Air-Containment Beam With Integrated Channels for Flexible Data Centers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air-containment systems in data centers lack flexibility and customization options, with prevailing structures being self-supporting or dependent on equipment racks, and prefabricated structural ceilings offering limited design flexibility.
Innovation Solution
An air-containment system beam with multiple channels to accommodate various components, including beam connectors, air-containment panels, cabinet and ceiling seals, and lighting supports, fabricated from extruded PVC material, allowing easy customization and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If self-supporting or equipment-rack-supported containment structures are used, then structural stability is achieved, but design flexibility and customization are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The containment structure is divided into modular components including beams with integrated channels, panels, seals, and connectors. Each component can be independently designed, manufactured, and assembled to create customized configurations that adapt to different spatial requirements while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam is designed as a universal component with multiple integrated channels that can accommodate various types of components including air-containment panels, cabinet seals, ceiling seals, and support structures. This multi-functional design allows a single beam type to serve multiple purposes in different containment configurations, enhancing design flexibility without increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If prefabricated structural ceilings are used, then installation efficiency is improved, but design and arrangement flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The ceiling system is segmented into modular panels and support components that can be pre-fabricated off-site and then quickly assembled on-site. The beams include integrated channels for mounting ceiling panels, seals, and support structures, allowing the ceiling to be configured in various arrangements to meet different design requirements while maintaining rapid installation through standardized modular components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If freestanding air-containment systems with removable racks are used, then equipment flexibility is achieved, but customization to meet customer demands becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The containment system incorporates dynamic assembly capabilities through standardized connectors and modular components that can be easily configured and reconfigured. The beams with integrated channels allow for adaptable mounting of panels, seals, and support structures, enabling the system to be customized to specific customer requirements while maintaining ease of deployment through systematic assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An air-containment system beam includes a body having a first channel configured to receive a beam connector, a second channel configured to receive an air-containment panel, a third channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet seal or a ceiling seal, and a fourth channel configured to receive at least one of a cabinet support or a ceiling panel support. The air-containment system beam further may include a fifth channel configured to receive at least one lighting support.