Interchangeable Interface Panel for Modular Data Center Conduit Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
In modular data centers, the complexity of configurations leads to challenges in accurately installing information technology equipment, often resulting in misalignment with pre-positioned substrate-installed conduits, which can delay operations and require additional shipping of correct equipment.
Innovation Solution
A configurable modular data center design featuring a volumetric structure with interchangeable interface panels and equipment cabinets, allowing for precise alignment of electrical coupling components with substrate-installed conduits, accommodating various IT equipment sizes and types through customizable conduit openings and attachment features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configurations of MDC are supported, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface panel is segmented into multiple configurable opening positions, allowing different conduit configurations to be achieved by selectively opening or closing specific sections of the panel, thereby enabling multiple MDC configurations without requiring entirely different panels
Solution Approach 2:
The interface panel incorporates movable or adjustable components that allow the conduit openings to be dynamically reconfigured between different positions and orientations, enabling adaptation to various MDC configurations while maintaining a single physical panel structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If interface panel with multiple conduit openings is provided, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The interface panel is divided into multiple independent or semi-independent opening sections, each capable of being configured separately. This segmentation reduces the overall manufacturing precision requirement by allowing each segment to be manufactured and positioned independently rather than requiring all openings to be precisely positioned in a single monolithic structure
Solution Approach 2:
The interface panel is pre-configured with multiple possible opening positions and configurations during manufacturing, with certain openings being pre-positioned or pre-configured to align with standard MDC conduit locations, thereby reducing the precision requirements for field installation while maintaining adaptability
3Adaptability or versatility
If equipment cabinet is repositioned, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface panel incorporates movable shelves or adjustable mounting positions that allow equipment cabinets to be dynamically repositioned within the MDC structure. These movable components enable quick adjustment of cabinet positions without requiring complete disassembly or reconstruction, thereby reducing the time penalty associated with repositioning while maintaining adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
A modular utility room a mobile enclosure is positionable adjacent to an information technology (IT) enclosure of a modular data center (MDC). One of a first and second equipment cabinet is selected for installing in the mobile enclosure. Each equipment cabinet contains functional equipment having a lower electrical coupling component that are connectable to substrate-installed conduits below the mobile enclosure and an upper electrical coupling component that connect to and support rack-based information handling systems (IHSs) in the IT enclosure. An interface panel is received in an interface panel opening in the mobile enclosure correspond to the selected equipment cabinet and will not receive the other equipment cabinet. The interface panel positions the lower electrical coupling over a conduit opening in alignment with a defined location relative to the mobile enclosure for alignment with the substrate-installed conduits at a deployed location of the mobile utility room.