The document describes a structural ecosystem called VectorBloc that is designed for modular data centers. VectorBloc allows for tight stacking and racking of precision modules to reduce footprint and cable length. It makes it easy to design inexpensive, stackable modules of any size. Modules connect easily and accurately on site. VectorBloc uses precision-machined steel and a straightforward assembly procedure to construct multi-story, seismic-resistant modular structures for data centers.

1. Structural Ecosystem for
Modular Data Centres
July 2016
Entire contents protected by Copyright. US and International Patents Pending

2. Tight stacking and racking of precision modules
reduces equipment footprint and cable length,
eliminates exposed interconnections and enhances
thermal management

3. Because the VectorBloc system makes it easy
to design and build inexpensive, stackable,
rackable modules of any transportable size
and load-carrying capacity, designers of
modular data centers are no longer limited by
the dimensions of an ISO container

4. The range of possible
VectorBloc module
configurations is endless
High-strength HSS is used
for frame construction,
delivering exceptional
rigidity

5. The VectorBloc
structural connector
delivers the strength
required for multi-
story, seismic
structures
and
the precision that
ensures interoperable
modules which
connect easily and
accurately at the site

6. High strength,
precision-
machined steel
castings include
connection points
that make it easy
to connect
modules to each
other and to
foundations, as
well as simplifying
the addition of
cladding, stairs,
etc.

7. Precision locating pins
and gusset plates
ensure accurate
vertical and horizontal
alignment of modules
Module
interconnection is
done from inside
the modules, so
groups of modules
are easily joined
with no space
between them.
Since access to the
outside is not
required, cladding
can be completely
factory installed and
modules ship
weather-tight

8. The structural
assembly
procedure is
straightforward.
Modules are
rigged and
hoisted using the
locating and
shear pin which
projects from the
top face at each
corner

9. Once set in place,
the shackle is
removed and
modules are
joined laterally
with a gusset
plate

10. The gusset plate
is held down with
flat head screws,
locking the
modules
together, creating
a level setting
surface for the
next module, and
exposing the
locating pins

11. Each layer of
modules is
positioned within
.015” by the
precision-
machined
locating pin

12. High strength
bolts tie the
module down
against seismic
and wind forces

14. Adjacent
modules are set
following the
same procedure

16. Precision
modules deliver
flat floors
with tight seams

17. Whether by
reverse
engineering or
starting from a
clean slate,
VectorBloc
designers create
customized,
easily-assembled
flat pack chassis
kits that suit
customer
equipment

18. 3D VectorJig
located at
VectorBloc
Fabricating,
Harrow, Ontario,
Canada
To ensure interoperability among multiple
VectorBloc-based suppliers to a common site,
chassis kits are built in precision fixtures

19. Flat pack chassis kits can be shipped from
VectorBloc Fabricating to fitout plants located
anywhere in the world

20. Shipping flat-pack chassis
kits is economical

21. Pre-cut, pre-drilled decking
is supplied by VectorBloc or
by the customer

22. Equipment is easily
installed on the pre-
prepped skid base

24. To keep the work area clear,
columns are installed after the
equipment

25. Temporary shipping
braces or permanent
structural braces are
added as required

26. The ceiling and overhead cabling trays
are installed next. The completed
structure acts like a bridge truss, resisting
shipping and stacking loads

27. Cladding is installed last and can
be completely closed up for
protection against precipitation
and dust

28. Modules hoist
from the top,
eliminating
hoisting lugs
which interfere
with adjacent
equipment and
add to load width

29. Completed modules
with equipment
installed are shipped
to the site.
Equipment loads
well over 100 tons
can be
accommodated by
VectorBloc
structures

30. Foundations are
prepared in advance
If required, stanchions
or a grillage is installed
on the foundation

31. Modules from multiple
suppliers arrive on site

32. Parasolid design
delivers CG to
crane operator,
VectoRig halo sets
modules level

33. Fixed locational grid and sling-free
hoisting reduces crew size and pick
time

34. Modules from supplier
#1 are set

36. Modules from supplier
#2 are set

37. Modules from supplier
#3 are set (circulation
plenums)

38. Precision locating pins
and gusset plates
ensure accurate
vertical and horizontal
alignment of modules

39. Modules from supplier
#4 are set (cooling
units)

40. VectorBloc supports
stacking to
14+ stories

41. The stand-alone
data centre or
data center
annex is
completed
quickly and easily

42. The result is
equipment
arranged logically
in the densest
possible
configuration,
without exposed
interconnections

43. View of
connecting
hallway ceiling

44. View of circulation
plenum

45. VectorBloc can also be used
for a variety of related
structures such as pipe and
cable racks, towers, etc.

46. High-Completion, High Density
Volumetric Modular
Construction For Data Centers