Movable Data Center Cooling via Chilled Water Heat Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data processing centers require significant time and resources for expansion or relocation due to the need for custom architectural designs, compliance with building codes, and the complexity of integrating computer systems from multiple suppliers, while also needing to maintain a controlled environment for sensitive equipment.
Innovation Solution
A movable data center enclosure with a closed-loop air flow path, heat exchange modules, and variable speed fans that can be easily transported and expanded, featuring a chilled water circulation system and modular design to facilitate efficient cooling and secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional building structures are used for data processing centers, then security and environmental control are improved, but deployment time and expansion complexity increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The data center is divided into modular units that can be independently deployed and configured. Each module contains standardized components (servers, storage, networking) that can be pre-assembled and tested before deployment, significantly reducing on-site installation time while maintaining security and environmental controls through standardized modular designs.
Solution Approach 2:
Data center modules are pre-configured, pre-tested, and pre-assembled in manufacturing facilities before deployment. This includes pre-installing security systems, environmental controls, and networking infrastructure, allowing rapid deployment to final locations without requiring extensive on-site construction or configuration work.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom architectural designs are created for each data processing center, then specific requirements are met, but design and compliance time increase
Solution Approach 1:
Standardized modular data center units are designed to fulfill multiple functions and adapt to various requirements through configurable options. The universal module design includes standardized interfaces, power distribution, cooling, and security systems that can be adapted to different customer needs without requiring custom architectural designs, thereby reducing design and compliance time.
Solution Approach 2:
While the core module design is standardized, local customization is achieved through optional add-on components and configurable settings specific to each deployment location. This allows specific requirements to be met through localized modifications rather than complete custom design, maintaining the benefits of standardized manufacturing while accommodating local needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If computer systems from multiple suppliers are integrated, then system functionality is improved, but integration complexity and configuration problems increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modular data center architecture employs standardized interfaces and protocols that work with equipment from multiple suppliers. This universal interface design allows seamless integration of diverse computer systems while maintaining manageable complexity through consistent connection and configuration methods across all modules.
4Reliability
If data processing centers are housed in fixed buildings, then environmental protection is improved, but portability and relocation capability are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The data center is segmented into portable modular units that can be relocated as needed. Each module maintains its own environmental controls and protection systems, allowing the entire data center to be moved to different locations while preserving environmental protection capabilities that would otherwise require fixed building structures.
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
Enables rapid deployment and expansion of data processing capabilities without disrupting operations, while protecting sensitive equipment from physical shocks and environmental hazards, and simplifying the integration of diverse computer systems.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the exchange modules also has a plurality of fins that are secured to the water circulation tube that facilitates the transfer of heat from the air flow path to water in the water return pipe
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of fans are disposed in the air flow path for directing air through the air flow path
Data Source
AI summary
A movable data center is disclosed that comprises a movable enclosure having partitions that define a closed-loop air flow path. A plurality of fans and a plurality of data processing modules are disposed in the air flow path. A pipe network is disposed within the enclosure that includes a chilled water supply pipe that receives chilled water from a source of chilled water. A water return pipe is provided that circulates water back to the source of chilled water. A plurality of heat exchange modules is installed in the enclosure in the air flow path. The heat exchange modules receive the chilled water from the chilled water supply pipe. Each of the heat exchange modules has a water circulation tube that connects the chilled water supply pipe to the return water pipe.