Closed-Loop Container Data Center Cooling for Rapid Relocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data processing centers require substantial time and resources for expansion or relocation due to the need for custom architectural designs, compliance with building codes, and the complexity of integrating multiple computer systems, while also needing to maintain a controlled environment for sensitive equipment.
Innovation Solution
A movable data center is designed with a shipping container enclosure that includes a closed-loop air passage for efficient cooling, featuring alternating data processing and heat exchange modules, fan units, and a dehumidifier, allowing for secure, efficient, and portable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional building structures are used for data processing centers, then security and environmental control are improved, but relocation and expansion require substantial time and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The data center is divided into modular units that can be independently deployed, relocated, and scaled. Each module contains complete functional elements (server racks, cooling units, power distribution), allowing the system to be segmented into transportable sections that maintain full operational capability while enabling rapid deployment and reconfiguration without requiring traditional construction processes
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static building-based infrastructure to a dynamic, relocatable platform. The modular container design allows the data center to be easily moved, repositioned, and reconfigured in response to changing business needs, providing adaptability and flexibility that fixed building structures cannot offer
2Temperature
If conventional HVAC cooling systems are used, then environmental control is improved, but the system complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is integrated directly with the server racks and power distribution units within the same modular container. Heat exchange components are combined with computational and power infrastructure in a unified thermal management architecture, eliminating the need for separate HVAC rooms and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining effective temperature control
Solution Approach 2:
Cooling capacity is distributed locally to each server rack rather than using centralized HVAC systems. Each module contains its own cooling elements positioned in immediate proximity to the heat-generating components, providing targeted thermal management that reduces the complexity of long-distance air handling and ductwork while improving cooling efficiency
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 movable data center enables rapid expansion or relocation with minimal disruption, maintains a controlled environment for sensitive equipment, and reduces the time and resource requirements associated with traditional data center expansions or relocations.
Implementation Method 1
heat exchange modules operatively arranged in the closed-loop air passage
Implementation Method 2
transfer heat from the data processing modules to the cooling air
Implementation Method 3
fan units operatively arranged in the closed-loop air passage that direct air through the closed-loop air passage around the data processing modules
Implementation Method 4
a dehumidifier, allowing for secure, efficient, and portable operation
Data Source
AI summary
A movable data center or container enclosed data center is disclosed in which a plurality of data processing modules, a plurality of heat exchange modules, and a plurality of fans are operatively arranged. The enclosure defines a continuous closed-loop air passage between a exterior walls and interior walls. The data processing modules, heat exchange modules, and fan units are arranged in an alternating pattern adjacent to the sidewalls of the enclosure.