Potential Flow Airflow Prediction for Data Center Cooling

The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the airflow prediction approach by using potential flow theory instead of full CFD simulations. This involves simplifying the governing equations from the Navier-Stokes equations to the Laplace equation for velocity potential, fundamentally altering the computational parameters to achieve faster solution times while maintaining adequate accuracy for data center applications

The patent extracts and removes the computationally intensive components from traditional CFD simulations. By taking out the complex turbulence modeling, viscous effects, and pressure-velocity coupling iterations that characterize full CFD, the invention retains only the essential potential flow components that can be solved efficiently using fast Poisson solvers

The patent replaces expensive, complex CFD simulation systems with a simpler, more accessible computational approach. The potential flow method uses standard computational tools and algorithms that are widely available and easier to implement, effectively substituting a 'cheap' alternative that doesn't require specialized expertise while still providing useful airflow predictions

The patent substitutes the complex mechanical-computational system of CFD simulations with a simplified mathematical model based on potential flow theory. This replacement eliminates the need for complex boundary condition setups, mesh generation, and iterative solution procedures, making the system easier to use and less complex overall