Prefabricated Cold Aisle Modules for Rapid Data Centre Retrofit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data centre technologies face challenges in construction time, cost, energy efficiency, and flexibility, particularly in modular and containerized designs, due to bespoke construction, limited space, and material constraints.
Innovation Solution
A method and kit of parts for converting an existing building into a data centre using prefabricated cold aisle services modules, air handling modules, and racks, allowing for quick assembly and customization with 'plug-and-play' connectors, integrated blanking portions, and modular design to optimize cooling and space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional bespoke data centre construction is used, then energy efficiency and customization are improved, but construction time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The data centre is divided into modular sections that can be pre-assembled and then rapidly deployed. Each module contains integrated components (server racks, cooling, power) that can be independently constructed and then combined, reducing overall construction time while maintaining energy efficiency through optimized modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Modular components are pre-assembled and pre-configured in factories before being transported to the site. This preliminary construction allows for quality control and optimization of energy-efficient features before deployment, reducing on-site construction time while preserving energy performance
2Loss of time
If modular containerized designs are used, then construction time is reduced, but space utilization and flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design incorporates dynamic and adjustable elements that allow the structure to be reconfigured after deployment. Shelving units, partitions, and service modules can be moved or adjusted to adapt to changing requirements, providing flexibility within the modular framework
Solution Approach 2:
The modular modules are designed with universal interfaces and standardized dimensions that allow them to serve multiple functions. The same basic module can be configured for different purposes (storage, computing, cooling) and can be combined in various arrangements to meet different space requirements
3Productivity
If prefabricated modules are used, then construction speed is improved, but integration complexity and labor skill requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple subsystems (structural elements, service modules, blanking portions) are merged into integrated prefabricated units. These combined modules reduce the number of separate integration tasks required on-site, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining construction speed
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized connection interfaces and mounting systems act as intermediaries between different modules. These standardized mechanisms simplify the integration process by providing uniform connection points and methods, reducing the complexity of assembling different module types
4Use of energy by moving object
If integrated blanking portions are used, then thermal efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blanking portions are segmented into standardized panels that can be mass-produced using consistent manufacturing processes. This segmentation allows for simplified production of each individual panel while achieving overall thermal efficiency when assembled into the complete data centre structure
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A method of making a data centre is disclosed, comprising making a data centre in an existing building (3010) having a floor, walls and a roof, an air inlet and an air outlet. The method includes: installing prefabricated data centre elements by (a) connecting to the inlet an air handling module (3001, 3002); and (b) installing cold aisle services modules (3011) each having one or more integrated blanking portions and one or more data centre services extending along its length terminating with a connection to an adjacent module (3011); and installing racks of IT equipment arranged in parallel rows; the method being so performed that the floor, racks, and cold aisle services modules (3011) together define parallel cold aisles for entraining cooling air flows to the IT equipment. Also disclosed are a data centre, a service carrying frame and a cold aisle services module for a data centre and a supporting frame for supporting prefabricated data centre elements.