Underfloor Cubic Floor Supports for Localized Data Center Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data center cooling technologies require large cooling units that move large volumes of air inefficiently and are unable to adjust cooling locally to server needs, leading to inefficiencies and high costs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of underfloor cubic support systems (UFCSS) for raised access floors (RAF) that include 3-D frames with adjustable height and anti-rotation elements to support complementary RAF panels, which are configured to hold and support complementary RAF panels, comprising vertical corner posts connected by cross-support bars, with variable height adjustment elements and anti-rotation mechanisms to ensure precise panel placement and prevent rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional raised floors use multiple pedestals to support panels, then support coverage is improved, but installation complexity increases due to on-site assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The cubic support structures are pre-assembled into complete units at the factory before delivery to the installation site. Each unit includes all necessary components (vertical posts, horizontal beams, bracing elements) already connected, eliminating the need for complex on-site assembly of multiple pedestals and cross-beams. This preliminary assembly maintains full support coverage while dramatically reducing installation complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RAF panels are supported by traditional pedestals requiring on-site assembly, then adaptability to different floor configurations is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cubic support structures incorporate adjustable height mechanisms that allow each unit to be dynamically adapted to different floor configurations and subfloor conditions. The modular design enables easy reconfiguration of the grid pattern to accommodate various panel sizes and room layouts, while the pre-assembled nature maintains quick installation.
3Power
If traditional cooling systems use large cooling units, then cooling capacity is improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to moving large volumes of air
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is segmented into multiple localized cooling units, each serving a specific server rack or zone. Instead of one large centralized cooling unit moving air throughout the entire data center, smaller units provide targeted cooling only where heat is generated. This segmentation maintains adequate cooling capacity while dramatically reducing the total volume of air that must be moved, improving energy efficiency.
4Area of stationary object
If large cooling units are used to cool data centers, then cooling coverage is improved, but local temperature control near servers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Each cooling unit is designed to provide localized cooling with precise temperature control tailored to the specific thermal requirements of nearby server equipment. The cooling capacity, airflow rate, and temperature setpoints can be independently adjusted for each unit based on the actual heat load of the served servers. This local quality approach ensures adequate overall cooling coverage while maintaining precise temperature control at each location, preventing both overheating and unnecessary over-cooling.
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).