, the main opening 135 can be operated by translation of a slide or rotation of a pivot.

[0101] In some embodiments, the outer wall 115 comprises a corrosion-resistant material. Such a material can be of any type known to those skilled in the art. The corrosion-resistant material can be stainless steel, an aluminum alloy, a composite material, a specialized plastic, or a specific coating.

[0102] In optional embodiments, at least one computer hardware component 105 includes a corrosion-resistant material. For example, the material may be similar to the material of the outer wall 115.

[0103] In optional embodiments, the outer wall 115 includes a protective coating. Such a coating may be a hydrophobic coating, an anti-corrosion coating, an electrically insulating coating, and / or a heat-resistant coating. The coating is, for example, positioned on the outer wall 115. In some embodiments, the device 100 further includes at least one control and monitoring system configured to detect a leak in the outer wall 115 and / or to monitor operating parameters of the inner volume 120. Such a system may include sensors measuring the parameters of the dielectric fluid 125 and / or the inner volume 120 of the device 100 of the invention. For example, such parameters are temperature, pressure, and / or humidity. Preferably, the sensors are positioned within the inner volume, near critical points on the outer wall 115.Such a system may also include at least one camera. Such a camera could be, for example, an omnidirectional and / or thermal camera. The camera is preferably positioned within the device 100, which is the subject of the invention, covering all openings.

[0104] In optional embodiments, the outer wall 115 includes at least one environmental sensor. Such an environmental sensor may be a pressure, humidity, and / or temperature sensor.

[0105] In some embodiments, the device 100 further includes a retention system (not shown) for infiltrated water, positioned in the internal volume 120. The infiltrated water comes from the natural aquatic environment 110, infiltrating the device 100 of the invention through a sealing breach formed on the outer wall 115.

[0106] In some embodiments, the retention system includes a storage compartment (not shown), configured to be independent of at least one computer hardware 105. Such a compartment is preferably independent of each computer hardware 105. The storage compartment can be positioned in a lower part of the internal volume 120. The storage compartment is, for example, filled with dielectric liquid 125. The storage compartment can communicate with the rest of the internal volume 120. Such a system can be active and / or passive.

[0107] In some embodiments, the retention system further includes at least one drainage element (not shown) configured to direct water infiltrating from the sealing breach to the storage compartment. The system may include a drainage element near each sensor of the control and monitoring system. A drainage element may be active and / or passive. Passive drainage elements are, for example, channels, conduits, or internal walls positioned within the internal volume 120, near the external wall 115. A passive drainage element may be filled with a dielectric fluid. The passive drainage element is, for example, connected to the rest of the internal volume 120. Active drainage elements may be pumps configured to draw water infiltrating from the internal volume 120.Such pumps are, for example, positioned within the internal volume 120 near critical points on the outer wall 115. For instance, a leak sensor and / or a water level sensor can be positioned at the bottom of each drainage element. In the case of a passive retention system, the infiltrated water, being denser than the dielectric fluid 125, naturally flows down the drainage elements and collects in the storage compartment.

[0108] In some embodiments, the retention system is configured to activate when a leak is detected in the internal volume 120. The control and monitoring system detects water infiltrating the internal volume 120. For example, a humidity sensor can detect water in the internal volume 120. A control system can generate an alert and trigger the activation of the drainage elements. The drainage elements can then draw the infiltrated water and direct it to the storage compartment.

[0109] Figure 2, which is not to scale, shows a schematic view of one embodiment of a 200 data storage and processing system.

[0110] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system 200 includes at least one device 205 of the invention. The device 205 of the invention may include fastening and / or suspension systems on the outer wall 115.

[0111] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system 200 further comprises a device for immersing (not shown) at least one of said device 205, the subject of the invention, in the natural aquatic environment 210. Such an immersion device may comprise:

[0112] - a controlled deployment mechanism and / or

[0113] - a stabilization and positioning device.

[0114] A deployment mechanism may consist of articulated arms, a winch system, or any other mechanism suitable for submerging the device 205 that is the subject of the invention. Such a mechanism, for example, holds the device 205 that is the subject of the invention by means of suspension systems positioned on the outer wall 115.

[0115] A stabilization and positioning device may be a guidance system, positioning sensors and fastening mechanisms or any other device suitable for stabilizing the device 205 subject of the invention during its immersion in the natural aquatic environment 210.

[0116] In optional embodiments, the system 200 of the invention may also include pressure regulation systems around the device 205 of the invention.

[0117] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system 200 also includes an electrical and network connection 215 of at least one said device 205 of the invention to a base station 220 positioned outside the natural aquatic environment 210.

[0118] Such an electrical and network connection 215 may include at least one watertight or shielded cable. The cables are, for example, electrical or fiber optic cables. The connection 215 may also include watertight connection elements specific to the natural aquatic environment 210 in which the device 205 of the invention is immersed. Such connection elements are, for example, watertight connectors, sealing housings, sealing gaskets, or any other connection element suitable for connecting a system immersed in a natural aquatic environment. Preferably, the watertight connection elements are cable gland systems. For example, the cable gland systems are cable glands used in diving equipment.

[0119] In some versions, the 200 data storage and processing system includes a wireless communication link. Antennas can be mounted on the 220 base station.

[0120] The base station 220 can be positioned at various distances from the system 200 that is the subject of the invention. The base station 220 may be, for example, a land-based station, a mobile or temporary station, or a submarine station. The base station 220 may include electrical connections installed upstream of the device 205 that is the subject of the invention. Such electrical connections may have, for example, maximum power thresholds that limit the power used by the device 205 that is the subject of the invention. The dielectric fluid 230 has operating thresholds, limited by the maximum power thresholds of the electrical connections.

[0121] The other features of the device 205 which is the subject of the invention are already described in [Fig. 1], they are not described again here.

[0122] Figure 3, which is not to scale, shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a 300 data storage and processing system with an anchor support 330.

[0123] In these embodiments, the data storage and processing system 300 further comprises an anchoring support 330 for at least one device 305 of the invention. The device 305 of the invention may include attachment systems on its outer wall 115. The device 305 of the invention may, for example, have weights positioned within its internal volume 120 and / or on its outer wall 115. The anchoring support 330 may be dimensioned to maintain at least one device 305 of the invention in contact with a substrate 325 of the natural aquatic environment 310.

[0124] In some embodiments, the anchoring support 330 includes at least one fastening element 335, configured to hold the device 305 of the invention close to the ground 325 of the natural aquatic environment 310. Such a fastening element 335 is, for example, a pile, an anchor, or a steel cable. The fastening element 335 may have a first end configured to adapt to the attachment systems of the device 305 of the invention. The fastening element 335 may, for example, have a second end configured to be embedded in the ground 325. The device 305 of the invention may be in direct contact with the ground 325 by the action of the anchoring device 330.

[0125] In optional embodiments, the anchoring support 330 further comprises at least one stabilizing device configured to stabilize the device 335 near a substrate 325 in the natural aquatic environment 310. Such a stabilizing device is, for example, fins or stabilizers. The other features of the device 305 of the invention are already described in [Fig. 1] and [Fig. 2] and are not described again here.

[0126] Figure 7, which is not to scale, shows a schematic view of a second embodiment of a data storage and processing system 700 with an anchoring support 730. The device 705 of the invention may include attachment systems on the outer wall 115 configured to be fixed to the intermediate support 730.

[0127] In these embodiments, the data storage and processing system 700 further comprises an anchoring support 730 for at least one device 705 of the invention. The anchoring support 730 is preferably dimensioned to support at least one device 705 of the invention. The anchoring support 730 may be in direct contact with a substrate 725 of the natural aquatic environment 710. The anchoring support 730 is, for example, an intermediary between the substrate 725 and the device 705 of the invention.

[0128] In some embodiments, the anchor support 730 may further include at least one attachment element (not shown) configured to secure the support 730 to the ground 725. Such an attachment element may be a cable, a pile, an anchor, weights, and / or a chain made of corrosion-resistant material. The attachment element may have a first end configured to hook onto the anchor support 730. The attachment element may, for example, have a second end configured to be embedded in the ground 725.

[0129] The other features of the device 705 which is the subject of the invention are already described in [Fig. 1] and in [Fig. 2], they are not described again here.

[0130] Figure 4, which is not to scale, shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a 400 data storage and processing system with a 430 flotation support.

[0131] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system 400 includes a flotation support 430 for at least one device 405 of the invention. Such a flotation support 430 can be sized to support a plurality of devices 405 of the invention. Such a flotation system 430 can be active and / or passive. An active flotation system 430 has, for example, a buoyancy control system such as pumps, thrusters, rudders, or automatic ballasts.

[0132] In some embodiments, the flotation support 430 comprises at least one floating element 435, configured to support at least one of the devices 405 of the invention. Such a floating element 435 may be a low-density material, air chambers, adjustable ballasts, or any other element suitable for the buoyancy of a system submerged in a natural aquatic environment.

[0133] In some embodiments, the flotation support 430 further includes at least one attachment element 440 configured to hold at least one floating element 435 submerged. Such an attachment element 440 may be a cable or chain made of corrosion-resistant material. The attachment element 440 may have a first end configured to attach to the flotation support 430. The attachment element 440 may, for example, have a second end configured to be embedded in the ground 425.

[0134] The other features of the device 405 which is the subject of the invention are already described in [Fig. 1] to [Fig. 3], they are not described again here.

[0135] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system 400 includes a means 445 for varying the immersion depth of at least one device 405 of the invention as a function of the temperature in the internal volume 120. Such a variation means 445 may be an adjustable flotation element 435 and / or an adjustable attachment element 440. The variation means 445 is, for example, adjustable ballasts filled with a fluid of adjustable density. The variation means 445 may be an adjustable flotation device such as air chambers or inflatable balloons. The variation means 445 may be a cable, embedded in the floor 425, coupled to an adjustment mechanism for controlling the cable length and thus the immersion depth.

[0136] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system 400 further comprises a temperature control device 450 for the internal volume of at least one device 405 of the invention, based on the immersion depth of the device 405. Such a control device 450 may be at least one heat exchanger coupled with thermal sensors. When the thermal sensor detects an excessively high temperature, the heat exchanger activates in parallel with the heat transfer carried out by the dielectric fluid. The control device 450 may be a controller for the operation of the circulation system 130 coupled with thermal sensors, as shown in Figure 1.The controller is, for example, configured to accelerate the circulation of the dielectric liquid 125 and / or slow down the circulation of the dielectric liquid 125 in the internal volume 120 of the device 405 which is the subject of the invention, as shown in Figure 1.

[0137] Figure 5, which is not to scale, shows a schematic view of one embodiment of a 500 data storage and processing system with a 555 structural element.

[0138] In some embodiments, the data storage and processing system 500 further includes at least one structural element 555 configured to act as an artificial reef and / or to integrate into an aquatic culture 501.

[0139] A structural element 555 may consist of artificial reef modules positioned on the support 530 and / or on the outer wall 115. Such modules may be branch-shaped supports, platforms, nesting boxes, shelters, protruding structures, aquatic life attachment surfaces, or any other element suitable for the development of aquatic biodiversity. The structural element 555 may be specific to the natural aquatic environment 510 in which the device 505 of the invention is immersed.

[0140] Structural element 555 is, for example, suitable for aquatic culture 501. Structural element 555 can be aquatic culture modules such as floating racks for hydroponics, breeding ropes for algae farming and / or net structures for fish and crustacean farming.

[0141] The structural element 555 is preferably made of ecological and non-toxic building materials such as biodegradable concrete, sustainable wood, recycled composite, artificial stone, marine composite material or any other material suitable for the development of aquatic biodiversity.

[0142] In variants, the outer wall 115 of the device 505 of the invention comprises a textured surface such as reliefs and / or hollows to act as an artificial reef.

[0143] In other variants, the 500 system of the invention includes equipment for filtering water returned to tanks of aquaponics systems.

[0144] In other variants, the system 500 which is the subject of the invention further comprises at least one water quality control device such as pH level, temperature and / or water quality sensors.

[0145] Figure 6 shows a schematic view of one embodiment of the process 600 which is the subject of the present invention.

[0146] In some embodiments, the 600 method for immersing a 200, 300, 400 and / or 500 data storage and processing system comprises:

[0147] - a step 605 of filling a device 100, 205, 305, 405 and / or 505 with a dielectric liquid 125, as shown in Figure 1 to Figure 5,

[0148] - a step 610 of immersing at least one computer hardware 105 into the device 100, 205, 305, 405 and / or 505 through the main opening 135,

[0149] - a step 615 of fixing at least one of said computer hardware 105 in the device 100, 205, 305, 405 and / or 505,

[0150] - a step 620 of sealing the device 100, 205, 305, 405 and / or 505,

[0151] - a 625 step of electrical and network connection of the device 100, 205, 305, 405 and / or 505 to at least one 220 platform and

[0152] - a step 630 of immersion of the device 100, 205, 305, 405 and / or 505 using an immersion device in a natural aquatic environment 110, 210, 310, 410 and / or 510.

[0153] In variants, the immersion step 610 and the fixing step 615 of at least one computer hardware 105 in the device 100, 205, 305, 405 and / or 505 are carried out upstream of the filling step 605 of the device 100, 205, 305, 405 and / or 505 with a dielectric liquid 125.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. A device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) for cooling computer equipment (105) for data storage and processing, configured to operate while immersed in a natural aquatic environment (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 710), comprising: - a watertight outer wall (115), configured to be in contact with the natural aquatic environment (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 710), said outer wall (115) forming an internal volume (120) configured to store a heat exchange dielectric liquid (125, 230), and - at least one computer device (105) located in the internal volume (120) and configured to be in contact with the dielectric liquid (125, 230) characterized in that it also comprises a retention system, positioned in the internal volume (120), comprising: - a storage compartment, configured to be independent of at least one piece of computer hardware (105) and - at least one drainage element, configured to direct water seeping from a leak in the seal towards the storage compartment.

2. Device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) according to claim 1, which further comprises a control and monitoring system, configured to detect a leak in the outer wall (115) and / or control operating parameters of the inner volume (120).

3. Device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the retention system is configured to activate when a leak is detected in the internal volume (120).

4. Device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which further comprises a circulation system (130) of the dielectric liquid (125, 230) in the internal volume (120).

5. Device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the outer wall (115) has a main sealed opening (135).

6. Device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the outer wall (115) comprises an anti-corrosive material.

7. Data storage and processing system (200, 300, 400, 500, 700), characterized in that it comprises: - at least one device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, - a device for immersing at least one of said devices (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) in the natural aquatic environment (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 710), and - an electrical connection (215) and network of at least one said device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) to a base station (220) positioned outside the natural aquatic environment (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 710).

8. System (200, 300, 400, 500, 700) according to claim 7, further comprising an anchoring support (330) for at least one device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705), comprising at least one fixing element (335), configured to hold the device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) in close proximity to a soil (225, 325, 425, 725) of the natural aquatic environment (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 710).

9. System (200, 300, 400, 500, 700) according to any one of claims 7 or 8, further comprising a device for managing the temperature in the internal volume of at least one said device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) as a function of an immersion depth of the device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705).

10. System (200, 300, 400, 500, 700) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising at least one structural element (555) configured to act as an artificial reef and / or to integrate into an aquatic culture.

11. Method (600) for immersing a data storage and processing system (200, 300, 400, 500, 700) comprising: - a step (605) of filling a device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) with a dielectric liquid (125, 230), - a step (610) of immersing at least one computer hardware (105) into the device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) through the main opening (135), - a step (615) of fixing at least one said computer hardware (105) in the device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705), - a step (620) of sealing the device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705), - a step (625) of electrical and network connection of the device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) to at least one platform (220) and - a step (630) of immersing the device (100, 205, 305, 405, 505, 705) using an immersion device in a natural aquatic environment (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 710) - a drainage stage, configured to direct water seeping from a sealing breach to a storage compartment of a retention system.

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