Power Distribution Device for Server Rack Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

In server rack systems, the increasing number of cables for power distribution leads to inefficient space utilization, complexity, and increased assembly and maintenance time due to the need for additional space and the complexity of cable management.

Innovation Solution

A power distribution device with a module comprising superimposed conducting plates and output pin pairs, connected to a power supply unit, which automatically transfers power to server units through a set of positioning posts, eliminating the need for cables and simplifying the electrical connection process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional cable-based power distribution is used, then power can be supplied to server units, but space utilization is reduced and cable management becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable managementVSAvoidrack space utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the power distribution function directly into the rack structure by integrating conducting plates and output pin pairs into the rack body. This eliminates the need for separate cables, as power is distributed through the rack's own structural components. The conducting plates are positioned to automatically contact with server units when inserted, providing power without requiring external cable connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the cables from the power distribution system and replaces them with integrated conducting plates within the rack. By removing the cables and incorporating the power distribution function directly into the rack structure, the system achieves cleaner space utilization while maintaining power supply capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Productivity

If multiple cables are used for power distribution, then power can be supplied to multiple server units, but assembly and maintenance time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly speedVSAvoidmaintenance time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple power distribution connections into a single integrated structure where conducting plates and output pin pairs are built into the rack. When server units are inserted into the rack, they automatically establish electrical contact with the power distribution system, eliminating the need for separate cable connections for each unit. This significantly reduces assembly time and simplifies maintenance operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If cables are used for power distribution, then power can be transferred to server units, but the system becomes error-prone and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidpower distribution system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the power distribution function into the rack's structural components, using conducting plates and output pin pairs that are integral parts of the rack body. This integration eliminates the complexity of separate cable management and reduces errors associated with cable connections. The automatic contact mechanism ensures reliable power transfer when server units are properly inserted.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This solution enhances space utilization, simplifies the assembly and maintenance of server rack systems by automatically connecting server units to power, reducing cable clutter and operational complexity.

Implementation Method 1

The first power column and the second power column are connected to a power supply unit in the rack to obtain electric power therefrom. Each output pin pair includes a first output pin inserted in the first conducting plate and a second output pin inserted in the second conducting plate. The output pin pair is connected to the apparatus in the rack to transfer electric power to the apparatus.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS8917493B2Power distribution device and server rack system using the same
Publication Date: 2014.12.23 INVENTEC CORP
  • US8917493B2 patent drawing
  • US8917493B2 patent drawing
  • US8917493B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power distribution device and a server rack system are provided. The server rack system includes a rack and at least one apparatus disposed therein. The power distribution device distributes electrical power to the apparatus. The power supply device includes a first conducting plate, an insulation layer and a second conducting plate that are sequentially superimposed, and a first and a second power columns inserted in the first and the second plates. The insulation layer is disposed between the first and the second conducting plates. The first and the second power columns are connected to a power supply unit in the rack to obtain electric power therefrom. Each output pin pair includes a first and a second output pins inserted in the first and the second conducting plates. The output pin pairs are connected to the apparatus in the rack to transfer electric power to the apparatus.