Portable Command Center Data Server with Sealed Liquid Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data center technologies are cumbersome and require significant logistical support due to their large size, weight, and heat management needs, limiting their mobility and usability in austere environments.
Innovation Solution
A compact, one-person portable data center design featuring dual Intel Xeon processors, high-capacity solid-state drives, and a sealed liquid cooling system, integrated with a software suite for situational awareness and communication, allowing operation in various thermal environments with reduced power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If traditional rack-mounted server systems are used, then computing power and data processing capability are improved, but mobility and ease of transport deteriorate due to large size and heavy weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple server functions and computing components into a single integrated portable unit weighing less than 50 pounds. The system merges server motherboards, data storage devices, cooling systems, and power supplies into one compact enclosure that can be transported by a single person, eliminating the need for traditional rack-mounted configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where server motherboards and data storage devices are positioned within the enclosure such that they fit together in a space-efficient manner. The components are arranged to maximize utilization of internal volume while maintaining accessibility and thermal management, allowing high-density computing power in a compact form factor.
2Temperature
If traditional air conditioning systems are used for cooling, then heat removal capability is improved, but device complexity and logistical burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-contained cooling system where the portable server unit includes its own thermal management capabilities. The system uses internally integrated cooling components such as heat sinks, fans, or liquid cooling loops that operate autonomously without requiring external air conditioning infrastructure, enabling deployment in environments where external cooling is unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces thermal interface materials and heat transfer fluids as intermediaries between heat-generating components and cooling elements. These intermediaries efficiently conduct heat away from processors and storage devices to cooling radiators or heat exchangers, managing thermal loads without requiring complex external cooling infrastructure.
3Productivity
If multiple servers and workstations are integrated into racks, then data processing capability is improved, but ease of operation and mobility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple server and workstation functions into a single portable unit that can be transported and deployed by one person. The integrated system includes processing units, storage, networking, and display capabilities all in one package, eliminating the need for multiple separate rack-mounted systems while maintaining data processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable server system is designed with multi-functional capabilities including server operations, data storage, networking, and even display functions through integrated monitors. This universal design allows a single unit to replace multiple specialized devices, improving ease of operation and mobility while maintaining productivity.
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 robust, scalable, and reliable computing with ample power and bandwidth in a lightweight, portable package, suitable for diverse applications including disaster response and tactical deployments, while minimizing logistical burdens.
Implementation Method 1
a sealed liquid cooling system
Implementation Method 2
liquid cooling system
Data Source
AI summary
A command and control system and related methods are provided including an integrated shipping case/equipment mounting structure, a multi-application information fusion work station, a communication system, an expandable display array, a location determining system, and a data center section with data servers and network hub capability. Embodiments of the system includes design configurations enabling operation with reduced or passive environmental and temperature control capabilities including a compact cooling system usable with a compact layout and close proximity components that provide needed low power consumption cooling capability. Embodiments provide a portable, compact, rapid employable, reduced power consumption and lightweight information command and control capability operable in austere environments.