What is continuous modeling (data center continuous modeling)?
Continuous modeling is an approach to data center management that supplements infrastructure management (DCIM) tools with engineering simulation tools.
Traditional DCIM management tools provide administrators with a federated view of an organization's building management system (BMS), IT asset management (ITAM) and network management system (NMS). Mechanical and electrical systems must also be of consideration for a data center to operate in a resilient and cost-effective manner.
Most engineering analysis tools focus on mechanical and electrical systems separately and can only provide the administrator with snapshots of state data. State data is useful for troubleshooting concerns once a problem has been identified, like airflow; it is not useful for preventing problems. State data also cannot help the administrator decide how to balance deployment and energy-saving requirements against the risk of mechanical or electrical downtime.
Continuous modeling uses the data collected by DCIM and engineering analysis tools, such as computational fluid dynamics (CFD). This enables the data center administrator to use real-time data, mathematics and simulation tools to visualize and quantify how mechanical and electrical systems will be affected by a change to the building, its hardware or its network infrastructure. This approach helps administrators make data-driven decisions for capacity planning and reducing energy costs. The models can be validated or revised continually.
