WO2018132866A1

WO2018132866A1 - High-density modular data centre

Info

Publication number: WO2018132866A1
Application number: PCT/AU2018/050023
Authority: WO
Inventors: Timothy Mark DESMOND; Dean COETZEE
Original assignee: The Data Exchange Network Ltd.
Priority date: 2017-01-17
Filing date: 2018-01-16
Publication date: 2018-07-26

Abstract

Provided is a high-density data centre module (10) which comprises at least two upright columns (12), at least one at each end (26), braced together via at least one bracing member (14) to define a component framework (16) for operatively receiving and securing data centre components (18) therein. The module (10) also includes an access platform (20) laterally projecting from the upright columns (12) at a bottom end (22) of the component framework, with the platform shaped, dimensioned and configured to allow a maintenance person to access the data centre components and to allow free or relatively uninterrupted passage of air therethrough. The upright columns further extend below the access platform to define a passage (24) underneath the component framework for data centre services operatively servicing said data centre components when the upright columns rest on a support, such as a surface or stacked on a similar module.

Description

HIGH-DENSITY MODULAR DATA CENTRE

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This invention relates to a high-density data centre module, a high-density data centre assembly, a high- density data centre arrangement, and an associated high- density data centre.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

[0003] The Internet can be defined as a global network of peers or peering points that interconnect between each other. As such, the Internet is made up of many such networked peering points which can be connected to by users for the consumption of content and online services. These peering points are typically known as data centres (DCs) or Internet exchanges (IXs) and are where thousands, sometimes hundreds of thousands of computers (servers), are housed in secure, mostly specially built, facilities for access by users.

[0004] By providing more peering points and Internet exchanges, the Internet's resiliency and capacity are increased, allowing more connections and consumption of content and services by users. This increase in consumption and access is driving a shift in the construction requirements for these special facilities, particularly where cost, practicality and availability are concerned.

[0005] The conventional approach to existing data centre design, construction and operation provides numerous shortcomings, as a data centre may be a custom designed and built facility, requiring time, effort and increased cost. Where some manner of modular data centre exists, such as containerised data centres, there is often no accepted standard or uniformity with regard to the design and/or equipment capabilities, and cooling of components can present a challenge.

[0006] There exists a need for a modularised data centre design with suitable configurations around equipment and capability. In particular, a need exists in data centre design for layouts that are computing and cooling equipment agnostic and can be used in a variety of spaces, whilst allowing for optimum use of such space.

[0007] The current invention was conceived with these shortcomings in mind.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a high-density data centre module comprising: at least two upright columns braced together via at least one bracing member to define a component framework for operatively receiving and securing data centre components therein; and

an access platform laterally projecting from the upright columns at a bottom end of the component framework, said platform shaped, dimensioned and configured to allow a maintenance person to access data centre components in the component framework and to allow passage of air therethrough; wherein the upright columns extend below the access platform to define a passage underneath the component framework for data centre services operatively servicing said data centre components within the component framework when the upright columns rest on a support.

[0009] Typically, the module comprises four upright columns, two sets of each arranged at either end of the component framework, with each column of a set spaced apart to accommodate data centre components therebetween, in use.

[0010] Typically, the module comprises at least two bracing members extending between the two sets of upright columns arranged at either end of the component framework.

[0011] Typically, the bracing members are arranged between the upright columns at or underneath the bottom end of the component framework.

[0012] Typically, ends of the upright columns are configured to be complementarily stacked on the upright columns of another module.

[0013] Typically, the access platform comprises a grating cantilevered to the component framework and/or upright columns .

[0014] Typically, the data centre services comprise a power supply, communications cabling, mechanical services, cooling services, and/or the like. [0015] Typically, the data centre components comprise power supply equipment, computing equipment, cooling equipment, and/or the like.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a high-density data centre assembly comprising at least two high-density data centre modules stacked one on top of the other, each module comprising:

at least two upright columns braced together via at least one bracing member to define a component framework for operatively receiving and securing data centre components therein; and

an access platform laterally projecting from the upright columns at a bottom end of the component framework, said platform shaped, dimensioned and configured to allow a maintenance person to access data centre components in the component framework and to allow passage of air therethrough; wherein the upright columns extend below the access platform to define a passage underneath the component framework for data centre services operatively servicing said data centre components within the component framework when the modules are stacked in such a manner.

[0017] Typically, the module comprises four upright columns, two sets of each arranged at either end of the component framework, with each column of a set spaced apart to accommodate data centre components therebetween, in use.

[0018] Typically, the module comprises at least two bracing members extending between the two sets of upright columns arranged at either end of the component framework. [0019] Typically, the bracing members are arranged between the upright columns at or underneath the bottom end of the component framework.

[0020] Typically, ends of the upright columns are configured to be complementarily stacked on the upright columns of another module.

[0021] Typically, the access platform comprises a grating cantilevered to the component framework and/or upright columns .

[0022] Typically, the data centre services comprise a power supply, communications cabling, mechanical services, cooling services, and/or the like.

[0023] Typically, the data centre components comprise power supply equipment, computing equipment, cooling equipment, and/or the like.

[0024] According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a high-density data centre arrangement comprising at least two assemblies, according to the second aspect of the invention, juxtaposed with each other.

[0025] Typically, the respective assemblies are juxtaposed either access platform to access platform, access platform to component framework, and/or access platform to component framework .

[0026] According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a high-density data centre comprising: a plurality of high-density data centre modules stacked one on top of the other and juxtaposed, each module comprising at least two upright columns braced together via at least one bracing member to define a component framework for operatively receiving and securing data centre components therein; and an access platform laterally projecting from the upright columns at a bottom end of the component framework, said platform shaped, dimensioned and configured to allow a maintenance person to access data centre components in the component framework and to allow passage of air therethrough; wherein the upright columns extend below the access platform to define a passage underneath the component framework for data centre services operatively servicing said data centre components within the component framework when the upright columns are so stacked and juxtaposed; and

data centre services routed via the respective passages of the modules for servicing data centre components.

[0027] Typically, the respective modules are juxtaposed either access platform to access platform, access platform to component framework, and/or access platform to component framework .

[0028] Typically, the module comprises four upright columns, two sets of each arranged at either end of the component framework, with each column of a set spaced apart to accommodate data centre components therebetween, in use.

[0029] Typically, the module comprises at least two bracing members extending between the two sets of upright columns arranged at either end of the component framework. [0030] Typically, the bracing members are arranged between the upright columns at or underneath the bottom end of the component framework.

[0031] Typically, ends of the upright columns are configured to be complementarily stacked on the upright columns of another module.

[0032] Typically, the access platform comprises a grating cantilevered to the component framework and/or upright columns .

[0033] Typically, the data centre services comprise a power supply, communications cabling, mechanical services, cooling services, and/or the like.

[0034] Typically, the data centre components comprise power supply equipment, computing equipment, cooling equipment, and/or the like.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view representation of one example of a high-density date centre assembly, in accordance with an aspect of the invention;

Figure 2 is a diagrammatic perspective view representation of one example of a high-density date centre arrangement, in accordance with an aspect of the invention; Figure 3 is diagrammatic perspective view representation of one example of a high-density date centre, in accordance with an aspect of the invention;

Figure 4 is a diagrammatic perspective view representation of a further example of a high-density date centre; and

Figure 5 is a diagrammatic perspective view representation of a yet further example of a high-density data centre.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0035] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non- limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the present invention to the skilled addressee. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above. In the figures, incorporated to illustrate features of the example embodiment or embodiments, like reference numerals are used to identify like parts throughout.

[0036] With reference now to the accompanying drawings, there is shown one example of a high-density data centre module 10. This example of the module 10 generally comprises at least two upright columns 12, e.g. one at each end 26, braced together via at least one bracing member 14 to define a component framework 16 for operatively receiving and securing data centre components 18 therein, as shown. It is to be appreciated that the current example comprises two sets 28 of upright columns 12, rather than a single upright column 12, at either end 26, which is within the scope of the invention .

[ 0037 ] The module 10 also typically includes an access platform 20 laterally projecting from the upright columns 12 at a bottom end 22 of the component framework 16, with the platform 20 shaped, dimensioned and configured to allow a maintenance person (not shown) to access the data centre components 18 in the component framework 16 and to allow free or relatively uninterrupted passage of air therethrough.

[ 0038 ] The upright columns 12 further extend below the access platform 20to define a passage 24 underneath the component framework 16 for data centre services operatively servicing said data centre components 18 within the component framework 16 when the upright columns rest on a support, such as a surface or stacked on a similar module 10, as described in more detail below.

[ 0039 ] Accordingly, as will be understood by the skilled addressee, the data centre services generally comprise a power supply, communications cabling, mechanical services, cooling services, and/or the like. Similarly, the skilled addressee will appreciate that the data centre components 18 can comprise power supply equipment, computing equipment, cooling equipment, and/or the like.

[ 0040 ] It is further to be appreciated that reference herein to ^>high-density' means that the invention generally allows for a high number of various data centre components to be housed in a relatively small volume of space, particularly when the modules 10 are stacked and/or juxtaposed closely together or abutting, as per a preferred embodiment. However, the invention is not to be understood as being limited to only high-density applications.

[ 0041 ] As mentioned above, the current example of the module 10 comprises four upright columns 12, two sets of each arranged at either end 26 of the component framework 16. As shown, each column 12 of a set 28 spaced apart to accommodate the data centre components 18 therebetween, when in use.

[ 0042 ] The module 10 also typically comprises at least two bracing members 14 extending between the two sets 28 of upright columns 12 arranged at either end 26 of the component framework 16. The bracing members 14 are generally arranged between the upright columns 12 at or underneath the bottom end 22 of the component framework 16. In addition, the ends 30 of the upright columns 12 are generally configured to be complementarily stacked on the upright columns of another module, as described in more detail below.

[ 0043 ] As cooling of data centre components is a major consideration in any data centre design, the free passage of airflow can be an important factor. In order to allow for such free passage of air through the access platform 20, the platform typically comprises a grating cantilevered to the component framework 16 and/or upright columns 12. The platform 20 is configured to allow maintenance access and can also serve as a spacer between juxtaposed modules and/or walls of a data centre structure, or the like.

[ 0044 ] In addition, it is to be appreciated that the modules are generally stacked and/or juxtaposed close together so that the respective platforms 20 performs a spacing function between assemblies 32. As such, the platform 20 is typically sized and dimensioned to allow a relatively narrow maintenance access so as to maintain a high-density layout, as described above.

[0045] With the modularity of the modules 10, the present invention also provides for a high-density data centre assembly 32 which comprises at least two of the above high- density data centre modules 10 stacked one on top of the other, as shown in Figure 1.

[0046] Similarly, the invention further provides for a high-density data centre arrangement 34 which comprises at least two data centre assemblies 32 juxtaposed with each other, several examples of which are shown in the drawings. Accordingly, at least two modules 10 stacked one of top of the other forms an assembly 32, with at least two such assemblies juxtaposed, typically in a side-by-side arrangement, to form an arrangement 34. The respective assemblies 32 can be juxtaposed either access platform 20 to access platform 20, access platform 20 to component framework 16, and/or access platform 20 to component framework 16.

[0047] In this manner, standard data centre hot and cold aisle containment can be provided with each assembly 32 and/or arrangement 34 juxtaposed with respect to each other. For example, if the side of the module/assembly/arrangement without the platform 20 is considered the ^rear' , then two rears can face each other to form the hot aisle and two

'fronts' can face each other to form the cold aisle. This method allows for essentially infinite expansion vertically and horizontally with adequate cooling. Importantly, this modularity also provides for cooling redundancy, as any failure of a cooling data centre component 18 in a module's component framework 16, allows cooling components in adjacent stacked and/or juxtaposed frameworks 16 to provide cooling.

[0048] As will be appreciated by the skilled addressee, any number of configurations and variations of stacked and/or juxtaposed modules 10 are possible and within the scope of the present invention. In this manner, a high-density data centre 36 can be constructed comprising a plurality of the high-density data centre modules 10 stacked one on top of the other and/or juxtaposed, along with data centre services routed via the respective passages 24 of the modules 10 for servicing data centre components 18.

[0049] For example, Figure 2 shows a data centre 36 with an arrangement 34 of two-layer assemblies 32 installed into an existing 9m truss warehouse. Using conventional methods, the same warehouse in the whitespace section of roughly 1500m² would only allow around 500-700 component frameworks 16, whereas the invention will allow for a theoretical amount of at least 50% more component frameworks 16 to be installed than in a conventionally built whitespace area.

[0050] The Applicants believe is particularly advantageous that the invention allows for extremely high physical density of component frameworks to be achieved in any data centre space, which leads to cost savings. The invention also provides for a high degree of flexibility in height, width and components used, as well as low time-to-market as the modules can be fabricated locally and installed by available labour . [0051] In addition, the upright columns can be configured to be load-bearing, which allows the modules 10 to make-up a building by being the structural component of the building or mezzanine .

[0052] Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features, and wherein specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth. In the example embodiments, well- known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail, as such will be readily understood by the skilled addressee.

[0053] The use of the terms "a", "an", "said", "the", and/or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (especially in the context of the claimed subject matter) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including, " and "containing" are to be construed as open- ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter . [0054] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," "outer," "beneath, " "below, " "lower, " "above, " "upper, " and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element (s) or feature (s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0055] It is to be appreciated that reference to "one example" or "an example" of the invention, or similar exemplary language (e.g., "such as") herein, is not made in an exclusive sense. Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter are described herein, textually and/or graphically, for carrying out the claimed subject matter.

[0056] Accordingly, one example may exemplify certain aspects of the invention, whilst other aspects are exemplified in a different example. These examples are intended to assist the skilled person in performing the invention and are not intended to limit the overall scope of the invention in any way unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Variations (e.g. modifications and/or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. The inventor (s) expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor (s) intends for the claimed subject matter to be practiced other than as specifically described herein.

[0057] Any method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

Claims

1. A high-density data centre module comprising:

2. The data centre module of claim 1, which comprises four upright columns, two sets of each arranged at either end of the component framework, with each column of a set spaced apart to accommodate data centre components therebetween, in use .

3. The data centre module of claim 2, which comprises at least two bracing members extending between the two sets of upright columns arranged at either end of the component framework .

4. The data centre module of claim 3, wherein the bracing members are arranged between the upright columns at or underneath the bottom end of the component framework.

5. The data centre module of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein ends of the upright columns are configured to be complementarily stacked on the upright columns of another module .

6. The data centre module of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the access platform comprises a grating cantilevered to the component framework and/or upright columns.

7. The data centre module of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the data centre services are selected from a group consisting of power supply services, communications cabling, mechanical services, and cooling services.

8. The data centre module of any of claim 1, wherein the data centre components are selected from a group consisting of power supply equipment, computing equipment, and cooling equipment .

9. A high-density data centre assembly comprising at least two high-density data centre modules stacked one on top of the other, each module comprising:

10. The high-density data centre assembly of claim 9, wherein the module comprises four upright columns, two sets of each arranged at either end of the component framework, with each column of a set spaced apart to accommodate data centre components therebetween, in use.

11. The high-density data centre assembly of claim 10, wherein the module comprises at least two bracing members extending between the two sets of upright columns arranged at either end of the component framework.

12. The high-density data centre assembly of claim 11, wherein the bracing members are arranged between the upright columns at or underneath the bottom end of the component framework .

13. The high-density data centre assembly of any of claims 9 to 12, wherein ends of the upright columns are configured to be complementarily stacked on the upright columns of another module .

14. The high-density data centre assembly of any of claims 9 to 13, wherein the access platform comprises a grating cantilevered to the component framework and/or upright columns .

15. The high-density data centre assembly of any of claims 9 to 14, wherein the data centre services are selected from a group consisting of power supply services, communications cabling, mechanical services, and cooling services.

16. The high-density data centre assembly of any of claims 9 to 15, wherein the data centre components are selected from a group consisting of power supply equipment, computing equipment, and cooling equipment.

17. A high-density data centre arrangement comprising at least two assemblies of any of claims 9 to 16, juxtaposed with each other.

18. The data centre arrangement of claim 17, wherein the respective assemblies are juxtaposed either access platform to access platform, access platform to component framework, and/or component framework to component framework.

19. A high-density data centre comprising:

a plurality of high-density data centre modules stacked one on top of the other and juxtaposed, each module comprising at least two upright columns braced together via at least one bracing member to define a component framework for operatively receiving and securing data centre components therein; and an access platform laterally projecting from the upright columns at a bottom end of the component framework, said platform shaped, dimensioned and configured to allow a maintenance person to access data centre components in the component framework and to allow passage of air therethrough; wherein the upright columns extend below the access platform to define a passage underneath the component framework for data centre services operatively servicing said data centre components within the component framework when the upright columns are so stacked and juxtaposed; and

20. The data centre of claim 19, wherein the respective modules are juxtaposed either access platform to access platform, access platform to component framework, and/or component framework to component framework.

21. The data centre of claim 19, wherein the module comprises four upright columns, two sets of each arranged at either end of the component framework, with each column of a set spaced apart to accommodate data centre components therebetween, in use.

22. The data centre of claim 21, wherein the module comprises at least two bracing members extending between the two sets of upright columns arranged at either end of the component framework.

23. The data centre of claim 22, wherein the bracing members are arranged between the upright columns at or underneath the bottom end of the component framework.

24. The data centre of any of claims 19 to 23, wherein ends of the upright columns are configured to be complementarily stacked on the upright columns of another module.

25. The data centre of any of claims 19 to 24, wherein the access platform comprises a grating cantilevered to the component framework and/or upright columns.

26. The data centre of any of claims 19 to 25, wherein the data centre services are selected from a group consisting of power supply services, communications cabling, mechanical services, and cooling services.

27. The data centre of any of claims 19 to 26, wherein the data centre components are selected from a group consisting of power supply equipment, computing equipment, and cooling equipment .