Controllable Switch Power Supply Control for Data Center Cabinets
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inflexibility of power distribution in data center IT cabinets due to fixed switch capacity requires frequent engineering work when power demands change, involving replacement of switches and power cables.
Innovation Solution
A power supply control apparatus with a controllable switch and communications module that adjusts capacity according to network management center instructions, allowing for flexible power distribution and remote power-on/power-off control, while monitoring and reporting electrical and environmental parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed capacity switch is used in the power distribution system, then the switch can reliably handle the rated power, but the power distribution becomes inflexible when power demands change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a fixed-capacity switch to a controllable switch whose capacity can be dynamically adjusted. The network management center remotely controls the switch capacity based on real-time power demands of IT equipment, allowing the system to adapt flexibly while maintaining reliability through controlled adjustment within safe limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the switch capacity parameter from a fixed value to an adjustable value. The network management center changes the switch capacity parameter according to the power consumption characteristics of IT equipment, enabling the system to adapt to different power demands without physical hardware changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the switch capacity does not match the power demand, then the system becomes adaptable, but frequent replacement of switches and power cables increases engineering workload
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physically replacing switches and power cables with an electronic control system. The network management center electronically adjusts the switch capacity and controls power distribution through software, eliminating the need for manual hardware replacement and significantly improving engineering efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by automatically monitoring power demands of IT equipment and autonomously adjusting switch capacity through remote control. The power distribution system adapts to changing demands without requiring manual intervention for hardware replacement, reducing engineering workload.
3Extent of automation
If remote power control is implemented, then management efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a network management center that performs multiple functions: monitoring power consumption of IT equipment, controlling switch capacity adjustment, and managing power distribution. This multi-functional approach consolidates control operations into a single centralized system, improving remote management efficiency while managing complexity through functional integration.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a power supply control apparatus, where the power supply control apparatus is configured to control power supply to a cabinet in a data center and includes: a communications module, configured to receive an instruction of a network management center; and a controllable switch, configured to adjust a capacity of the controllable switch according to the instruction to perform power-on/power-off control on the cabinet. In the embodiments of the present invention, a power supply control apparatus may receive an instruction of a network management center, and can adjust a capacity of a controllable switch according to the instruction, which enhances power distribution flexibility, and therefore, a workload of changing a switch and a power cable can be reduced, and an engineering related risk can be avoided.