Electronic Tag Bus System for Automatic Datacenter Device Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for device identification in datacenters are time-consuming and error-prone, requiring manual actions to connect and disconnect device identifiers with the datacenter management system, especially when devices are moved or replaced.
Innovation Solution
A device identification system where each device has an electronic tag that automatically connects with a bus comprising data, power, and ground lines extending along the cluster, eliminating the need for manual plugging and ensuring automatic identification and connection during mounting and dismounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual connection of device tags to strip connectors is used, then device identification can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The device tag automatically connects to the strip connector when the device is housed in the rack housing, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention. The mechanical housing structure itself facilitates the electrical connection between the tag and the identification system, making the system self-servicing during the device installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The strip connector is pre-positioned on the rack housing at the exact location where device tags will make contact during installation. The electrical connection is prepared in advance and will be automatically established when the device is properly housed, eliminating the need for subsequent manual connection actions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual connection actions are required for each device mounting, then identification can be updated, but the process must be repeated frequently and consumes operator time
Solution Approach 1:
The identification system automatically detects and records device presence without requiring operator actions. When a device is housed or removed, the system self-updates the identification status, allowing frequent adaptation to changing device configurations without impacting installation productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device identification function is merged with the mechanical housing structure. The strip connector is integrated into the housing, and the connection occurs as a natural consequence of device installation, combining the mechanical mounting action with the electrical identification connection.
3Reliability
If manual disconnection of tags from connectors is required, then device removal can be tracked, but the process is time-consuming and increases risk of omissions
Solution Approach 1:
When a device is removed from the rack housing, the tag automatically disconnects from the strip connector, and the system self-updates to reflect the device absence. This eliminates the need for operators to manually track removals, ensuring reliable identification tracking while simplifying the removal process to a single mechanical action.
4Extent of automation
If electronic tags are fixed on device external surfaces, then automatic connection is achieved during housing, but the connection must be reliable and error-free
Solution Approach 1:
The strip connector is positioned at the same vertical level as the electronic tag on the device, ensuring that when the device is housed in the rack, both components are at equipotential positions and naturally align for connection. This eliminates misalignment issues and ensures reliable automatic connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic tag is specifically positioned on the device surface that will contact the rack housing, and the strip connector is positioned on the housing at the corresponding location. This localized positioning ensures that only the necessary connection points make contact, improving connection reliability by ensuring proper alignment and contact pressure.
Data Source
AI summary
A group of at least one cluster and at least one device in a datacenter, wherein the cluster comprises vertically stacked housings, each configured to house one device, the cluster comprising one bus connected to one controlling module, and comprising one data and power line and one ground line both extending vertically continuously along the cluster. The device comprises one electronic tag configured to store an identifier of said device and fixed on the surface of the device in a way to automatically connect the bus when the device is housed in any housing of the cluster. The controlling module is configured to read the identifier when the electronic tag is connected to the bus, to identify the device housed in the cluster.