Patent Publication Number: US-2021176905-A1

Title: Header panel assembly for preventing air circulation above electronic equipment enclosure

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a U.S. continuation patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 16/792,611, filed Feb. 17, 2020, which &#39;611 application published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2020/0229331 A1 on Jul. 16, 2020 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,932,400 on Feb. 23, 2021, which &#39;611 application, the application publication thereof, and the patent issuing therefrom are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and which &#39;611 application is a U.S. continuation patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 15/955,954, filed Apr. 18, 2018, which &#39;954 application published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2018/0242483 A1 on Aug. 23, 2018 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,568,246 on Feb. 18, 2020, which &#39;954 application, the application publication thereof, and the patent issuing therefrom are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and which &#39;954 application is a U.S. continuation patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 13/763,699, filed Feb. 10, 2013, which &#39;699 application published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2013/0160271 A1 on Jun. 27, 2013 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,955,616 on Apr. 24, 2018, which &#39;699 application, the application publication thereof, and the patent issuing therefrom are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and which &#39;699 application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/597,287, filed Feb. 10, 2012, which &#39;287 application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and which &#39;699 application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 13/291,861, filed Nov. 8, 2011, which &#39;861 application published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2012/0112612 A1 on May 10, 2012 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,313,927 on Apr. 12, 2016, which &#39;861 application, the application publication thereof, and the patent issuing therefrom are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and which &#39;861 application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/411,359, filed Nov. 8, 2010, which &#39;359 application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and which &#39;861 application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/411,373, filed Nov. 8, 2010, which &#39;373 application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. A copy of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/411,359, filed Nov. 8, 2010, is attached hereto as Appendix A, which itself is expressly incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, each of the following commonly-assigned U.S. patent applications, including any application publication thereof, is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:
         (a) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/568,692, filed Dec. 9, 2011 and entitled, “DATA PROCESSING EQUIPMENT STRUCTURE;” and   (b) U.S. nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 13/707,521, filed Dec. 6, 2012 and entitled, “DATA PROCESSING EQUIPMENT STRUCTURE,” which &#39;521 application published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2013/0149954 A1 on Jun. 13, 2013.       

    
    
     COPYRIGHT STATEMENT 
     All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are reserved. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION 
     Field of the Present Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to structures and methods of thermal management in a data center, and, in particular, to a header panel assembly for installation above electronic equipment enclosures in a hot/cold aisle air containment structure. 
     Background 
     Rack-mounted computer and data storage equipment generates heat during normal operation. When equipment is enclosed in racks, cabinets and other electronic equipment enclosures (hereinafter, collectively, referred to as “enclosures”), heat generated by the equipment can concentrate within the enclosure and cause equipment to overheat, which can damage the equipment, cause the equipment to shut down, and other problems. Thus, proper thermal management is a fundamental aspect of the installation and use of such equipment. Moreover, thermal management is particularly important in data centers in which multiple enclosures are installed, each with its own array of heat-generating equipment. 
     Many techniques and solutions have been proposed and used with regard to thermal management in such data centers. One such solution involves utilization of a containment structure to receive heated exhaust air from enclosures installed in the data center or computer room. Enclosures are typically arranged in a row with their sides abutting one another. Cool air is drawn into the enclosures from outside the containment structure to cool the equipment mounted in each enclosure. Heated exhaust air is then expelled from the enclosures into a common area within the containment structure, which is segregated from the supply of cool air. Heated exhaust air may then be routed from the containment structure and cooled before being re-circulated into the supply of cool air. (The opposite configuration can also be used, wherein cool air is supplied to the interior of the containment structure, drawn into the enclosures, and expelled to the exterior of the containment structure, but the same general principles apply.) 
     A common difficulty encountered in many known containment structures involves co-mingling of the heated exhaust air with the supply of cool air, which can impair the system&#39;s efficiency. Co-mingling can occur for a variety of reasons, but often arises when an enclosure has an imperfect fit within the containment structure, thereby creating a gap through which heated air can escape back into the supply of cool air. For example, a gap can exist between the top of an enclosure and a structure immediately above the enclosure (e.g., a ceiling, a top panel, etc). Air exhausted from the rear of the enclosure can circulate back over the enclosure, through the gap, and back to the front of the enclosure, where it co-mingles with the supply of cool air, instead of being captured by the containment structure&#39;s cooling system. 
     Additionally, openings or gaps in the containment structure may have the effect of causing equipment located near the gap to run at a higher operating temperature. When heated exhaust air escapes back into the supply of cool air through gaps, the heated air can be drawn back in to equipment located nearby, thereby raising the operating temperature of such equipment and shortening its operating life. 
     Further issues may arise if enclosures with varying dimensions are installed within the same containment structure. For example, if enclosures with different vertical dimensions happen to be installed adjacent to one another within the same containment structure, differently-sized panels or blanks must be used to seal off any gaps that are formed above the enclosures. If such panels do not provide a good fit to seal the gap, then inefficiency is likely to exist as heated exhaust air escapes from the containment structure and mixes with the supply of cool air. 
     Accordingly, a need exists for a containment system capable of avoiding co-mingling of heated exhaust air with the supply of cool air. Furthermore, a need exists for a containment system that enhances overall cooling efficiency. These, and other needs, are addressed by one or more aspects of the present invention. 
     SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a first aspect includes a hot/cold aisle containment system substantially as shown and described. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a second aspect includes a hot/cold aisle containment system having a header panel assembly installed between a horizontal member thereof and an electronic equipment enclosure, substantially as shown and described. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a third aspect includes a hot/cold aisle containment system. The containment system includes a frame structure, at least one electronic equipment enclosure installed at an end of the frame structure, and a header panel assembly. The frame structure is adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space and includes a vertical member and a horizontal member. The header panel assembly is installed between a top of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the horizontal member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air above the enclosure. 
     In features of this aspect, the header panel assembly may include a main panel and at least one seal, the at least one seal being disposed along the lower edge of the main panel and adapted to be held in place between the bottom of the main panel and a top surface of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure; the at least one seal may be compressible; the header panel assembly may further include a fixed bracket adapted to be supported by the horizontal member of the frame structure, wherein the main panel is adapted to be adjustably coupled to the fixed bracket; the header panel assembly may further include at least one clamp for retaining a portion of the main panel against a portion of the fixed bracket; a V-shaped flange may be disposed at the lower edge of the main panel, wherein the at least one seal is disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; and/or a V-shaped flange may be disposed at a side edge of the main panel, wherein the at least one seal is disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange. 
     In further features of this aspect, the hot/cold aisle containment system may further include a side seal assembly installed between a side of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the vertical member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air around the enclosure; the side seal assembly may include a vertical support bracket and at least one seal, the vertical support bracket being adapted to support the side seal assembly from the vertical member of the frame structure; the vertical support bracket may include one or more horizontal slots to facilitate lateral adjustment thereof; a V-shaped flange may be disposed along an edge of the vertical support bracket, wherein the at least one seal is disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; and/or the side seal assembly may be adapted to extend from the top to the bottom of the frame structure. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a fourth aspect includes a hot/cold aisle containment system. The containment system includes a frame structure, at least one electronic equipment enclosure installed at an end of the frame structure, and a side seal assembly. The frame structure is adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space and includes a vertical member. The side seal assembly is installed between a side of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the vertical member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air around the enclosure. 
     In features of this aspect, the side seal assembly may include a vertical support bracket and at least one seal, the vertical support bracket being adapted to support the side seal assembly from the vertical member of the frame structure; the vertical support bracket may include one or more horizontal slots to facilitate lateral adjustment thereof; and/or a V-shaped flange may be disposed along an edge of the vertical support bracket, wherein the at least one seal is disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a fifth aspect includes a hot/cold aisle containment system. The containment system includes a frame structure, a header panel assembly, a side seal assembly, and at least one electronic equipment enclosure. The frame structure is adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space and includes a vertical member and a horizontal member. The header panel assembly depends from the horizontal member of the frame structure, and the side seal assembly depends from the vertical member of the frame structure. The at least one electronic equipment enclosure is installed at least partially within the frame structure such that a top of the enclosure is sealed by the header panel assembly and a side of the enclosure is sealed by the side seal assembly. 
     In features of this aspect, the header panel assembly may include a main panel and at least one seal, the at least one seal being disposed along the lower edge of the main panel and adapted to be held in place between the bottom of the main panel and a top surface of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure; the at least one seal may be compressible; the header panel assembly may further include a fixed bracket adapted to be supported by the horizontal member of the frame structure, wherein the main panel is adapted to be adjustably coupled to the fixed bracket; the header panel assembly may further include at least one clamp for retaining a portion of the main panel against a portion of the fixed bracket; a V-shaped flange may be disposed at the lower edge of the main panel, wherein the at least one seal is disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; and/or a V-shaped flange may be disposed at a side edge of the main panel, wherein the at least one seal is disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange. 
     In further features of this aspect, the side seal assembly may include a vertical support bracket and at least one seal, the vertical support bracket being adapted to support the side seal assembly from the vertical member of the frame structure; the vertical support bracket may include one or more horizontal slots to facilitate lateral adjustment thereof; a V-shaped flange may be disposed along an edge of the vertical support bracket, wherein the at least one seal is disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; and/or the side seal assembly may be adapted to extend from the top to the bottom of the frame structure. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a sixth aspect includes a header panel assembly, for use in connection with a hot/cold aisle containment system, substantially as shown and described. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a seventh aspect includes a header panel assembly. The header panel assembly includes a fixed bracket, adapted to be supported by a horizontal frame structure of a hot/cold aisle containment system; a main panel, having a lower edge, that is adjustably coupled to the fixed bracket; and a seal, disposed along the lower edge of the main panel, that is adapted to be held in place between the bottom of the main panel and a top surface of at least one electronic equipment enclosure installed beneath the header panel assembly. 
     In features of this aspect, the seal may be compressible; the header panel assembly may further include at least one clamp for retaining a portion of the main panel against a portion of the fixed bracket; a V-shaped flange may be disposed at the lower edge of the main panel, wherein the seal is disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; and/or the main panel may further include a side edge having an additional V-shaped flange, wherein an additional seal is disposed along the side edge at least partially in a groove defined by the additional V-shaped flange and is adapted to be held in place between the side of the main panel and an adjacent structure. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to an eighth aspect includes a header panel assembly. The header panel assembly includes a fixed bracket, adapted to be supported by a horizontal frame structure of a hot/cold aisle containment system; a main panel, having a side edge, that is adjustably coupled to the fixed bracket; and a seal, disposed along the side edge of the main panel, that is adapted to be held in place between the side of the main panel and an adjacent structure. 
     In features of this aspect, the seal may be compressible; a V-shaped flange may be disposed at the side edge of the main panel, wherein the seal is disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; and/or the adjacent structure may be a side seal assembly. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a ninth aspect includes a side seal assembly, for use in connection with a hot/cold aisle containment system, substantially as shown and described. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a tenth aspect includes a side seal assembly. The side seal assembly includes a vertical support bracket, adapted to be supported by a vertical frame structure of a hot/cold aisle containment system, that includes a V-shaped flange extending vertically along the side thereof; and a seal, disposed within a groove defined by the V-shaped flange, that is adapted to be held in place between the side of the vertical support bracket and an adjacent electronic equipment enclosure. 
     In features of this aspect, the seal may be compressible; and/or the vertical support bracket may include one or more horizontal slots to facilitate lateral adjustment thereof. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to an eleventh aspect includes a method of sealing a hot/cold aisle containment system as substantially shown and described. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a twelfth aspect includes a hot/cold aisle containment system that includes a frame structure and at least one electronic equipment enclosure installed at least partially within the frame structure, and a header panel assembly. The frame structure is adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space. The frame structure includes a vertical member and a horizontal member. The header panel assembly is installed between a top of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the horizontal member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air above the enclosure. The header panel assembly includes a main panel and at least one seal. 
     In features of this aspect, the at least one seal may be disposed along the lower edge of the main panel and adapted to be held in place between the bottom of the main panel and a top surface of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure; the at least one seal may be disposed along a side edge of the main panel and adapted to be held in place between the side of the main panel and an adjacent structure; the header panel assembly may further include a fixed bracket adapted to be supported by the horizontal member of the frame structure, and the main panel may be adapted to be adjustably coupled to the fixed bracket; and/or the header panel assembly may further include at least one clamp for retaining a portion of the main panel against a portion of the fixed bracket. 
     In further features of this aspect, a V-shaped flange may be disposed at an edge of the main panel, and the at least one seal may be disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; a generally perpendicular flange may be disposed at an edge of the main panel, and the at least one seal may be disposed along an outer edge of the generally perpendicular flange; and/or an angled flange may be disposed at an edge of the main panel, and the at least one seal may be disposed along an outer edge of the angled flange. 
     In still further features of this aspect, the at least one seal may be compressible; the at least one seal may be a brush seal; and/or the at least one seal may be a deflectable blade seal. 
     In still further features of this aspect, the hot/cold aisle containment system may further include a side seal assembly installed between a side of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the vertical member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air around the enclosure; the side seal assembly may include a vertical support bracket and at least one seal, the vertical support bracket being adapted to support the side seal assembly from the vertical member of the frame structure; the vertical support bracket may include one or more horizontal slots to facilitate lateral adjustment thereof; a V-shaped flange may be disposed along an edge of the vertical support bracket, and the at least one seal may be disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; and/or the side seal assembly may be adapted to extend from the top to the bottom of the frame structure. 
     In still another feature of this aspect, the main panel may be mounted to the horizontal member and adapted to be adjustable in a vertical direction relative to the horizontal member. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a thirteenth aspect includes a hot/cold aisle containment system that includes a frame structure, at least one electronic equipment enclosure installed at least partially within the frame structure, and a side seal assembly. The frame structure is adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space, and the frame structure includes a vertical member. The side seal assembly is installed between a side of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the vertical member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air around the enclosure. 
     In features of this aspect, the side seal assembly may include a vertical support bracket and at least one seal, the vertical support bracket being adapted to support the side seal assembly from the vertical member of the frame structure; the vertical support bracket may include one or more horizontal slots to facilitate lateral adjustment thereof; and/or a V-shaped flange may be disposed along an edge of the vertical support bracket, and the at least one seal may be disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a fourteenth aspect includes a hot/cold aisle containment system that includes a frame structure, a header panel assembly, a side seal assembly, and at least one electronic equipment enclosure installed at least partially within the frame structure. The frame structure is adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space, and the frame structure includes a vertical member and a horizontal member. The header panel assembly depends from the horizontal member of the frame structure, and the header panel assembly includes a main panel and at least one seal. The side seal assembly depends from the vertical member of the frame structure. The at least one electronic equipment enclosure is installed at least partially within the frame structure such that a top of the enclosure is sealed by the header panel assembly and a side of the enclosure is sealed by the side seal assembly. 
     In features of this aspect, the at least one seal may be disposed along the lower edge of the main panel and adapted to be held in place between the bottom of the main panel and a top surface of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure; the at least one seal may be disposed along a side edge of the main panel and adapted to be held in place between the side of the main panel and an adjacent structure; the header panel assembly may further include a fixed bracket adapted to be supported by the horizontal member of the frame structure, and the main panel may be adapted to be adjustably coupled to the fixed bracket; and/or the header panel assembly may further include at least one clamp for retaining a portion of the main panel against a portion of the fixed bracket. 
     In further features of this aspect, a V-shaped flange may be disposed at an edge of the main panel, and the at least one seal may be disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; a generally perpendicular flange may be disposed at an edge of the main panel, and the at least one seal may be disposed along an outer edge of the generally perpendicular flange; and/or an angled flange may be disposed at an edge of the main panel, and the at least one seal may be disposed along an outer edge of the angled flange. 
     In further features of this aspect, the at least one seal may be compressible; the at least one seal may be a brush seal; and/or the at least one seal may be a deflectable blade seal. 
     In further features of this aspect, the side seal assembly may include a vertical support bracket and at least one seal, the vertical support bracket being adapted to support the side seal assembly from the vertical member of the frame structure; the vertical support bracket may include one or more horizontal slots to facilitate lateral adjustment thereof; a V-shaped flange may be disposed along an edge of the vertical support bracket, and the at least one seal may be disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; and/or the side seal assembly may be adapted to extend from the top to the bottom of the frame structure. 
     In still another feature of this aspect, the main panel may be mounted to the horizontal member and adapted to be adjustable in a vertical direction relative to the horizontal member. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a fifteenth aspect includes a header panel assembly that includes a fixed bracket, a main panel that is adjustably coupled to the fixed bracket, and at least one seal disposed along an edge of the main panel. The fixed bracket is adapted to be supported by a horizontal frame structure of a hot/cold aisle containment system. The at least one seal is adapted to be held in place between the main panel and an adjacent structure. 
     In a feature of this aspect, the header panel assembly may further include at least one clamp for retaining a portion of the main panel against a portion of the fixed bracket. 
     In further features of this aspect, a V-shaped flange may be disposed at an edge of the main panel, and the at least one seal may be disposed at least partially in a groove defined by the V-shaped flange; a generally perpendicular flange may be disposed at an edge of the main panel, and the at least one seal may be disposed along an outer edge of the generally perpendicular flange; and/or an angled flange may be disposed at an edge of the main panel, and the at least one seal may be disposed along an outer edge of the angled flange. 
     In still further features of this aspect, the at least one seal may be compressible; the at least one seal may be a brush seal; and/or the at least one seal may be a deflectable blade seal. 
     In still further features of this aspect, the at least one seal may be disposed along a lower edge of the main panel; and/or the at least one seal may be disposed along a side edge of the main panel. 
     In still further features of this aspect, the adjacent structure may be an electronic equipment enclosure; and/or the adjacent structure may be a side seal assembly. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a sixteenth aspect includes a side seal assembly that includes a vertical support bracket and a seal. The vertical support bracket is adapted to be supported by a vertical frame structure of a hot/cold aisle containment system and includes a V-shaped flange extending vertically along the side thereof. The seal is disposed within a groove defined by the V-shaped flange and is adapted to be held in place between the side of the vertical support bracket and an adjacent electronic equipment enclosure. 
     In features of this aspect, the seal may be compressible; the seal may be a brush seal; and/or the seal may be a deflectable blade seal. 
     In another feature of this aspect, the vertical support bracket may include one or more horizontal slots to facilitate lateral adjustment thereof. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a seventeenth aspect includes a hot/cold aisle air containment system, including a header panel assembly adjustable in each of a horizontal and vertical direction, substantially as shown and described. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to an eighteenth aspect includes a header panel assembly, adjustable in each of a horizontal and vertical direction, substantially as shown and described. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a nineteenth aspect includes a method of adjusting a header panel assembly substantially as shown and described. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a twentieth aspect includes a hot/cold aisle air containment system that includes a frame structure, at least one electronic equipment enclosure installed at least partially within the frame structure, and a header panel assembly. The frame structure is adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space. The header panel assembly is installed between a top of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and a horizontal member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air above the enclosure, and the header panel assembly is adjustable in each of a horizontal and vertical direction. 
     In features of this aspect, the header panel assembly may include a pair of fixed brackets independently mounted to the horizontal member; each of the pair of fixed brackets may be adjustable along the horizontal member; the header panel assembly may include a main panel and a secondary panel, telescopically engaged with one another, to facilitate adjustment of the width of the header panel assembly; the main panel and the secondary panel may be adjustably coupled to the fixed brackets to facilitate adjustment of the height of the header panel assembly; and/or the header panel assembly may further include at least one clamp for retaining the main panel and the secondary panel against the fixed brackets. 
     In further features of this aspect, the header panel assembly may include at least one seal disposed at an edge thereof; the at least one seal may be disposed along a side edge of the header panel assembly and may be compressed against an adjacent structure; and/or the air containment system may further include a seal attached along an edge of the horizontal member and positioned to engage a panel of the header panel assembly. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a twenty-first aspect includes a header panel assembly, for use in a hot/cold aisle air containment system. The header panel assembly includes a pair of fixed brackets independently mountable to a frame structure; a main panel and a secondary panel, telescopically engaged with one another, and at least one clamp for retaining the main panel and the secondary panel against the fixed brackets. 
     In features of this aspect, the header panel assembly may further include at least one seal disposed along an edge of either the main panel or the secondary panel, the at least one seal being adapted to be compressed against an adjacent structure; telescopic adjustment of the secondary panel relative to the main panel may facilitate a width adjustment; and/or vertical adjustment of the main and secondary panel relative to the fixed brackets may facilitate a height adjustment. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a twenty-second aspect includes a hot/cold aisle air containment system. The air containment system includes a frame structure, at least one electronic equipment enclosure, and a header panel assembly installed between a top of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and a horizontal member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air above the enclosure. The header panel assembly is adjustable in each of a horizontal and vertical direction. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a twenty-third aspect includes a hot/cold aisle air containment system. The air containment system includes a frame structure, at least one electronic equipment enclosure installed at least partially within the frame structure, and a header panel assembly. The frame structure is adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space and includes at least one horizontal member. The header panel assembly is installed between a top of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the at least one horizontal member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air above the enclosure. The header panel assembly includes a pair of panels. A first of the pair of panels is adjustable horizontally relative to a second of the pair of panels, and the pair of panels, together, is adjustable vertically relative to the least one horizontal member. 
     In features of this aspect, the hot/cold aisle air containment system may further include a pair of fixed brackets independently mounted to the at least one horizontal member, the pair of panels being adjustably coupled to the pair of fixed brackets; the pair of panels, together, may be adjustable vertically relative to the pair of fixed brackets; the header panel assembly may further include a first clamp, for retaining the first panel against a first of the pair of fixed brackets, and a second clamp, for retaining the second panel against a second of the pair of fixed brackets; each of the pair of fixed brackets may be adapted to be mounted to the at least one horizontal member at different mounting locations; and/or each fixed bracket may be mounted to the at least one horizontal member with a separate mounting bracket. 
     In further features of this aspect, the first panel may be adjustable horizontally, in a telescoping manner, relative to the second panel; and/or the first panel may include at least one horizontally-oriented slotted opening adapted to slidably accommodate a fastener on the second panel. 
     In still further features of this aspect, the header panel assembly may further include at least one seal adapted to be compressed against an adjacent structure; the at least one seal may be disposed at a side edge of at least one of the pair of panels; the adjacent structure may be a side retention flange of a fixed bracket mounted to the at least one horizontal member; the adjacent structure may be another seal disposed at a side edge of a panel of an adjoining header panel assembly; the at least one seal may be disposed at bottom edges of each of the pair of panels; and/or the at least one seal may be an EPDM rubber seal. 
     In still another feature of this aspect, the air containment system may further include a seal attached along an edge of the at least one horizontal member and positioned to engage at least one of the pair of panels of the header panel assembly. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a twenty-fourth aspect includes a hot/cold aisle air containment system. The air containment system includes a frame structure, at least one electronic equipment enclosure installed at least partially within the frame structure, a header panel assembly, and a pair of fixed brackets. The frame structure is adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space and includes at least one horizontal member. The header panel assembly is installed between a top of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the at least one horizontal member of the frame structure to prevent circulation of air above the enclosure. The pair of fixed brackets are independently mounted to the at least one horizontal member. The header panel assembly includes a pair of panels. A first of the pair of panels is adjustable horizontally, in a telescoping manner, relative to a second of the pair of panels, and the pair of panels, together, is adjustable vertically relative to the pair of fixed brackets. 
     In features of this aspect, the header panel assembly may further include a first clamp, for retaining the first panel against a first of the pair of fixed brackets, and a second clamp, for retaining the second panel against a second of the pair of fixed brackets; and/or the header panel assembly may further include at least one seal adapted to be compressed against an adjacent structure. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a twenty-fifth aspect includes a header panel assembly for use in blocking an opening above an electronic equipment enclosure in a hot/cold aisle air containment system. The header panel assembly includes a pair of fixed brackets independently mountable to a horizontal member of a frame structure, first and second panels telescopically engaged with one another, and a pair of clamp fasteners. The first panel is clamped, using a first of the pair of clamp fasteners, against a first of the pair of fixed brackets, and the second panel is clamped, using a second of the pair of clamp fasteners, against a second of the pair of fixed brackets. The first panel is adjustable horizontally, in a telescoping manner, relative to the second panel, and the pair of panels, together, is adjustable vertically relative to the pair of fixed brackets. 
     In features of this aspect, the first panel may include at least one horizontally-oriented slotted opening adapted to slidably accommodate a fastener on the second panel; and/or the header panel assembly may further include at least one seal disposed along either of a side edge or a bottom edge of at least one of the pair of panels and adapted to be compressed against an adjacent structure. 
     Broadly defined, the present invention according to a twenty-sixth aspect includes a method of preventing air circulation above an electronic equipment enclosure in a hot/cold aisle air containment system. The method includes providing a frame structure adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space, the frame structure including at least one horizontal member; installing at least one electronic equipment enclosure at least partially within the frame structure such that an opening exists between a top of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the at least one horizontal member; installing a header panel assembly between a top of the at least one electronic equipment enclosure and the at least one horizontal member of the frame structure, the header panel assembly including a pair of panels engaged with one another; adjusting a first of the pair of panels in a horizontal direction relative to a second of the pair of panels to substantially cover a width dimension of the opening; and adjusting the pair of panels, together, in a vertical direction relative to the at least one horizontal member to substantially cover a height dimension of the opening. 
     In features of this aspect, the first panel may be telescopically engaged with the second panel; adjusting in the horizontal direction may include loosening at least one fastener attaching the first panel to the second panel, moving the first panel relative to the second panel, and tightening the at least one fastener; and/or the at least one fastener may be attached to the second panel and extend through a horizontally-oriented slotted opening in the first panel, the at least one fastener being permitted to move within the slotted opening when loosened. 
     In further features of this aspect, installing the header panel assembly may include mounting a pair of fixed brackets, each with a clamp fastener, to the at least one horizontal member, and clamping the pair of panels to the pair of fixed brackets using the clamp fasteners; adjusting in the vertical direction may include loosening the clamp fasteners, moving the pair of panels upward or downward relative to the pair of fixed brackets mounted to the at least one horizontal member, and tightening the clamp fasteners; and the method may further include removing at least one of the pair of fixed brackets, and/or re-mounting the removed fixed bracket to the at least one horizontal member at a different mounting location. 
     In still further features of this aspect, the method may further include attaching at least one seal to either a side edge or a bottom edge of at least one of the pair of panels, and arranging the at least one seal to engage and be compressed against an adjacent structure; and/or the method may further include attaching a seal along an edge of the at least one horizontal member, and arranging the at least one seal to engage and be compressed against at least one of the pair of panels. 
     Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Further features, embodiments, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a hot/cold aisle air containment system in use with a row of electronic equipment enclosures in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is an isometric view of the frame structure of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is an isometric view of one of the header panel assemblies of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a reverse isometric view of the header panel assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is an orthogonal exploded view of the header panel assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a rear plan view of the main header panel of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 7  is an end cross-sectional view of the main panel of  FIG. 6 , taken along line  7 - 7 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the main panel of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic view of a seal mounted in one of the V-shaped grooves of the main header panel of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view of the left edge of the header panel assembly of  FIG. 3 , taken along line  10 - 10 ; 
         FIGS. 11-13  are fragmentary top cross-sectional views, similar to that of  FIG. 10 , of the left edge of various alternative header panel assembly embodiments; 
         FIGS. 14A-14C  are isometric views of header panel assemblies similar to that of  FIG. 3  but having different vertical dimensions; 
         FIG. 15  is an isometric view of one of the side seal assemblies of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view of the left end of the hot/cold aisle air containment system of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  16 - 16 , illustrating the interface between a header panel assembly and a side seal assembly; 
         FIG. 17  is an isometric view of a hot/cold aisle air containment system having an alternative header panel assembly in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 18A-18D  are isometric views of the header panel assembly of  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 19  is an isometric view of the fixed bracket on the left side of the header panel assembly of  FIG. 18A ; 
         FIG. 20  is an isometric view of another embodiment of a fixed bracket for use in connection with a header panel assembly in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 21  is an isometric view of a hot/cold aisle air containment system in use with a row of electronic equipment enclosures in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 22  is an isometric view of a hot/cold aisle air containment system in use with an electronic equipment enclosure installed at one side thereof and an adjustable wall assembly temporarily positioned away from the enclosure in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 23  is an isometric view of a pair of adjustable header panels attached to an overhanging beam, for use in a hot/cold aisle air containment system, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 24  is a fragmentary top view of adjacent edges of the pair of adjustable header panels of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 25  is an isometric view of the header panel assembly of  FIGS. 18A-18D  attached to another overhanging beam, for use in a hot/cold aisle air containment system, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 26  is a side cross-sectional view of the overhanging beam and header panel assembly of  FIG. 25 , taken along line  26 - 26 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the present invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present invention. 
     Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself. 
     Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the appended claims rather than the description set forth herein. 
     Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail. 
     Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6, no claim element is intended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to apply in the interpretation of such claim element. 
     Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having at least one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” In contrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes “a picnic basket having only one apple.” 
     When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese without crackers,” “a picnic basket having crackers without cheese,” and “a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers.” Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well as describes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese.” 
     Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like components throughout the several views, the preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses. 
       FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a hot/cold aisle air containment system  10  in use with a row of electronic equipment enclosures  14  in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention. As shown therein, the containment system  10  includes a frame structure  12 , a plurality of header panel assemblies  50  and a pair of side seal assemblies  100 . Each of these will be discussed in greater detail hereinbelow. Enclosures suitable for use with preferred embodiments of the present invention are described and illustrated in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,997,117; 6,185,098; 7,697,285; 7,804,685; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2009/0227197 A1; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2010/0172092 A1, the entirety of each of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
       FIG. 2  is an isometric view of the frame structure  12  of  FIG. 1 . As shown therein, the frame structure  12  includes a pair of vertical posts  16  and a horizontal beam  17 . 
       FIG. 3  is an isometric view of one of the header panel assemblies  50  of  FIG. 1 ;  FIG. 4  is a reverse isometric view of the header panel assembly  50  of  FIG. 3 ; and  FIG. 5  is an orthogonal exploded view of the header panel assembly  50  of  FIG. 3 . As shown therein, each header panel assembly  50  includes a main panel  52 , a fixed bracket  80 , a pair of clamps  90 , and a plurality of seals  55 , 155 . As perhaps best shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the fixed bracket  80  includes a top mounting flange  82 , a bottom mounting flange  83  and two side retention flanges  84 , all extending from a main body  86 . The top and bottom mounting flanges  82 , 83  facilitate attachment of the fixed bracket  80  to the horizontal beam  17  of the frame structure  12 . For instance, it is contemplated that the fixed bracket  80  can be attached to the horizontal beam  17  with fasteners (not illustrated) adapted to fit through or clamp around slots  85  of the mounting flanges  82 , 83 . The header panel assembly  50  can be adjusted laterally (i.e., a side-to-side direction) along the beam  17  by adjusting the position of the fasteners within the corresponding slots  85 . The side retention flanges  84  are adapted to receive the main panel  52  as more fully described hereinbelow. 
       FIG. 6  is a rear plan view of the main header panel  52  of  FIG. 3 , while  FIG. 7  is an end cross-sectional view of the main panel  52  of  FIG. 6 , taken along line  7 - 7 , and  FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the main panel  52  of  FIG. 6 . As shown therein, the main panel  52  includes V-shaped flanges  54 , 154  along the sides and bottom thereof. Each V-shaped flange  54 , 154  defines a groove  56 , 156  of corresponding shape. These grooves  56 , 156  are adapted to receive and retain a respective seal  55 , 155 . In this regard,  FIG. 9  is a schematic view of a seal  55  mounted in one of the V-shaped grooves  56  of the main header panel  52  of  FIG. 6 . It will be appreciated that the seals  55 , 155  may have any of a wide range of different shapes and configurations and may be comprised of any of a wide range of different materials. In contemplated embodiments, the seal may be a gasket, a brush, a wiper blade, or a compressible bumper. As seen in cross-section, each seal  55 , 155  includes a mounting portion  57  and a body portion  58 , wherein the mounting portion  57  is adapted to attach to the edge of the V-shaped flanges  54 , 154 . A boss  59  may be provided on the mounting portion  57  to assist in attaching the mounting portion  57  snugly around the edge of the V-shaped flange  54 , 154 . The body portion  58  is large enough to extend well outside of the V-shaped groove  56 , 156  and is comprised of a compressible material of any type conventionally utilized for gaskets, seals, brushes or the like. 
     When the main panel  52  is positioned within the side retention flanges  84  of the fixed bracket  80 , the side seals  55  are partially trapped within the side V-shaped flanges  54  by the retention flanges  84 . This is illustrated in  FIG. 10 , which is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view of the left edge of the header panel assembly  50  of  FIG. 3 , taken along line  10 - 10 . As shown therein, the upper end  98  of the seal  55  is compressed into the V-shaped groove  56  by the retention flange  84 , while the lower end  99  of the seal  55  remains uncompressed. It will be appreciated, however, that when the header panel assembly  50  is properly installed in place next to another header panel assembly  50 , a side seal assembly or another structure, the lower end  99  of the seal  55  will usually be compressed as well, thereby sealing the header panel assembly  50  against the respective structure. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 6 , it will be appreciated that the lower ends of the side flanges  54  extend below the bottom of the main panel  52 , and thus below the bottom flange  154 . This arrangement permits the bottom seal  155  to be placed within the bottom groove  156  such that it may be generally aligned with the lower end of the side flanges  54 , thereby helping to ensure a complete seal across the bottom of the assembly  50 . This is at least partially illustrated in  FIG. 3 . 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 3, 5 and 10 , it will be appreciated that the body of the main panel  52  is penetrated by two clamp apertures  92  adapted to receive the clamps  90 . In at least some embodiments, the clamps  90  each include a handle  94  and a threaded shaft  96 , and a threaded nut  97  is attached behind and around each aperture  92 . In other embodiments, the apertures  92  may themselves be threaded, or may comprise sheet metal or the like into which threads may be created by screwing the threaded clamp shaft  96  therethrough. As will be appreciated, the main header panel  52  may be held in place against the fixed bracket  80  by screwing the clamp shafts  96  through the apertures  92  in the panel  52  until the ends of the shafts  96  are forced against the main body  86  of the fixed bracket  80 . In order to preserve structural integrity of the main body  86  of the fixed bracket  80 , the end of the shafts  96  may be fitted with protective end caps  87 . While clamps  90  are shown in the drawings, it is contemplated that a wide range of mechanisms may be used to hold the main panel  52  in place against the fixed bracket  80 . In particular, it is contemplated that cam locks, spring fasteners or any of a range of other mechanisms may be implemented to accomplish the clamping function. 
     Use of the header panel assembly  50  may perhaps be best understood with reference to  FIGS. 1 and 10 . Each header panel assembly  50  may be installed directly above a respective electronic equipment enclosure  14  to fill the space between the top of the enclosure  14  and the frame structure  12  or other structure above it. The vertical dimension of each header panel assembly  50  may be adjusted by loosening the clamps  90  and sliding the main header panel  52  up or down relative to the fixed bracket  80  before retightening the clamps  90 . The clamp arrangement permits infinite adjustment of the vertical position of the main header panel  52  relative to its fixed bracket  80  (within a range determined by the overall dimensions of the panel  52  and bracket  80 ), and thus allows the header panel assembly  50  to be custom adjusted to fit the space between the top of the respective enclosure  14  and the frame structure  12 . When installed above the enclosure  14 , the header panel assembly  50  blocks the space above the enclosure  14  and prevents recirculation of heated air from the rear of the enclosure  14  over the top thereof, where it could mingle with the cooling air being provided to the enclosure front. (Alternatively, the header panel assembly  50  prevents recirculation of heated air from the front of the enclosure  14  over the top thereof, where it could mingle with the cooling air being provided to the enclosure rear.) 
     The infinite adjustability (within the dimensional range) ensures that air gaps may be substantially entirely eliminated, and differences in enclosure heights managed effectively. This is illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 1 , where three enclosures  14  have the same approximate height, while a fourth (the second from the right), is shorter than the other three. The header panel assemblies  50  for the first three are all adjusted to be the same length, while the header panel assembly  50  for the fourth enclosure  14  is lengthened to ensure that the bottom of the main panel  52  extends to the top of the enclosure  14  with the bottom seal  155  being compressed between the bottom V-shaped flange  154  and the top of the enclosure  14 . 
       FIGS. 11-13  are fragmentary top cross-sectional views, similar to that of  FIG. 10 , of the left edge of various alternative embodiments of header panel assemblies. As shown in  FIGS. 11-13 , flanges on the main panel may have any of a variety of different shapes and configurations. For instance, in  FIG. 11 , rather than V-shaped flanges, a main panel  41  of a header panel assembly  150  includes generally perpendicular flanges  43 , 143  along the sides and bottom thereof. Each perpendicular flange  43 , 143  defines an outer edge to accommodate and retain a respective seal  55 , 155 . As in the embodiment depicted in  FIG. 10 , each seal  55 , 155  includes a mounting portion  57  adapted to attach to the edge of the perpendicular flange  43 , 143 . A boss  59  may be provided on the mounting portion  57  to assist in attaching the mounting portion  57  snugly around the edge of the perpendicular flange  43 , 143 . Each seal  55 , 155  further includes a body portion  58  comprised of a compressible material of any type conventionally utilized for gaskets, seals, brushes or the like. When the main panel  41  is positioned within the side retention flanges  84  of the fixed bracket  80 , the seals  55 , 155  extend from the edges of the main panel  41  and are in a position to abut an adjacent structure, thereby forming a seal therewith. As shown therein, the upper end  98  of the seal  55  is compressed into the V-shaped groove  56  by the retention flange  84 , while the lower end  99  of the seal  55  remains uncompressed. It will be appreciated, however, that when the header panel assembly  150  is properly installed in place next to another header panel assembly  150 , a side seal assembly or another structure, the lower end  99  of the seal  55  will usually be compressed as well, thereby sealing the header panel assembly  150  against the respective structure. 
     In  FIG. 12 , a main panel  45  of a header panel assembly  250  includes flanges  47 , 147  at the sides and bottom thereof that extend away from the main panel  45  at an angle. Each angled flange  47 , 147  defines an outer edge to which a respective brush seal  71 , 171  is attached. Each brush seal  71 , 171  includes a cradle portion  75  that attaches along the outer edge of the angled flanges  47 , 147  and a brush portion  77  that is adapted to be snap-fit into the cradle portion  75 . Bristles  79  of the brush portion  77  extend away from the main panel  45  and are in a position to abut an adjacent structure, thereby forming a seal therewith. As shown in  FIG. 12 , bristles  79  at the upper end  198  of the brush seal  71  are deflected by the retention flange  84  while bristles  79  at the lower end  199  of the brush seal  71  remain undeflected. It will be appreciated, however, that when the header panel assembly  250  is properly installed in place next to another header panel assembly, a side seal assembly or another structure, the lower end  199  of the brush seal  71  will usually be deflected as well, thereby sealing the header panel assembly  250  against the respective structure. 
     In  FIG. 13 , the main panel  45  of a header panel assembly  350  includes flanges  47 , 147  at the sides and bottom thereof that extend away from the main panel  45  at an angle. Each angled flange  47 , 147  defines an outer edge to which a respective deflectable blade seal  91 , 191  is attached. Each blade seal  91 , 191  includes an attachment portion  93  that is adapted to fittingly accommodate an outer edge of a corresponding angled flange  47 , 147 . Each blade seal  91 , 191  further includes a blade portion  95  that extends away from the main panel  45  and is in a position to abut an adjacent structure so as to form a seal therewith. As shown in  FIG. 13 , the blade portion  95  is deflected by, and forms a seal against, the retention flange  84 . It will also be appreciated that when the header panel assembly  350  is properly installed in place next to another header panel assembly, a side seal assembly or another structure, any portion of the blade seal  91  that extends below the retention flange  84  would likewise be deflected by an adjacent structure and, thus, capable of sealing the header panel assembly  350  against the respective structure. 
     In at least some commercial embodiments, header panel assemblies  50  of different vertical dimensions are provided to accommodate enclosures  14  and frame structures  12  or other structures of different sizes. For example,  FIGS. 14A-14C  are isometric views of header panel assemblies similar to that of  FIG. 3  but having different vertical dimensions. It will also be appreciated that different widths may likewise be provided. 
     Air sealing along the sides of electronic equipment enclosures  14  at the ends of the row of enclosures  14  may be facilitated by the side seal assemblies  100 .  FIG. 15  is an isometric view of one of the side seal assemblies  100  of  FIG. 1 . As shown therein, each side seal assembly  100  includes a vertical support bracket  102  and a seal  105 . The vertical support bracket  102  may be attached to a vertical post  16  of the frame structure  12 , or to another suitable structure, via fasteners  103  (shown in  FIG. 16 ) that fit through or clamp around one or more of a plurality of horizontal slots  108 . The vertical support bracket  102  can be adjusted laterally (i.e., a side-to-side direction) along the width of the vertical post  16  by adjusting the position of the fasteners within the corresponding horizontal slots  108 . 
       FIG. 16  is a fragmentary top cross-sectional view of the left end of the hot/cold aisle air containment system  10  of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  16 - 16 , illustrating the interface between a header panel assembly  50  and a side seal assembly  100 . As shown therein, the vertical support bracket  102  includes a V-shaped flange  104 , similar in cross-section to the V-shaped flanges  54 , 154  of the main header panel  52 , which defines a groove  106  of corresponding shape. The groove  106  is adapted to receive a seal  105  which is also of similar cross-section and material to the seals  55 , 155  of the header panel assembly  50 . As shown therein, the seal  105  of the side seal assembly  100  is compressed by and against the side seal  55  of the adjacent header panel assembly  50  and also by the body of the electronic equipment enclosure  14  below. In combination with the vertical support bracket  102 , the seal  105  of the side seal assembly  100  thus provides top-to-bottom sealing between the vertical post  16  and both the leftmost enclosure  14  of  FIG. 1  and the leftmost header panel assembly  50 . It will be appreciated that the vertical support bracket  102  may be adjusted laterally, as described previously, to customize the spacing between the V-shaped flange  104  and the enclosure  14 /header panel assembly  50 . While a compressible seal is depicted in  FIGS. 15 and 16 , it is contemplated that a wide variety of different seals, including brush seals and deflectable blade seals, may be used in connection with the side seal assembly  100 . Furthermore, while the flanges  54 , 154  are shown as V-shaped, it is contemplated that the flanges  54 , 154  may have any of a wide variety of different shapes and configurations, including generally perpendicular flanges and angled flanges. 
     When installed next to an enclosure  14  and the header panel assembly  50  above it, the side seal assembly  100  blocks the space between the enclosure  14  and the vertical post  16  and prevents recirculation of heated air from the rear of the enclosure  14  around the side thereof, where it could mingle with the cooling air being provided to the enclosure front. 
       FIG. 17  is an isometric view of a hot/cold aisle air containment system  410  having an alternative header panel assembly  450  in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention, and  FIGS. 18A-18D  are isometric views of the header panel assembly  450  of  FIG. 17 . With particular reference to  FIGS. 18A-18D , the header panel assembly  450  includes a main panel  452 , a secondary panel  453 , and a pair of fixed brackets  480 . The body of the secondary panel  453  includes two slotted openings  457 , each adapted to receive a corresponding fastener  443 . Each fastener  443 , which may be in the form of a screw, bolt or other form of fastener, extends though both the slotted opening  457  of the secondary panel  453  and through the body of the main panel  452 . When properly fastened, tightened or otherwise secured, the fasteners  443  effectively attach the panels  452 , 453  together. 
     The header panel assembly  450  is adjustable laterally or horizontally (i.e., in a side-to-side direction) so as to be customizable to occupy spaces with varying width requirements, and is therefore not limited to a fixed dimensional width. By adjusting the position of the fasteners  443  within the slotted openings  457 , the dimensional width of the header panel assembly  450  can effectively be adjusted to accommodate varying width requirements. To adjust the dimensional width, the fasteners  443  are loosened or unfastened so as to be movable within the horizontal slots  457 . Once the secondary panel  453  is adjusted to a desired position, the fasteners  443  may be tightened, clamped or otherwise locked into position in order to at least temporarily fix the dimensional width of the header panel assembly  450 . It is contemplated that a wide variety of different fasteners and fastening mechanisms may be utilized in connection with the header panel assembly  450 . In one contemplated embodiment, depicted in  FIGS. 18A-18D , each fastener  443  is a threaded fastener with a nut  449  used to clamp the fastener  443  into position. 
       FIG. 19  is an isometric view of the fixed bracket  480  on the left side of the header panel assembly  450  of  FIG. 18A . With reference to  FIG. 19  and  FIGS. 18A-18D , each of the pair of fixed brackets  480  of the header panel assembly  450  includes a top flange  482  and a side retention flange  484 , each extending from a main body  486 . Separate mounting brackets  483  (shown in  FIGS. 18A-18D ) facilitate attachment of the fixed brackets  480  to one or more horizontal beams or rails  435  of a frame structure  412 , as shown in  FIGS. 25 and 26 . The side retention flanges  484  are adapted to receive an edge of a main or secondary panel  452 , 453  as more fully described hereinbelow. Each fixed bracket  480  also includes an extension flange  427  extending perpendicularly from the side retention flange  484 . With particular reference to  FIGS. 18A and 19 , the extension flanges  427  are each penetrated by a clamp aperture  461  adapted to receive a clamp fastener  490 . It is contemplated that a wide variety of different clamp structures and mechanisms may be utilized. In the embodiment depicted in  FIGS. 18A-18D , the clamp fastener  490  is a threaded fastener that may be clamped into position with a nut attached behind and around the aperture  461 . In other embodiments, it is contemplated that cam locks, spring fasteners or any of a range of other mechanisms may be implemented to accomplish the clamping function. 
     As will be appreciated, the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  may be held in place against the fixed brackets  480  by tightening the clamp fasteners  490  through the apertures  461  in the extension flanges  427  until the end of one clamp fastener  490  is forced against the body of the main panel  452  and the end of the other clamp fastener  490  is forced against the body of the secondary panel  453 . In order to preserve structural integrity of the main and secondary panels  452 , 453 , ends of the clamp fasteners  490  may be fitted with protective end caps. In at least some embodiments, the clamp fasteners  490  are similar to, or utilize features of, the clamps  90  described, for example, with reference to  FIGS. 5 and 10 . 
     The header panel assembly  450  is also adjustable vertically so as to be customizable to occupy spaces with varying height requirements. The vertical dimension of the header panel assembly  450  may be adjusted by loosening the clamp fasteners  490  and sliding the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  up or down relative to the fixed brackets  480  before retightening the clamp fasteners  490 . The clamp arrangement permits infinite adjustment of the vertical position of the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  relative to the fixed brackets  480  (within a range determined by the dimensions of the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  and brackets  480 ), and, thus, allows the header panel assembly  450  to be customized to fit the space between the top of an enclosure  414  and the frame structure  412  as shown in  FIG. 17 . 
     As can now be understood, and with reference to  FIGS. 18A-18D , the header panel assembly  450  is capable of adjustment in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions in order to be customized to fit the space between the top of an enclosure  414  and the frame structure  412 . In  FIG. 18B , the header panel assembly  450  is shown in a wide configuration, with the fasteners  443  positioned at the ends of the slotted openings  457  of the secondary panel  453 . In  FIG. 18C , the secondary panel  453  is shifted, in a telescoping manner, against the main panel  452  such that the fasteners  443  are positioned generally in the middle of the slotted openings  457 . The width of the header panel assembly configuration of  FIG. 18C  is less than that of the configuration of  FIG. 18B . In  FIG. 18D , the width of the header panel assembly  450  is the same as shown in  FIG. 18B , but the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  are shifted vertically, relative to the fixed brackets  480 , so as to adjust the vertical dimension (height) of the header panel assembly  450 , and thereby be customized to fill a space having a particular height, such as the space above an enclosure having a different height requirement. 
     As further shown in  FIG. 18A , the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  each have an outer side flange  454  and a lower edge flange  554 , each of which may have any of a wide range of shapes and configurations, including those discussed above in connection with  FIGS. 10-13 . In each case, the flanges  454 , 554  may be fitted with seals  55  in like manner to the embodiments of  FIGS. 10-13 . Seals  55  may be made from a compressible material of any type conventionally utilized for gaskets, seals, brushes or the like. In at least one contemplated embodiment, seals  55  are ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber seals. When the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  are positioned within the side retention flanges  484  of the fixed brackets  480 , the seals  55  extend from the edges of the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  and are in a position to abut an adjacent structure, thereby forming a seal against it. As shown in  FIGS. 18A-18D , at least a portion of the seals  55  at the outer side flanges  454  of the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  is compressed by the side retention flanges  484  of the fixed brackets  480 . It will be appreciated that when the header panel assembly  450  is properly installed in place next to another header panel assembly, a side seal assembly or another structure, the entire extent of the seal  55  will usually be compressed as well, thereby sealing the header panel assembly  450  against the respective structure. 
     The header panel assembly  450  may be manufactured from a wide variety of different materials. In at least one contemplated embodiment, at least some components of the header panel assembly  450  are manufactured from 1008 CRS steel. 
     In another contemplated embodiment, the panel or panels of the header panel assembly  450  may be made from a field-cut material. In this manner, the header panel assembly  450  may be customized on-site to fit a particular space above an enclosure. 
       FIG. 20  is an isometric view of another embodiment of a fixed bracket  580  for use in connection with a header panel assembly in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention. The fixed bracket  580  of  FIG. 20  functions in much the same manner as the fixed bracket  480  of  FIGS. 18A-18D and 19 . The fixed bracket  580  includes a top flange  582  and a side retention flange  584 , each extending from a main body  586 . A separate mounting bracket (not illustrated, but similar to the mounting bracket  483  of FIGS.  18 A- 18 D) facilitates attachment of the fixed bracket  580  to one or more horizontal beams or rails of the frame structure. When paired with a similar fixed bracket having a side retention flange at an opposite side thereof, the side retention flanges  584  of the pair of fixed brackets  580  are adapted to receive the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  of a header panel assembly  450  in similar manner to the embodiment of  FIGS. 18A-18D . The fixed bracket  580  also includes an extension flange  527  extending generally perpendicularly from the side retention flange  484 . The extension flanges  527  are each penetrated by a clamp aperture  561  adapted to receive a clamp fastener  490  to clamp the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  into position. Notably, unlike the fixed bracket  480  of  FIG. 19 , however, the fixed bracket  580  shown in  FIG. 20  also includes an end flange  517  extending from a lower portion of the main body  586 . This may, for example, provide extra strength, rigidity, or the like. 
     The header panel assemblies described herein may be used in a wide variety of hot/cold aisle air containment systems, some of which are described and illustrated herein. For example,  FIG. 21  is an isometric view of a hot/cold aisle air containment system  110  in use with a row of electronic equipment enclosures  14  in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention. In particular, the containment system  110  of  FIG. 21 , relative to that of  FIG. 1 , includes a larger and more comprehensive frame structure  112  adapted to receive and support various panels and other structures to more fully enclose a hot or cold aisle behind the enclosures  14 . This frame structure  112  includes additional vertical posts  16  and horizontal beams  17 , 18  as well as a plurality of horizontal joists  22 . Other such frame structures, suitable for use with the header panel assemblies  50 , 450  in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention, are described in commonly-assigned U.S. provisional patent application 61/411,359, entitled, “ADJUSTABLE WALL ASSEMBLY FOR HOT/COLD AISLE CONTAINMENT SYSTEM,” a copy of which is attached as Appendix A. 
     An example of an assembly of panels to form a wall is shown in  FIG. 22 , which is an isometric view of a hot/cold aisle air containment system  210  in use with an electronic equipment enclosure  14  and an adjustable wall assembly  30  in accordance with still further embodiments of the present invention. The enclosure  14  is installed at one end of the frame structure  112  and the adjustable wall assembly  30  is temporarily positioned away from the enclosure  14  but can be moved toward the enclosure  14  to seal off the front end of the enclosure and the space behind it. Adjustable wall assemblies suitable for use with the frame structure  112  and header panel assemblies  50 , 450  in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in the aforementioned &#39;359 patent application, attached as Appendix A. 
     Returning to  FIG. 17 , the hot/cold aisle air containment system  410  shown therein includes a pair of rows of electronic equipment enclosures  414 , 415  installed at opposite sides thereof and the header panel assembly  450  of  FIGS. 18A-18D  installed above one of the enclosures  415  to fill the space between the top of the enclosure  415  and the frame structure  412  or other structure above it. Advantageously, the header panel assembly  450  may be used in conjunction with a row of enclosures  414  in a hot/cold aisle air containment system  410 , where various enclosures within the row have a different height and/or width than other enclosures. The header panel assembly  450  may then be customized so as to contain and seal air from one side of the enclosure, thereby preventing recirculation to the other side of the enclosure in the containment system. In this manner, exhaust air can effectively be sealed off and prevented from mixing with a supply of cool air at the equipment intake. The header panel assembly  450  is capable of use in connection with each of a “cold aisle” containment roof system or with a “hot aisle” containment chimney system, as well as other arrangements and configurations of containment systems. By facilitating two dimensions of adjustability in a header panel assembly, a single part number is capable of supporting many cabinet width and height variations in or to the hot aisle or cold aisle air containment system. The range of adjustability in both horizontal and vertical dimensions ensures that both horizontal and vertical air gaps may be substantially entirely eliminated, and differences in enclosure heights and widths may be managed effectively. Such variability is illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 17 , where one enclosure  415  is shorter than other enclosures  414  in the row. 
     Furthermore, though depicted in the context of an air containment system, it is contemplated that the header panel assembly  450  may be used as part of a frame structure comprising only a single horizontal beam, a frame structure comprising a collection of interconnected horizontal beams, or the like. For example,  FIG. 23  is an isometric view of a pair of adjustable header panels  51  attached to an overhanging beam  35 , for use in a hot/cold aisle air containment system, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. As shown therein, the overhanging beam  35  accommodates one or more header panels  51 , each of which includes one or more adjustment slots  101 . The header panels  51  are mounted directly to the overhanging beam  35  via clamps  194 , each extending through a respective adjustment slot  101  of the header panel  51  and into a respective clamp aperture (not illustrated) of the overhanging beam  35 . The clamps  194  permit the header panel  51  to be adjusted vertically relative to the overhanging beam  35 . By loosening the clamps  194  of a selected one of the header panels  51 , the header panel  35  has infinite adjustability (within the dimensional range allowed by the adjustment slots  101 ). Tightening the clamps  194  fixes the header panel  51  into any desired position. 
     The header panels  51  share many characteristics with the main panel  52  of the header panel assembly  50  of  FIGS. 3-6 . Each header panel  51  is generally flat with generally perpendicular flanges  53 , 153  along the sides and bottom thereof. Each perpendicular flange  53 , 153  defines an outer edge to accommodate and retain a respective seal  55 , 155 . Each seal  55 , 155  includes a mounting portion  57  adapted to attach to the edge of the perpendicular flange  53 , 153 . A boss (not illustrated) may be provided on the mounting portion  57  to assist in attaching the mounting portion  57  snugly around the edge of the perpendicular flange  53 , 153 . Each seal  55 , 155  further includes a body portion  58  comprised of a compressible material of any type conventionally utilized for gaskets, seals, brushes or the like. While a compressible seal is depicted in  FIG. 23 , it is contemplated that a wide variety of different seals, including brush seals and deflectable blade seals, may be used in connection with the header panels  51 . Furthermore, while the flanges  53 , 153  are shown as generally perpendicular, it is contemplated that the flanges  53 , 153  may have any of a wide variety of different shapes and configurations, including V-shaped flanges and angled flanges. The seals  55 , 155  extend from the edges of the header panel  51  and are in a position to abut an adjacent structure so as to form a seal therewith. 
       FIG. 24  is a fragmentary top view of adjacent edges of the pair of adjustable header panels  51  of  FIG. 23 . As shown therein, the seals  55  of adjacent header panels  51  abut one another, thereby compressing the body portions  58  of each seal  55  and sealing off the boundary between adjacent header panels  51 . 
     When installed above an enclosure  14  in a containment system and adjusted into position against the enclosure  14 , the header panel  51  can effectively block the space above the enclosure  14  and prevent recirculation of heated air from the rear of the enclosure  14  over the top thereof where it could mingle with the cooling air being provided to the enclosure front. With multiple header panels  51  installed, the header panels  51  not only establish a seal with one another but may also be selectively adjusted to different heights, as depicted in  FIG. 23 , so as to accommodate varying heights among the enclosures installed in the containment system. The infinite adjustability (within the dimensional range) ensures that air gaps may be substantially entirely eliminated, and differences in enclosure heights managed effectively. Furthermore, by mounting the header panels  51  directly to the overhanging beam  35 , the need for a separate telescoping panel to accompany the header panel  51  may be avoided. 
       FIG. 25  is an isometric view of the header panel assembly  450  of  FIGS. 18A-18D  attached to another overhanging beam  435 , for use in a hot/cold aisle air containment system, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; and  FIG. 26  is a side cross-sectional view of the overhanging beam  435  and header panel assembly  450  of  FIG. 25 , taken along line  26 - 26 . As shown in  FIG. 25 , the horizontal beam  435  accommodates the fixed brackets  480  of the header panel assembly  450 . The fixed brackets  480  are permitted to be adjusted, independently of one another, in a lateral direction along the horizontal beam  435  so as to be capable of accommodating varying widths of the header panel assembly  450 . As perhaps best shown in  FIG. 26 , a fastener  433  for each fixed bracket  480  extends through an aperture of the main body  486  of the fixed bracket  480 , through a corresponding aperture of the mounting bracket  483 , and through a mounting aperture  423  (shown in  FIG. 25 ) of the horizontal beam  435 . Alternately, the fastener  433  for each fixed bracket  480  may extend through an aperture of the main body  486  of the fixed bracket  480 , through a mounting aperture  423  of the horizontal beam  435 , and then through a corresponding aperture of the mounting bracket  483  at the opposite side of the horizontal beam  435 . In each embodiment, a nut  431  may be used to tighten the fastener  433  and thereby clamp the fixed bracket  480  into position along the horizontal beam  435 . Fixed brackets  480  can be repositioned to accommodate a different width by unfastening the bracket  480  and refastening the bracket  480  through a different mounting aperture  423  of the horizontal beam  435 . Furthermore, the position of the panels  452 , 453  may be adjusted vertically, as described, for example, with reference to  FIG. 18D , by loosening clamp fasteners  490 , adjusting the vertical position of the panels  452 , 453  within the fixed brackets  450 , and then retightening the clamp fasteners  490 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 26 , a seal  55  may be installed along an edge of at least a portion of the horizontal beam  435  in order to establish a seal between the horizontal beam  435  and the rear of the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  of the header panel assembly  450 . The seal  55  may be installed in like manner to the embodiments of  FIGS. 10-13 . Seals  55  may be made from a compressible material of any type conventionally utilized for gaskets, seals, brushes or the like. In at least one contemplated embodiment, seals  55  are EPDM rubber seals. When the header panel assembly  450  is installed along the horizontal beam  435 , the main and secondary panels  452 , 453  engage with and compress the seal  55  along the horizontal beam  435 , thereby sealing the rear of the header panel assembly  450  against the horizontal beam  435 . 
     In at least some embodiments, an overhanging or horizontal beam  35 , 435  may be mounted horizontally in a containment system having a row of enclosures to provide another sealing option. 
     Based on the foregoing information, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention. 
     Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements; the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.