< HOME IT devices, such as blade servers, are becoming smaller and denser, resulting in a rapid increase in power consumption by data centers. As industries around the world make every effort to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, the adverse effects of data centers on the global environment are being closely scrutinized. The Green IT Project, sponsored by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the U.S.-based Green Grid consortium, and other groups are attempting to reduce the amount of electrical power used by computer systems. We are using our expertise in designing and constructing data centers to find new ways to reduce the energy needed for data center facilities and equipment. Our Data Center Thermal Analysis System, for example, can thoroughly analyze and evaluate thermal problems in a data center, thereby reducing air-conditioning costs as well as determining the optimum designs for spaces and air conditioners. The system can reduce the power needed for air conditioning by 30%, resulting in a savings of \100-200 million a year for an average size data center. The system is the first of its kind in the construction industry. Data Center Thermal Analysis System using virtual reality The construction industry's first data center thermal analysis system uses Hybridvision, our advanced virtual reality (VR) technology. [Features and effects] Science engineering The results of air flow and thermal simulations in data centers are superimposed in a VR display that accurately recreates the data center's space. Full-scale virtual reality Our VR technology accurately confirms the results of full-scale simulations. Major equipment, such as server racks and air conditioners, can be created at full scale, and images of a completed data center can be previewed. Engineering know-how We have extensive experience in designing and constructing data centers. Our knowledgeable engineers work together with customers to analyze simulations of proposed data centers and resolve any thermal problems that may be revealed. Feedback simulation We seek optimum solutions to thermal problems by conducting repeated simulations using the study results as input conditions. Study of optimum solutions through simulations using VR simulation technology *Virtual reality (VR) Virtual reality technology creates a three-dimensional virtual space with real-time motion and sound. Airflow simulation in a computer room Temperature distribution in a computer room Airflow displayed using particles [Page TOP] Responses to environmental rating and certification systems A system soon to be completed will allow third-party institutions to objectively rate the effects of data center buildings and equipment on the global environment. Some local governments mandate the submission of evaluation documents in accordance with the Comprehensive Assessment System for Building Environmental Efficiency (CASBEE) developed by the Institute for Building Environment and Energy Conservation (IBEC). We use CASBEE to quantitatively evaluate our data centers, which have received high environmental ratings. We will closely watch the trends of environmental performance evaluation systems, including environmental rating and certification systems, and apply the best system for attaining high environmental ratings. Source: Institute for Building Environment and Energy Conservation (IBEC) Developing environmental technologies and utilizing natural energy sources Through the construction of various data center facilities, we have found solutions that help prevent global warming and mitigate green house gases. These solutions include rooftop and wall plantings and the harnessing of natural energy sources such as the sun and the wind. Example of wall plantings "Saitama Super Arena" [Page TOP]