Modular Rack Column Assembly for Reconfigurable Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large-scale computing systems face challenges in updating the arrangement of wiring and other features due to fixed configurations in racks, making it difficult to modify or upgrade the hardware efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular rack assembly with removable shelves and a larger column configuration that allows for easy mounting of devices like wire ducts for cable management, enabling flexible configuration and quick updates without requiring significant tools or costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If racks are designed with fixed configurations, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is divided into modular components including removable shelves and column assemblies. Each shelf can be independently removed and repositioned, allowing the rack structure to be segmented and reconfigured without compromising overall structural integrity. The columns serve as stable anchor points while shelves provide flexible, changeable storage surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic reconfigurable system. Shelves are designed to be removable and repositionable along the columns, enabling the structure to adapt to changing storage needs while maintaining stability through the fixed column framework and standardized mounting interfaces.
2Ease of manufacture
If racks have fixed configurations, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is manufactured as separate modular components (columns, shelves, mounting mechanisms) that can be produced independently using standardized processes. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing while enabling easy assembly and reconfiguration during operation through standardized interfaces and mounting hardware.
3Adaptability or versatility
If racks use removable shelves, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system is divided into simple, standardized modular components rather than a single complex integrated structure. Each shelf and column is a simple unit with standardized interfaces, making the overall system adaptable while keeping individual components simple and easy to manufacture and replace.
4Loss of time
If racks are designed for easy reconfiguration, then loss of time for updates is reduced, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rack employs a dynamic design where shelves can be quickly removed and repositioned along fixed columns. The standardized mounting interfaces enable rapid reconfiguration without tools or complex procedures, while the fixed column structure maintains structural stability throughout the reconfiguration process.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure relate generally to rack systems for housing computing devices. The rack may include a plurality of removable shelves. A removable shelf may include a column having a plurality of slots. By stacking a plurality of the removable shelves in the rack, a larger column may be formed. This larger column may provide additional space to mount other features. In one example, the larger column may be used to mount a wire duct. The wire duct may be attached to a mounting plate having a plurality of hooks. The hooks of the mounting plate may mate with the slots of the columns of the shelves. The mounting plates may be used to mount features at other locations on the rack as well.