Universal PDU with Configurable Connectors for Phase Flexibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing complexity and diversity of computer equipment rack configurations in datacenters lead to varied AC power requirements, necessitating different voltages and phase configurations, which complicate power distribution and cabling, especially when devices are upgraded or replaced, often requiring changes in power cabling and connectors within the racks.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution system using a 5-conductor cable with a PDU that branches into multiple circuits, combined with configurable device-mounted and rack-mounted connectors, allows for flexible phase and voltage selection without altering the internal wiring or cabling, accommodating different power requirements of devices through a blind-mating mechanism and load-balancing configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different power cables and connectors are used for different devices within a rack, then each device can receive its required power, but the wiring and connectors must be changed when devices are upgraded or replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal power distribution system where a single multi-conductor cable (containing all possible phase and voltage combinations) connects to a PDU that provides multiple outlets capable of delivering different voltages and phase configurations. This allows any device to be powered without changing the cable or connectors, as the system can adapt to provide the required power configuration through the existing universal interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If power cabling is changed to accommodate device upgrades, then new power requirements are met, but cabling modifications are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-installing a multi-conductor cable that contains all possible phase and voltage conductors before any device is installed. The PDU is pre-configured with multiple outlets that can deliver different power configurations. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for any cabling modifications during future device upgrades, as the system is already prepared to accommodate any power requirement.
3Device complexity
If a single power cable configuration is used for all racks, then cabling standardization is achieved, but diverse power requirements cannot be met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power configurations into a single multi-conductor cable that contains all necessary phases and voltage levels. By combining all possible power delivery options into one standardized cable type, the system achieves cabling standardization while simultaneously maintaining the ability to meet diverse power requirements through the PDU's multiple outlets that can deliver different voltage and phase configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprises a first equipment rack, a power distribution unit (PDU) and a plurality of rack connectors. The PDU is mounted in the first equipment rack and is configured to provide alternating current (AC) power that comprises a plurality of phases. The plurality of rack connectors mount within the first equipment rack, and each of the plurality of rack connectors couples to the PDU and provides access to the plurality of phases. Each rack connector is usable to accommodate a first device installed in the equipment rack that uses one or more of the plurality of phases, and is also usable to accommodate a second device installed in the equipment rack that uses one or more of the plurality of phases, thereby permitting each rack connector to couple to any of a plurality of devices, and permitting each of the plurality of devices to use any number of the plurality of phases. The number of phases used by the first device differs from the number of phases used by the second device.