Flexible-Mount Electronic Equipment Enclosure With Segregated Power Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wall mount racks for edge computing are limited by space constraints due to the inclusion of power distribution units, which occupy valuable rack space and limit the accommodation of IT equipment.
Innovation Solution
An electronic equipment enclosure design that separates power units from the rack volume, utilizing a utility space within the frame assembly to house power units, allowing for maximum rack volume utilization and flexible mounting options, including wall and ceiling installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power distribution units are included in wall mount racks, then power supply functionality is provided, but rack space for IT equipment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system is segmented into separate functional zones: a rack volume for IT equipment and a utility space for power distribution units. This spatial segmentation allows both functions to coexist without competing for the same space, resolving the contradiction between providing power supply functionality and maximizing rack space for equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution unit is extracted from the traditional rack mounting location and placed in a dedicated utility space outside the rack volume. This extraction eliminates the space conflict, allowing the rack volume to be fully dedicated to IT equipment while the utility space houses the power supply functionality.
2Ease of manufacture
If rack height is limited to standard sizes, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but flexibility in accommodating different equipment configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the structural framework for the rack, defines the utility space for power units, and offers mounting surfaces for various configurations. This multi-functionality allows a single standardized frame design to support different rack sizes and equipment configurations, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and configuration flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The design separates the vertical rack volume from the horizontal utility space, allowing independent optimization of each dimension. The rack volume can be configured in standard U-space heights for different equipment, while the utility space accommodates power units in a separate dimensional plane, providing flexibility without compromising manufacturing standardization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mounting options are provided, then installation flexibility is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple mounting functionalities are merged into a single integrated frame assembly. The frame incorporates mounting features for wall installation, ceiling suspension, and floor standing configurations within one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate mounting kits or complex assembly procedures. This merging provides mounting flexibility while maintaining device simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic equipment enclosure comprising a frame, the frame defining a top, a bottom, two sides, a front, and a rear thereof; a rack mounted within the frame, the rack defining a rack volume therewithin; and a panel assembly mounted on the frame, the panel assembly including a top panel, a bottom panel, at least one side panel, and at least one opening door. The enclosure can include a utility space configured to receive a power unit therein. The utility space can be defined by the frame between the panel assembly and the rack volume such that the power unit does not extend beyond the panel assembly or into the rack volume. Both sides, the top, and the bottom of the frame can include mounts configured to allow the enclosure to be mounted or supported.