Modular Manifold Assembly for Balanced Data Center Fluid Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manifold systems for data centers are inefficient due to the need for multiple stock keeping units (SKU's) to accommodate various server and cabinet configurations, leading to excess ports and inventory management issues, as well as potential imbalances and high pressure drops that increase pump workload.
Innovation Solution
A modular manifold system comprising multiple modular manifold bodies that can be coupled via an attachment assembly, allowing for adjustable configurations to match different server and cabinet configurations, with features like flexible hoses, rotatable connection junctions, and valve ports to optimize fluid distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different manifold SKUs are used to accommodate various server and cabinet configurations, then adaptability to different configurations is improved, but device complexity and inventory management difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system is divided into multiple interchangeable modules, each with standardized connection interfaces. These modules can be assembled in different configurations to accommodate various server and cabinet requirements, replacing the need for multiple complete manifold SKUs with a library of standardized segments.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal manifold module design is implemented with standardized ports, connection types, and mounting interfaces that can serve multiple configuration scenarios. The same basic module can be adapted to different server pitches and cabinet sizes through modular assembly, eliminating the need for configuration-specific manifold designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different manifold SKUs are used to cover all deployment options, then coverage of deployment scenarios is improved, but loss of substance increases due to excess ports that must be plugged
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system transitions from fixed, configuration-specific designs to a dynamic, reconfigurable architecture. Modules can be added, removed, or repositioned to match the actual deployment scenario, ensuring that ports are only created when needed and eliminating the requirement to plug unused ports.
3Ease of manufacture
If non-modular manifold systems are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but fluid distribution balance deteriorates leading to high pressure drops
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distribution system is segmented into modular units with standardized flow paths and balanced hydraulic designs. Each module is independently manufactured with controlled flow characteristics, and when assembled, the modular nature ensures consistent fluid distribution across the entire system, preventing the imbalances that occur in custom-built non-modular systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular manifold system is disclosed. The system includes a first manifold body and a second manifold body configured to couple to the first manifold body via an attachment assembly. Each manifold body includes at least one end port to fluidly communicate with an interior cavity of each manifold body, where each manifold body includes an inlet end port and an outlet end port to transfer a fluid through the respective interior cavity. At least one of the first modular body or the second manifold body includes a valve port in fluid communication with the interior cavity of a respective modular manifold body. The system further includes a hose assembly coupled to one of the first manifold body or the second manifold body via the attachment assembly.