Modular Containerized Data Center Switchboard Integration for CSC Compliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular data centers face challenges in obtaining CSC certification due to externally mounted OEM switchboards, which prevent compliance with intermodal shipping standards, necessitating a redesign to integrate the switchboard within the container structure.
Innovation Solution
The switchboard is integrated into the shipping container's structure, with a bottom-feed or side-feed configuration for cable entry, ensuring compliance with intermodal shipping standards and protecting cables from external exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the switchboard is externally mounted on the container, then the power distribution function is achieved, but the container cannot obtain CSC certification and cables are exposed to external damage
Solution Approach 1:
The switchboard is merged with the container structure by integrating it into the container wall, making it an inseparable part of the container rather than an external attachment. This integration allows the container to meet CSC certification requirements while protecting the switchboard and cables from external damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The switchboard is nested within the container structure, specifically integrated into the container wall with cable access channels built into the container body. This nesting approach protects the switchboard while maintaining its functional accessibility.
2Ease of manufacture
If the switchboard is externally mounted, then installation is simplified, but cables are exposed to external environment and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cable access channel is merged with the container wall structure, creating a protected pathway that integrates the cable routing into the container body rather than leaving cables exposed externally. This maintains manufacturing simplicity while protecting cables from environmental damage.
3Reliability
If the switchboard is integrated into the container structure, then CSC certification is achieved and cables are protected, but the integration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than integrating the entire switchboard system into the container, only the critical portions (switchboard mounting and cable access channels) are integrated into the container structure. This localized integration approach achieves CSC certification and cable protection while minimizing overall structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular data center including an intermodal shipping container, one or more racks within an interior of the shipping container configured to hold a plurality of computing, a plurality of fans configured to draw in cool air to the computing units and exhaust hot air generated by the computing units, and a switchboard integrated within the frame at one end of the shipping container. The switchboard includes a circuit breaker to receive electrical power and distribute electrical power to the plurality computing units and fans, and is configured in a bottom-feed orientation in which a cable from an external power source that supplies electrical power to the switchboard is received to be connected from a bottom of the switchboard. The shipping container includes an opening within the bottom of the frame configured through which the cables from the external power source are received to enter the shipping container and connect to the switchboard.