Modular Plug-in Power Distribution for Dynamic Data Center Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power distribution systems in data centers are inflexible and require skilled personnel for circuit breaker installation or removal, leading to undesirable power outages and inefficiencies due to pre-configured, fixed capacity setups that fail to adapt to dynamic electrical loads.
Innovation Solution
A modular, scalable power distribution system with plug-in modules that include a housing, electrical isolation and overcurrent protection, and current sensing, allowing safe installation and removal without disrupting other circuits, and featuring pre-terminated power cables and DIN rail mounting for flexibility and adaptability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If circuit breakers are installed or removed from panel boards in traditional power distribution systems, then electrical isolation and overcurrent protection are provided, but skilled personnel must work near energized circuits or power outages occur
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into modular plug-in modules, each containing a circuit breaker, power cable, and electrical contacts. This segmentation allows individual modules to be installed or removed independently without affecting other circuits, eliminating the need for skilled personnel to work near energized circuits or cause power outages.
Solution Approach 2:
A bus bar assembly serves as an intermediary component between the power source and plug-in modules. The bus bar assembly with insulated rear panel provides a safe interface that allows plug-in modules to be connected or disconnected without exposing personnel to energized circuits, thus maintaining continuous power supply to other loads.
2Adaptability or versatility
If preconfigured power distribution units with fixed capacity are used, then initial power distribution requirements are met, but the system cannot adapt to dynamic electrical loads
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system transitions from a static, preconfigured design to a dynamic, modular architecture. Plug-in modules can be added or removed based on actual electrical load requirements, allowing the system to adapt flexibly to changing power needs without provisioning for maximum potential load, thereby eliminating excess capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The bus bar assembly is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different plug-in modules with varying current ratings and configurations. This universality allows the system to be configured for any power distribution requirement without needing custom-preconfigured units, optimizing capacity utilization.
3Ease of operation
If pre-fabricated plug-in power cables are used, then safe connection to energized circuits is enabled, but cable lengths must be pre-determined and scalability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is divided into separable plug-in modules that can be independently configured and installed. Each module contains its own power cable with appropriate length and termination, allowing safe connection to the bus bar assembly while maintaining scalability. The modular design eliminates the need for pre-determined cable lengths for the entire system, as each module can be customized independently.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect of the invention, a plug-in module is provided for installing in a power distribution assembly. In one embodiment, the plug-in module may include an overcurrent protection device, a power cable, which may include a first end coupled to the overcurrent protection device, and a second end coupled to the first end, one or more receptacle outlets attached to the second end and electrical contacts coupled to the overcurrent protection device and configured to couple the plug-in module to a plurality of stationary electrical conductors of the power distribution assembly.