Modular Rack Frame with Recessed Fastening for High Load Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rack and enclosure systems have low load capacity, poor stability, and inadequate solutions for power distribution, cable management, and airflow management, making them inflexible and costly for data centers and other data-intensive applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular frame structure with recessed surfaces and adjustable components that enhance stability through viscoelastic fastening, facilitate easy deployment and maintenance, integrate cable management, and improve airflow by using configurable airseal grommets and modular designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional cabinets are assembled with side brace members using screws with planar contact, then assembly is simple, but load capacity and stability are low
Solution Approach 1:
The side brace member is segmented into multiple sections with recessed surfaces at intervals. Each recessed surface creates a distinct fastening zone, dividing the continuous contact into discrete segments that can be independently fastened, thereby increasing overall structural strength through distributed load paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from simple planar contact to multi-dimensional engagement by creating recessed surfaces that extend into the side brace member. This dimensional change allows fasteners to engage at multiple depths and positions, significantly increasing load capacity and resistance to withdrawal forces.
2Ease of operation
If side panels are installed without recessed surfaces, then cabinet structure is compact, but individual cabinets cannot be easily pulled out for replacement or repair
Solution Approach 1:
The side panel contact surfaces are segmented into recessed regions that create discrete engagement zones. This segmentation allows the cabinet to be held firmly during normal operation while enabling easy extraction by applying force at non-recessed areas, resolving the contradiction between stability and removability.
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed surfaces act as intermediaries between the side panels of adjacent cabinets. They provide controlled contact points that facilitate easy removal when needed while maintaining structural integrity during normal use, serving as a mediator between conflicting requirements.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fastening surfaces are at the end edges of side brace members, then fastening is simple, but fastening force and stability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening structure moves from edge-based (1D) to surface-based (2D) engagement by creating recessed surfaces. This dimensional change provides larger fastening areas and multiple engagement points, significantly increasing frame stability while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed surfaces are pre-formed during manufacturing, preparing the side brace member for optimal fastening engagement. This preliminary action ensures that during assembly, fasteners can immediately engage at the correct positions and depths, maximizing stability without requiring complex adjustment procedures.
4Productivity
If conventional rack systems use separate accessories for power distribution and cable management, then component functionality is specialized, but installation workload and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges power distribution units, cable management features, and structural support into the frame structure itself. By integrating these functions into the primary structure rather than using separate accessories, installation efficiency improves while overall system complexity is reduced.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure is designed with universal features that serve multiple functions: recessed surfaces provide both structural strengthening and attachment points for various components; the integrated design allows the same structure to handle mechanical loading, power distribution, and cable management simultaneously.
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
The modular frame structure significantly increases load capacity and stability, simplifies deployment and maintenance, optimizes cable management, and enhances airflow efficiency, reducing costs and improving overall performance in data centers.
Implementation Method 1
This elastic fastening structure along with frictional contact between surfaces behaves like a viscoelastic system which offers excellent resistance to impact forces or dynamic loads by absorbing energy.
Implementation Method 2
This elastic fastening structure along with frictional contact between surfaces behaves like a viscoelastic system which offers excellent resistance to impact forces or dynamic loads by absorbing energy.
Implementation Method 3
Because the side brace member has a fastening structure on both ends, it is under high compressional forces. These compressional forces reinforce the attachment of side brace member to the pillars of the frames and make the structure substantially rigid.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame structure for a cabinet enclosure has a front frame assembly having first and second front pillars, a rear frame assembly having first and second rear pillars, a first side brace member, and a second side brace member, each having a beam that has opposite ends, with the opposite ends of each side brace member connected to one of the front pillars and one of the rear pillars. The frame structure also includes cable management and air flow management features and functions.