Sliding Cooling Distribution Modules for Server Rack Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server rack cooling infrastructure lacks flexibility to accommodate varying server chassis configurations and is not expandable, leading to inefficiencies in fluid distribution and management.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with a distribution frame and slidably movable distribution modules, featuring a guiding element for self-alignment with server connectors, flexible hoses for fluid connection, and integrated leak detection, enabling efficient and scalable liquid cooling solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed infrastructure is used for fluid distribution, then the system structure is simple, but it lacks flexibility to accommodate varying server chassis configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling distribution system is divided into multiple independent distribution modules that can be individually positioned and configured. Each module can serve specific server chassis, allowing the system to adapt to varying configurations without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution modules are designed to be movable along the fluid distribution manifold, enabling dynamic reconfiguration of the cooling system to match different server chassis arrangements. This dynamic positioning capability provides flexibility while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional non-modular cooling infrastructure is used, then the installation is straightforward, but the system is not expandable to accommodate different numbers of server chassis
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling infrastructure is segmented into independent, identical distribution modules that can be added or removed based on the number of server chassis. This modular approach enables easy expansion while maintaining consistent installation procedures for each module.
Solution Approach 2:
Each distribution module is designed as a universal unit that can serve any server chassis configuration. The standardized interface and design allow the same module to be used in different positions and numbers, providing expandability without requiring multiple specialized components.
3Ease of operation
If fixed fluid connectors are used, then the connection structure is simple, but alignment with server connectors is difficult when server positions vary
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid connectors are mounted on movable distribution modules that can be positioned dynamically to align with server connectors. This dynamic adjustment capability simplifies alignment operations while the guided movement mechanism keeps the overall structure relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution modules incorporate guiding elements that enable self-alignment with server connectors during the connection process. This self-aligning capability reduces the need for complex manual alignment procedures while maintaining connector mechanism simplicity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional rigid cooling infrastructure is used, then the manufacturing is simple, but it cannot accommodate varying positions of server chassis
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid infrastructure is replaced with segmented, movable distribution modules that can be manufactured using standard processes and then assembled in flexible configurations. This segmentation allows each module to be manufactured simply while the assembled system accommodates varying server positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changes in the positional parameters of distribution modules along the manifold to accommodate varying server chassis positions. This parameter adjustability provides flexibility while each individual module maintains simple manufacturing characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly may include a distribution frame having an adjusting channel; and one or more distribution modules disposed and slidably moveable along the adjusting channel. Each of the one or more distribution modules may include an inlet connector to receive cooling liquid from a cooling liquid loop, a fluid blind mate connector to-connect the cooling liquid loop to one or more cold plates of a server chassis, and a guiding element having a guiding structure and configured to house the fluid blind mate connector. When the guiding element contacts with the server chassis, the guiding element causes the corresponding distribution module to move slightly to align the fluid blind mate connector with a server connector of the server chassis, such that the fluid blind mate connector connects with the server connector to distribute the cooling liquid to the server chassis.