Integrated Busbar Trunking Connectors for Space-Constrained Data Centers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional power distribution systems in industrial facilities, particularly in data centers, face challenges with limited space for installation and reconfiguration due to the need for external joint packs and interactions between them, which complicates the expansion of server racks and power distribution systems.
Innovation Solution
A busbar trunking system section with integrated male and female mechanical and electrical connectors allows for plug-and-play connections between sections without external joint packs, featuring spigots, couplers, and latch mechanisms for secure and efficient electrical and mechanical connections, along with pre-defined tap-off points and grounding systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external joint packs are used to connect BTS sections, then electrical connection between sections is achieved, but space requirements increase and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connector and mechanical connector into a single integrated unit that is built into the BTS section itself. This merging eliminates the need for separate external joint packs, thereby reducing installation space while maintaining reliable electrical and mechanical connections between sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides both electrical connection (through the electrical connector component) and mechanical connection (through the mechanical connector component). This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate specialized components, reducing overall system complexity and space requirements.
2Reliability
If external joint packs are used to connect BTS sections, then electrical connection between sections is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical connector and mechanical connector into a single integrated component built into the BTS section. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts and assembly steps, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The BTS section is designed to be self-contained with built-in connectors that automatically engage when sections are joined. This self-service design eliminates the need for external joint packs and complex manual assembly procedures, reducing overall system complexity.
3Power
If BTS is installed above server racks, then power distribution is achieved, but reconfiguration flexibility decreases as racks expand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power distribution system into modular BTS sections that can be easily added, removed, or reconfigured. Each section contains built-in connectors that enable simple plug-and-play assembly, allowing the system to adapt to changing server rack configurations without complex reinstallation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The BTS system is designed with dynamic reconfiguration capability through its modular sections with integrated connectors. This allows the power distribution system to adapt and change configuration as server racks expand or are reorganized, maintaining flexibility rather than being fixed in a static arrangement.
4Power
If traditional cable trays are used for power distribution, then power supply to loads is achieved, but installation labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power distribution system into standardized modular BTS sections that can be pre-fabricated and then quickly assembled on-site. This segmentation allows for simplified installation compared to traditional cable trays, as the modular sections with built-in connectors require less manual labor for assembly and configuration.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A section of a busbar trunking system, referred to herein as "a BTS section", comprising: a plurality of conducting bars; and a female electrical connector at a first end of the BTS section; wherein the female electrical connector is arranged to receive a male electrical connector of an adjacent BTS section to electrically connect the conducting bars of the BTS section to conducting bars of the adjacent BTS section as part of a plug-and-play connection.