Air intake filter retainer for datacenters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Datacenters face challenges with high power consumption and maintenance costs due to active cooling methods, and external contaminants like snow and dust entering through air filters, which can damage equipment and require additional maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A retaining element for air filters in datacenter air intake assemblies, comprising members extending along perpendicular axes to overlie boundaries between filters, blocking precipitation and contaminants, and attachable to the air intake awning assembly using clips or fasteners, reducing the need for additional maintenance equipment and activities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple air filters are positioned at the air intake to filter external air, then the flow of dirt, dust, snow and other particulate matter into the datacenter is reduced, but the complexity of the air intake assembly increases and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The air intake assembly is segmented into modular components: multiple air filters arranged in a grid pattern, a retaining element with a framework of members creating distinct compartments, and a awning assembly. Each filter is positioned in its own compartment defined by the framework members, allowing independent installation, removal, and maintenance of individual filters without affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining element acts as an intermediary structure between the air filters and the awning assembly. It provides a framework that holds the filters in place, defines their positions, and interfaces with the awning assembly for overall support and weather protection. This intermediary structure simplifies the connection between components and standardizes the assembly process.
2Reliability
If active cooling systems are used to cool the datacenter, then the computing equipment can be maintained within acceptable operating conditions, but the electrical power requirements, equipment costs, and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful cold ambient air containing snow and contaminants into a beneficial cooling resource. By filtering this air through multiple air filters and directing it into the datacenter, the system uses free natural cooling to reduce reliance on energy-intensive active cooling systems, while the filters prevent contaminants from causing equipment damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The air filters are positioned at the air intake before the air enters the datacenter, performing preliminary filtration of snow, contaminants, and particulate matter. This preliminary action prevents contaminants from entering the equipment area, reducing the need for reactive maintenance and protecting equipment from damage that would require costly repairs.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the retaining element members are spaced to overlie boundaries between adjacent air filters, then precipitation and contaminants are blocked from entering through filter gaps, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining element adds a dimensional layer above the air filters by positioning framework members that overlie the boundaries between adjacent filters. This creates an overhead barrier structure that blocks precipitation from entering through gaps between filters, while the modular framework design keeps the added complexity manageable through standardized geometric patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining element for multiple air filters of an air intake awning assembly for a datacenter is described. The retaining element comprises a first set of members extending along a first axis; and a second set of members extending along a second axis, and defining one or more openings between the members. The members are spaced to overlie boundaries between adjacent air filters of the multiple air filters when the retaining element is disposed above the multiple air filters.