Recessed PDU Outlets for High Density
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Power Distribution Units (PDUs) do not maximize outlet density, which is essential for the increasing electrical efficiency and compactness of computing equipment in data centers and server farms, as they are designed with C13 and C19 receptacles that do not optimize space usage.
Innovation Solution
The design of PDUs with recessed surfaces and flexible or rotatable outlets that extend from the front face, allowing for higher density configurations, modular construction, and active cooling, while maintaining compatibility with industry-standard power cords and providing plug retention mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional C13 and C19 receptacles are used in PDUs, then compatibility with industry-standard power cords is maintained, but outlet density is not maximized and space usage is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional horizontal outlet arrangements to a vertical orientation where outlets extend from the front face of the PDU. This dimensional change allows outlets to be stacked vertically, maximizing the use of vertical space within the equipment rack and significantly increasing outlet density without compromising compatibility with standard power cords.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates flexible outlets that can extend and retract, as well as rotatable outlets that can change orientation. This dynamic capability allows the outlets to adapt to different plug positions and cable routing requirements while maintaining a compact form factor, thereby increasing effective outlet density without fixed spatial constraints.
2Area of stationary object
If outlets are made compact to increase density, then space efficiency improves, but flexibility and accessibility may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible and rotatable outlet designs enable compact outlets to maintain operational flexibility. The outlets can extend outward for easy plug insertion, then retract or rotate to a compact position when not in use, combining high density with ease of operation and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the outlets by making them flexible and rotatable, allowing them to transition between extended and retracted states. This parameter change enables the outlets to provide adequate clearance for plug insertion when needed while maintaining a compact volume when not in use.
3Quantity of substance
If recessed surfaces are used to accommodate outlets, then outlet density increases, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The PDU housing is segmented into distinct components, with the outlet assembly being a separate module that can be manufactured independently and then integrated into the housing. This segmentation allows the recessed surface to be created as a simple feature in the housing while the complex outlet mechanisms are manufactured separately, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet assembly module combines multiple functions (outlets, flexibility mechanisms, rotation mechanisms) into a single integrated unit that attaches to the housing. This merging approach simplifies manufacturing by allowing the complex outlet mechanisms to be produced as a pre-assembled module, reducing the complexity of housing construction while achieving high outlet density.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and apparatuses are provided in which outlets are coupled to a power distribution unit (PDU) or PDU module in various configurations. The outlets may be coupled to a recessed surface within a PDU housing. The outlets and recessed surface may be formed as part of a single mold. The outlets may be coupled to a printed circuit board that is at least partially disposed within the PDU housing. The outlets may extend away from the recessed surface or printed circuit board towards or beyond a front face of the PDU housing.