Method for recovering power facility of data center

Abstract

Disclosed in one embodiment of the present disclosure is a power facility management method of a data center for maintaining data center availability. The method may comprise the steps of: constructing a monitoring system by virtual modeling of components of a power facility for supplying power to data center equipment; monitoring the power facility through the monitoring system; recognizing and identifying a problem-occurrence component on the basis of the monitoring of the power facility; and generating a recovery power supply path by searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment in order to recover power supply to the data center equipment.

Description

How to restore power equipment in a data center

[0001] The present invention relates to a data center facility management technology, and more specifically, to construct a monitoring system for each component of a data center's power facility, and to search for and determine a power recovery path quickly and efficiently when a problem occurs.

[0002] Modern data centers are comprised of a variety of equipment, including servers, storage devices, and networking equipment. To ensure a stable power supply to these devices, multiple power systems are redundant or multiplexed. Power systems include transformers, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), distribution panels, and battery systems, all of which are essential for providing continuous and stable power to data center equipment.

[0003] However, data center power systems can experience problems due to a variety of causes, and power outages or failures can significantly impact the availability of data center equipment. Existing power management systems primarily rely on manual monitoring or have limited automation capabilities, making it difficult to respond quickly when problems occur and requiring significant time to explore and determine recovery paths.

[0004] Furthermore, the complex interconnection of power equipment components makes it difficult to identify and implement appropriate recovery paths when problems occur. Existing systems often fail to account for this complexity and simply perform route changes, making efficient power equipment management difficult and limiting their ability to ensure data center power availability.

[0005] The present disclosure is conceived based on the aforementioned background technology, and proposes a power supply path that can quickly restore power supply when a problem occurs in a multiplexed power facility environment of a data center, and provides restoration of power supply.

[0006] In order to solve the above-described problem, a method for managing power equipment of a data center to maintain data center availability according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is disclosed. The method may include the steps of: building a monitoring system by virtually modeling components of power equipment that supply power to data center equipment; monitoring the power equipment through the monitoring system; recognizing and identifying a component having a problem based on the monitoring of the power equipment; and creating a restored power supply path by searching for a power supply path from the power equipment to the data center equipment to restore power supply to the data center equipment.

[0007] Alternatively, the virtual modeling may be performed based on at least one of information about the classification, hierarchy, physical location, and electrical connection status of each component of the power facility.

[0008] Alternatively, each component of the power equipment may be hierarchically structured, with each layer including primary and secondary components.

[0009] Alternatively, the step of monitoring the power facility may include the step of receiving monitoring information from each component of the power facility via power line communication or sensor network communication.

[0010] Alternatively, the monitoring information may include at least one of operation status information, load status information, and connection status information for each component.

[0011] Alternatively, the step of recognizing and identifying a problematic component based on monitoring of the power equipment may include the step of recognizing and identifying the problematic component based on monitoring information received from the problematic component or another component connected to the problematic component.

[0012] Alternatively, the step of searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to create a restored power supply path for restoring power to the data center equipment may include the step of identifying the data center equipment associated with the problematic component; and the step of creating one or more restored power supply paths that exclude the problematic component to supply power to the data center equipment.

[0013] Alternatively, the step of searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to create a recovery power supply path for power supply restoration to the data center equipment may further include the step of determining a recovery power supply path by filtering the one or more recovery power supply paths.

[0014] Alternatively, the step of determining a recovery power supply path by filtering the one or more recovery power supply paths may include the step of determining a recovery power supply path by excluding a recovery power supply path that includes a component that exceeds a load allowance among components on the recovery power supply path when operating as the recovery power supply path.

[0015] Alternatively, the step of determining a recovery power supply path by filtering the one or more recovery power supply paths may include the step of determining a recovery power supply path by filtering a path that includes a waypoint component among the one or more recovery power supply paths.

[0016] Alternatively, the step of searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to create a restored power supply path for power restoration to the data center equipment may include the step of determining a priority of the restored power supply path based on the ease of operation of the power facility to operate as the restored power supply path.

[0017] Alternatively, the step of searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to create a recovery power supply path for power supply restoration to the data center equipment may include the step of determining a priority of the recovery power supply path based on whether a component included in the recovery power supply path is a primary component or a standby component.

[0018] Alternatively, the step of searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to create a restored power supply path for restoring power supply to the data center equipment may include the step of determining a priority of the restored power supply path based on the expected lifespan of components included in the restored power supply path.

[0019] Alternatively, the method may further include the step of restoring power supply to the data center equipment by controlling at least some of each component of the power facility based on the restored power supply path.

[0020] Alternatively, the step of updating the restored power supply path based on the monitoring of the power facility may be further included.

[0021] Alternatively, the method may further include providing a virtual model of the power facility configured for each data center equipment unit as a graphical user interface.

[0022] Alternatively, the graphical user interface may include at least one of a route setting user interface for setting at least one of a source component, a destination data center equipment, and a waypoint component, a power supply route search user interface for searching a power supply route based on the set route, a power supply route user interface for expressing the power supply routes of components of the power facility configured for each data center equipment as a connection relationship, and a remote control user interface for controlling each component of the power facility.

[0023] Alternatively, the power supply path user interface may visually distinguish each component in the virtual model of the power facility into a normal operating component, a faulty component, and a standby component.

[0024] Alternatively, a computer device is disclosed. The computer device includes one or more processors; a memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors; and a network unit capable of communicating with at least one of a data center power facility or data center equipment; wherein the one or more processors are configured to build a monitoring system by virtually modeling components of the power facility that supplies power to data center equipment, monitor the power facility through the monitoring system, recognize and identify a component having a problem based on the monitoring of the power facility, and search for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to restore power supply to the data center equipment, thereby generating a restored power supply path.

[0025] Alternatively, a computer program stored in a computer-readable storage medium is disclosed. The computer program performs the following methods for managing power facilities of a data center to maintain data center availability, the method including: building a monitoring system by virtually modeling components of a power facility that supplies power to data center equipment; monitoring the power facility through the monitoring system; recognizing and identifying a component having a problem based on the monitoring of the power facility; and searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to create a restored power supply path in order to restore power supply to the data center equipment.

[0026] The present disclosure proposes a power supply path that can quickly restore power supply when a problem occurs in a multiplexed power facility environment of a data center, and can provide restoration of power supply.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a data center facility management system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram showing each component of a power facility connected to data center equipment of one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram showing a power supply path in each component of a power facility connected to data center equipment in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram showing a recovery power supply path that can restore power supply when a problem occurs in a power facility connected to data center equipment of one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figures 5a to 5c are examples of graphical user interfaces capable of managing power equipment in a data center.

[0032] Various embodiments are now described with reference to the drawings. In this specification, various descriptions are provided to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent that these embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.

[0033] As used herein, the terms "component," "module," "system," and the like refer to computer-related entities, hardware, firmware, software, a combination of software and hardware, or an execution of software. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to, a procedure running on a processor, a processor, an object, a thread of execution, a program, and / or a computer. For example, both an application running on a computing device and the computing device may be a component. One or more components may reside within a processor and / or a thread of execution. A component may be localized within a single computer. A component may be distributed between two or more computers. Furthermore, these components may execute from various computer-readable media having various data structures stored therein. Components may communicate via local and / or remote processes, for example, by signals comprising one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, a distributed system, and / or data transmitted to another system via a network such as the Internet via signals).

[0034] Furthermore, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or." That is, unless otherwise specified or clear from context, "X employs A or B" is intended to mean either of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, "X employs A or B" can apply to any of these cases. Furthermore, the term "and / or" as used herein should be understood to refer to and include all possible combinations of one or more of the associated items listed.

[0035] Additionally, the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" should be understood to imply the presence of the features and / or components in question. However, it should be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, components, and / or groups thereof. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified or clear from the context to refer to the singular form, the singular in the specification and claims should generally be construed to mean "one or more."

[0036] And, the term “at least one of A or B” should be interpreted to mean “if it includes only A”, “if it includes only B”, or “if it is combined in the composition of A and B”.

[0037] Those skilled in the art should further appreciate that the various illustrative logical blocks, configurations, modules, circuits, means, logics, and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, configurations, means, logics, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application. However, such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0038] The description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. The present invention is to be construed in the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0039] In this disclosure, virtual models and digital twins may be used interchangeably.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a data center facility management system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] The components in Figure 1 are merely examples that are summarized and simplified.

[0042] A data center (1) may include various data center equipment (10) for implementing services provided by various data centers and power facilities (200) for supplying power to the data center equipment (10). The data center (1) may include large-scale computer systems, storage devices, network equipment, etc., and may include power facilities, air conditioning infrastructure, etc. for supporting these equipment.

[0043] Data center equipment (10) may include computer devices such as servers, storage devices, and network devices that are operated in the data center (1). Data center equipment (10) may include computing infrastructure for implementing data center services.

[0044] Servers are the core computing resources of a data center, capable of running various applications and processing data. Servers can exist in either physical or virtualized forms. Storage devices store and manage large amounts of data, storing data generated and processed in the data center. Network equipment manages communication within and outside the data center, including switches, routers, and firewalls.

[0045] Power facilities (200) include facilities that supply power to operate data center equipment. To supply power to specific data center equipment, the power passes through various components from an external power supplier. The components of the power facilities (200) may refer to individual facilities that constitute this power grid.

[0046] Examples of components of a power system may include, for example, transformers, uninterruptible power supplies, distribution panels, switches, and switching systems.

[0047] Transformers can convert externally supplied power to an appropriate voltage for use by data center equipment. For example, they can step down high-voltage power to the low voltage required by the equipment, or conversely, boost the voltage. Transformers can consist of a main transformer and a standby transformer. If the main transformer fails, the standby transformer can take over the power supply, ensuring continuity of power supply.

[0048] Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) can provide power to data center equipment for a period of time during power outages. This prevents data loss or equipment damage caused by sudden power outages and provides time for recovery and response.

[0049] A distribution panel can distribute power to various equipment and facilities within a data center. It manages connections to each device and may include switches to cut or supply power as needed.

[0050] Generators can serve as emergency power supplies to data centers in the event of prolonged external power outages. Generators can independently generate power without relying on the external power grid, maintaining data center availability even during extended power outages.

[0051] In a data center, each component of the power system is hierarchically connected to supply power to the equipment. Furthermore, components within each tier can be configured to be redundant, including primary and redundant components, to increase availability. This complexity of redundancy and hierarchical connectivity can complicate the response process when a problem occurs in a power system component, requiring a bypass to supply power.

[0052] The computer device (100) can monitor the data center (1) and perform the role of managing equipment and infrastructure. The computer device (100) can receive monitoring information from each component of the data center (1) and can also control them by transmitting control signals to each of them. Although it is illustrated in a 1:1 correspondence with the data center in FIG. 1, this is merely an example, and multiple data centers can be managed by a single computer device. For this purpose, the computer device (100) can be configured to include a network unit capable of communicating with each piece of equipment and infrastructure of the data center (1), a processor capable of processing acquired data, and a memory that stores instructions for data processing. The computer device (100) is illustrated separately from the data center in FIG. 1, but this is merely an example, and it can be an entity independent of the data center, or it can be a component of the data center as a data center management system.

[0053] FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram showing each component of a power facility connected to data center equipment of one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] As mentioned above, power facilities can include various types of components, and these components can be organized into layers based on their roles to form a power grid. Furthermore, components can be multiplexed by layer to ensure stable power supply to data center equipment.

[0055] The types, hierarchical arrangement, and multiplexing of components illustrated in FIG. 2 are merely examples, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Hereinafter, each component of the power equipment (200) will be described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0056] In the example of Fig. 2, data center equipment (10) is depicted as being at the highest level, with distribution panels, switches, uninterruptible power supplies, etc. being configured at lower levels.

[0057] A power distribution unit (PDU) (211, 212) can distribute power to each data center device. The PDU receives power from a lower-level power supply unit and transmits it to the upper-level power load device, and can control and monitor the power flow. In the diagram of FIG. 2, only one data center device (10) is connected to the distribution unit, but this is merely an example.

[0058] A switch (STS: Static Transfer Switch) (221, 222) is a device that quickly and reliably switches between power supply paths. For example, the switch (221, 222) enables rapid switching to a standby power supply path in the event of a problem in the primary power supply path.

[0059] An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) (231, 232, 233) can supply power for a certain period of time when the power supply is interrupted, thereby enabling the equipment to be stably shut down or switched to standby power.

[0060] Transformers (TR) (241, 242, 243, 244) convert high-voltage power supplied from outside sources into low-voltage power usable by data center equipment. Conversely, if necessary, they can convert low-voltage power to high-voltage power and supply it to the equipment.

[0061] A Closed Transition Transfer Switch (CTTS) (251, 252, 253) is a device that switches the power supply path, and switches the power supply without a power outage by instantaneously performing the switch between two power sources.

[0062] The main transformer (MTR) (261, 262, 263) is a main transformer that converts high-voltage power supplied from the power grid outside the data center into an appropriate voltage that can be used in the data center.

[0063] Substations (271, 272) represent the power grid outside the data center.

[0064] FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram showing a power supply path in each component of a power facility connected to data center equipment in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 3 illustrates, for example, possible paths for supplying power to data center equipment (10). As described above, the power facility for supplying power to the data center equipment (10) is configured by connecting multiple components hierarchically and multiplexingly. There may be multiple power supply lines for supplying power to one data center equipment (10), and since power can be supplied through multiple power supply lines, power is supplied to the data center equipment more stably. At least two or more components are connected as sub-components for each layer, and the number of paths for supplying power increases when passing through multiple layers.

[0066] This diversity of power supply paths provides stability to data center equipment, but can also make recovery difficult depending on the skill level of the operator when a problem occurs. To address this issue, the present disclosure provides a computer device (100) that monitors each component of the power facility to search for power recovery paths that can restore power and provide them to the operator or perform remote control.

[0067] FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram showing a recovery power supply path that can restore power supply when a problem occurs in a power facility connected to data center equipment of one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] A computer device (100) can establish a monitoring system by virtually modeling components of a power facility (200) that supplies power to data center equipment (10). The computer device (100) creates a virtual model by reflecting all power facility components of the data center in a virtual space. During the virtual modeling process, the computer device (100) collects various information about the power facility components and builds a virtual model based on this information.

[0069] The information collected may include performance information such as the classification of each component (e.g., transformer, UPS, etc.), hierarchical location, physical location, electrical connection status, limit load, etc., and life information such as life cycle or failure prediction information.

[0070] As previously mentioned, the classification may include information regarding which part of the power facility each component is responsible for.

[0071] Hierarchical location information may include information about how each component is connected to its upper and lower components and in which layer it is placed within the power facility.

[0072] Physical location information may include information about the physical space where each component is installed within the data center.

[0073] Electrical connectivity may include power flow and connection status between components.

[0074] Based on this data, the virtual model simulates the status of power equipment in real time and accurately reflects the operating status of each component. This creates a virtual model identical to the actual power equipment, enabling remote monitoring and control of the data center's power equipment.

[0075] The computer device (100) can collect information from each power facility component or data center through power line communication or sensor network communication, and information that cannot be obtained therefrom can be obtained through analysis of power system design drawings for the data center, etc.

[0076] The monitoring system is built using a virtual model. This system monitors the status of power equipment in real time and supports rapid response when problems arise. For example, if a problem occurs in a specific component, the virtual model can immediately reflect the change in the component's status, issue an alert, and analyze the cause of the problem. Furthermore, the virtual model can be used to predict the expected lifespan of power equipment and plan preventive maintenance.

[0077] The computer device (100) can monitor power facilities through a monitoring system. As described above, the computer device (100) can obtain monitoring information through power line communication with each component of the power facility or a sensor network with sensors for these components.

[0078] The computer device (100) comprehensively assesses the status of the power facility based on information collected from each power facility component. For example, the computer device (100) may directly determine anomalies in a specific component based on information transmitted from that component, or may determine anomalies in a specific component based on information transmitted from upper and lower level components connected to that component.

[0079] Monitoring information may include, for example, operating status information for each component, load status information, connection status information, lifespan information, etc.

[0080] The operational status information may include information indicating whether each component is operating or experiencing abnormal behavior. For example, the operational status information may include the temperature, operational status, current, etc. of a transformer, the battery status of a UPS, the power distribution status of a PDU, etc. However, the above description is merely exemplary and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0081] Load status information indicates the power load applied to each component, and this information can be monitored to prevent overload of power equipment components and to ensure efficient power distribution.

[0082] Connection status information indicates how each component of a power system is connected and is used to determine the normality of the power supply path and to establish the power supply path. For example, connection status information may include information such as whether the power supply path has been switched from the primary power source to a standby power source via CTTS.

[0083] Life information may include information related to failure prediction, such as the life of each component, failure prediction information, maintenance cycle, and whether each component can continue to operate normally.

[0084] The computer device (100) can collect such power facility monitoring information and provide the monitoring information through a user interface so that the operator of the data center (1) can determine the status.

[0085] The computer device (100) can analyze the cause of a problem and suggest necessary measures through diagnostic functions within the monitoring system. Furthermore, the computer device (100) can provide the operator with response information to enable proactive response to anticipated problems. For example, if the UPS battery status falls below a threshold, the computer device may recommend battery replacement or suggest offloading the UPS load to other components.

[0086] The computer device (100) can also establish a maintenance plan for power equipment based on data collected through this monitoring system. For example, by analyzing the operating patterns of specific components, it can predict when failures are likely to occur and perform preventative maintenance. This can increase the availability of power equipment and minimize data center downtime.

[0087] The computer device (100) can recognize and identify problematic components based on monitoring. As described above, recognizing problematic components may include not only recognizing and identifying components currently experiencing problems, but also recognizing and identifying components predicted to experience problems in the future.

[0088] The computer device (100) can detect abnormalities in power facilities and identify problematic components based on various status information collected through real-time monitoring. The computer device (100) analyzes the collected monitoring information and determines that a problem has occurred in a component if the status of each component deviates from the normal range or an unexpected change occurs. For example, if the battery voltage of a UPS rapidly decreases or the power load of a PDU excessively increases, the computer device (100) can recognize that a problem has occurred in the corresponding component.

[0089] The computer device (100) can analyze information monitored from a specific component or surrounding components of a specific component to recognize that a problem has occurred in that component and identify the component. For example, if an abnormality is detected in an STS, the computer device (100) can identify the location of the problem by analyzing the status of the UPS and PDU connected to the STS.

[0090] The computer device (100) can record information about the identified component in the system. Furthermore, the aforementioned user interface can visually distinguish between normal operating components, problematic components, and spare components, allowing the operator to identify the cause and location of the problem.

[0091] The computer device (100) can alert the operator when a problem component is identified and suggest corrective action to resolve the issue. Furthermore, the computer device (100) can perform automated problem response, if necessary.

[0092] The computer device (100) can search for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to restore power supply to the data center equipment, thereby creating a recovery power supply path. The recovery power supply path may refer to a power supply path that can continue to supply power to the data center equipment (10) even when a problem occurs in a component of the power facility.

[0093] As mentioned above, the power facilities of the data center are redundant, and when a problem occurs, the power grid can be configured to bypass the component where the problem occurred, thereby maintaining stability by responding to the problem.

[0094] To this end, the computer device (100) can identify data center equipment related to the component where the problem occurred. Since power facilities are connected below the data center equipment, the computer device (100) can first identify the data center equipment related to the power facility component where the problem occurred.

[0095] The computer device (100) can generate one or more recovery power paths that exclude the faulty component to supply power to the data center equipment. As described above, since the power grid is multiplexed for stability, an alternative power grid can be formed by bypassing a faulty power grid component when it fails. For this purpose, there can be one or more power supply paths.

[0096] The computer device (100) can first search for all possible recovery paths, filter the searched recovery power supply paths according to constraints, and since there may be multiple filtered recovery power supply paths, a priority order for these recovery power supply paths can be generated.

[0097] In order to explore all possible recovery paths, the computer device (100) may first assume all components of the power facility are in operation in a virtual model of the power facility. Furthermore, the computer device (100) may explore all paths for supplying power to the data center equipment (10) assuming that all components of the power facility are in operation. Furthermore, the computer device (100) may primarily exclude paths containing problematic components from among the paths explored.

[0098] The computer device (100) may further filter one or more recovery power supply paths that exclude the problematic component. The computer device (100) may exclude paths that include components on the recovery power supply path that exceed the load tolerance when operating as the recovery power supply path among the recovery power supply paths. Since secondary problems may occur if the load tolerance of other components is exceeded by bypassing the problematic component, the computer device (100) may filter the recovery power supply paths according to constraints for each component.

[0099] If a computer device (100) needs to pass through a specific waypoint among multiple recovery power supply paths, it can filter out and exclude multiple recovery power supply paths that do not include the corresponding waypoint component. These waypoints can be set by the operator or set by the computer device (100) as needed.

[0100] The computer device (100) may additionally perform path filtering based on lifespan information of components included in the power supply path. Based on the lifespan information of components included in the searched power supply path, the computer device (100) may re-search the path by excluding components that are predicted to fail within a certain period of time or whose maintenance cycle has passed.

[0101] The computer device (100) can also filter the searched paths according to various other criteria.

[0102] The computer device (100) may also determine the priority of the recovery power supply path.

[0103] The computer device (100) may determine the priority of the recovery power supply path based on the ease of operation of components of the power equipment to operate as a recovery power supply path. For example, ease of operation may include the number of operations required to operate components as a recovery power supply path, ease of operation considering the physical location of multiple components, and ease of operation of each component.

[0104] The computer device (100) may, for example, prioritize a recovery power supply path that requires fewer manipulations of components to operate from the current power supply path to the recovery power supply path.

[0105] The computer device (100) may, for example, prioritize a recovery power supply path based on a path that is easy to manipulate for components to operate from the current power supply path to the recovery power supply path. For example, when manipulation of multiple components is required, the computer device (100) may prioritize a path that includes components with close physical locations as the recovery power supply path, taking into account the physical locations of each component.

[0106] The computer device (100) may, for example, prioritize recovery power supply paths by operating components that are convenient to operate. For example, certain components may be less convenient to operate than others due to locational or inherent reasons. The computer device (100) may refer to information regarding the ease of operation of each component when determining the priority of recovery power supply paths.

[0107] In addition, the computer device (100) can determine the priority of the recovery power supply path based on whether the components included in the recovery power supply facility are main components or standby components. The computer device (100) can determine the priority of the recovery power supply path by giving priority to the path including the main component over the path including the standby component. In the case of a path including the main component and the standby component according to the hierarchy, the priority of the recovery power supply path can be determined by assigning weights to the main component and the standby component for each hierarchy. For example, the computer device (100) can give priority to the path including the standby component in the upper hierarchy among the paths including the standby component by assigning weights to the path including the main component in the lower hierarchy (i.e., the external power direction). This is merely an example, and the computer device (100) can also make a determination by assigning weights to the path including the main component in the upper hierarchy.

[0108] The computer device (100) may also prioritize the recovery power supply path based on the expected life of the components included in the recovery power supply path. As described above, the expected life of the components may be a criterion for filtering the recovery power supply path, and if the expected level is higher than the level to be filtered from the path (i.e., if the condition is better than the expected life of the filtering level), it may not be used for filtering the path. However, the computer device (100) may also utilize the expected life information in determining the priority of the recovery power supply path.

[0109] The computer device (100) can restore power supply to data center equipment by controlling at least some of the components of the power facility based on the restored power supply path. As described above, the computer device (100) can directly remotely control each component of the power facility, thereby enabling it to operate along the determined restored power supply path. In addition, the computer device (100) can provide the determined restored power supply path to the operator, thereby allowing the operator to control components outside the control range of the computer device (100).

[0110] The computer device (100) can continue to monitor the power equipment while operating as a restored power supply path, and can update the restored power supply path based on the updated monitoring information. After a faulty power equipment component is restored, the computer device (100) can identify this based on the monitoring information, and in this case, return to the previous power supply path or create and apply a new power supply path that reflects the restored component.

[0111] Below, the creation of a recovery power supply path is described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0112] In the example of Fig. 4, it is assumed that a problem has occurred in the UPS under STS source 1. In this case, the computer device (100) can detect the occurrence of a problem in the UPS under STS source 1 through monitoring information. The computer device (100) can search for a recovery power supply path that can supply power except for the UPS under STS source 1.

[0113] Reference numbers 310, 320, 330, etc. may be searched recovery power supply paths. As described above, the computer device (100) can determine the final recovery power supply path through filtering and priority determination of the searched paths, etc.

[0114] The computer device (100) may set the reference number 330 path, which includes a relatively high-layer component as a spare component, as a candidate bypass path with a relatively low priority. The computer device (100) may determine that, among the paths reference numbers 310 and 320 excluding the reference number 330 path, the reference number 310 path, which includes a generator as a spare component, has a lower priority than the reference number 320 path.

[0115] Finally, the computer device (100) can determine the path referenced as 320 as a recovery power supply path for power recovery, and the computer device (100) can directly control components to operate along this power supply path, or provide the operator with recovery power supply path information to enable the operator to control the components.

[0116] Figures 5a to 5c are examples of graphical user interfaces capable of managing power equipment in a data center.

[0117] The computer device (100) may provide a virtual model of power facilities configured for each data center equipment unit as a user interface. As described above, a data center may include multiple pieces of equipment, and each of the pieces of equipment may be supplied with power through a multiplexed power system to ensure power supply stability. In the case of such a virtual model of data center equipment, if all pieces of equipment and all power systems are displayed at once, the complexity increases, making it difficult for the operator to identify problems. Therefore, the user interface may include a graphical user interface for the power systems related to each data center equipment unit so that the operator can view the power systems connected to each unit of data center equipment. For example, the data center equipment unit may be a server rack unit. For example, the graphical user interface may be configured to represent the components that supply power to the server rack unit. The above description is only an example, and the graphical user interface of the virtual model can be configured to represent the power system related to a unit in simpler units (e.g., individual equipment included in a server rack), or in more complex units (e.g., a unit including multiple server racks, a data center unit, etc.).

[0118] Reference numeral 410 in FIG. 5a is an example of a power supply path user interface.

[0119] The power supply path user interface can depict each component included in the virtual model, depict their connection relationships, and enable power supply path exploration based on the established path, and can display the explored path as indicated by reference number 411, or display selectable spare paths among the explored paths as indicated by reference number 412. The power supply path user interface can be expressed as nodes representing each component and the connection relationships between the nodes, and can visually display each component of the power facility as a normally operating component, a component with a problem, a spare component, etc. based on monitoring information. In addition, although not depicted, normal operating components can also be displayed as having a margin in load, a load that is within normal but slightly high, or an issue in the expected life information, so that the data center operator, who is the user of the graphical user interface, can intuitively determine the status of each facility.

[0120] In FIG. 5A, reference numerals 421, 422, and 423 may be route setting user interfaces that allow users to set at least one of a source component, a destination data center device, and a waypoint component to search for a power supply path related to database equipment. Using the route setting user interface, an operator can set a power supply path to be searched from a specific source to a specific destination.

[0121] Reference numeral 424 of Fig. 5a illustrates an example of a power supply route search user interface for searching for a power supply route based on a set route. Reference numeral 424 is a user interface that can be operated by a user who has set a starting point, destination, waypoints, etc., through which the user can instruct route search, sort the searched routes according to priority, and manipulate the graphical user interface to output the final power supply route.

[0122] Reference numeral 430 is an example of a user interface representing the explored paths. Reference numeral 430 is an example of a user interface that represents the relationships between each explored path in a different visual form than reference numeral 410.

[0123] Reference number 440 is a user interface that details each component included in the searched path. An example of reference number 440 may include a remote control user interface capable of controlling each component of a power facility. Reference number 441 includes hierarchical information of the corresponding component. Reference number 442 includes information regarding the equipment name (equipment classification) of the corresponding component. Reference number 443 includes information regarding the current status of the corresponding component. Reference number 444 includes a remote control user interface capable of controlling the status of the corresponding component. An operator can control the status of each device using the remote control user interface of reference number 444. Control may include, for example, operations such as turning each device on / off, and, in the case of switching devices, determining which lower or upper layer devices are connected to which devices.

[0124] Figure 5b is an example of a state in which a waypoint is set in the user interface of Figure 5a. Reference numeral 410 indicates a route via PDU-A2, which is set as a waypoint. The power supply path user interface can display the highest priority path separately from other paths, as shown in the example, so that the operator can intuitively refer to it when determining a restoration power supply path.

[0125] Figure 5c illustrates another example of a remote control user interface. Reference numeral 510 represents an interface that includes components included in the proposed path. Reference numeral 511 represents the equipment name (equipment classification), reference numeral 512 represents the status of components recommended for the proposed recovery power supply path, reference numeral 513 represents the current operating status of components, and reference numeral 514 represents an example of a remote control user interface that can control each component.

[0126] The operator can control the control user interface for each component to change the operating state of each component to operate as a recovery power supply path, or control multiple components at once.

[0127] The graphical user interface illustrated in Figures 5a through 5c allows operators to monitor the status of data center power equipment and respond quickly when problems arise. This graphical user interface can enable data center operators to intuitively understand the status of power equipment and efficiently take necessary actions.

[0128] Operators monitor the power supply path user interface (410) during normal times, and can predict problems or monitor their status based on visual information from each node. Furthermore, they can take proactive measures to address predicted problems.

[0129] Additionally, operators can manipulate the route setting user interface during normal times to simulate, train on how to recover from problems, and reroute power supplies for maintenance.

[0130] When a problem occurs, a graphical user interface can visually represent the problematic component, allowing the operator to determine if a problem has occurred and where it is occurring.

[0131] When a problem occurs, the computer device (100) can generate a recovery power supply path for recovery as described above and display it on the power supply path user interface (410) to enable the operator to determine a facility operation method to resolve the problem. At this time, the computer device (100) can display other standby power supply paths and visually represent a power supply path with a higher priority differently to enable the operator to refer to it when making decisions.

[0132] The operator can troubleshoot and restore power by manipulating individual components or related components collectively via a remote control user interface (440). Furthermore, the operator can directly manipulate components on the computer device (100) without operator intervention. Although not shown, the computer device (100) can also transmit a plan for manipulating components to the operator via the user interface and perform the operation based on input from the operator.

[0133] The present disclosure provides a system that can efficiently manage power facilities in a data center, maintain the stability of power supply, and respond quickly and accurately when a problem occurs.

[0134] The system described herein can monitor each component of a power facility in real time by creating a virtual model. This allows data center operators to accurately monitor the status of their power facilities at all times and respond immediately to any abnormalities. Specifically, it can monitor component operating status, load status, and connection status in real time, enabling early detection of problems and enhancing data center availability.

[0135] This disclosure automatically identifies the component causing the problem in a power facility when a problem occurs and searches for and provides a recovery power supply path that bypasses the component. Operators can select the optimal path among the searched paths to stably restore power supply. Because the recovery path is quickly established and applied, power outages in data centers can be minimized.

[0136] This disclosure filters and prioritizes optimal routes when searching for power supply paths, taking into account component load status, expected lifespan, and ease of operation. This allows each component in a power facility to be designed to avoid overload or failure, and by establishing an optimized power supply path, power supply stability can be maximized.

[0137] The system of the present disclosure can proactively identify potential problems based on monitored data and suggest or automatically perform preventative maintenance. For example, if a component's expected lifespan is approaching or a failure is predicted, maintenance work can be suggested or measures can be taken to distribute the load on specific components. This can maintain stable data center operation and prevent emergencies.

[0138] This disclosure provides an intuitive graphical user interface, enabling operators to easily manage the power equipment in a data center. Information such as power supply paths, component status, and recovery path settings are clearly and visually displayed, enabling operators to efficiently control and manage power equipment. This interface facilitates the operation of complex power equipment systems and enables quick decisions when problems arise.

[0139] This disclosure enhances the overall operational stability of data centers by ensuring the stable operation of power facilities. Optimizing power supply paths, responding quickly to problems, and implementing preventative maintenance contribute to minimizing data center equipment downtime and maximizing service availability. This stability is a critical factor in enhancing data center reliability and improving service levels.

[0140] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that information and signals may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, the data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips referenced in the above description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0141] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, processors, means, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, various forms of programs or design code (referred to herein, for convenience, as software), or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Those skilled in the art may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0142] The various embodiments presented herein can be implemented as a method, apparatus, or article of manufacture using standard programming and / or engineering techniques. The term article of manufacture includes a computer program, carrier, or media accessible from any computer-readable storage device. For example, computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic strips, etc.), optical disks (e.g., CDs, DVDs, etc.), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., EEPROMs, cards, sticks, key drives, etc.). Furthermore, various storage media presented herein include one or more devices and / or other machine-readable media for storing information.

[0143] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the presented processes is merely an example of exemplary approaches. It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged within the scope of the present disclosure based on design priorities. The appended method claims provide elements of various steps in a sample order, but are not intended to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0144] The description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present disclosure. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, but is to be construed in the broadest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0145] As described above, the relevant contents have been described in the best form for carrying out the invention.

[0146] The present invention can be used in the technical field related to data centers.

Claims

1. A method for managing power facilities in a data center to maintain data center availability. A step of establishing a monitoring system by virtually modeling the components of the power equipment that supplies power to data center equipment; A step of monitoring the power facility through the above monitoring system; A step of recognizing and identifying a problem component based on monitoring of the above power equipment; and A step of searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to restore power supply to the data center equipment and creating a restored power supply path; including, method.

2. In paragraph 1, The above virtual modeling is, It is performed based on at least one piece of information among the classification, hierarchy, physical location and electrical connection status of each component of the power facility. method.

3. In paragraph 1, Each component of the above power facility is: It is structured hierarchically, with each layer containing primary and secondary components. method.

4. In paragraph 1, The step of monitoring the above power equipment is: A step of receiving monitoring information from each component of the above power facility through power line communication or sensor network communication; including, method.

5. In paragraph 4, The above monitoring information is: Contains at least one of operation status information, load status information, and connection status information for each component. method.

6. In paragraph 1, The step of recognizing and identifying a problem component based on monitoring of the above power equipment is as follows: A step of recognizing and identifying the problematic component based on monitoring information received from the problematic component or another component connected to the problematic component; including, method.

7. In paragraph 1, The step of creating a restored power supply path by searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment in order to restore power supply to the data center equipment is as follows: A step of identifying data center equipment related to the above problem-causing component; and A step of creating one or more recovery power supply paths that exclude the problematic component to supply power to the data center equipment; including, method.

8. In paragraph 7, The step of creating a restored power supply path by searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment in order to restore power supply to the data center equipment is as follows: A step of determining a recovery power supply path by filtering one or more recovery power supply paths; including more, method.

9. In paragraph 8, The step of determining a recovery power supply path by filtering one or more recovery power supply paths is as follows: A step of determining a recovery power supply path, excluding a recovery power supply path that includes a component exceeding the load allowance among the components on the recovery power supply path when operating as the recovery power supply path; including, method.

10. In paragraph 8, The step of determining a recovery power supply path by filtering one or more recovery power supply paths is as follows: A step of determining a recovery power supply path by filtering a path including a stopover component among the one or more recovery power supply paths; including, method.

11. In paragraph 7, The step of creating a restored power supply path by searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment in order to restore power supply to the data center equipment is as follows: A step of determining the priority of the recovery power supply path based on the ease of operation of the power facility to operate as the recovery power supply path; including, method.

12. In paragraph 7, The step of creating a restored power supply path by searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment in order to restore power supply to the data center equipment is as follows: A step of determining the priority of the recovery power supply path based on whether the components included in the recovery power supply path are primary components or spare components; including, method.

13. In paragraph 7, The step of creating a restored power supply path by searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment in order to restore power supply to the data center equipment is as follows: A step of determining the priority of the recovery power supply path based on the expected lifespan of the components included in the recovery power supply path; including, method.

14. In paragraph 1, A step of restoring power supply to the data center equipment by controlling at least some of each component of the power facility based on the restored power supply path; including more, method.

15. In paragraph 1, A step of updating a restored power supply path based on monitoring of the above power facilities; including more, method.

16. In paragraph 1, A step of providing a virtual model of the power facility configured for each data center equipment unit as a graphical user interface; including more, method.

17. In paragraph 16, The above graphical user interface, A route setup user interface that allows you to set at least one of the origin component, destination data center equipment, and waypoint component; A power supply path exploration user interface for exploring power supply paths based on established routes, A power supply path user interface that expresses the power supply path of the components of the power facility configured for each data center equipment as a connection relationship, A remote control user interface that can control each component of the power equipment; Containing at least one of, method.

18. In paragraph 17, The above power supply path user interface is, In the virtual model of the above power facility, each component is visually distinguished into a normal operating component, a problem component, and a spare component. method.

19. As a computer device, One or more processors; A memory storing instructions executable by one or more processors; and A network unit capable of communicating with at least one of the data center power facilities or data center equipment; Includes, One or more of the above processors, We build a monitoring system by virtually modeling the components of the power equipment that supplies power to data center equipment. Monitor the power facilities through the above monitoring system, Recognize and identify problematic components based on monitoring of the above power facilities, and In order to restore power supply to the data center equipment, a power supply path is searched from the power facility to the data center equipment to create a restored power supply path. Computer devices.

20. A computer program stored in a computer-readable storage medium, wherein the computer program performs the following methods for managing power facilities of a data center to maintain data center availability, the method comprising: A step of establishing a monitoring system by virtually modeling the components of the power equipment that supplies power to data center equipment; A step of monitoring the power facility through the above monitoring system; A step of recognizing and identifying a problem component based on monitoring of the above power equipment; and A step of searching for a power supply path from the power facility to the data center equipment to restore power supply to the data center equipment and creating a restored power supply path; including, A computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium.

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