Unlike traditional modeling tools, CoolSim is delivered using a "client-server" delivery model sometimes referred to as a Software as a Service (Saas). The client portion of the software consists of a lightweight model building user environment for the rapid creation of the Data Center model. The heavier server portion of the simulation software resides on a remote HPC Cluster eliminating the need for expensive and complicated local parallel servers. This is a perfect match for using mobile laptop computers with LAN or wireless internet connections. Likewise, CoolSim subscriptions are priced in accordance with the expected software use, allowing for a much more cost effective overall solution. Client server communication is performed via asynchronous data transfer utilizing secure HTTPS protocols allowing for "offline" model building and subsequent submission to the host server when internet connectivity is re-established. Users are only charged for the number of simulations performed. The use of the local "client" software is unlimited for all pre and post processing.
Step 1: Build a data center model using the CoolSim model builder software. This "drag and drop" environment includes a library of popular equipment found in data centers including Liebert and APC CRACS, tiles from suppliers such as Tate, and racks from well known suppliers such as Chatsworth. Use the Data Center Model Assessment Report to summarize the model specifications, evaluate airflow and thermal loads, and check for adequate airflow rates and cooling capacity before simulation is performed.
Step 2: Submit the simulation for processing using our remote HPC (High Performance Computing) cluster for rapid processing on a state of the art parallel cluster where detailed calculations of the air velocities, temperatures, and pressures in the room and below the floor will be calculated using ANSYS/Fluent CFD advanced airflow modeling technology.
Step 3: Results are delivered electronically as an HTML summary reports, which can be viewed on the user's computer and shared with other members of their organization through email or insertion into common applications such as MSWord or Powerpoint. The report includes:
- Performance analysis of CRACs, detailed rack-by-rack inlet and exit temperatures, and their compatibility with ASHRAE's allowable and recommended temperature ranges according to the Thermal Guidelines for Data Center Processing Environments publication; this data can be easily exported into a spreadsheet
- 3D thermal mapping of data center and racks highlighting trouble areas
- 2D and 3D color contour plots of temperature, pressure, airflow and flow distribution through tiles and grills
- 3D color animations of temperature distribution and airflow patterns
- Results at-a-glance capability to visualize fundamental simulation results by color-coding data center components within the graphical user interface, including:
- CRAC average supply or return temperature, and cooling capacity
- Rack maximum, minimum and average inlet temperature, exit temperature and power
- Vent tile performance including flow rates.
- Ceiling tiles or "grills" performance and flow rates