Latch mechanism, server assembly, and cabinet server system applicable thereto

Abstract

This case relates to a latch mechanism, a server assembly, and a cabinet-type server system to which it is applicable. The cabinet-type server system includes at least one server and at least one liquid cooling tube. The server includes a housing and at least one fluid connector. The liquid cooling tube includes at least one docking connector. The latch mechanism includes at least one fixing member, a fixing seat, and a hook member. At least one fixing member is disposed on the liquid cooling tube and includes at least one fixing latch. The fixing seat is disposed on the server and has a rotating shaft. The hook member is rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft of the fixing seat and has a hook portion. The hook portion of the hook member is rotated until it engages with the fixing latch of the fixing member, thereby fixing the fixing seat and the fixing member, and connecting the at least one fluid connector of the server and fluidically communicating with the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling tube.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a latch mechanism, particularly a latch mechanism for securely securing a server fluid connector to a docking connector of a liquid cooling tube assembly. This application also relates to a server assembly and a cabinet-type server system to which it is applicable. Background Art

[0002] Currently, liquid cooling systems have been widely used in data centers or communication equipment to actively dissipate heat for electronic devices in racks, such as servers. Figure 1A The figure is a structural diagram of a conventional liquid cooling system applied to a cabinet-type server system, wherein the liquid cooling system includes a server and a liquid cooling pipe assembly. Figure 1B for Figure 1A Schematic diagram of the structure of the server, liquid cooling pipe assembly and rack of the cabinet server system, wherein when the server is fixed to the rack by a spring clip, the server and the liquid cooling pipe assembly are fluidically connected. Generally speaking, the liquid cooling system includes a pump (not shown), at least one server 11 and a liquid cooling pipe assembly 12. At least one liquid cooling circulation path is formed between the pump, at least one server 11 and the liquid cooling pipe assembly 12. The pump structure is configured to drive the cooling liquid to flow and circulate in the liquid cooling circulation path. The server 11 includes a housing 111, an inlet fluid connector 112, an outlet fluid connector 113 and a liquid cooling channel 114. The inlet fluid connector 112 and the outlet fluid connector 113 are arranged on the back plate of the housing 111. The liquid cooling channel 114 is arranged inside the housing 111, and its two ends are respectively connected to the inlet fluid connector 112 and the outlet fluid connector 113. The liquid cooling pipe assembly 12 includes an inlet duct 121 and an outlet duct 122. An inlet conduit 121 is disposed in the rack 13 and is connected to the inlet fluid connector 112 of the server 11. It receives cooling liquid and allows the cooling liquid to flow into the liquid cooling channel 114 of the server 11 through the inlet fluid connector 112. An outlet conduit 122 is disposed in the rack 13 and is connected to the outlet fluid connector 113 of the server 11. It allows the cooling liquid to be discharged from the liquid cooling channel 114 of the server 11 through the outlet fluid connector 113. In this manner, heat exchange is achieved between the cooling liquid and the electronic components of the server 11, continuously transferring heat energy generated by the server 11. In this manner, heat dissipation of the server 11 is effectively achieved.

[0003] However, fluid communication between the server 11 and the liquid cooling pipe assembly 12 is quite important. Generally speaking, the server 11 includes at least one spring clip 115. The spring clip 115 is arranged on the side of the shell 111 and is located on the side away from the inlet fluid connector 112 and the outlet fluid connector 113. The spring clip 115 is structured on a snap-on portion that snaps onto the rack 13, thereby fixing the server 11 to the rack 13. At this time, the inlet fluid connector 112 and the outlet fluid connector 113 of the server 11 are respectively connected to the docking connector of the inlet duct 121 and the docking connector of the outlet duct 122. Therefore, the spring clip 115 enables the inlet fluid connector 112 and the outlet fluid connector 113 of the server 11 to be fixed to the docking connector of the liquid cooling pipe assembly 12, respectively.

[0004] However, due to tolerances between the spring clip 115 of the server 11 and the latching portion of the rack 13, as well as tolerances between the various bracket components of the rack 13, when the server 11 is secured to the rack 13, the inlet and outlet fluid connectors 112, 113 of the server 11 cannot be accurately and securely secured to the docking connectors of the liquid cooling pipe assembly 12. In this case, the fluid connection between the inlet fluid connector 112 of the server 11 and the docking connector of the inlet conduit 121 will be different from the fluid connection between the outlet fluid connector 113 of the server 11 and the docking connector of the outlet conduit 122. This may result in uneven cooling liquid flow, leakage, or poor circulation, thus affecting heat dissipation efficiency.

[0005] On the other hand, if the docking connector of the liquid-cooling pipe assembly 12 and the inlet and outlet fluid connectors 112 and 113 of the server 11 are quick-connect fluid connectors, the inlet and outlet fluid connectors 112 and 113 of the server 11 are blindly plugged directly into the docking connector of the liquid-cooling pipe assembly 12 without any fastening devices. When the inlet and outlet fluid connectors 112 and 113 of the server 11 are connected to the docking connector of the liquid-cooling pipe assembly 12, a spring force F is generated between the inlet and outlet fluid connectors 112 and 113 of the server 11 and the docking connector of the liquid-cooling pipe assembly 12. Due to the spring force F generated between the server 11 and the liquid-cooling pipe assembly 12, a torque T is generated, which applies to the server 11, causing the server 11 to tilt. In this case, the fluid connection between the inlet fluid connector 112 of the server 11 and the mating connector of the inlet conduit 121 will be different from the fluid connection between the outlet fluid connector 113 of the server 11 and the mating connector of the outlet conduit 122, which may lead to uneven flow rate of the cooling liquid, leakage, or poor circulation. As a result, the heat dissipation efficiency will be affected.

[0006] Figure 2AFIG. 1 is a structural diagram of another prior art liquid cooling system applied to a cabinet-type server system, wherein the liquid cooling system includes a server and a liquid cooling pipe assembly. Figure 2B for Figure 2A A schematic diagram of the structure of a server, a liquid cooling pipe assembly, and a rack of a cabinet-type server system, wherein when the server is fixed to the rack by a spring, the server and the liquid cooling pipe assembly are in fluid communication. Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B As shown, to avoid the formation of stress, the inlet fluid connector 112 and the outlet fluid connector 113 can be positioned on opposite sides of the server 11. When the docking connector of the liquid cooling pipe assembly 12 is connected to the inlet fluid connector 112 and the outlet fluid connector 113 of the server 11, respectively, the torque created by the spring force F between the inlet fluid connector 112 and the docking connector offsets the torque created by the spring force F between the outlet fluid connector 113 and the docking connector. However, even if the formation of stress on the server 11 is avoided, the spring force F still exists between the server 11 and the liquid cooling pipe assembly 12, potentially causing damage to the rack-mounted server system. For example, multiple servers 11 include a total of 44 inlet fluid connectors 112 and 44 outlet fluid connectors 113, and the liquid cooling pipe assembly 12 includes 88 docking connectors. When multiple servers 11 are fixed to the rack 13, and the 44 inlet fluid connectors 112 and 44 outlet fluid connectors 113 are respectively connected to the 88 docking connectors of the liquid cooling pipe assembly 12, the total spring force generated at this time is approximately 3500N (Newtons), and the total spring force will directly act on the rack 13. The rack 13 is usually unable to withstand such a large force and will deform, thereby causing damage to the cabinet server system.

[0007] In view of this, it is necessary to develop a latch mechanism, a server assembly and a cabinet-type server system applicable thereto to solve the problems faced by the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present invention provides a latch mechanism, a server assembly, and a rack-mounted server system suitable therefor. The latch mechanism securely secures the server's fluid connector to the docking connector of the liquid cooling tube assembly, thereby eliminating spring force between the server and the liquid cooling tube assembly, reducing torque applied to the server and preventing the server from tilting in the rack slot, which could lead to cooling liquid leakage, uneven flow, and poor circulation. Furthermore, the latch mechanism improves product precision and enhances heat dissipation performance.

[0009] To achieve the aforementioned objectives, a broad embodiment of the present invention is to provide a latch mechanism for use in a cabinet-type server system. The cabinet-type server system includes at least one server and at least one liquid cooling tube. The server includes a housing and at least one fluid connector. At least one liquid cooling tube includes at least one docking connector. The latch mechanism includes at least one fixing member, a fixing seat, and a hook member. At least one fixing member is disposed on the liquid cooling tube and includes at least one fixing latch. The fixing seat is disposed on the server and has a rotating shaft. The hook member is rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft of the fixing seat and has a hook portion. The hook portion of the hook member is rotated to engage with the fixing latch of the fixing member, thereby fixing the fixing seat and the fixing member, and connecting at least one fluid connector of the server and fluidically communicating with at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling tube.

[0010] To achieve the aforementioned objectives, another broad embodiment of the present invention is to provide a server assembly for use in a cabinet-type server system. The cabinet-type server system includes at least one liquid cooling tube. The at least one liquid cooling tube includes at least one docking connector. The server assembly includes at least one server and a latch mechanism. The server includes a housing and at least one fluid connector. The at least one fluid connector is disposed on one side of the housing. The latch mechanism includes at least one fixing member, a fixing seat, and a hook member. At least one fixing member is disposed on the liquid cooling tube and includes at least one fixing latch. The fixing seat is disposed on the server housing and has a rotating shaft. The hook member is rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft of the fixing seat and has a hook portion. The hook portion of the hook member of the latch mechanism is rotated to engage with the fixing latch of the fixing member, thereby fixing the fixing seat to the fixing member and connecting the at least one fluid connector of the server to the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling tube.

[0011] To achieve the aforementioned objectives, another broad embodiment of the present invention is to provide a cabinet-type server system, comprising a rack, a liquid cooling pipe assembly, at least one server, and a latch mechanism. The liquid cooling pipe assembly is disposed on the rack and comprises at least one liquid cooling pipe. The at least one liquid cooling pipe comprises at least one docking connector. The at least one server is pluggably disposed on the rack and comprises a housing and at least one fluid connector. The at least one fluid connector is disposed on one side of the housing. The latch mechanism comprises at least one fixing member, a fixing seat, and a hook member. The at least one fixing member is disposed on the liquid cooling pipe and comprises at least one fixing latch. The fixing seat is disposed on the housing of the server and has a rotating shaft. The hook member is rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft of the fixing seat and has a hook portion. The fixing seat and the fixing member are fixed by rotating the hook portion of the hook member of the latch mechanism until they are engaged with the fixing latch of the fixing member, thereby connecting the at least one fluid connector of the server and fluidically communicating with the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling pipe. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1AThe figure is a schematic diagram of the structure of a prior art liquid cooling system applied to a cabinet-type server system, wherein the liquid cooling system includes a server and a liquid cooling pipe assembly;

[0013] Figure 1B for Figure 1A A schematic structural diagram of a server, a liquid cooling pipe assembly, and a rack of a cabinet-type server system, wherein when the server is fixed to the rack by a spring clip, fluid communication is established between the server and the liquid cooling pipe assembly;

[0014] Figure 2A FIG2 is a schematic structural diagram of another prior art liquid cooling system applied to a cabinet-type server system, wherein the liquid cooling system includes a server and a liquid cooling pipe assembly;

[0015] Figure 2B for Figure 2A A schematic structural diagram of a server, a liquid cooling pipe assembly, and a rack of a cabinet-type server system, wherein when the server is fixed to the rack by a spring clip, fluid communication is established between the server and the liquid cooling pipe assembly;

[0016] Figure 3 A schematic structural diagram of a cabinet-type server system with a liquid cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 4 for Figure 3 An exploded schematic diagram of the latch mechanism, server, and liquid cooling pipe assembly of the cabinet server system shown;

[0018] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of a fixing member of the latch mechanism shown;

[0019] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of a fixing seat of the latch mechanism shown;

[0020] Figure 7A for Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of a hook member of the latch mechanism shown;

[0021] Figure 7B for Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of the hook member of the latch mechanism shown in another perspective;

[0022] Figures 8A to 8C It is a cross-sectional operation diagram of the latch mechanism, the fluid connector of the server, and the docking connector of the liquid cooling pipe assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Explanation of Figure Numbers

[0024] 11: Server

[0025] 111: Shell

[0026] 112: Inlet fluid connector

[0027] 113: Outlet fluid connector

[0028] 114: Liquid cooling channel

[0029] 115: Shrapnel

[0030] 12: Liquid cooling pipe assembly

[0031] 121: Inlet duct

[0032] 122: outlet duct

[0033] 13: Rack

[0034] 2: Cabinet server system

[0035] 3: Rack

[0036] 4: Liquid cooling pipe assembly

[0037] 41: First liquid cooling tube

[0038] 411: First Pipeline

[0039] 412: First fixed platform

[0040] 413: First docking connector

[0041] 42: Second liquid cooling tube

[0042] 421: Second Pipeline

[0043] 422: Second fixed platform

[0044] 423: Second docking connector

[0045] 5: Server assembly

[0046] 6: Server

[0047] 61: Shell

[0048] 62: First fluid connector

[0049] 63: Second fluid connector

[0050] 7: Latch mechanism

[0051] 71: Fixing parts

[0052] 711: First substrate

[0053] 711a: First perforation

[0054] 712: First support plate

[0055] 712a: First surface

[0056] 712b: Second surface

[0057] 712c: groove

[0058] 713: Fixed latch

[0059] 72: Fixed seat

[0060] 721: Second substrate

[0061] 721a: Second perforation

[0062] 721b: Opening

[0063] 722: Second support plate

[0064] 722a: First surface

[0065] 722b: Second surface

[0066] 722c: shaft

[0067] 73: Hook piece

[0068] 731: Rod body

[0069] 731a: First paragraph

[0070] 731b: Second section

[0071] 732: shaft hole

[0072] 733: hook part

[0073] 733a: Accommodation

[0074] 733b: Slope

[0075] 734: First end

[0076] 735: Second end

[0077] F: Spring force

[0078] T: torque

[0079] θ: angle DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] Some typical embodiments that embody the features and advantages of this invention will be described in detail in the following description. It should be understood that this invention is capable of various variations in different embodiments without departing from the scope of this invention, and that the descriptions and illustrations herein are intended to be illustrative in nature and not to limit this invention.

[0081] Figure 3FIG. 1 is a structural diagram of a cabinet server system with a liquid cooling system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 for Figure 3 The schematic diagram shows the exploded structure of the latch mechanism, server and liquid cooling pipe assembly of the cabinet server system. Figure 5 for Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the structure of the fixing member of the latch mechanism shown. Figure 6 for Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of the fixing seat of the latch mechanism is shown. Figure 7A for Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the structure of the hook member of the latch mechanism shown. Figure 7B for Figure 4 The schematic diagram of the structure of the hook member of the latch mechanism shown in another perspective. Figures 3 to 6 and 7A to 7B As shown, the rack-type server system 2 of this embodiment includes a rack 3, a liquid cooling pipe assembly 4, a server assembly 5, and a pump (not shown). The server assembly 5 includes at least one server 6 and a latch mechanism 7. In some embodiments, the server 6 and latch mechanism 7 of the server assembly 5 can be two separate devices, but this is not limited to this. At least one liquid cooling circulation path (not shown) is formed between the pump, the at least one server 6 of the server assembly 5, and the liquid cooling pipe assembly 4. The pump structure is used to drive the cooling liquid to flow and circulate in the liquid cooling circulation path.

[0082] The rack 3 includes at least one slot (not shown), and at least one server 6 is pluggably disposed in at least one slot of the rack 3. The liquid cooling pipe assembly 4 is detachably disposed in the rack 3. The liquid cooling pipe assembly 4 can be, but is not limited to, disposed vertically or horizontally in the rack 3. The liquid cooling pipe assembly 4 includes a first liquid cooling pipe 41 and a second liquid cooling pipe 42. The first liquid cooling pipe 41 includes one or more first docking connectors 413, and the second liquid cooling pipe 42 includes one or more second docking connectors 423. The server 6 includes a shell 61, a first fluid connector 62 and a second fluid connector 63. The first fluid connector 62 and the second fluid connector 63 are disposed on the back side of the shell 61 and are adjacent to each other. The latch mechanism 7 includes a fixing member 71, a fixing seat 72 and a hook member 73. The fixing member 71 is disposed on the first liquid cooling pipe 41 and includes at least one fixing latch 713 (such as Figure 5 The fixing base 72 is disposed on the back side of the housing 61 of the server 6 and has a rotating shaft 722c (as shown). Figure 6 The hook member 73 is rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft 722c of the fixing base 72 and has a hook portion 733 (as shown). Figure 7A and Figure 7BThe hook portion 733 of the hook member 73 of the latch mechanism 7 rotates until it engages with at least one fixing latch 713 of the fixing member 71, thereby securing the fixing seat 72 to the fixing member 71. This secures the first fluid connector 62 and the second fluid connector 63 of the server 6 to the first docking connector 413 of the first liquid-cooling tube 41 and the second docking connector 423 of the second liquid-cooling tube 42, respectively. This eliminates the spring force between the server 6 and the liquid-cooling tube assembly 4, reducing the torque applied to the server 6. This prevents the server 6 from tilting relative to the rack 3, which could lead to cooling liquid leakage, uneven flow, and poor circulation. It also prevents deformation of the rack 3 due to the spring force, thereby improving product precision and heat dissipation performance.

[0083] In this embodiment, the first liquid cooling pipe 41 is disposed on the back side of the rack 3. The first liquid cooling pipe 41 further includes a first pipe 411 and a first fixing platform 412. The first pipe 411 allows cooling liquid to pass through it. The first fixing platform 412 is disposed on one side of the first pipe 411. At least one first docking connector 413 is disposed on the first fixing platform 412 and is fluidically connected to the first pipe 411. In this embodiment, the first liquid cooling pipe 41 includes a plurality of first docking connectors 413, wherein the plurality of first docking connectors 413 are disposed on the first fixing platform 412 and are spaced apart from each other at equal intervals. In one embodiment, the first liquid cooling pipe 41 is an inlet liquid cooling pipe, and the first fluid connector 62 is an inlet fluid connector, but this is not limited to this. The first docking connector 413 of the first liquid cooling pipe 41 is structured on the first fluid connector 62 connected to the server 6 to allow the cooling liquid in the first liquid cooling pipe 41 to flow into a liquid cooling channel (not shown) inside the server 6 via the first docking connector 413 and the first fluid connector 62.

[0084] In this embodiment, the second liquid cooling pipe 42 is arranged on the back side of the rack 3 and is adjacent to the first liquid cooling pipe 41. The first liquid cooling pipe 41 and the second liquid cooling pipe 42 are connected to each other and arranged parallel to each other, but are not limited to this. The second liquid cooling pipe 42 also includes a second pipe 421 and a second fixed platform 422. The second pipe 421 allows cooling liquid to flow therein. The second fixed platform 422 is arranged on one side of the second pipe 421. At least one second docking connector 423 is arranged on the second fixed platform 422 and is fluidically connected to the second pipe 421. In this embodiment, the second liquid cooling pipe 42 includes a plurality of second docking connectors 423, wherein the plurality of second docking connectors 423 are arranged on the second fixed platform 422 and are spaced apart from each other at equal intervals. In one embodiment, the second liquid cooling pipe 42 is an outlet liquid cooling pipe, and the second fluid connector 63 is an outlet fluid connector, but is not limited to this. The second docking connector 423 of the second liquid cooling pipe 42 is configured to connect to the second fluid connector 63 of the server 6 , allowing the cooling liquid in the liquid cooling channel inside the server 6 to be discharged into the second liquid cooling pipe 42 via the second fluid connector 63 and the second docking connector 423 .

[0085] In this embodiment, the server 6 also includes a circuit board (not shown) and a liquid cooling channel (not shown). The circuit board is arranged inside the housing 61 and includes a plurality of electronic components. The liquid cooling channel is arranged inside the housing 61, and its two ends are fluidically connected to the first fluid connector 62 and the second fluid connector 63, respectively, so as to be configured for cooling liquid to circulate therein. The cooling liquid flows from the first liquid cooling pipe 41 through the first docking connector 413 and the first fluid connector 62 into the liquid cooling channel of the server 6, and is discharged into the second liquid cooling pipe 42 through the second fluid connector 63 and the second docking connector 423 of the server 6, thereby realizing the circulation of the cooling liquid. In this way, heat exchange can be implemented between the cooling liquid and the electronic components of the circuit board of the server 6 to continuously remove the heat energy generated by the electronic components of the circuit board of the server 6, thereby realizing heat dissipation of the server 6.

[0086] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first liquid cooling pipe 41 is an outlet liquid cooling pipe, the first fluid connector 62 is an outlet fluid connector, the second liquid cooling pipe 42 is an inlet liquid cooling pipe, and the second fluid connector 63 is an inlet fluid connector. In this embodiment, the first fluid connector 62, the second fluid connector 63, the first docking connector 413, and the second docking connector 423 are all quick-connect fluid connectors, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0087] Please refer to Figures 3 to 5. As shown in the figure, the fixing member 71 of the latch mechanism 7 is disposed on the first fixing platform 412 of the first liquid cooling tube 41. The fixing member 71 includes a first base plate 711, a first support plate 712 and at least one fixing latch 713. The first base plate 711 is fixed to the first fixing platform 412 of the first liquid cooling tube 41 and includes at least one first through-hole 711a. In this embodiment, the first base plate 711 includes a plurality of first through-holes 711a, which are spaced apart from each other at equal intervals. Each first docking connector 413 of the first liquid cooling tube 41 passes through the corresponding first through-hole 711a and is exposed on the surface of the first base plate 711. The first support plate 712 is connected to the first base plate 711. In this embodiment, one side of the first support plate 712 is connected to the side of the first base plate 711, and the first support plate 712 is vertically connected to the first base plate 711, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The first support plate 712 includes a first surface 712a and a second surface 712b. The first surface 712a and the second surface 712b are opposing surfaces, with the first surface 712a being the surface facing away from the first substrate 711. In this embodiment, the securing latch 713 is secured to the first surface 712a of the first support plate 712. In this embodiment, the securing member 71 includes a plurality of securing latches 713 disposed on the first support plate 712. The securing latches 713 are linearly arranged and spaced evenly apart. Each securing latch 713 is configured for a corresponding first docking connector 413.

[0088] like Figures 3 to 6 and 7A to 7B As shown, the fixing base 72 includes a second substrate 721 and a second support plate 722. The second substrate 721 of the fixing base 72 is fixed to the back side of the housing 61 of the server 6. The second substrate 721 includes two second through-holes 721a and an opening 721b. The first fluid connector 62 and the second fluid connector 63 are respectively disposed through the corresponding second through-holes 721a and exposed on the outer surface of the second substrate 721. The opening 721b extends through the second substrate 721 and is configured to allow the hook member 73 to pass therethrough, allowing the hook member 73 to rotate and move within the opening 721b. The second support plate 722 is connected to the second substrate 721 and is perpendicular to the second substrate 721 and is adjacent to the opening 721b. The second support plate 722 includes a first surface 722a, a second surface 722b, and a rotation axis 722c. The first surface 722a and the second surface 722b are opposite surfaces, with the first surface 722a being the surface away from the second substrate 721. The rotating shaft 722 c is disposed on the first surface 722 a of the second supporting plate 722 .

[0089] Please refer to Figures 3 to 6 and 7A to 7BThe hook member 73 is rotatably disposed on the first surface 722a of the second support plate 722 and is configured to correspond to the fixing latch 713 of the latch fixing member 71, thereby enabling the latch mechanism 7 to securely secure the first and second fluid connectors 62 and 63 of the server 6 to the first docking connector 413 of the first liquid cooling tube 41 and the second docking connector 423 of the second liquid cooling tube 42. In one embodiment, the hook member 73 includes a rod 731, an axial hole 732, and a hook portion 733. The rod 731 includes a first section 731a and a second section 731b, wherein an angle θ is defined between the first section 731a and the second section 731b, wherein the angle θ has a specific angle, which is an obtuse angle. The axial hole 732 extends through the hook member 73 and is disposed in the middle portion of the hook member 73. In one embodiment, the axial hole 732 is located in the second section 731b. The hook portion 733 is disposed at the second end 735 of the second section 731b of the hook member 73 and is configured to engage with the corresponding fixing latch 713 of the fixing member 71. The second end 735 and the first end 734 are opposite each other. The hook portion 733 has a receiving portion 733a and a sloped portion 733b. The receiving portion 733a is an arcuate groove disposed on a first edge of the hook portion 733, configured to receive and secure the corresponding fixing latch 713 of the fixing member 71. The sloped portion 733b is an arcuate surface disposed on a second edge of the hook portion 733, configured to guide the corresponding fixing latch 713 of the fixing member 71 to the receiving portion 733a. The hook member 73 is rotatably disposed on the first surface 722a of the second support plate 722, and the hook portion 733 of the hook member 73 extends through the opening 721b of the second base plate 721 of the fixing base 72. In one embodiment, the rotating shaft 722 c of the second supporting plate 722 passes through the shaft hole 732 of the hook member 73 , so that the hook member 73 is rotatably disposed on the second supporting plate 722 of the fixing base 72 .

[0090] Figures 8A to 8C This is a cross-sectional diagram of the latch mechanism, the server fluid connector, and the docking connector of the liquid cooling pipe assembly in this embodiment. Figures 3 to 6 、 7A to 7B and Figure 8A As shown, first, when the server 6 is installed in the slot of the rack 3, the first fluid connector 62 and the second fluid connector 63 of the server 6 move toward the first docking connector 413 of the first liquid cooling pipe 41 and the second docking connector 423 of the second liquid cooling pipe 42, respectively. At the same time, the fixing latch 713 of the fixing member 71 contacts the slope 733b of the hook portion 733 of the hook member 73. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. Figure 8BAs shown, the first fluid connector 62 and the second fluid connector 63 of the server 6 continue to move toward the first docking connector 413 of the first liquid cooling tube 41 and the second docking connector 423 of the second liquid cooling tube 42, respectively. The fixing latch 713 abuts against the hook member 73, causing the hook member 73 to be pushed along the slope 733b and rotated around the rotation axis 722c. Finally, as shown in FIG. Figure 8C As shown, the first and second fluid connectors 62 and 63 of the server 6 are connected and fixed to the first docking connector 413 of the first liquid-cooling tube 41 and the second docking connector 423 of the second liquid-cooling tube 42, respectively. The fixing latch 713 is guided by the slope 733b, crosses the slope 733b, and is received and fixed in the receiving portion 733a of the hook member 73. By interlocking the hook member 73 with the corresponding fixing latch 713 of the fixing member 71 disposed on the first liquid-cooling tube 41, the latch mechanism 7 securely fixes the first and second fluid connectors 62 and 63 of the server 6 to the first and second docking connectors 413 and 423 of the second liquid-cooling tube 41, respectively, and fluidically connects the first and second fluid connectors 62 and 63 of the server 6 to the first and second docking connectors 413 and 423 of the first and second liquid-cooling tubes 42, respectively.

[0091] In one embodiment, the other side of the first support plate 712 includes a plurality of grooves 712c. The plurality of grooves 712c are spaced apart at equal intervals, wherein two adjacent grooves 712c are configured to accommodate two opposite sides of the second substrate 721 of the fixing base 72, so that the fixing base 72 is positioned between the two adjacent grooves 712c.

[0092] In summary, this invention provides a latch mechanism, a server assembly, and a cabinet-type server system to which it is applicable. The latch mechanism securely secures the server's fluid connector to the docking connector of the liquid cooling tube assembly, thereby eliminating the spring force between the server and the liquid cooling tube assembly, reducing the torque applied to the server, and preventing the server from tilting relative to the rack slot, which could lead to cooling liquid leakage, uneven flow rate, and poor circulation. This also prevents rack deformation due to the spring force, improves product precision, and enhances heat dissipation performance.

[0093] This case can be modified in various ways by those skilled in the art, but all of them are within the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A latch mechanism for use in a rack-mounted server system, wherein the rack-mounted server system includes at least one server and at least one liquid cooling tube, the server including a housing and at least one fluid connector, the at least one liquid cooling tube including at least one docking connector, the latch mechanism comprising: at least one fixing member disposed on the liquid cooling tube and comprising at least one fixing latch; a fixing seat, disposed on the server and having a rotating shaft; and a hook member rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft of the fixing seat and having a hook portion; in, The hook portion of the hook member is rotated to engage with the at least one fixing latch of the at least one fixing member, so that the fixing seat is fixed to the at least one fixing member, and the at least one fluid connector of the server is connected and fluidically connected to the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling pipe.

2. The latch mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the securing member comprises: A first substrate, fixed to the liquid cooling tube and comprising at least one first through hole; and a first supporting plate, vertically connected to the first substrate, in, The at least one fixing latch is disposed on the first supporting plate, and the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling tube is disposed through the at least one first through hole.

3. The latch mechanism of claim 2, wherein the fixing seat comprises: a second substrate fixed to the server and comprising at least one second through-hole and an opening, wherein the at least one fluid connector of the server is disposed through the at least one second through-hole, and the opening is configured to allow the hook member to pass through and rotate therein; as well as The second supporting plate is vertically connected to the second base plate and is adjacent to the opening, wherein the rotating shaft is arranged on the second supporting plate.

4. The latch mechanism according to claim 3, wherein the hook member comprises: The rod body has a first section and a second section, wherein the first section and the second section form an angle; and An axial hole is provided in the middle portion of the hook member, wherein the rotating shaft of the second support plate passes through the axial hole of the hook member, so that the hook member can be rotatably provided on the second support plate.

5. The latch mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the hook portion has a receiving portion and a slope portion, wherein the receiving portion is an arc-shaped groove provided on a first edge of the hook portion, configured to receive and fix the at least one fixed latch, wherein the slope portion is an arc-shaped surface provided on a second edge of the hook portion, configured to guide the at least one fixed latch to the receiving portion.

6. The latch mechanism according to claim 5, wherein when the server moves toward the liquid cooling tube, the at least one fixing latch of the fixing member contacts the slope portion of the hook portion of the hook member, wherein when the server continues to move toward the liquid cooling tube, the at least one fixing latch presses against the hook member, so that the hook member is pushed along the slope portion and the hook member rotates around the rotating shaft, wherein when the at least one fluid connector of the server is connected and fixed to the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling tube, the at least one fixing latch spans the slope portion and is accommodated and fixed in the accommodating portion.

7. A server assembly for use in a cabinet-type server system, wherein the cabinet-type server system includes at least one liquid cooling pipe, the at least one liquid cooling pipe includes at least one docking connector, and the server assembly comprises: at least one server, comprising a housing and at least one fluid connector, wherein the at least one fluid connector is disposed on one side of the housing; and A latch mechanism comprising: at least one fixing member disposed on the liquid cooling tube and comprising at least one fixing latch; a fixing seat, disposed on the housing of the server and having a rotating shaft; and a hook member rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft of the fixing seat and having a hook portion; in, The hook portion of the hook member of the latch mechanism is rotated to engage with the at least one fixing latch of the at least one fixing member, so that the fixing seat is fixed to the at least one fixing member, and the at least one fluid connector of the server is connected and fluidically connected to the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling pipe.

8. A cabinet server system comprising: frame; a liquid cooling pipe assembly, disposed on the rack and comprising at least one liquid cooling pipe, wherein the at least one liquid cooling pipe comprises at least one docking connector; at least one server, pluggably disposed on the rack, and comprising a housing and at least one fluid connector, wherein the at least one fluid connector is disposed on one side of the housing; and A latch mechanism comprising: at least one fixing member disposed on the liquid cooling tube and comprising at least one fixing latch; a fixing seat, disposed on the housing of the server and having a rotating shaft; and a hook member rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft of the fixing seat and having a hook portion; in, The hook portion of the hook member of the latch mechanism is rotated to engage with the at least one fixing latch of the at least one fixing member, so that the fixing seat is fixed to the at least one fixing member, and the at least one fluid connector of the server is connected and fluidically connected to the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling pipe. 9 . The rack-type server system according to claim 8 , wherein the at least one liquid cooling pipe comprises a pipe and a fixing platform, the fixing platform is disposed on the pipe, wherein the at least one docking connector is disposed on the fixing platform and is fluidically connected to the pipe.

10. The rack-type server system according to claim 8, wherein the fixing member of the latch mechanism comprises: A first substrate, fixed to the liquid cooling tube and comprising at least one first through hole; and a first supporting plate, vertically connected to the first substrate, in, The at least one fixing latch is disposed on the first supporting plate, and the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling tube is disposed through the at least one first through hole.

11. The cabinet server system according to claim 10, wherein the fixing base comprises: a second substrate fixed to the server and comprising at least one second through-hole and an opening, wherein the at least one fluid connector of the server is disposed through the at least one second through-hole, and the opening is configured to allow the hook member to pass through and rotate therein; as well as The second supporting plate is vertically connected to the second base plate and is adjacent to the opening, wherein the rotating shaft is arranged on the second supporting plate.

12. The rack-type server system according to claim 11, wherein the hook member comprises: The rod body has a first section and a second section, wherein the first section and the second section form an angle; and An axial hole is provided in the middle portion of the hook member, wherein the rotating shaft of the second support plate passes through the axial hole of the hook member, so that the hook member can be rotatably provided on the second support plate.

13. The cabinet server system according to claim 8, wherein the hook portion has a receiving portion and a slope portion, wherein the receiving portion is an arc-shaped groove provided on a first edge of the hook portion, configured to receive and fix the at least one fixing latch, and wherein the slope portion is an arc-shaped surface provided on a second edge of the hook portion, configured to guide the at least one fixing latch to the receiving portion.

14. The cabinet server system according to claim 13, wherein when the server moves toward the liquid cooling tube, the at least one fixing latch of the fixing member contacts the slope portion of the hook portion of the hook member, wherein when the server continues to move toward the liquid cooling tube, the at least one fixing latch abuts against the hook member, causing the hook member to be pushed along the slope portion and causing the hook member to rotate around the rotating shaft, wherein when the at least one fluid connector of the server is connected and fixed to the at least one docking connector of the liquid cooling tube, the at least one fixing latch spans the slope portion and is accommodated and fixed in the accommodating portion.

Images