Modular Data Center Power Expansion via Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current large-scale information handling systems face inefficiencies in scaling power supply as they require new data centers to be constructed for increased processing capacity, leading to high costs that do not scale with the actual demand, and existing systems lack modular expansion capabilities to accommodate growing power requirements.
Innovation Solution
An expandable power supply and distribution system within an modular information technology building infrastructure that includes a removable expansion wall and modular cooling units, allowing for seamless integration of additional power generation and cooling as needed, with a system-level controller monitoring power usage to trigger upgrades and expansions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a new data center is constructed to increase processing capacity, then the power supply capacity is improved, but the construction cost increases substantially and does not scale with the actual demand
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is divided into modular units that can be independently deployed. Each module includes power distribution units (PDUs) and associated infrastructure that can be added incrementally as processing capacity requirements grow, eliminating the need for complete new data center construction
Solution Approach 2:
The initial data center is designed with pre-configured power distribution infrastructure and capacity headroom that anticipates future expansion needs. Power distribution units are pre-installed and configured to enable seamless integration of additional processing racks without requiring new construction
2Productivity
If the number of server racks is increased to meet processing demands, then the processing capacity is improved, but the power consumption increases beyond the pre-configured maximum available power supply
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system transitions from a static pre-configured capacity to a dynamic expandable system. Power distribution units can be activated or deactivated based on real-time processing demands, allowing the system to adapt power consumption to actual productivity requirements rather than being constrained by initial configuration
3Productivity
If additional processing capacity is required by constructing a new data center, then the processing capacity is improved, but the time and resources required for construction and remote connection increase
Solution Approach 1:
Additional processing capacity is integrated into the existing data center infrastructure rather than requiring separate new construction. The expandable modular design allows new processing racks to be connected to existing power and cooling systems within the same facility, eliminating the need for remote connections between separate data centers
Data Source
AI summary
An Expandable Modular Information Technology (EMIT) Facility (EMITF) includes: an EMIT Building Infrastructure (EMITBI) having an initial enclosure that includes: a base pad providing a fixed usable space area on which one or more modular IT components are placed; and a plurality of exterior walls, including at least one removable expansion wall (REW) that enables expansion of the usable space area of the EMITBI; a plurality of modular IT components placed within the EMITBI on the usable space, and which dissipate heat; and a power subsystem electrically coupled to the EMITBI via a power distribution configuration that includes a first power generating component coupled via a power distribution scheme to the power consuming IT components of the EMITBI, where the power subsystem is pre-configured to support additional requirements for power via a power capacity on demand structure, including modular expandability of the power generating components, while maintaining resiliency.