Data Center Cooling Model Layer Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Data center personnel face limitations in modeling data center layouts for efficient cooling, lacking flexibility and rapid feedback on performance changes, particularly in repositioning equipment and modifying structural elements like floors and ceilings.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allow users to create a cooling model of a data center by segmenting it into layers, repositioning perforated tiles relative to cooling consumers, and calculating airflow metrics to assess cooling performance, providing real-time feedback on airflow rates and compliance with design policies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional data center design tools are used, then standardized and predictable design methodology is provided, but flexibility in modeling data center layouts and structural modifications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The design tool segments the data center model into multiple layers (floor, ceiling, equipment, etc.), allowing independent manipulation of each layer. This enables flexible repositioning of perforated tiles and equipment without redrawing the entire layout, thus improving adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static design drawings to dynamic models where layers can be repositioned, resized, and modified in real-time. The model updates automatically when users drag and drop elements between layers, providing flexibility without requiring complex manual adjustments.
2Measurement precision
If detailed cooling performance analysis is performed, then accurate cooling metrics are obtained, but time required for design iteration and feedback is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates cooling metrics based on the initial model configuration, including airflow patterns and thermal zones. When layers are repositioned, the system performs incremental updates rather than complete recalculations, providing rapid feedback while maintaining measurement precision through staged computation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback on cooling performance metrics as users modify the model. Thermal zones and airflow indicators update automatically when perforated tiles or equipment are repositioned, allowing designers to assess cooling effectiveness immediately without waiting for separate analysis cycles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual repositioning of perforated tiles and equipment is performed, then design flexibility is achieved, but productivity and speed of design iteration are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the manipulation of multiple design elements into a single layer-based operation. Users can reposition entire layers (containing multiple tiles or equipment) by dragging a single layer boundary, rather than moving each element individually. This combining of operations maintains design flexibility while significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of physical data center elements in the model, allowing unlimited replication and repositioning without physical constraints. Layers can be duplicated, moved, and modified virtually, enabling rapid design iteration without the time-consuming process of physical reconfiguration or manual redrawing.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for design aspects of a cooling system for a data center is provided. In one example, a method is provided including acts of receiving an indication to position a perforated tile in a model, calculating cooling available in a model space adjacent to the tile, and displaying an indication of cooling availability within the context of the model on a computer system. In another example, a method is provided for manipulating representations of data elements in a model of a data center. The method allows a user to move multiple representations by adjusting the position of a layer of the model space relative to another layer in the model space.