Modular Cable Pathway System for Data Center Enclosures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cable pathway systems are difficult to install and reconfigure, and they often require excessive space between electronic equipment enclosures and ceilings, especially in data centers with increased cooling requirements.
Innovation Solution
A modular cable pathway system comprising sections with curved surfaces and a snap-fit assembly, allowing easy alignment and secure attachment to electronic equipment enclosures, along with a bracket assembly for additional support and cable segregation, facilitating quick installation and reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional ladder racks or wire frame baskets are used, then cable pathways can be established, but installation time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cable pathway system is divided into multiple modular sections that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each section contains integrated mounting features that allow quick attachment to electronic equipment enclosures without requiring complex installation procedures or specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting features are merged directly into the cable pathway sections themselves, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware or complex assembly steps. The curved surfaces and integrated attachment mechanisms are combined into single components that perform multiple functions simultaneously.
2Reliability
If traditional cable pathways are installed, then cable routing is achieved, but reconfiguration becomes difficult and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The modular section design allows individual pathway segments to be easily removed, added, or repositioned without affecting the entire cable pathway system. Each section can be independently reconfigured to accommodate changing cable routing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable pathway system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, with sections that can be quickly adjusted or repositioned as needs change. The integrated mounting features allow for easy attachment and detachment, enabling the system to adapt to evolving cable routing requirements without substantial labor.
3Temperature
If cooling requirements are increased, then cooling capacity improves, but clearance space between equipment and ceiling decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable pathway system is designed to attach to the top surfaces of electronic equipment enclosures, utilizing the horizontal plane rather than requiring vertical clearance space. This dimensional shift allows cable routing to occur in the available horizontal area without competing with the vertical space needed for cooling airflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable pathway sections serve multiple functions: they provide cable routing, attach directly to equipment enclosures utilizing available surface area, and do not interfere with vertical clearance requirements for cooling. This multi-functionality allows the system to work within constrained spatial environments.
4Area of stationary object
If clearance space is reduced, then space utilization improves, but installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular section design with integrated mounting features allows installation in tight spaces without requiring extensive clearance. Each section can be independently positioned and attached, reducing the need for complex maneuvering or additional workspace during installation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cable pathway system has a base with a bottom, a generally planar top surface, a first side, and a second side. The base is configured to be secured to an electronic equipment enclosure and also has an aperture formed therein and a wall positioned adjacent to the aperture. The wall has a curved surface that extends from the top surface to the bottom. A first sidewall extends from the top surface along the first side and extends generally perpendicular to the top surface and substantially along the length of the first side. A second sidewall also extends from the top surface along the second side and extends generally perpendicular to the top surface and substantially along the length of the second side.