Telescoping Network Rack With Modular Space and Access Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data center storage solutions lack divisibility and security flexibility, leading to wasted vertical space and high retrofitting costs due to the use of tall vertical cabinets, limiting customer security choices and operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A telescoping cargo rack with a dual-hull enclosure and onboard electronic system, featuring a rail system for telescoping movement, power outlets, and an access control system with a security interface for selective door locking/unlocking, enhancing security and adaptability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tall vertical cabinets are used for storage, then security and structural integrity are improved, but vertical space is wasted and customer flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the traditional monolithic cabinet into modular sub-rack units that can be independently configured. Each sub-rack is a self-contained storage unit with its own security system, allowing customers to allocate space in finer increments rather than entire cabinet units, thereby reducing wasted vertical space while maintaining security through individual unit locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces adjustable and reconfigurable sub-racks within the cabinet structure. The sub-racks can be positioned at different heights and adjusted along vertical rails, enabling dynamic optimization of space utilization. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to varying storage needs while maintaining the overall structural integrity and security of the cabinet.
2Reliability
If cabinet-level security measures are applied, then overall protection is improved, but customer security customization is limited and retrofitting costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The security system is segmented into multiple independent levels: cabinet-level security for overall protection and sub-rack-level security for customer-specific customization. Each sub-rack includes its own access control system, allowing customers to configure security measures tailored to their specific hardware needs without affecting the entire cabinet or incurring high retrofitting costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a universal security framework that operates at multiple levels simultaneously. The cabinet-level security system provides baseline protection for all units, while sub-rack-level systems enable customers to add customized security measures. This multi-functional approach allows the same infrastructure to support both overall protection and individual customization requirements.
3Device complexity
If entire cabinets are allocated to customers, then security control is simplified, but space efficiency decreases when customers need less than full cabinet space
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the cabinet into multiple sub-racks that can be independently allocated to customers. This segmentation allows customers to rent only the specific sub-racks they need rather than entire cabinets, significantly improving space efficiency. The security control remains manageable through a hierarchical system where the cabinet administrator maintains overview control while customer-level systems handle individual sub-rack access.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables dynamic allocation and reconfiguration of sub-racks to customer needs. Customers can adjust which sub-racks they access and when, allowing flexible optimization of space utilization. The dynamic nature of the system permits real-time adjustments to allocation patterns, improving overall space efficiency while maintaining simplified security control through electronic access management.
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo rack is usable to store electronic devices, such as servers, while the electronic devices operate. The cargo rack has a telescoping enclosure with one or two doors for selectively closing either or both ends of the enclosure. The cargo rack also includes an onboard electronic system. The electronic system includes a programmable controller and an access control system for selectively locking or unlocking the door or doors of the enclosure. The access control system includes a security interface at which access credentials may be presented from outside the enclosure for recognition by electronics within the enclosure.