Movable Panel Cold Air Containment for Data Center Corridors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air containment systems in data centers are complex and inefficient, particularly in cold corridor containment methods, which hinder optimal cooling performance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a base and a panel attached to a cabinet that can move between a closed and deployed position, forming a corridor to contain cold air flow, with actuating and control means to optimize corridor configuration and improve cooling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing air containment systems are used, then cooling is provided, but the systems are complex and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The containment system is divided into modular components: a base mounted on the cabinet and a separate panel that can be deployed or retracted. This segmentation allows the system to achieve effective air containment while maintaining simplicity and ease of installation, directly addressing the contradiction between reliability and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The panel is designed to be movable between deployed and retracted positions, allowing dynamic adjustment of the containment structure. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different operational requirements while maintaining a simple stored configuration, resolving the tension between effective containment and system simplicity
2Reliability
If cold corridor containment is used, then cooling efficiency is improved, but air leaks occur
Solution Approach 1:
The panel acts as a flexible barrier that can be deployed to seal the corridor opening effectively. When positioned, the panel creates a continuous containment structure that prevents air leakage while allowing the system to maintain simple geometry and easy installation, thus improving cooling efficiency without excessive complexity
3Reliability
If automated optimization is implemented, then cooling performance is enhanced, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor corridor configuration and automatically adjust panel positions to optimize cooling performance. This feedback-driven approach enables automated optimization while keeping the control logic relatively simple, as the system only needs to respond to basic configuration states rather than complex parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes control means that automatically manage panel deployment and corridor configuration without requiring complex external control systems. The automated optimization performs adjustments based on pre-programmed logic, enhancing cooling performance while maintaining simplicity in the control architecture
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for containing cold air in a corridor created on the side of a computer cabinet. The method includes providing a base mountable on the computer cabinet, and providing a panel fastened to the base and moveable with respect to the base, the panel being suitable for separating the cold air in the corridor below the panel from the hot air above the panel.