Modular Fluid Handling System for Data Center Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Containerized data centers face inefficiencies and high costs due to power-hungry cooling systems and the need for frequent maintenance, as well as challenges in upgrading or modifying cooling systems to accommodate changes in server configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular fluid handling system with multiple modes that circulates fluid through a modular data center, allowing for efficient temperature management and reducing power consumption by locating cooling systems outside the primary enclosure, enabling flexible design and operation across various environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If traditional air conditioning systems are used for cooling, then temperature control is achieved, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cooling function from traditional air conditioning systems by using liquid cooling plates directly mounted on server components. This eliminates the need for separate air handlers, compressors, and extensive ductwork, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining effective temperature control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from pneumatic (air-based) cooling to hydraulic (liquid-based) cooling by using liquid cooling plates that circulate coolant through thermal contact with server components. This hydraulic approach is inherently more efficient and consumes less power than pneumatic air conditioning systems.
2Speed
If multiple fans are installed within each server and enclosure, then air circulation is improved, but maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes individual fans from servers and enclosures by replacing them with a centralized liquid cooling system. The cooling plates are passively mounted on components and actively cooled by circulating liquid, eliminating the need for numerous fans and their associated maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid cooling system operates passively through thermal conduction and convection, requiring no active mechanical components like fans within the servers. The system self-regulates heat transfer through the liquid circulation loop, reducing maintenance needs while maintaining effective cooling.
3Reliability
If cooling systems are tailored to specific rack configurations, then cooling effectiveness is optimized, but adaptability to changes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cooling system into modular liquid cooling plates that can be independently mounted on different server components. Each cooling plate is a self-contained unit that can be selectively installed or removed, allowing the system to adapt to changing rack configurations while maintaining cooling effectiveness through localized thermal management.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the efficiency and reduces the power required for fluid movement and temperature control within the data center, saving costs and simplifying the placement of information handling systems, while allowing for flexible upgrades and operation in diverse environments.
Implementation Method 1
The liquid cooling plate is mounted to the server component and the liquid cooling plate is in thermal contact with the server component. The liquid cooling plate circulates liquid through the server component to cool the server component passively.
Implementation Method 2
The liquid cooling plate circulates liquid through the server component to cool the server component passively.
Implementation Method 3
The air handler includes an evaporative cooler that cools air that enters the air handler.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with the present disclosure, a system and method for a modular fluid handling system with modes in a modular data center is presented. According to the present application, a modular data center may include a modular primary structure. The modular primary structure may include a plurality of information handling systems arranged in racks within it. The modular data center may also include a modular fluid handling system that circulates fluid through the modular primary structure according, at least in part, to a plurality of modes. The modular fluid handling system may be designed to accommodate environmental conditions in which the modular data center will operate as well as the usage requirements of the modular primary structure.