Modular Data Center Rack Shock Isolation via Intermediary Isolators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling system racks in modular data centers are vulnerable to shock and vibration during transportation, which can cause damage to the components housed within.
Innovation Solution
A modular data center design that includes a frame with upper and lower cross-members, a floor coupled to the lower cross-members, and isolators mounted between the floor and cross-members to absorb mechanical shock and vibration, protecting the racks from damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If racks are securely mounted in a modular data center container, then structural stability is improved, but vulnerability to shock and vibration during transportation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces isolators as intermediary elements between the rack mounting structure and the container floor. These isolators act as mediators that decouple the rigid connection, allowing the rack to remain securely mounted during operation while protecting it from shock and vibration forces during transportation. The isolators absorb and dampen harmful mechanical forces before they can reach the sensitive IT equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements cushioning measures in advance by installing isolators and mounting structures designed to absorb shock before damage can occur to the equipment. The isolators are pre-positioned between the rack mounting points and the container floor to provide protective cushioning during transportation, preventing direct transmission of harmful forces to the IT components.
2Reliability
If isolators are added to protect racks from shock and vibration, then protection from mechanical shock is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the isolator mounting structure to serve multiple functions: it provides secure mechanical mounting of the rack, incorporates shock isolation capabilities, and enables easy installation and removal. The isolators are integrated into the mounting brackets in a way that combines structural support and vibration protection into a single unified system, reducing overall complexity despite adding protective functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs isolators with specific material properties and mounting configurations that change the mechanical parameters of the connection between rack and container. By selecting isolators with appropriate stiffness, damping characteristics, and mounting geometries, the system achieves effective shock protection while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that can be manufactured and installed efficiently.
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
Effectively isolates IT racks from shock and vibration forces, ensuring the integrity and functionality of the information handling system components during transportation and operation.
Implementation Method 1
Several lower isolators are mounted between the floor and the lower cross-members. Several upper isolators are mounted between the top of the first rack and the upper cross-members. The lower and upper isolators protect the first rack from mechanical shock and vibration.
Implementation Method 2
The lower and upper isolators protect the first rack from mechanical shock and vibration.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular data center includes a container for housing at least one rack containing an information handling system. A frame is disposed within the container. The frame has several upper cross-members and several lower cross-members. A floor is coupled to the lower cross-members and the at least one rack is disposed on an upper surface of the floor. At least one lower bracket extends between the floor and the first rack and is affixed to the floor and a first rack to couple/secure the first rack to the floor. Several first isolators are mounted between the floor and the lower cross-members. The first isolators protect the first rack from mechanical shock and vibration.