Overhead DC Rack Power Connectors for Flexible Data Center Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The lengthy time to market for data center deployments is hindered by mechanical and human errors during the physical installation and powering of racks and servers, necessitating more efficient, safer, and flexible power delivery solutions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of direct current (DC) power delivery systems with overhead conductors and floor-mounted rails, along with electrical connectors that enable flexible rack positioning and dual-source power redundancy, facilitating safer and more efficient power distribution to server racks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional physical installation and cabling methods are used for racks and servers, then power delivery can be achieved, but mechanical and human errors occur during installation and the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical installation processes with an automated robotic system that performs rack positioning, cable routing, and power connection. The robotic arm with specialized end effectors automates tasks that were previously done manually, eliminating human error and significantly reducing deployment time while improving installation reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-aligning features where the robotic arm automatically positions racks and cables using sensors and feedback mechanisms. The power distribution units and cable management systems are designed to self-adjust during the installation process, reducing the need for manual intervention and improving overall installation reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible rack positioning is implemented, then deployment flexibility increases, but power delivery complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal power distribution system where standardized power rails and connection interfaces can serve multiple rack positions and configurations. The modular power distribution units can be dynamically reconfigured to serve different rack locations, providing flexibility without increasing overall system complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The power delivery system incorporates dynamic routing capabilities where cables and power connections can be automatically repositioned as racks are moved. The robotic system coordinates power connection movements with rack positioning, maintaining optimal cable routing and power delivery regardless of rack location changes.
3Reliability
If dual-source power redundancy is implemented, then power delivery reliability improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power sources into a unified power distribution architecture where dual power feeds are integrated at the power distribution unit level. The system merges redundant power paths into a single coordinated control system, providing reliability through redundancy while managing complexity through centralized power management and automated switching between power sources.
Data Source
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Figure 1C
AI summary
A data center power system includes an electrical power conductor that comprises a live conductor surface and is configured to carry direct current (DC) power from a power source through a human-occupiable workspace of a data center; a grounded conductor positioned in the human-occupiablc workspace apart from the electrical power conductor; a first electrical connector configured to mount to a data center rack that supports a plurality of electronic devices, the first electrical connector moveable to electrically contact the live conductor surface of the electrical power conductor; a second electrical conductor positioned on the rack and configured to electrically contact the grounded conductor, wherein at least a portion of the live conductor surface is exposed to the human occupiable workspace, and wherein the live conductor surface comprises a mesh or planar conductor surface, and the first electrical connector is configured to mount to a top portion of the data center rack.