Data Center Power Conductor with Automated Rack Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The lengthy time to market for data center deployments is hindered by conventional methods of physically installing, cabling, and powering server racks, which are prone to mechanical and human errors, leading to inefficiencies in deployment, inventory, and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A data center power system that includes an electrical power conductor with a live conductor surface and a grounded conductor, allowing for efficient and flexible power delivery through overhead or floor-mounted conductors, with electrical connectors that can automatically contact the conductors, enabling safer, faster, and more redundant power distribution to server racks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional physical installation and cabling methods are used for server racks, then power delivery can be achieved, but the deployment time is lengthy and mechanical errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical cabling and physical connection systems with an automated robotic system that uses computer-controlled movement and automated connectors to establish power connections, eliminating manual labor and significantly reducing deployment time
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service through automated robotic operations that can independently perform power connection tasks without human intervention, allowing the data center infrastructure to self-configure and reducing dependency on manual installation crews
2Reliability
If conventional physical installation methods are used, then power connections can be made, but mechanical and human errors are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces error-prone manual mechanical operations with automated robotic systems that execute precise, repeatable movements under computer control, eliminating human error in power connection tasks while maintaining operational simplicity through software automation
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors and control systems monitor the robotic operations in real-time, detecting connection status and correcting deviations automatically, ensuring reliable power connections without manual verification
3Productivity
If traditional cabling methods are used, then power can be delivered to racks, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system performs multiple functions including power connection, cable management, and rack configuration through a single integrated platform, reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced technology employed, while dramatically improving deployment efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A data center power system includes an electrical power conductor that includes a live conductor surface and is configured to carry electrical power from a power source through a human-occupiable workspace of a data center. The live conductor surface includes a rail configured to mount to a floor of the data center. The data power system further includes a grounded conductor positioned in the human-occupiable workspace apart from the electrical power conductor; a first electrical connector configured to mount to a data center rack that supports a plurality of electronic devices and moveable to electrically contact the live conductor surface of the electrical power conductor; and a second electrical conductor positioned on the rack and configured to electrically contact the grounded conductor.