Wireless Rack Management Controller Communication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current information handling systems in data centers face challenges in managing network traffic within server racks due to cluttered cabling and limited space, which hinders efficient communication and management of network traffic between equipment and external networks.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of wireless communication modules between the top-of-rack switch and network interface module, utilizing standards like Wireless USB, Bluetooth, or WiFi, to enable uninterrupted network traffic communication, reducing the need for physical cabling and optimizing the use of unused space in server racks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If wireless communication modules are implemented between the top-of-rack switch and network interface module, then communication efficiency is enhanced and cabling clutter is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical cabling system with a wireless communication system. Specifically, wireless communication modules (using standards like Wireless USB, Bluetooth, or WiFi) are implemented between the top-of-rack switch and network interface modules, eliminating the need for physical cables and thereby reducing cabling clutter while maintaining communication functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces wireless communication modules as intermediary devices that facilitate communication between the top-of-rack switch and network interface modules. These modules act as mediators that enable data transmission without direct physical connection, thus improving communication efficiency while avoiding the complexity of extensive cabling infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If physical cabling is used for network traffic communication, then device complexity is reduced, but cabling clutter increases and space utilization decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidspace utilization

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes the mechanical cabling system with wireless communication technology. By implementing wireless communication modules that support standards such as Wireless USB, Bluetooth, or WiFi, the system eliminates physical cables, thereby reducing cabling clutter and optimizing the use of space within server racks without significantly increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If wireless communication modules are implemented, then flexibility in routing network traffic is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility in routing network trafficVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the fixed mechanical cabling system with a flexible wireless communication system. Wireless communication modules are integrated into the top-of-rack switch and network interface modules, enabling dynamic and flexible routing of network traffic without the constraints of physical cable layouts, thereby improving adaptability while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized wireless protocols.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP3257341B1System and method for wireless rack management controller communication

Publication Date: 2020.02.05 DELL PROD LP

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AI summary

An information handling system, includes a server rack including a first communication device. The server rack has a mounting flange with a plurality of mounting holes. The information handling system also includes a server installed in the server rack and secured to the mounting flange via a first mounting hole of the plurality of mounting holes. The server includes a second communication device, that is coupled to the first communication device via a second mounting hole of the plurality of mounting holes.