Adjustable Datacentre Rack Blanking Panel with Stretchable Screen
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current blanking panels for datacentre racks are inflexible, unable to fill non-standard spaces, and do not effectively prevent air mixing, leading to inefficiencies and increased power usage, as they are typically fixed sizes and require connections on both sides of the rack.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable blanking panel with a frame and flexible, stretchable material that can be attached to a rack on one or both sides, allowing expansion to fill non-standard spaces and prevent air mixing by stretching to cover apertures, including those with vertical and horizontal gaps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size blanking panels are used, then manufacturing and storage are simplified, but they cannot fill non-standard spaces and fail to prevent air mixing in variable configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The blanking panel employs adjustable sides that can be moved between fixed and extended positions, allowing the panel to dynamically adapt to different space configurations. This dynamic structure enables the same panel to fill various non-standard spaces while maintaining a compact form for storage and transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel is divided into modular components including fixed sides and adjustable sides that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows each side to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing adaptability to diverse rack configurations without excessive overall complexity.
2Strength
If solid thick material is used for blanking panels, then structural strength is improved, but storage becomes problematic and waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The panel transitions from a rigid solid structure to a dynamic structure with collapsible sides. When not in use, the panel can be compressed to a compact size for efficient storage, reducing the effective volume occupied and minimizing material waste through repeated reuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable sides can be nested or collapsed within the panel structure when not in use, similar to nested dolls. This nesting capability allows the panel to occupy minimal storage space while maintaining full structural integrity when deployed.
3Area of stationary object
If traditional blanking panels are used, then horizontal spaces are blocked, but vertical spaces remain empty and air mixing continues
Solution Approach 1:
The panel extends its coverage from two-dimensional horizontal blocking to three-dimensional coverage by utilizing vertical adjustment capability. The adjustable sides can be extended vertically to block both horizontal and vertical air paths, creating a more comprehensive airflow barrier that addresses mixing in multiple dimensions.
4Stability of the object's composition
If connections on both sides of the rack are required, then panel stability is improved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into optional single-sided and double-sided mounting configurations. The adjustable sides can be independently attached to rack rails, allowing installers to choose the minimum necessary connections (one side) for quick installation, or use both sides for enhanced stability in high-vibration environments.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable panel effectively reduces air mixing, enhances airflow efficiency, and helps datacentres meet environmental standards by minimizing power usage and carbon footprint, while being reusable and adaptable to non-standard equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a screen formed of a flexible and stretchable material extending between at least one of the pairs of parallel sides, where the flexible and stretchable material stretches as the pair of parallel sides are moved apart thereby blocking the aperture
Data Source
AI summary
A blanking panel is provided for blocking an aperture in a rack for mounting multiple hardware components. The panel includes: a frame having a first pair of parallel sides connected orthogonally to a second pair of parallel sides, where at least one of the pairs of parallel sides is adjustable in length; an attachment means provided on at least one of the pairs of parallel sides for removable attachment of the blanking panel to the rack; and a screen formed of a flexible and stretchable material extending between at least one of the pairs of parallel sides where the flexible and stretchable material stretches as the pair of parallel sides are moved apart thereby blocking the aperture.