External Robotic Platform for Immersion-Cooled Server Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid immersion cooled computing systems require efficient and secure transportation of computing devices between storage facilities and cooling systems, which is complex and not adequately addressed by current technologies.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous robotic vehicle system that can map facilities, navigate to liquid cooling systems, receive and secure computing devices, and transport them to storage facilities, utilizing communication with a central server for control and coordination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling of computing devices is used, then operational flexibility is maintained, but transportation efficiency and security are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system performs self-navigation to locate the liquid cooling system and computing devices autonomously using sensors and mapping capabilities. The system independently identifies targets, plans paths, and executes transportation tasks without continuous human intervention, thereby improving productivity while managing complexity through automated self-service operations
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical handling of computing devices is replaced with an automated robotic system that uses sensors, processors, and automated mechanisms for navigation, device handling, and transportation. This substitution eliminates manual labor limitations and improves transportation efficiency and security
2Reliability
If secure enclosure is used during transportation, then device protection is improved, but vehicle complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The computing device is securely enclosed within a platform that is nested inside the vehicle body. The platform can be lowered into the vehicle and secured within the enclosure, creating a nested protective structure. This nested design provides robust device protection while managing structural complexity through hierarchical integration
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle structure is segmented into distinct functional components: the enclosure providing protection, the movable platform for device placement, and the securing mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while integrating into a cohesive protective system
3Productivity
If autonomous navigation is implemented, then operational efficiency is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is designed with multi-functional capabilities including autonomous navigation, device handling, secure transportation, and communication with central servers. This universal design allows a single system to perform multiple functions, improving operational efficiency while managing complexity through integrated multi-functionality rather than separate specialized systems
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle incorporates sensors and communication systems that provide feedback to the control processor, enabling real-time monitoring and adjustment of navigation and transportation operations. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain operational efficiency while managing complexity through closed-loop control
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous vehicle is disclosed which can map a facility and navigate its way to a particular liquid cooling system. The vehicle can be in communication with a central server, which can control the vehicle. The vehicle can align itself against the liquid cooling system and receive a computing device on a platform of the vehicle. The platform can be lowered and secured in an enclosure of the vehicle. Then, the vehicle can transport the computing device to a storage facility.