Data Center Device Identification via Self-Emitting Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual inventory management of devices in data centers is inefficient and error-prone, and existing RFID-based solutions require preliminary tagging or instrumentation, which is costly and impractical for large-scale data centers.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that automatically generate a model of device arrangements in data centers by sending a command for devices to emit identification signals receivable by a mobile device controller, recording visual representations, and providing a model with device identification and arrangement information without the need for preliminary tagging or instrumentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID-based solutions are used for device identification, then device tracking capability is improved, but implementation cost and complexity increase due to preliminary tagging requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device controller itself generates and emits the identification signal without requiring external RFID tags or sensors. The controller uses its existing light emitting means (display screens, status LEDs) to self-identify, eliminating the need for preliminary tagging of devices.
Solution Approach 2:
Existing light emitting components in devices (display screens, status LEDs) are repurposed to serve dual functions: their original function and identification signal emission. This eliminates the need for dedicated identification hardware like RFID tags.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual inventory management is used, then implementation cost is reduced, but accuracy and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Devices automatically emit identification signals and visual representations when commanded, enabling self-identification and self-documentation. This automated self-service approach eliminates manual inventory tasks while maintaining low implementation costs by using existing device components.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual physical inventory processes are replaced with automated electronic identification and visual recording systems. The mobile device controller automatically captures device information and generates inventory models, substituting manual mechanical processes with automated electronic systems.
3Reliability
If RFID tags are deployed for all devices, then identification reliability is improved, but deployment cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device controller generates and emits its own identification signal using existing light emitting means, eliminating the need for external RFID tags. This self-service approach provides reliable identification without the time-consuming deployment of physical tags.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses identification signals and visual representations that are already present in devices (display screens, status LEDs) before any inventory process begins. This preliminary availability of identification means eliminates deployment time for additional identification hardware.
Data Source
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AI summary
Method of automatically generating a model of an arrangement of at least one device arranged in a setting of a data centre, and system for generating a model of at least one device arranged in a setting of a data centre, according to such a method, the system comprising a network, the at least one device being connected to the network, a data storage means capable of storing data and being connected to the network, a processing means capable of processing data and generating an output, the processing means running a central software and being connected to the network, the central software being adapted to access the at least one device and to access an inventory of devices, and a mobile device controller connected to the network.