Apparatus to insert and extract it hardware at a datacenter

Abstract

A mobile unit or cart for the positional interchange of IT hardware at a datacenter. The cart comprises a main body having wheels to allow the cart to move over the ground. A storage container is provided at the main body to store IT hardware. An articulator assembly extends upwardly from the main body to provide translational articulation and movement of the IT hardware within the datacenter.

Description

[0001] Apparatus to Insert and Extract IT Hardware at a Datacenter

[0002] Field of invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a mobile unit or cart for the positional interchange of IT hardware at a datacenter and in particular, although not exclusively, to a mobile unit having an articulator assembly to raise and lower IT hardware during an insertion and extraction at a cooling immersion tank or rack.

[0004] Background

[0005] The cooling of electronics, specifically IT modules, servers, data storage devices and computational electronic devices having graphics and central processing units (GPUs and CPUs) has become a major technical challenge due to the ongoing development of smaller, faster, higher density and higher power capacity electronics.

[0006] Computing devices produce heat as a by-product of operational processing. In datacentres, where thousands of such devices are located, the amount of heat generated can be extremely large. As the need for access to greater processing and data storage continues to expand, the density of server systems continues to increase, and the resulting thermal challenges present a significant practical obstacle.

[0007] Conventional fan-based cooling systems require large amounts of power. Accordingly, the power demand to drive such systems increases significantly with the increased server densities. Immersion cooling of IT modules is a relatively recent development. The operational hot electronics are submerged in direct contact with a dielectric (electrically insulating) coolant liquid that is circulated and cooled through the use of heat exchangers and the likes. Cooling of electronics enhances their performance efficiency enabling higher processing speeds (for example the overclocking of CPUs) whilst reducing power consumption by eliminating fans and enabling more efficient heat rejection systems. The heat generated by the circuit is removed quickly and efficiently by the dielectric liquid directly at the heat source.

[0008] Datacenters typically position the IT hardware in clusters or groups within individual liquid immersion tanks or racks. Each IT module may be inserted and removed at each tank or rack independently and as required and on demand. For example, a failed would typically require replacement to maintain overall processing performance. Additionally, where an individual liquid immersion tank includes IT hardware of different customers, reorganisation of the IT hardware is often required for example when one customer requires greater processing power for a particular time period relative to another customer. Such interchange of IT hardware requires an administrator to manually raise and lower them from their position immersed within the dielectric cooling liquid. This manual insertion and removal process is time consuming and often requires developed skills and techniques so as to reliably dock and release the contact points between the IT module and its electronic mounting position within the immersion tank or rack.

[0009] Accordingly, there is a need for apparatus to facilitate the convenient servicing, repair and / or interchange of IT hardware at an immersion cooling system.

[0010] Summary of the invention

[0011] It is an objective of the present concept to provide a mobile vehicle, unit or cart to facilitate the positional interchange of IT hardware at liquid immersion cooling tanks or racks within a datacenter. It is a further specific objective to provide a mobile unit having a mechanical and / or electromechanical articulation assembly that may be controlled by a user for the positional interchange of IT hardware at an immersion tank or rack. It is a further objective to provide a mobile unit capable of travelling within the datacenter between clusters of liquid immersion cooling tanks and / or racks conveniently and reliably.

[0012] The objectives are achieved via a mobile unit according to the present concept having an articulator assembly provided at a main body adapted to raise and lower IT hardware at an immersion cooling tank or rack on demand by a user. The mobile unit or cart comprises wheels for convenient movement over the ground and may be manually pushed and pulled within a datacenter environment between clusters of immersion tanks and racks. The present cart is adapted to be parked in position at the side of a tank or rack whilst a part of the articulator assembly may be manipulated by a user for positioning directly above the upper open face of the tank or rack enabling insertion and extraction of an IT module in a vertical plane. The present concept is provided with multiple mechanical and / or electromechanical components so as to provide a mechanised system the actuation of which is responsive to user control and commands via a control unit and / or control interface provided locally at the cart and / or via a remote user interface such as at a control center located on or off site at the datacenter.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the present concept there is provided a cart for the positional interchange of IT hardware at a datacenter comprising: a main body having wheels to allow the cart to move over the ground; a storage container provided at the main body to store and at least partially house IT hardware to be inserted and / or extracted at a liquid immersion tank or rack, the cavity having an opening at an upper end via which the IT hardware may be insert and / or extracted at the cavity; an articulator assembly extending upwardly from the main body; an engager assembly provided at the articulator assembly and having grippers to contact and grip an IT hardware, the articulator assembly configured to raise and lower the engager assembly and / or the grippers to insert and extract the IT hardware at the liquid immersion tank or rack.

[0014] The articulator assembly comprises: a post extending upwardly from the main body in a y direction, the post being extendable in the y direction; a translator assembly mounted at the post and mounting the engager assembly, the translator assembly having a mechanism to move the engager assembly and / or the grippers in a x direction aligned lengthwise at the cart and a z direction aligned widthwise at the cart so as to enable the articulator assembly to transfer and / or positionally interchange the IT hardware between the cart and the liquid immersion tank or rack. The articulator assembly may comprise, beams, cables, pulley arrangements, rotatable and linear actuators mounted at a main body of the cart configured to provide manipulation of IT hardware within a datacenter.

[0015] Optionally, the translator assembly comprises a first beam extending in the x direction and a second beam mounted at or towards an end of the first beam and extending the z direction. Optionally, the engager assembly is mounted or provided at the second beam. Optionally, the engager assembly and / or the grippers are movably mounted at the articulation assembly via a movement mechanism to enable the engager assembly and / or the grippers to be raised and lowered relative to the main body so as to raise and lower an IT hardware relative to the main body. The grippers may comprise hooks, lever and springs, eccentric arrangements, latching arrangements, bayonet locking arrangements, male and female couplings, geometric entrapment arrangements and the like. The grippers described herein comprise components and function to provide the automated or semiautomated locking of the engager assembly to an IT hardware. The grippers may be actuated by electronic control or actuated manually to provide locking and unlocking at the IT hardware according to different locking mechanisms.

[0016] Optionally, the cart comprises a releasable locking mechanism coupling the engager assembly to the translator assembly, the releasable locking mechanism comprising at least one electromagnetic component. Optionally, the cart comprises a releasable locking mechanism provided at the grippers to releasably lock the grippers to an IT hardware.

[0017] Optionally, the cart comprises a visual alignment unit provided at the articulation assembly and / or the engager assembly to create and / or emit a visual marker at a location immediately below the grippers. Optionally, the visual alignment unit comprises a laser. According to further implementations, the visual alignment unit may comprise a laser diode, an injection laser diode, a semiconductor laser or a diode laser. The visual marker may be provided by a light emitting diode of fibre optic, or other arrangement of LED. Optionally, the cart comprises mounts provided at the main body extending adjacent the opening and having rails, apertures, rollers and / or notches to contact and enable the IT hardware to be suspended within the cavity via the mounts. Optionally, the mounts comprise adaptors removably mounted at the main body, the adaptors having apertures, rollers and / or notches to contact and enable the IT hardware to be suspended within the cavity via the adaptors and / or mounts.

[0018] Optionally, the cart comprises elongate side brackets extending laterally across at least a pair of opposed sidewalls that in part define the cavity at the main body, the brackets positioned in a depthwise direction of the cavity between the opening and a base of the cavity. Optionally the cart comprises elongate support trusses extending laterally across the opposed sidewalls and positioned in a depthwise direction of the cavity at or towards the base of the cavity.

[0019] Optionally, the main body comprises a worktop provided at an upper region relative to a lower region of which the wheels are mounted, the worktop comprising drainage holes or perforations to allow drainage of a liquid downwardly from the worktop and into an interior of the main body. Optionally, the cart comprises at least one fluid collection conduit and / or channel to transfer liquid drained from the worktop via the holes or perforations. Optionally, the cart comprises a fluid collection reservoir provided at the main body to receive liquid drained from the worktop via the holes or perforations.

[0020] Optionally, the fluid collection conduit and / or channel is positioned to provide fluidic communication between the holes or perforations and the fluid collection reservoir.

[0021] Optionally, the cart comprises a fluid storage tank provided at the main body to store a dielectric immersion cooling liquid. Optionally, the cart comprises a supply conduit or hose provided in fluidic communication with the fluid storage tank to dispense the dielectric immersion cooling liquid from the tank. Optionally, the cart comprises at least one pump to drive the dispensing of a dielectric immersion cooling liquid from the tank and / or a liquid from the collection reservoir. Optionally, the cart comprises at least one fluid level indicator provided at the fluid storage tank and / or the fluid correction reservoir, the fluid level indicator comprising a window and / or a liquid sensor. Optionally, the cart comprises a support table extendably attached to the main body via a mounting to be movable between a retracted position at the main body and an extended position extending laterally away from the main body. Optionally, the table comprises perimeter walls defining a first liquid collection well at the table and a gutter to channel fluid to be drained from the table. Optionally, at least one of the walls being an end wall is enlarged relative to some of the other walls, the enlarged end wall comprising perimeter sides defining a second liquid collection well. Optionally, the cart comprises a table mount assembly. Optionally, the table mount assembly comprises a hinge mechanism to enable the table to pivot at the main body between the retracted position at the main body and the extended position, the hinge mounted at one lengthwise end of the table. Optionally, the table comprises a pair of laterally spaced support arms extending from a main plane of the table and configured to contact and positionally support IT hardware located between the support arms. Optionally, support adaptors are removably mountable at the support arms and configured to support IT hardware located between the support arms. Optionally, the cart comprises support braces removably mounted at the table and / or an end wall of the table, each of the braces having a shoulder or flange extending inwardly from the perimeter walls to provide a support abutment to positionally support an IT module when mounted and supported at the table.

[0022] Optionally, the cart comprises a liquid flow dampening body provided at the main body and / or the fluid collection reservoir to inhibit flow of liquid within the fluid collection reservoir. Optionally, the liquid flow dampening body comprises a foam body positioned at least partially within the fluid collection reservoir.

[0023] Optionally, the cart comprises a side guard adjustably mounted at the main body and adjustable between a retracted position at or within the main body and a deployed position extending laterally outward at or towards an upper region of the main body. Optionally, the side guard comprises a hinge or flexed joint extending widthwise across the side guard to enable the side guard to bend or flex in a lengthwise direction at a position between a first and second lengthwise end. Optionally, the main body comprises a storage pocket to receive and house the side guard in the retracted position. Optionally, the side guard comprises: an end stop at a first lengthwise end to abut a region of the main body adjacent the pocket and prevent the side guard being completely retracted into the pocket; and a lock provided at a second lengthwise end of the side guard to abut a region of the main body adjacent the pocket and to positionally stabilise the side guard at the extended position.

[0024] Optionally, the cart comprises a brake mechanism having a first part provided at at least one of the wheels or a region of the main body adjacent the at least one of the wheels configured to operative between a locked state to lock the wheels and an unlocked state to allow the wheels to rotate; and a second part having a handle, button or lever configured to be operated by a user to actuate the first part between the locked and the unlocked state.

[0025] According to a further aspect of the present concept there is provided a cart for the positional interchange of IT hardware at a datacenter.

[0026] According to a further aspect of the present concept there is provided a cart for the positional interchange of IT hardware at a datacenter comprising: a main body adapted to be movable over the ground; an articulator assembly extending upwardly from the main body; an engager assembly provided at the articulator assembly and having grippers to contact and grip an IT hardware, the articulator assembly configured to raise and lower the engager assembly and / or the grippers to insert and extract the IT hardware.

[0027] According to a further aspect of the present concept there is provided a cart for the positional interchange of IT hardware at a datacenter comprising: an articulator assembly; and an engager assembly provided at the articulator assembly and having engagers to contact and releasable couple to an IT hardware, the articulator assembly configured to raise and lower the engager assembly and / or the engagers to insert and extract the IT hardware.

[0028] Reference to ‘wheels’ within this specification encompasses castors, rollers, and the like. Reference to ‘IT hardware’ and ‘IT module’ within this specification encompasses IT servers, motherboards, networking equipment, power management equipment like power shelves and Battery Backup Units (BBUs), batteries, IT hardware nodes and the like.

[0029] Brief description of the drawings

[0030] A specific implementation of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0031] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an IT hardware transportation unit configured for the convenient transportation of IT hardware within a datacenter according to a specific implementation of the present concept;

[0032] Figure 2 is a further perspective view of the mobile cart of figure 1;

[0033] Figure 3 is a side view of the mobile cart of figure 1;

[0034] Figure 4 is an end view of the mobile cart of figure 1;

[0035] Figure 5 is a further perspective view of the mobile cart of figure 1;

[0036] Figure 6 is a further side view of the mobile cart of figure 1;

[0037] Figure 7 is a further end view of the mobile cart of figure 1;

[0038] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an engager assembly according to a specific implementation;

[0039] Figures 9A, B, C and D are side views forming part of the engager assembly of figure 8;

[0040] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the storage container mounted within the cart of figure 1; Figure 11 is a perspective view of an engager assembly suspending an IT hardware according to a specific implementation;

[0041] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a further implementation of an engager assembly to contact and grip an IT hardware;

[0042] Figures 13 A, B, C and D are perspective illustrations of further embodiments of grippers to form part of an engager assembly as described herein;

[0043] Figure 14 is a perspective view of an articulator assembly for the manipulation of IT hardware within a datacenter;

[0044] Figure 15 is an end view of the articulator assembly of figure 14 having a visual alignment unit according to a specific implementation;

[0045] Figure 16 is a further perspective view of the articulator assembly of figure 14;

[0046] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a part of the engager assembly according to a specific implementation;

[0047] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the storage container and a worktop of the cart of figure 1;

[0048] Figure 19 is a further perspective view of the storage container and the worktop of figure 18;

[0049] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a lower region of the cart of figure 1 including castor wheel and a liquid collection reservoir according to a specific implementation;

[0050] Figure 21 is a perspective view of a liquid collection reservoir and liquid flow dampener according to a specific implementation; Figure 22 is a side view of one of the wheels of the cart of figure 1;

[0051] Figure 23 is a cross sectional view of a locking mechanism for each of the wheels of the cart of figure 1 ;

[0052] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the lower region of the cart of figure 1 having a break linkage connected to the wheels according to a specific implementation;

[0053] Figure 25 is a perspective view of a handle and break lever according to a specific implementation;

[0054] Figure 26 is a perspective view of a worktable provided at the cart of figure 1;

[0055] Figure 27 is a perspective view of the table of figure 26 in an extended position according to a specific implementation;

[0056] Figure 28 is a further specific view of the table of figure 27 in the extended position;

[0057] Figures 29A and B are perspective views of the table of figure 28 including a liquid collection well according to a specific implementation;

[0058] Figure 30 is a further perspective view of the table of figure 28 in the extended horizontal position;

[0059] Figure 31 is a further perspective view at a lower region of the cart of figure 1 including wheels and a liquid collection reservoir;

[0060] Figures 32A, B and C are perspective views of the table and storage container at the cart of figure 1 according to the specific implementation;

[0061] Figures 33A, B and C are perspective illustrations of the storage container and table of figures 32A, B and C; Figure 34 is a further perspective view of the table in the extended position of figure 28;

[0062] Figure 35 is a perspective view of an upper region at a lateral side of the cart of figure 1 having a storage pocket to house an adjustable side guard according to a specific implementation;

[0063] Figure 36 is a perspective view of the cart of figure 1 having a side guard provided at a deployed extended position to the lateral side of the cart of figure 1;

[0064] Figure 37 is a perspective view of the side guard of figure 36 according to a specific implementation;

[0065] Figure 38 is a perspective view of the side guard of figure 36 according to a specific implementation;

[0066] Figure 39 is a perspective view of the mobile cart of figure 1 positioned to the lateral side of a bank of liquid immersion cooling tanks within a datacenter.

[0067] Detailed description of preferred embodiment of the invention

[0068] Referring to figures 1 to 7, a mobile unit or cart 10 comprises a main body 11 having a chassis and wheels 13 provided at the chassis to allow the cart 10 to be moved over the ground. Main body 11 comprises a generally cuboidal configuration being generally elongate in a lengthwise direction x, a width extending in a z direction and having a height extending vertically in a y direction above wheels 13 that terminates at an upward facing worktop 65. Cart 10 further comprises an articulator assembly 12 extending upwardly from main body 11 and worktop 65. Articulator assembly 12 comprises a gantry type configuration (referred to herein as a translator assembly 75) to positionally support and provide movement / translation of an engager assembly 17 configured to releasably engage an IT module 30 via a lengthwise end of the IT module 30. Engager assembly 17 is mounted at the articulator assembly via translator assembly 75. Articulator assembly 12 further comprises a post extending upwardly from main body 11. Post 14 comprises a first section 14a and a second section 14b that are telescopically mounted relative to one another and a base 14c provided at main body 11. Accordingly, post 14 (14a, 14b) is linearly adjustable in the y direction. Translator assembly 75, according to the specific implementation comprises a first beam 15 extending in the x direction (lengthwise of main body 11). First beam 15 comprises multiple sections 15a, 15b, 15c slidably adjustable relative to one another so as to provide a telescopic mechanism. Beam 15 is mounted at an upper end of post section 14b. Translator assembly 75 further comprises a second beam 16 having sections 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d (figure 14) telescopically mounted relative to one another. Second beam 16 extends in the z direction and is mounted at a lengthwise terminal end of first beam end section 15c. Engager assembly 17 is detachably mounted at or towards a terminal end of second beam section 16d. Positional control and the actuated movement of each of the components 14 to 16 of the articulator assembly 12 and translator assembly 75 are implemented by conventional electromagnetic, mechanical, electronic and electric components as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. According to a preferred implementation, the telescopic mechanism associated with post 14 and the first and second beams 15, 16 is implemented by mechanical worm gear arrangements driven by respective electric motors, linear actuators and the like as will be appreciated.

[0069] According to further implementations, engager assembly 17 may be mounted at the articulator assembly 12 via additional electronically controllable translation mechanisms so as to be capable of being raised and lowered relative to articulator assembly 12, translator assembly 75 or beam 16. Such arrangements may comprise pistons, cables, pullies and electric motors so as to suspend engager assembly 17 at translator assembly 75.

[0070] Main body 11 comprises a storage container 45 extending depthwise in the y direction into main body 11 from worktop 65. Storage container 45 defines an internal cavity 20 being open at an upper end positioned approximately coplanar with worktop 65. Cavity 20 is suitably sized in lengthwise, widthwise and the depthwise directions relative to main body 11 so as to accommodate and at least partially house a plurality of IT modules 30 for interchange at liquid immersion cooling tanks 94, 95 (figure 39) or racks located within a datacenter (not shown). An adjustable table 50 is mounted at main body 11 at a position adjacent a lengthwise end of storage container 45. Table 50 is adapted for movement between a retracted position (illustrated in figures 2 and 5) and an extended position, extending outward from main body 11 (in the x direction) as illustrated and described referring to figures 27 to 34. Main body 11 further comprises a handle 43 provided at a lengthwise end to enable cart 10 to be pushed and pulled by maintenance personnel 44 within a datacenter. Cart 10 is suitably dimensioned in the x, y and z directions so as to be conveniently manoeuvred over the ground (via wheel 13) along pathways (typically having a width of 1.5 to 2.5 meters) between respective clusters or banks of immersion cooling tanks 94,95. Main body 11 further comprises a liquid storage tank 71 to contain a volume of dielectric coolant liquid used to top-up levels within the immersion tanks 94, 95 as part of datacenter maintenance procedures. Cart 10 further comprises at least one electrically controllable pump configured to drive dispensing of liquid from tank 71 via suitable supply conduits or hoses (not shown) extending from tank 71. A supply hose (not shown) may be attached conveniently to the cart 10 via a liquid outlet nozzle 63. Nozzle 63 may be mounted at or adjacent worktop 62 for convenient access. Hose flow stoppers 64 are mounted proximate to worktop 62 and function to prevent through-flow of liquid at supply a hose (not shown) connected to nozzle 63. An access door 70 provided at exterior panelling of main body 11 provides access into internal regions of main body 11. The interior may further comprise storage containers, draws, bottles, vessels, maintenance equipment, tools etc associated with general maintenance of a datacenter including specifically liquid cooling immersion tanks and liquids. Liquid storage tank 71 is mounted at main body 11 laterally to the side of storage container 45. Main body 11 comprises windows 85 at the external panelling that, in part, defines main body 11 so as to allow personnel 44 to view liquid levels within tank 71.

[0071] Referring to figures 7 to 9 and 18, cart 10 comprises a releasable locking mechanism 81 to releasably couple engager assembly 17 to the translator assembly 75. Referring to figure 17, locking mechanism 81 a first part of an arrangement comprises a housing 22 defining an internal bore and an electromagnetic locking latch mechanism 82, mounted at end beam section 16d of translator assembly 75. Locking mechanism 81 further comprises a second part having an elongate pin 24 provided with a conical or domed terminal end 24a. A hole or bore extends laterally through pin 24 and is configured to receive a locking shaft 25 provided at a terminal end of the electromagnetic latching mechanism 82, suspended below second beam end section 16d. Pin 24 is mounted to extend upwardly from a cross beam 23 that forms a part of engager assembly 17. In operation, as engager assembly is brought into engagement with the releasable locking mechanism 81, pin 24 is received within the bore of housing 22. Conical / domed pin end 24a passes the locking shaft 25 that is biased into the bore of housing 22. Once pin end 24a is fully inserted within the bore of housing 22, shaft 25 of latching mechanism 82 is biased into engagement through the bore of pin 24 so as to releasably lock engager assembly 17 at the translator assembly 75. As will be appreciated, electromagnetic latching mechanism 82 comprises associated electromagnetic, mechanical and electronic components typical to such self-aligning, semi-automated latching mechanisms.

[0072] Engager assembly 17 comprises a pair of grippers indicated generally by reference 29 and a releasable locking mechanism 28 to enable grippers 29 to both releasably latch onto a lengthwise end region of IT module 30 and specifically respective tabs 31 projecting from a lengthwise end of an IT module 30 consistent with conventional locking tabs provided at such IT hardware (typically IT servers, motherboards etc). Engager assembly 17 further comprises beam 23 from which pin 24 extends, as described. Each of the grippers 29 is mounted at beam 23 via a locating collar 26 positioned over and about beam 23 and dimensioned so as to allow grippers 29 to slide axially in the z direction along beam 23. A releasable locking leaver 27 is provided at each collar 26 to positionally lock each of the grippers 29 at the desired lengthwise position of beam 23 to align with and for suitable engagement of each respective tab 31. Referring to figure 9, locking mechanism 28 according to the specific implementation, comprises an automatic latching arrangement such that grippers 29 are configured to automatically latch and lock onto tabs 31 as engager assembly 17 is lowered into contact with tabs 31 via movement of articulator assembly 12 as controlled by personnel 44. In particular, locking mechanism 28 comprises a spring biased latch lever having a spring 32 and L-shaped catch 33. A shaft 37 extends from catch 33 and is provided with a slider pin 39 housed within a slot 36 provided within a gripper block 41 accommodated within a housing, that forms part of each gripper 29. A locking face 35 of gripper block 41 is positioned opposed to a further locking face 42 provided at gripper housing from which extends a locking pin 40 positionally opposed to gripper lock face 35. In use, as the engager assembly 17 is lowered into engaging contact with tabs 31, spring 32 is compressed as engager assembly 17 engages onto the end face of IT module 30. This depresses catch 33 in turn causing pin 39 to slide within slot 36. As slot 36 is aligned oblique to the y direction, pin 39 slides downwardly to force block 41 in a direction away from locking face 42 and locking pin 40. A stopper pin 38 acts to assist with limiting a maximum travel length of pin 39 within slot 36 and / or to stabilise each gripper 29 in an ‘open ’ position of figure 9A. This ‘open' configuration of grippers 29 enables each respective tab 31 to be inserted into the region between the opposed grippers faces 35, 42. As engager assembly 17 is raised in the y direction, to extract IT module 30 from cart 10 or an immersion cooling tank 94 (figure 39), spring 32 acting on catch 33 withdraws pin 39 within slot 36 (figure 9B) to force each gripper block 41 into a ‘closed’ and locked state of figure 9C and D. Pin 40 is thereby inserted through a suitable bore or aperture within each respective tab 31 so as to releasably lock an IT module 30 to the engager assembly 17.

[0073] Further specific implementations of the engager and engager assembly are illustrated in figures 12 and 13A to D. According to one implementation, beam 34 comprises elongate slot 54 mounting each gripper locking mechanism 28. Each of the grippers and locking mechanisms 28 may be slidably mounted within each respective slot 54 so as to adjust the location of locking pin 40 in the z direction and lengthways at beam 23. According to the further implementation, gripper locking mechanism 28 uses a mechanically hinged latching lever 27 whereby releasable locking of the tabs 31 is provided and actuated manually by personnel 44.

[0074] According to the further implementations, grippers 29 may comprise hooked end grippers 55 (figure 13A); spring and lever implemented engagers 56 (figure 13B), eccentric and / or cam based engagers 57 (figure 13C) or geometric entrapment releasable locking mechanisms (figure 13D) having a central spindle 58 with spring biased detents 59 configured to releasably engage a female collar 60 as will be appreciated. Each of the arrangements of figures 13 A to 13D may be provided as grippers 29 with the components and function described referring to figures 1 to 12. Referring to figures 10, 18 and 19, storage container 45 comprises a first pair of opposed sidewalls 20a, 20c and a second pair of opposed sidewalls 20b, 20d extending in a depthwise direction into main body 11 from the cavity opening provided approximately coplanar with main body worktop 65. A cavity base 20e is provided at a base of cavity 20 furthest from the opening. A pair of parallel mounts 46 extend in a lengthwise x direction of main body 11 at the upper terminal ends of opposed sidewalls 20a, 20c. Mounts 46 are adapted to abut and positionally support IT modules 30 when mounted and suspended within cavity 20 as illustrated in figure 18. According to the specific implementation, mounts 46 comprise two pairs of parallel rails 61 including in particular, a pair of outermost rails 61a and a pair of inner rails 61b. Each of the rails 61a, 61b comprises respective rollers to enable IT module 30 to slide backwards and forward in the x direction within cavity 20 as desired by personnel 44. Each IT module 30 comprises support flanges 13a projecting laterally outward at each terminal end from which tabs 31 project.

[0075] Accordingly, each of the IT modules 30 may be suspended within cavity 20 via engagement of flanges 13a onto rails 61a / or rails 61b depending upon the width of each IT module 30 and the corresponding alignment position of flanges 13a with each rail 61a, 61b.

[0076] Referring to figure 10, cart 10 further comprises a pair of elongate side brackets 18 extending in a lengthwise x direction on each wall 20a, 20c at an approximate mid depth position between the open end and base 20e of cavity 20. A pair of elongate support trusses 52 also extend in the x direction along the opposed walls 20a, 20c. Trusses 52 are located in a depthwise direction at or towards cavity base 20e. Each truss 52 comprises a shoulder 53 that provides an abutment ridge to contact a lengthwise end of an IT module 30 as illustrated in figure 33c. Brackets 18 each comprise resiliently flexible ribs 47 that project into cavity 20 from each respective wall 20a, 20c and are adapted to abut a lengthwise side of the IT modules 30 to positionally stabilise the IT modules 30 within the cavity 20. According to further implementations, the distance by which the ribs 47 project into the cavity 20 may be configured to accommodate different sized IT modules 30 having different widths such that cavity 20 is adapted to accommodate different sized IT modules 30 securely and reliably without risk of damage as the IT modules 30 are transported within cart 10. Additionally, according to further implementations, support trusses 52 may be adjustable and / or comprises or resiliently flexible components so as to accommodate different lengths of IT modules 30. According to further implementations, trusses 52 may be adjustably mounted in the depthwise direction of cavity 20 between cavity base 20e and the cavity opening.

[0077] Referring to figures 14 to 16 cart 10 comprises a visual alignment unit configured to aid visual alignment of the grippers 29 into engagement with the tabs 31 as the engager assembly 17 is moved downwardly in a y direction onto IT modules 30. According to this specific implementation, the alignment unit comprises a laser 21 configured to create a visual laser spot on the end face of IT module 30 at or in close proximity to at least one tab 31. Laser 21 may be adjustably mounted at articulator assembly 12 and in particular translator assembly 75 and second beam end section 16d.

[0078] Referring to figures 10 and 27 to 34, table 50 is adjustably mounted at cart main body 11 via an articulating mount assembly comprising hinge mount 80 and actuating cylinders / rams 76, 90. In particular, in a retracted position of figures 5, 32 and 33A and B, table 50 comprises a length extending in a height direction of main body 11 corresponding to the y direction aligned with the depth of cavity 20 from the open upper end to base 20e. Table 50 comprises planar work panel 50b having a first lengthwise end 50c and a second lengthwise end 50d. Panel 50b is bordered by lengthwise perimeter walls 50a extending upwardly at panel 50b. An enlarged end wall 77 is provided at second end 50d with wall 77 being enlarged in the height direction relative to walls 50a and in particular the distance by which walls 50a, 77 extend from panel 50b. Walls 50a and 77 define a first liquid collection well extending over panel 50b to contain a liquid discharged onto table 50 when orientated in the extended position of figure 27 and when supporting an IT module 30 for maintenance purposes as illustrated in figure 34. In particular, liquid present at IT module 30 may drain onto panel 50b and be retained at the collection well defined by walls 50a, 77. Panel 50b comprises a gutter 77 extending widthwise at first lengthwise end 50c so as to provide a collection channel or conduit for the liquid collected at table 50 when presented in the orientation of figure 34. Conduits or hoses, funnels and / or channels (not shown) are provided internally within main body 11 to provide a means of liquid flow from the well at panel 50b and regions of worktop 65. Enlarged end wall 77 also comprises perimeter walls 77a, 77b that together define a second liquid collection well 78 when table 50 is orientated generally vertically according to the orientation of figures 2, 5, 32 and 33. That is, liquid present at an IT module 30 is captured by end wall 77 and collects within well 78. As table 50 is actuated into the extended position of figure 27, the liquid drains onto the main collection well at panel 50b and into channel 79 where it is drained via the suitable drainage conduits and / or channels to a liquid collection reservoir 66 provided at a base or lower region of main body 11 (figures 20, 21 and 24).

[0079] Table 50 also comprises a pair of spaced apart arms 51 projecting outwardly from panel 50b at first lengthwise end 50c. Arms 51 are configured to engage IT module flanges 15a, in the same manner as mounts 46, when an IT module 30 is positioned at the table 50 and orientated in a generally vertical plane (y direction) as illustrated in figures 32 and 33. Referring to figure 26, cart 10 further comprises support adaptors 86 mountable on each of the arms 51 so as to adjust the lateral spacing of the support contacts configured to abut the IT module flanges 13a. Such an arrangement is advantageous to mount different sized IT hardware at table 50. In particular, referring to figure 32b, a first smaller IT module 30 requires support adaptors 86 at arms 51 whilst a larger IT module 30 of figure 33b may be mounted directly onto arms 51. Referring to figure 10, cart 10 further comprises support braces 48 removably mountable against table end wall 77. Each of the braces 48 comprises a laterally outward projecting flange 49 that provides a shoulder or abutment to contact an end portion 30b, 30c of IT module 30 at the second end of table 50d with the IT module and the table orientated in the configuration of figure 32b and 33b. Cart 10 may further comprise additional support braces 38 (figure 28) positionable at table first end 50c adjacent arms 51 to provide additional positional support of smaller IT hardware (of the type of figure 32) when supported at table 50.

[0080] Referring to figures 18 and 19, main body 11 is provided with worktop 65 that, in part, surrounds the upper open region of container 45 and the open end of cavity 20.

[0081] Perforations 62 extend through the generally planar worktop 65 to provide a means of drainage of liquid deposited onto worktop 65 that may result from personnel 44 cleaning IT modules and other IT equipment (at worktop 65). Suitable conduits, funnels and / or tubing (not shown) provides fluidic communication between perforations 62 and liquid collection reservoir 66 provided at a lower or base region of main body 11 as illustrated in figures 1, 20, 21 and 24

[0082] Referring to figures 20, 21 and 24 reservoir 66 may be considered to comprise a tray configuration having sidewalls 68, 69 extending from a base panel. Reservoir 66 extends a majority or the full length of the main body 11 so as to provide a liquid collection tray under the majority or all of the worktop 65 and cavity 20 such that dielectric liquid deposited onto worktop 65, table 50 and cavity 20 may be drained and / or channelled conveniently into the tray -like reservoir 66. A drainage outlet valve 19 is provided in one of the sidewalls of reservoir 66 to allow collected fluid to be drained. A liquid flow dampener in the form of a foam body 67 is shaped and dimensioned so as to be at least partially housed within the tray-like reservoir 66. Accordingly, as liquid is drained / channelled into reservoir 66, it may be deposited onto foam body 67 and thereby contained at least partially within the foam network. Such an arrangement avoids collected liquid from flowing within the reservoir 66 that may otherwise spill out of the reservoir 66 as the cart 10 is moved within the datacenter to and from immersion cooling tanks 94, 94 (figure 39).

[0083] Referring to figures 22 to 24, cart 10 comprises wheels 13 provided as pivoting castors having an upper mount part 13a and a wheel part 13b. A wheel locking mechanism is housed within part 13 a. According to the specific implementation of figure 23, the locking mechanism comprises a linear actuator provided within a housing 72a that by linear extension and retraction causes an end break part 72c to extend and retract relative to a housing 72b into abutment contact with the circular outer perimeter surface of wheel part 13b causing the wheel part 13b to be locked in stationary position. Referring to figure 24, a break linkage 74a provides a common coupling between break parts 72a with the linkage 74a being coupled to a suitable break lever 74b (figure 25). Accordingly, as personnel 24 actuates lever 74b, linkage 74a is actuated to provide breaking of at least a pair of wheels 13. Cart 10 further comprises deformable bumpers in the form of wheels 73 mounted at each corner of main body 11 at or towards a base of the main body 11. Referring to figures 35 to 39, cart 10 further comprises a pair of side guards 88 adjustably mounted at each lateral side of main body 11 to extend laterally outward from main body 11 in the z direction corresponding to the main body widthwise direction. A pair of storage pockets 89 is provided within main body 11 at each lateral side of the main storage container 45 adjacent either side of cavity 20. Pockets 89 are dimensioned so as to at least partially accommodate each side guard 88 in a retracted position being at least partially accommodated within main body 11. Each side guard 88 comprises a first lengthwise end 88a and a second lengthwise end 88b. A pair of magnetic tabs 89 are provided at end 88a to project laterally outward from each lengthwise side of guard 88 (at first end 88a).

[0084] Similarly, a pair of locking tabs extends laterally outward at the second lengthwise end 88b of guard 88. Locking tabs 91 are configured to abut a region 92 that, in part, defines an opening at each storage pocket 89 and into which each respective side guard 88 may be retracted. With guard 88 in the fully extended position of figure 36, extending laterally outward from a side of main body 11, magnetic locking tabs 89 are held by a magnetic force adjacent regions 92 so as to positionally stabilise guard 88 in the extended position. Guard 88 comprises a hinge joint 88c extending laterally / widthwise across guard 88 at an approximate mid-length position between ends 88a and 88b. A lengthwise portion of guard 88 is also linearly extendable in the z direction via a telescopic mechanism 93 formed from a pair of slots and locator pins slidable in the elongate lengthwise direction within the slots.

[0085] Referring to figure 39 and in use, cart 10 is transported into position adjacent a bank of liquid immersion tanks 95, with each tank 94 having an internal chamber housing a dielectric coolant liquid within which a plurality of IT module 30 may be immersed and cooled according to existing liquid immersion cooling technology. With cart 10 positioned adjacent tank 94, the articulator gantry may be actuated in the y, x and z directions so at to align the engager assembly 17 into a position such that the grippers 29 may be actuated in a y direction downwardly into contact with an IT module 30 to be extracted. As the engager assembly 17 is brought into contact with the IT module tabs 31, the gripper locking mechanism 28 (figures 8 and 9) is actuated so as to releasably lock the engager assembly 17 onto IT module 30 that may then be raised in the y direction to clear the tank. The articulator assembly 12 may continue to be actuated so as to transport IT module 30 laterally in the z direction to be brought into alignment vertically above the open end of cavity 20 or the region of table 50. IT module 30 may then be lowered in the y direction into cavity 20 via abutment with mounts 46 (rails 61) or into abutment contact with support arms 51 of table 50. Where IT module 30 is loaded onto table 50, table 50 may then be actuated via the hinge mechanism 76, 90, 80 to be brought into the horizontal orientation of figure 34 for servicing purposes. Any dielectric liquid is captured within the table well at panel 50b and drained via channel 79 and suitable conduits (not shown) into fluid collection reservoir 66. A replacement IT module 30 may then be extracted from cavity 20 (from the position of figure 18) and then moved in a reversed direction to be inserted into immersion tank 94. Whilst IT modules 30 are inserted and removed at immersion tank 94, cart 10 is maintained in a stationary, locked position via breaking system 72a, 72b, 72c as actuated by break lever 74b and linkage 74a.

[0086] Actuating components, assemblies and mechanisms described herein may be controlled independently, collectively or as desired by one or more control units. Such control may be implemented by hardware and / or software. Preferably, electronic control is implemented according to the specific embodiment described herein, using at least one programmable relay. Optionally, programmable logic controls (PLCs) may be utilised. Such programmable relays, as used herein, may work cooperatively with an electronic control unit (ECU), also termed electronic control module (ECM). Such units and systems provide embedded control systems for the automated and semi-automated control of electronics and electronic components as described herein. The present apparatus and system may comprise one or more suitable user interfaces having a display and input and output functionality. In one implementation, the control unit and interface comprises a mobile device and software implemented on a mobile device such as a mobile phone, tablet and the like. Accordingly, the present apparatus and system may comprise wireless communication components and protocols to provide wireless communication as part of the electronic control of the various actuating components, assemblies and mechanisms described herein. According to further implementations, control of the various electronic components may be provided by wired control with at least one programmable relay or PLC. As will be appreciated, the present apparatus and system may be controlled by either or both wired or wireless control units. The actuating components as described herein may include electric motors, linear actuators (such as pistons, rams, screw actuators, wheel axel actuators, cam actuators etc). Such actuators may be provided as mechanical, electromechanical and / or electromagnetic actuators. The present apparatus and system may comprise stepper motors or servo motors as required according to existing electronic component associated with automated and semi-automated electronic actuating

[0087] components.

Claims

-23- Claims1. A cart for the positional interchange of IT hardware at a datacenter comprising:a main body having wheels to allow the cart to move over the ground;a storage container provided at the main body to store and at least partially house IT hardware to be inserted and / or extracted at a liquid immersion tank or rack, the cavity having an opening at an upper end via which the IT hardware may be insert and / or extracted at the cavity;an articulator assembly extending upwardly from the main body;an engager assembly provided at the articulator assembly and having grippers to contact and grip an IT hardware, the articulator assembly configured to raise and lower the engager assembly and / or the grippers to insert and extract the IT hardware at the liquid immersion tank or rack.2 The cart as claimed in claim 1 wherein the articulator assembly comprises:• a post extending upwardly from the main body in a y direction, the post being extendable in the y direction;• a translator assembly mounted at the post and mounting the engager assembly, the translator assembly having a mechanism to move the engager assembly and / or the grippers in a x direction aligned lengthwise at the cart and a z direction aligned widthwise at the cart so as to enable the articulator assembly to transfer and / or positionally interchange the IT hardware between the cart and the liquid immersion tank or rack.

3. The cart as claimed in claim 2 wherein the translator assembly comprises a first beam extending in the x direction and a second beam mounted at or towards an end of the first beam and extending the z direction.

4. The cart as claimed in claim 3 wherein the engager assembly is mounted or provided at the second beam.

5. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the engager assembly and / or the grippers are movably mounted at the articulation assembly via a movement mechanism to enable the engager assembly and / or the grippers to be raised and lowered relative to the main body so as to raise and lower an IT hardware relative to the main body.

6. The cart as claimed in claims 3 or 4 further comprising a releasable locking mechanism coupling the engager assembly to the translator assembly, the releasable locking mechanism comprising at least one electromagnetic component.

7. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a releasable locking mechanism provided at the grippers to releasably lock the grippers to an IT hardware.

8. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a visual alignment unit provided at the articulation assembly and / or the engager assembly to create and / or emit a visual marker at a location immediately below the grippers.

9. The cart as claimed in claim 8 wherein the visual alignment unit comprises a laser.

10. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim comprising mounts provided at the main body extending adjacent the opening and having rails, apertures, rollers and / or notches to contact and enable the IT hardware to be suspended within the cavity via the mounts.

11. The cart as claimed in claim 10 wherein the mounts comprise adaptors removably mounted at the main body, the adaptors having apertures, rollers and / or notches to contact and enable the IT hardware to be suspended within the cavity via the adaptors and / or mounts.

12. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising elongate side brackets extending laterally across at least a pair of opposed sidewalls that in part definethe cavity at the main body, the brackets positioned in a depthwise direction of the cavity between the opening and a base of the cavity.

13. The cart as claimed in claim 12 further comprising elongate support trusses extending laterally across the opposed sidewalls and positioned in a depthwise direction of the cavity at or towards the base of the cavity.

14. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the main body comprises a worktop provided at an upper region relative to a lower region of which the wheels are mounted, the worktop comprising drainage holes or perforations to allow drainage of a liquid downwardly from the worktop and into an interior of the main body.

15. The cart as claimed in claim 14 further comprising at least one fluid collection conduit and / or channel to transfer liquid drained from the worktop via the holes or perforations.

16. The cart as claimed in claims 14 or 15 comprising a fluid collection reservoir provided at the main body to receive liquid drained from the worktop via the holes or perforations.

17. The cart as claimed in claims 16 wherein the fluid collection conduit and / or channel is positioned to provide fluidic communication between the holes or perforations and the fluid collection reservoir.

18. The cart as claimed in any one of claims 16 or 17 further comprising a fluid storage tank provided at the main body to store a dielectric immersion cooling liquid.

19. The cart as claimed in claim 18 further comprising:a supply conduit or hose provided in fluidic communication with the fluid storage tank to dispense the dielectric immersion cooling liquid from the tank; andthe cart further comprising at least one pump to drive the dispensing of a dielectric immersion cooling liquid from the tank and / or a liquid from the collection reservoir.-26-20. The cart as claimed in claims 17 or 18 further comprising at least one fluid level indicator provided at the fluid storage tank and / or the fluid correction reservoir, the fluid level indicator comprising a window and / or a liquid sensor.

21. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a support table extendably attached to the main body via a mounting to be movable between a retracted position at the main body and an extended position extending laterally away from the main body.

22. The cart as claimed in claim 21 wherein the table comprises perimeter walls defining a first liquid collection well at the table and a gutter to channel fluid to be drained from the table.

23. The cart as claimed in claim 22 wherein at least one of the walls being an end wall is enlarged relative to some of the other walls, the enlarged end wall comprising perimeter sides defining a second liquid collection well.

24. The cart as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 23 wherein the mounting comprises a hinge mechanism to enable the table to pivot at the main body between the retracted position at the main body and the extended position, the hinge mounted at one lengthwise end of the table.

25. The cart as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 24 wherein the table comprises a pair of laterally spaced support arms extending from a main plane of the table and configured to contact and positionally support an IT hardware located between the support arms.

26. The cart as claimed in claim 25 further comprising support adaptors removably mountable at the support arms and configured to support IT hardware located between the support arms.-27- 27. The cart as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 26 further comprising support braces removably mounted at the table and / or an end wall of the table, each of the braces having a shoulder or flange extending inwardly from the perimeter walls to provide a support abutment to positionally support an IT hardware when mounted and supported at the table.

28. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim when dependent on claims 16 and 18 further comprising a liquid flow dampening body provided at the main body and / or the fluid collection reservoir to inhibit flow of liquid within the fluid collection reservoir.

29. The cart as claimed in claim 28 wherein the liquid flow dampening body comprises a foam body positioned at least partially within the fluid collection reservoir.

30. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a side guard adjustably mounted at the main body and adjustable between a retracted position at or within the main body and a deployed position extending laterally outward at or towards an upper region of the main body.

31. The cart as claimed in claim 30 wherein the side guard comprises a hinge or flexed joint extending widthwise across the side guard to enable the side guard to bend or flex in a lengthwise direction at a position between a first and second lengthwise end.

32. The cart as claimed in claims 30 or 31 wherein the main body comprises a storage pocket to receive and house the side guard in the retracted position.

33. The cart as claimed in claims 31 and 32 wherein the side guard comprises:an end stop at a first lengthwise end to abut a region of the main body adjacent the pocket and prevent the side guard being completely retracted into the pocket; anda lock provided at a second lengthwise end of the side guard to abut a region of the main body adjacent the pocket and to positionally stabilise the side guard at the extended position.-28- 34. The cart as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising:a brake mechanism having a first part provided at at least one of the wheels or a region of the main body adjacent the at least one of the wheels configured to operative between a locked state to lock the wheels and an unlocked state to allow the wheels to rotate; anda second part having a handle, button or lever configured to be operated by a user to actuate the first part between the locked and the unlocked state.

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