Symmetrical Dual Fluid Distribution Unit for Server Rack Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing server liquid cooling solutions, particularly for high power density racks, are inadequate in heat extraction and require complex fluid management, often lacking redundancy and efficient control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A symmetrical fluid distribution unit with built-in control features and redundancy, comprising two identical sections with main and sub-connectors, pumps, and communication ports, allowing for efficient fluid management and recirculation, and accommodating different server and rack architectures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single rack manifold is used for liquid cooling, then the device complexity is reduced, but the heat extraction capability is insufficient for high power density racks
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distribution system is divided into multiple independent distribution units, each capable of handling a portion of the cooling load. This segmentation increases heat extraction capability while keeping each individual unit relatively simple in design
2Reliability
If redundancy is incorporated in the liquid delivery system, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to required complex control for fluid management
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple distribution units are merged into a single integrated assembly that functions as one cohesive unit. The units share common manifolds and control mechanisms, providing redundancy while avoiding the complexity of managing completely separate independent systems
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution units are designed with universal components and interfaces that can perform multiple functions. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware to provide both primary cooling and redundant backup capabilities without requiring separate specialized control systems
3Ease of manufacture
If manual mating or blind mating connectors are used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the adaptability to different server and rack architectures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates universal interfaces that can accommodate multiple server and rack architectures. The same connector type can mate with different configurations, providing broad compatibility while maintaining ease of assembly through standardized manufacturing processes
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 efficient and redundant liquid cooling, ensuring continuous operation even in case of unit failure, with flexible connector arrangements and integrated control for optimal thermal management.
Implementation Method 1
a first fluid distribution unit having a pump, a main supply port fluidly coupled to the first supply manifold, a main return port fluidly coupled to the first return manifold
Implementation Method 2
Many advanced servers require liquid cooling, as simple air-based cooling is insufficient to properly remove the amount of heat generated by these servers
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid distribution apparatus for servers mounted onto a rack. The apparatus includes one or more pairs of distribution units that are rotationally symmetric and are attached to each other to form the pair. Each of the distribution units includes a main supply port and main return port that are connected to the rack's fluid manifolds. Each of the distribution units also includes plurality of supply and return connectors that connect to the servers. A pump in each of the distribution units delivers fluid from the rack's fluid manifolds to the servers for cooling. Each server is connected to fluid ports on both distribution units, so as to provide full redundancy. A controller receives signals form the servers and sends operation signals to the pumps to control the fluid delivery for cooling the servers.