BBU Coolant Manifold Layout for Two-Phase Rack Thermal Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rack-based server energy units only provide single backup power functionality and lack effective thermal management, especially for high power density racks with advanced thermal systems, leading to decreased server reliability and performance due to inadequate heat removal solutions.
Innovation Solution
A rack backup energy unit with an advanced thermal management system, incorporating a coolant management unit for liquid cooling, a backup battery unit (BBU) module, and a two-phase thermal management system, which includes a BBU return manifold, supply manifold, balance loop, and power bus for efficient power distribution and fluid balancing, along with a modular design for easy configuration and leak detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional single backup power function units are used, then device complexity is reduced, but thermal management effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The energy unit is designed to perform multiple functions: backup power supply, primary power supply, and thermal management. The coolant management unit with manifolds and balance loops enables the system to handle both power distribution and cooling operations, transforming a single-function device into a multi-functional integrated unit that addresses thermal management needs while providing power backup.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the backup battery unit, coolant management unit, and power distribution systems into a single integrated energy unit. The manifolds and balance loops are merged with the battery housing to create a compact system that performs both thermal management and power supply functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate cooling devices.
2Reliability
If advanced thermal management systems are implemented, then heat removal effectiveness is improved, but coordination with backup power units deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The energy unit is designed to perform multiple functions: backup power supply, primary power supply, and thermal management. The coolant management unit with manifolds and balance loops enables the system to handle both power distribution and cooling operations, transforming a single-function device into a multi-functional integrated unit that addresses thermal management needs while providing power backup.
Solution Approach 2:
The balance loops connected to each battery module create a feedback mechanism that automatically regulates coolant distribution. The system monitors fluid levels and thermal conditions, adjusting coolant flow to maintain optimal temperatures, thereby coordinating thermal management with power supply operations and enhancing overall system reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular design with multiple connectors is used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy unit is divided into modular components: individual battery modules, separate coolant management units, and distinct power distribution sections. Each module can be independently configured and connected through standardized connectors, allowing flexible system assembly while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture.
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 solution provides efficient power and thermal management for high power density servers, maintaining optimal fluid levels and temperatures, enhancing server reliability and performance while accommodating renewable power inputs and modular configurations.
Implementation Method 1
the cooling fluid is two-phase cooling fluid to extract heat from the BBU modules and to evaporate the vapor into the BBU return manifold
Implementation Method 2
to evaporate the vapor into the BBU return manifold
Implementation Method 3
the vapor is transmitted to an external condenser via the rack return manifold to be condensed back to a liquid form
Implementation Method 4
to extract heat from the BBU modules
Data Source
AI summary
A coolant management unit for providing liquid cooling for backup battery unit (BBU) modules of an electronic rack includes a BBU return manifold, a BBU supply manifold, a balance loop, and a power bus. For example, a BBU supply manifold having a rack supply connector to receive cooling fluid from a rack supply manifold and a BBU supply connector to be connected to one of the BBU modules to distribute the cooling fluid. A BBU return manifold to be coupled to a rack return manifold, wherein the BBU return manifold is to receive vapor from the BBU modules. A balance loop connected to each of the BBU modules to establish a fluid connection amongst the BBU modules, such that a level of the cooling fluid in each of the BBU modules remains similar.