Prefabricated Data Center Modules for Rapid Capacity Scaling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Data centers face challenges in rapidly scaling computing capacity, managing electrical power distribution, and mitigating fire risks due to the complexity and resource-intensiveness of traditional data center design and expansion processes.
Innovation Solution
A modular computing system comprising pre-fabricated data center modules with integrated electrical and air handling modules that can be easily deployed and scaled, featuring a modular design that includes rack-mounted computer systems, air handling modules with fans for cooling, and an electrical module for power distribution, which can operate with ambient air and source electrical power, and includes fire suppression systems for safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional data center expansion methods are used, then computing capacity is increased, but deployment time and resource requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The data center is divided into modular units that can be independently deployed and scaled. Each module contains complete functional elements (servers, networking, cooling, power), allowing incremental expansion without requiring complete system redesign or lengthy installation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
Complete data center modules are pre-assembled and pre-configured before deployment. This preliminary preparation of functional units eliminates on-site assembly time and reduces deployment complexity, enabling rapid provisioning of computing capacity.
2Productivity
If traditional data center expansion methods are used, then computing capacity is increased, but resource requirements and infrastructure setup increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components (servers, networking equipment, cooling systems, power distribution) are merged into integrated modular units. This consolidation reduces the number of separate infrastructure elements required and simplifies deployment while maintaining full computing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular units are designed with universal interfaces and standardized configurations that can be deployed in various settings without requiring custom infrastructure. Each module is self-contained and can function independently or be combined with other identical modules.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If fire suppression systems are not implemented, then system complexity is reduced, but fire propagation risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular architecture naturally segments the data center into isolated units with fire barriers between them. This physical segmentation limits fire propagation to individual modules while the integrated fire suppression systems in each module provide localized protection.
Solution Approach 2:
Each modular unit includes its own fire suppression system and environmental controls, allowing it to protect itself independently. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex centralized safety systems while maintaining comprehensive protection.
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 rapid deployment and scaling of computing capacity, reduces resource and time requirements for setup, and enhances fire safety by containing potential fires within modules, minimizing downtime and equipment loss.
Implementation Method 1
utilizes ambient air for cooling
Implementation Method 2
waste heat removal
Data Source
AI summary
A modular computing system for a data center includes one or more data center modules including rack-mounted computer systems. An electrical module is coupled to the data center modules and provides electrical power to computer systems in the data center modules. One or more air handling modules are coupled to the data center modules. The data center module may include two pre-fabricated portions, each portion including a row of racks of computer systems. The two computing module portions of the data center module may combine to form a computing space when coupled to one another.