Underfloor Cubic Support Frames for Localized Raised-Floor Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data center cooling systems are inefficient and unable to adjust cooling locally, requiring large cooling units that move large volumes of air around large spaces, which is not effective for server-specific cooling needs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of underfloor cubic support systems (UFCSS) with 3-D frames that hold and support complementary raised access floor panels, allowing for localized cooling solutions by integrating cooling components under the floor, such as fan and cooling coil units, and providing modular, adjustable support structures for panels and servers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If large cooling units are used to move large volumes of air around large spaces, then cooling coverage is improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cooling system into multiple modular cubic support structures, each capable of independent cooling operation. Instead of one large cooling unit serving the entire data center, multiple smaller cooling units are distributed throughout the space, each serving localized areas. This segmentation reduces the total volume of air that needs to be moved while maintaining comprehensive cooling coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The cubic support structures enable localized cooling by positioning cooling components directly at or near heat-generating servers. Each modular unit can be independently configured and adjusted to provide cooling precisely where needed, rather than distributing cooled air uniformly across the entire space. This localizes the cooling effect to improve energy efficiency.
2Quantity of substance
If large cooling units are used to move large volumes of air around large spaces, then cooling capacity is improved, but adaptability to local server needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is segmented into multiple independent modular units, each with its own cooling capacity. This allows the total cooling capacity to be distributed across multiple manageable modules that can be individually adjusted and configured to match the specific cooling requirements of different server locations and heat loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular cubic support structures incorporate adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration of cooling capacity and distribution. Each module can be independently adjusted in terms of cooling output, positioning, and configuration to adapt to changing server requirements and local thermal conditions.
3Strength
If traditional RAF panels are mounted with many-to-one relationship to support pedestals, then structural support is improved, but installation complexity and cooling localization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a many-to-one support relationship (multiple panels per pedestal) to a one-to-one relationship (one panel per cubic support structure). Each cubic module is a self-contained unit with integrated support structures, eliminating the need for complex pedestal networks and reducing installation complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cubic support structure merges multiple functions into a single integrated module: structural support, cooling housing, and panel mounting. By combining these functions into one unified module rather than separate components, the system reduces installation complexity while maintaining the necessary structural strength.
4Stability of the object's composition
If traditional RAF vertical support structures are connected with cross beams and fasteners, then structural stability is improved, but installation time and cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cubic support structures are manufactured and pre-assembled as complete modular units before delivery to the installation site. All structural connections, support elements, and cooling components are pre-configured and stabilized during manufacturing, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site assembly of cross beams and fasteners while maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the vertical support structures, horizontal cross beams, and fastening systems into a single pre-assembled cubic module, the patent eliminates multiple separate installation steps. The modular unit arrives ready-to-install, reducing both installation time and labor costs while preserving the structural stability achieved through the integrated design.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems and methods, etc., that provide tailored, typically modular, raised access floor (RAF) support systems, referred to herein as underfloor cubic support systems (UFCSS). The UFCSS comprise UFCSS 3-D frames wherein (typically) the vertical corner posts of the UFCSS 3-D frame also serve as support pedestals for a complementary RAF panel. The corner posts can be vertical columns at the corners of the cubic structure (and therefore the corresponding RAF panel).