Perpendicular Power Module Coupling for Server Rack PDU

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing power distribution systems in server racks face challenges with limited power outlets and tight cable routing spaces, leading to difficulties in accessing power connectors and increased stress on cables due to tight bends.

Innovation Solution

The proposed power system includes a PDU rack with power modules coupled perpendicularly, increasing the number of outlets and providing adequate space for cable access, and power connectors that rotate at least 45 degrees to reduce cable stress and improve installation ease.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If power outlets are mounted directly on the PDU rack, then the number of outlets is limited and cable routing space is restricted, but adding power modules perpendicularly increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of power outletsVSAvoidpower distribution system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional arrangement where outlets are mounted directly on the PDU rack face to a three-dimensional configuration by attaching power modules perpendicularly to the rack. This vertical extension creates additional outlet capacity without occupying horizontal rack space, effectively resolving the contradiction between increasing outlet quantity and maintaining system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Device complexity

If power outlets are mounted directly on the PDU rack, then the structure is simple, but cable routing space is tight and cable stress increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower distribution system structureVSAvoidcable routing accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By extending power modules perpendicular to the PDU rack, the patent creates additional spatial dimensions for cable routing. This vertical projection provides adequate clearance for cable insertion and reduces bend radius constraints, improving cable accessibility without requiring complex reconfiguration of the base PDU rack structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of manufacture

If power connectors are fixed in position, then the installation is straightforward, but cable bend radius is constrained and cable stress increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower module installationVSAvoidcable stress
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces rotational mobility to the power connectors, allowing them to pivot and adjust their orientation. This dynamic capability enables optimal cable routing angles and sufficient bend radius during installation, reducing cable stress while maintaining straightforward mounting through the perpendicular module attachment to the PDU rack.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10660231B2Coupling a power module to a power distribution rack
Publication Date: 2020.05.19 HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE DEV LP
  • US10660231B2 patent drawing
  • US10660231B2 patent drawing
  • US10660231B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Examples herein disclose a power system including a power distribution unit (PDU) rack and a power module. The PDU rack is positioned in vertically in a server rack to distribute power to the power module. The power module is positioned horizontally in a server rack and includes multiple connectors. The power module is coupled perpendicularly to the PDU rack and receives power cables for delivering power to multiple servers in the server rack.