Modular Plug-In Power Distribution for Scalable Data Center Reconfiguration
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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 units that cannot 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 a bus bar assembly that receives these modules for flexible power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If circuit breakers are installed or removed from panel boards in traditional power distribution systems, then power distribution can be reconfigured, but power outages occur and skilled electricians are required
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is divided into modular plug-in modules, each containing a circuit breaker, power cable, and electrical contacts. These modules can be independently installed or removed from the bus bar assembly without affecting other modules, enabling reconfiguration without power outages.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug-in module serves as an intermediary between the bus bar assembly and electrical loads. It includes electrical contacts that safely connect to the bus bar assembly while the circuit breaker provides isolation and protection, allowing module replacement without disrupting the overall power distribution system.
2Ease of manufacture
If pre-configured power distribution units are used, then installation is simplified, but the system cannot adapt to dynamic electrical loads
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static pre-configured units to dynamic modular plug-in modules that can be easily added or removed. Each module maintains standardized connections for simple installation while allowing flexible reconfiguration to match changing electrical load requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug-in modules use standardized electrical contacts and bus bar connections that can be universally applied across different configurations. This universal interface enables both simple installation and flexible adaptation to various load scenarios.
3Manufacturing precision
If skilled electricians perform circuit breaker installation, then proper installation is ensured, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The plug-in module is designed to be self-installing with standardized electrical contacts that automatically align and connect to the bus bar assembly. The module includes built-in electrical isolation and overcurrent protection devices that ensure proper installation without requiring skilled electricians, thereby improving operational efficiency.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If pre-fabricated plug-in power cables are used, then safe connection is achieved, but cable lengths must be pre-determined and scalability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into standardized plug-in modules with pre-terminated power cables. Each module is a self-contained unit that can be independently configured and installed, enabling both safe connections and flexible scalability as electrical needs change.
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.