Movable Data Center Rack for Rapid Relocation
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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 portable data center enclosure with movable racks and a heat exchange module, allowing for easy reconfiguration and relocation without disconnecting data cables, and utilizing a closed-loop air flow system and chilled water recirculation for efficient cooling, along with shock-absorbing skids to protect equipment during movement.
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 relocation and expansion require substantial time and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The data processing center is divided into modular rack units that can be independently moved, added, or removed from the container. Each rack is a self-contained module with standardized mounting, allowing rapid reconfiguration without affecting the entire system. This segmentation enables quick expansion or relocation while maintaining security and environmental controls within the container structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack positioning system transitions from fixed to dynamic, allowing racks to be moved between operational positions and service positions. The movable racks can be accessed through the container walls when in service position, enabling maintenance and upgrades without full system shutdown or container relocation. This dynamic capability reduces downtime during expansions or repairs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom architectural designs are created for data processing centers, then specific performance requirements are met, but building code compliance and permits increase complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The container-based data center uses standardized shipping container structures that serve multiple functions: security enclosure, environmental control housing, and mobile platform. Inside, standardized rack units can accommodate various computer equipment configurations. This universal approach meets different performance requirements through flexible equipment selection rather than custom architectural design, avoiding building code complexities while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of creating custom architectural designs for each data processing center, the invention uses replicated standardized container units. Each container is a copy of the same proven design that has already been validated for security and environmental control. This eliminates the need for repeated architectural design and building code approval processes while maintaining performance requirements through standardized configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If computer systems are installed on site with extensive wiring, then system configuration meets performance requirements, but installation time and skilled personnel requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Racks are pre-configured with mounting hardware, cable channels, and connection points before being installed in the container. Power and data cables are pre-routed through the container structure with accessible connection points. This preliminary preparation allows rapid assembly of computer systems on the racks without extensive on-site wiring work, reducing installation time while maintaining configurable system arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention moves wiring from a two-dimensional surface mounting approach to a three-dimensional integrated approach. Cable channels and conduits are built into the rack structures and container walls, allowing cables to be routed through dedicated pathways rather than along surfaces. This dimensional integration reduces cable management complexity and installation time while maintaining flexible system configuration capabilities.
4Ease of repair
If racks are moved for service access, then maintenance capability is improved, but air flow communication with heat exchange module is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The rack positioning system is designed so racks can be dynamically moved between operational positions (where they engage the heat exchange module for cooling) and service positions (where they are disengaged for maintenance access). The movable nature of the racks allows them to be pulled outward through container walls for service while maintaining the ability to return to operational positions for cooling. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between maintenance accessibility and cooling efficiency.
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 expansion or relocation of data processing capabilities without disrupting operations, ensuring continuous service and protecting sensitive equipment from physical shocks and environmental hazards.
Implementation Method 1
A heat exchange module is arranged on the enclosure in air flow communication with the data processing module
Implementation Method 2
shock-absorbing skids to protect equipment during movement
Data Source
AI summary
A movable data center comprising a portable enclosure in which a data processing module is operatively disposed. The data processing module is assembled onto a rack located in the enclosure that is movable between and operative position and a service position. A heat exchange module is arranged in the enclosure in air flow communication with the data processing module on the rack. The rack may be moved from the operative position in which the rack is in air flow communication with the heat exchange module to the service position in which the rack is not in air flow communication with the heat exchange module.