Adjustable Shelf Modules for Reconfigurable Computing Racks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer systems in large-scale computing facilities face inefficiencies due to wasted space in server racks, inadequate resource utilization, and imbalances in computing and storage capacity, leading to potential overloads and reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
A modular computing system with adjustable shelf modules and electrical modules that can be configured to optimize resource allocation within rack space, allowing for customizable slots and assembly of compute, data storage, and power modules to match specific resource needs, thereby optimizing electrical power and cooling resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If servers are designed with fixed computing capacity and storage capacity, then manufacturing is simplified, but the system cannot achieve optimum resource mix for different applications
Solution Approach 1:
The server system is divided into separate module types: compute modules with fixed CPU configurations and storage modules with fixed storage configurations. These modules can be independently selected and combined to create customized server configurations, allowing flexible resource mixing without increasing individual module complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A universal rack platform provides standardized mounting structures, power distribution, and cooling systems that support multiple types of modules (compute, storage, networking). This universal infrastructure enables flexible resource allocation while maintaining system simplicity through standardization
2Productivity
If rack systems include many server components, then computing capacity increases, but wasted space increases and resource utilization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system allows dynamic reconfiguration of module arrangements based on workload requirements. Modules can be added, removed, or repositioned to optimize space utilization for specific applications, transitioning from static fixed configurations to dynamic adaptable layouts
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional modules (compute, storage, networking, power) are combined into integrated rack units that share common infrastructure. This merging reduces redundant components and optimizes space by consolidating functions that would otherwise require separate dedicated areas
3Quantity of substance
If hard disk drives are fully powered up continuously, then data storage capacity is available, but heat generation increases and cooling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different modules within the rack are assigned different power and cooling characteristics based on their specific functions and heat generation rates. Storage modules with high heat generation receive targeted cooling solutions, while lower-power modules receive reduced cooling, optimizing overall thermal management
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous availability of storage capacity through persistent power supply to storage devices, while implementing continuous thermal management through active cooling systems that operate to remove heat from hard disk drives and other heat-generating components
Data Source
AI summary
A computing system includes a rack, a shelf module that couples to the rack, and two or more electrical modules. The shelf module includes two or more shelf members that form slots for receiving electrical modules. The shelf members are adjustable to alter the width of the slots. The shelf members may be adjustable to form a row of two or more partial width slots having a height that is a multiple of ¼ of a rack unit. The electrical modules may each include a chassis that couples with the shelf module. The electrical modules may be mounted in the partial width slots.