Multi-Level Modular Datacenter Vertical Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Space-limited geographical areas with high data processing needs cannot accommodate sprawling modular datacenter configurations, leading to the need for more compact datacenter solutions that reduce construction time and costs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-level modular datacenter configuration featuring a lower containment unit with an upper containment unit vertically aligned, supported by A-shaped support structures that create a protective vertical isolation gap and secure fastening mechanisms, allowing for high volume data processing within a smaller footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If single-level modular datacenter configurations are deployed to meet high data processing needs, then data processing capacity is improved, but the footprint area becomes excessively large and cannot be accommodated in space-limited geographical areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-level horizontal configuration to a multi-level vertical configuration by stacking upper and lower containment units vertically. This dimensional change allows the datacenter to maintain high data processing capacity while significantly reducing the footprint area, enabling deployment in space-limited geographical areas such as urban environments and research campuses.
2Area of stationary object
If upper containment unit is placed directly above lower containment unit to reduce footprint, then vertical space utilization is improved, but weight bearing forces and structural stability become critical concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the structural support function into dedicated support structures that are distinct from the containment units themselves. These support structures include corner supports positioned at vertical edges and intermediate supports positioned between corner supports, creating a segmented support system that distributes weight bearing forces effectively across multiple contact points.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures are designed and positioned in advance to establish proper load distribution before the upper containment unit is placed. The corner supports and intermediate supports are pre-positioned to ensure that weight bearing forces are properly distributed to the ground through the lower containment unit, preventing structural failure.
3Area of stationary object
If containment units are placed close together to reduce footprint, then space efficiency is improved, but heat accumulation and airflow management become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
By stacking containment units vertically rather than placing them horizontally adjacent to each other, the patent creates vertical separation between heat-generating equipment. This allows heat to rise and dissipate vertically through the isolation gap and surrounding environment, preventing horizontal heat accumulation while maintaining compact footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation gap between the lower and upper containment units acts as an intermediary space that facilitates thermal management. This gap allows for airflow circulation and heat dissipation between the stacked units, preventing excessive heat accumulation in the compact vertical configuration.
4Loss of time
If modular datacenter configurations are rapidly deployed to reduce construction time, then installation speed is improved, but proper structural support and safety isolation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure system is segmented into standardized corner supports and intermediate supports that can be independently positioned and assembled. This segmentation allows for rapid deployment while maintaining structural integrity, as each support element can be independently installed according to the predetermined configuration without requiring complex integrated assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-level modular datacenter and method of installation is presented. The multi-level modular datacenter including a lower containment unit housing a first assembly of data processing equipment, an upper containment unit housing a second assembly of data processing equipment, in which the upper containment unit is arranged to be aligned and vertically disposed directly above the lower containment unit. The multi-level modular datacenter further including at least one first support structure configured to support a respective underneath area of a lateral side portion of the second containment unit and at least one second support structure configured to support a respective underneath area of a corner portion of the second containment unit. The first and second support structures are arranged to receive all weight bearing forces of the second containment unit and provide a protective vertical isolation gap between the first and second containment units.