Connection mechanism and server

Abstract

The present invention provides a connection mechanism and a server. The connection mechanism includes: a bracket configured to be connected to an external installation base; a loading and unloading member connected to a first connector of a hardware module and detachably disposed on the bracket. In a state where the loading and unloading member is assembled to the bracket, the first connector is connected to the installation base through the bracket; wherein the installation base is located outside the main body of the hardware module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of servers, and particularly to a connection mechanism and a server. Background Art

[0002] A server is a device for providing computing services. Inside its chassis, several hardware modules are configured. The hardware modules mainly include a main body integrated with a circuit structure and chips, and a connector provided on the main body. When hardware modules at different positions and installation environments inside the chassis are connected, connectors are mostly used for docking to form an interconnection. For example, the male connector of one hardware module can be connected to the female connector of another hardware module.

[0003] To achieve signal interaction in the interconnected state, there are strict and precise requirements for the positions of the two connectors used for connection. Currently, the connectors are fixedly provided on the main body of the hardware module. Since the hardware module is restricted by many factors such as the frame structure, board height limit, and installation space when being arranged inside the chassis, the positions of the connectors are also restricted.

[0004] On this basis, to align the connectors of different hardware modules in three-dimensional space, a large space needs to be reserved inside the chassis. For this reason, the space utilization rate inside the chassis is reduced. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To solve at least one of the above and other technical problems in the prior art, the present invention provides a connection mechanism and a server.

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention provides a connection mechanism, including: a bracket configured to be connected to an external installation base; a loading and unloading member connected to a first connector of a hardware module and detachably provided on the bracket. In a state where the loading and unloading member is assembled on the bracket, the first connector is connected to the installation base through the bracket; wherein the installation base is located outside the main body of the hardware module.

[0007] In some exemplary embodiments, the first connector is detachably provided on the loading and unloading member.

[0008] In some exemplary embodiments, the first connector is connected to the loading and unloading member through a connecting member.

[0009] In some exemplary embodiments, the bracket includes: a first part extending along a first direction; at least one second part provided on the first part and extending along a second direction, the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction, and at least one installation position being provided on the second part; wherein the loading and unloading member is detachably connected to the installation position on the second part.

[0010] In some illustrative embodiments, at least two of the above-mentioned second parts are provided on the above-mentioned bracket, and the at least two of the above-mentioned second parts are arranged at intervals along the above-mentioned first direction.

[0011] In some illustrative embodiments, at least two of the above-mentioned mounting positions are provided on the above-mentioned second part, and the at least two of the above-mentioned mounting positions are arranged at intervals along the above-mentioned second direction.

[0012] In some illustrative embodiments, the above-mentioned second part includes: a frame body provided on the above-mentioned first part, the frame body having a receiving groove, and the mounting position is defined in the receiving groove; and a locking member having a first state of locking the above-mentioned loading and unloading member to the frame body, and a second state of disengaging from the above-mentioned loading and unloading member to enable the above-mentioned loading and unloading member to be removed from the frame body.

[0013] In some illustrative embodiments, the above-mentioned locking member includes: a mounting end provided on the above-mentioned frame body; a moving end provided on the mounting end and configured to move along the above-mentioned first direction between a first position where it extends into the receiving groove and connects to the above-mentioned loading and unloading member, and a second position where it disengages from the above-mentioned loading and unloading member and retracts into the frame body, so that the above-mentioned locking member has the above-mentioned first state and the above-mentioned second state.

[0014] In some illustrative embodiments, the above-mentioned frame body has a bottom plate and a wall plate formed on the bottom plate; the first wall plate and the second wall plate are arranged facing each other along the above-mentioned first direction, the third wall plate is located between the first wall plate and the second wall plate, and a first opening is formed on one side of the above-mentioned frame body facing the third wall plate; wherein, the space surrounded by the bottom plate, the first wall plate, the second wall plate and the third wall plate forms the above-mentioned receiving groove.

[0015] In some illustrative embodiments, the above-mentioned locking member is provided on the first wall plate and / or the second wall plate.

[0016] In some illustrative embodiments, the above-mentioned third wall plate is provided with a limiting groove; a first limiting end is provided at the end of the above-mentioned loading and unloading member facing the third wall plate, and the first limiting end is configured to be engaged with the limiting groove.

[0017] In some illustrative embodiments, a second limiting end is provided at the end of the above-mentioned loading and unloading member away from the third wall plate, and the second limiting end is configured to be bent in a third direction to be clamped to the bottom plate; wherein, the third direction is orthogonal to both the first direction and the second direction.

[0018] In some illustrative embodiments, the second limiting end has a first tooth portion, and the first tooth portion includes a plurality of first teeth arranged at intervals along the first direction; a second tooth portion is provided at a portion of the bottom plate that engages with the second limiting portion, and the second tooth portion includes a plurality of second teeth arranged at intervals along the first direction; wherein the first teeth and the second teeth are arranged in a staggered manner along the first direction to engage with each other.

[0019] In some illustrative embodiments, the loading and unloading member is provided with a first through hole suitable for the terminal of the first connector to pass through.

[0020] In some illustrative embodiments, an end portion of the loading and unloading member facing the third wall plate is provided with a second opening, and the second opening communicates with the first through hole.

[0021] An embodiment of the present invention further provides a server, including: a chassis; a connection mechanism; and at least two hardware modules. A first connector of the first hardware module is disposed on the connection mechanism, and a second connector of the second hardware module is connected to the first connector so that the first hardware module and the second hardware module form an electrical connection.

[0022] In some illustrative embodiments, one of the first connector and the second connector is a male connector, and the other is a female connector.

[0023] In some illustrative embodiments, the server further includes a first partition plate disposed inside the chassis to divide the chassis into two accommodation spaces along a second direction; a first portion of the bracket of the connection mechanism is disposed on the first partition plate.

[0024] In some illustrative embodiments, the server further includes a second partition plate disposed inside the chassis to divide the inside of the chassis into at least two accommodation spaces along a first direction; the bracket of the connection mechanism has a second portion corresponding to the number of the accommodation spaces, and the second portion corresponds to one of the accommodation spaces along the first direction.

[0025] In some illustrative embodiments, one of the first hardware module and the second hardware module is disposed in the chassis, and the other is disposed on the second partition plate and moves relative to the chassis along with the second partition plate so that the first connector and the second connector are synchronously connected in a state where the second partition plate is assembled to the chassis.

[0026] In some illustrative embodiments, the connection mechanism is arranged in the middle of the chassis; along a third direction, at least two of the hardware modules are respectively disposed on both sides of the connection mechanism.

[0027] In some exemplary embodiments, the server further includes a cover, which is detachably disposed on the chassis to cover at least a part of the hardware modules.

[0028] According to the connection mechanism and the server provided by the embodiments of the present invention, the loading and unloading member is adapted to be assembled with the first connector of the hardware module, that is, the first connector is no longer fixed to the main body of the hardware module, but is connected to the loading and unloading member. Further, the loading and unloading member is detachably disposed on the bracket to connect the first connector to the mounting base outside the main body. On this basis, since the first connector is no longer fixedly connected to the main body of the hardware module, it has higher flexibility. The connection position between the first connector and other external connectors is no longer restricted by the mounting position of the main body of the hardware module. Therefore, when the hardware module is arranged in the chassis, there are fewer restrictions, which is more conducive to making full use of the installation space in the chassis, so that the server equipped with the connection mechanism has a higher space utilization rate. And, since the first connector is directly disposed on the mounting base, the mounting position of the first connector relative to the mounting base is also fixed, which is also conducive to the modular design of the hardware modules in the server. Description of the Drawings

[0029] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a connection mechanism according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, showing the use state in which the first connector is assembled to the connection mechanism;

[0030] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a perspective view of the rear view angle of the connection mechanism shown;

[0031] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a use state diagram of the locking member in the first position shown;

[0032] Figure 4 is Figure 3 a use state diagram of the locking member in the second position shown;

[0033] Figure 5 is Figure 1 a partial enlarged view of the loading and unloading member shown;

[0034] Figure 6 is Figure 5 an exploded view of the parts of the loading and unloading member and the first connector assembled;

[0035] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a server according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 8 is Figure 7 a perspective view of the server shown with the cover removed;

[0037] Figure 9 Yes Figure 7 The cross-sectional schematic diagram of the server shown in the figure is formed by a first partition and a second partition.

[0038] In the accompanying drawings, the meanings of the reference numerals are as follows:

[0039] 1. Connecting mechanism; 11. Bracket; 111. First part; 112. Second part; 1121. Frame body; 11211. First wall plate; 11212. Second wall plate; 11213. Third wall plate; 11214. Bottom plate; 11215. Second tooth part; 11216. Limit groove; 1122. Locking part; 11221. Installation end; 11222. Mobile end; 12. Loading and unloading part; 121. First tooth part; 122. First through hole; 123. Wire collecting groove;

[0040] 2. First connector;

[0041] 3. Connecting piece;

[0042] 4. Chassis; 41. First partition; 42. Second partition; 43. Third partition;

[0043] 5. Machine cover;

[0044] 6. First partition;

[0045] 7. Second partition. Detailed implementation manners

[0046] To make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention clearer and more understandable, the following further elaborates on the present invention in detail with reference to specific embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

[0047] The terms used herein are only for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. The terms "including", "comprising", etc. used herein indicate the presence of the described features, steps, operations and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations or components.

[0048] All terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be noted that the terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the context of this specification and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly rigid manner.

[0049] In the case of using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, and C, etc.", generally, it should be interpreted according to the meaning that those skilled in the art usually understand this expression. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" should include, but not be limited to, a system having only A, only B, only C, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C, etc. In the case of using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, or C, etc.", generally, it should be interpreted according to the meaning that those skilled in the art usually understand this expression. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" should include, but not be limited to, a system having only A, only B, only C, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C, etc.

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a connection mechanism according to a schematic embodiment of the present invention, showing the usage state where the first connector is assembled to the connection mechanism.

[0051] According to the connection mechanism 1 provided by the present invention, referring to Figure 1 as shown, it includes a bracket 11 and a loading and unloading member 12. The bracket 11 is configured to be connected to an external installation base. The loading and unloading member 12 is connected to the first connector 2 of a hardware module and is detachably arranged on the bracket 11. In the state where the loading and unloading member 12 is assembled to the bracket 11, the first connector 2 is connected to the installation base through the bracket 11. Among them, the installation base is located outside the main body of the hardware module.

[0052] In some schematic embodiments, the hardware module mainly includes a main body and a connector, such as the first connector 2. Among them, the main body includes a housing and at least a part of a circuit structure, a chip, a slot, an interface, and passive components (such as resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, and passive components (i.e., components suitable for adjusting at least one of the voltage, current, frequency, and signal of the hardware module)) arranged in the housing. Specifically, the circuit structure includes, but is not limited to, a printed circuit board (i.e., PCB), and the chip is integrated with the circuit structure. Further, the first connector 2 includes, but is not limited to, being electrically connected to the circuit structure through a flexible cable, but does not form a mechanical connection with the main body of the hardware module, that is, the first connector 2 can move relative to the main body within the length range of the cable.

[0053] On this basis, the first connector 2 is installed on the loading and unloading part 12, can move within the length range of the cable along with the loading and unloading part 12, and is assembled on the bracket 11. Further, in addition to detachably installing the loading and unloading part 12 (including the first connector 2), the bracket 11 is also configured to be installed on an external installation base, which can be the chassis 4 of the following server, or other mechanisms connected to the chassis 4. Among them, the first connector 2 includes but is not limited to a high-density connector (i.e., High-Density Connector).

[0054] In such an implementation, the loading and unloading part 12 is suitable for being assembled with the first connector 2 of the first hardware module, that is, the first connector 2 is no longer fixed to the main body of the first hardware module, but is connected to the loading and unloading part 12, so that the first connector 2 can move within the length range of the cable along with the loading and unloading part 12, and is assembled with the bracket 11 through the loading and unloading part 12, so as to be directly installed on the installation base.

[0055] On this basis, since the first connector 2 is no longer fixedly connected to the main body of the first hardware module, when the main body of the first hardware module is installed on the installation base, the first connector 2 can be assembled at a suitable position within the range allowed by the cable, so as to have higher flexibility. Since the connection position of the first connector 2 with other external connectors is no longer restricted by the installation position of the main body of the first hardware module (referring to not being restricted by the installation position of the module main body within the length range of the cable), when arranging the first hardware module in the chassis 4, the first hardware module does not need to consider whether its installation position faces (or partially faces) the connectors of other hardware modules. Therefore, the installation restrictions on the first hardware module are less, which is beneficial to making full use of the installation space in the chassis 4 (such as arranging the first hardware module more densely), so that the server equipped with the connection mechanism 1 has higher space utilization.

[0056] In addition, since the first connector 2 is directly arranged on the installation base, the installation position of the first connector 2 relative to the installation base is also fixed, and the installation position of the first connector 2 can be regarded as a preset point in the server. When configuring the second hardware module connected to the first connector 2, only the relative position between the second connector set on the second hardware module and the preset point needs to be considered, without considering the installation position of the first hardware module, nor pre-installing the first connector 2 at the preset point. Therefore, it is beneficial to modular design of the hardware modules in the server.

[0057] Refer to Figure 1 As shown, the bracket 11 has a first direction (z direction), a second direction (x direction) and the following third direction (y direction). Unless otherwise specified, the following first direction, second direction and third direction can all refer to Figure 1 As shown.

[0058] In some exemplary embodiments, referring to Figure 1 as shown, the bracket 11 includes a first part 111 and at least one second part 112. The first part 111 extends in a first direction. The second part 112 is disposed on the first part 111 and extends in a second direction, the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction, and the second part 112 is provided with at least one mounting position. Wherein, the loading and unloading member 12 is detachably connected to the mounting position of the second part 112.

[0059] In some exemplary embodiments, referring to Figure 1 as shown, the first part 111 extends in a first direction, the second part 112 is disposed on the first part 111 and extends in a second direction to form a substantially "T"-shaped structure with the first part 111. Specifically, the second part 112 is fixedly connected to the first part 111, including but not limited to being integrally formed, riveted, welded, bolted, adhesively bonded, or connected in any other manner, and the second part 112 protrudes from the first part 111 in the second direction. Further, the loading and unloading member 12 is adapted to mount the first connector 2, and the first connector 2 is detachably disposed on the second part 112 along with the loading and unloading member 12. Wherein, an installation position for installing the first connector 2 is formed inside the second part 112.

[0060] In such an embodiment, the first connector 2 is detachably disposed on the second part 112 through the loading and unloading member 12. When the first connector 2 fails, the loading and unloading member 12 can be removed from the second part 112 for repairing and / or replacing the first connector 2, thereby facilitating the use and maintenance of the hardware module. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0061] For example, the second part 112 can also be detachably connected to the first part 111. To replace the second part 112 while the first part 111 remains in the installed state on the installation base. For the replaceable second part 112, different second parts 112 can be provided with different mounting positions in the second direction, that is, by replacing the second part 112, the first connector 2 has different mounting positions in the second direction (such as the receiving groove described below). In this way, the flexibility of installing the first connector 2 can be further improved.

[0062] In some exemplary embodiments, referring to Figure 1 as shown, the bracket 11 is provided with at least two second parts 112, and the at least two second parts 112 are arranged at intervals in the first direction.

[0063] In some exemplary embodiments, referring to Figure 1 as shown, the first part 111 of the bracket 11 is provided with two second parts 112. Specifically, the two second parts 112 are arranged at intervals in the first direction and are aligned in the second direction.

[0064] In such an embodiment, a plurality of second parts 112 are provided in the same first part 111, and a plurality of first connectors 2 can be arranged on the same bracket 11 (i.e., one first part 111) to meet the partitioning requirements inside the chassis 4 of the server. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0065] For example, the first part 111 can be provided with three, four, five or any other number of second parts 112 at intervals, and specifically, it should be appropriate to meet the requirements of installing a suitable number of first connectors 2 and the partitioning requirements inside the chassis 4.

[0066] According to an embodiment of the present invention, not shown in the figure, the second part 112 is provided with at least two installation positions, and the at least two installation positions are arranged at intervals along the second direction.

[0067] In some exemplary embodiments, the distance that the second part 112 extends along the second direction can meet the length requirements for arranging a plurality of loading and unloading parts 12 (the length along the x direction as shown in the reference Figure 1 ). Further, a plurality of installation positions (such as the receiving grooves described below) can be provided in one second part 112 to install a plurality of first connectors 2 at intervals along the second direction in the same second part 112. In this way, a plurality of first connectors 2 can be installed on the second part 112 to save the space occupied by arranging a plurality of first parts 111.

[0068] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a perspective view of the rear view angle of the three-dimensional view of the connection mechanism shown. Figure 3 is Figure 1 a usage state diagram of the locking part in the first position as shown. Figure 4 is Figure 3 a usage state diagram of the locking part in the second position as shown.

[0069] According to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown in the reference Figures 2 to 4 the second part 112 includes a frame body 1121 and a locking part 1122. The frame body 1121 is arranged on the first part 111, and the frame body 1121 has a receiving groove, and the installation position is defined in the receiving groove. The locking part 1122 has a first state of locking the loading and unloading part 12 to the frame body 1121, and a second state of disengaging from the loading and unloading part 12, so that the loading and unloading part 12 can be removed from the frame body 1121.

[0070] According to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown in the reference Figure 2As shown, the housing 1121 has a bottom plate 11214 and side plates formed on the bottom plate 11214. The first side plate 11211 and the second side plate 11212 are arranged facing each other in a first direction. The third side plate 11213 is located between the first side plate 11211 and the second side plate 11212. A first opening is formed on one side of the housing 1121 facing the third side plate 11213. Among them, the space surrounded by the bottom plate 11214, the first side plate 11211, the second side plate 11212, and the third side plate 11213 forms a receiving groove.

[0071] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 2 As shown, the bottom plate 11214 of the housing 1121 extends in a plane along a first direction (referring to the z direction shown in Figure 1 ), and a second direction (referring to the x direction shown in Figure 1 ). Further, the first side plate 11211 and the second side plate 11212 extend in a plane along a third direction (referring to the y direction shown in Figure 1 ), and a second direction (referring to the x direction shown in Figure 1 ), and are spaced apart at both ends of the bottom plate 11214. Still further, the third side plate 11213 extends in a plane along a first direction (referring to the z direction shown in Figure 1 ), and a third direction (referring to the y direction shown in Figure 1 ). The space surrounded by the first side plate 11211, the second side plate 11212, the third side plate 11213, and the bottom plate 11214 forms a receiving groove. Among them, on the other side of the bottom plate 11214 facing the third side plate 11213, a first opening communicating with the receiving groove is formed, so that the handling member 12 can be inserted into the receiving groove through the first opening, or the handling member 12 can be taken out from the first opening.

[0072] In such an embodiment, the handling member 12 equipped with the first connector 2 is detachably installed in the receiving groove through the first opening. The receiving groove not only guides the handling member 12 but also limits the handling member 12 in the first direction, so as to facilitate the rapid assembly of the handling member 12 at the installation position. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0073] For example, the receiving groove provided in the housing 1121 may also extend along the first direction or the third direction.

[0074] Again, for example, the housing 1121 may also adopt a plate-like structure (that is, without a receiving groove). Correspondingly, the handling member 12 can be directly installed on a plane of the plate-like structure without being fitted into the groove structure.

[0075] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the locking member 1122 is provided on the first side plate 11211 and / or the second side plate 11212.

[0076] According to an embodiment of the present invention, with reference to Figures 2 to 4 as shown, the locking member 1122 includes a mounting end 11221 and a moving end 11222. The mounting end 11221 is disposed on the frame body 1121. The moving end 11222 is disposed on the mounting end 11221 and is configured to move between a first position where it extends into the receiving groove and connects to the loading and unloading member 12 in a first direction, and a second position where it disengages from the loading and unloading member 12 and retracts into the frame body 1121, so that the locking member 1122 has a first state and a second state.

[0077] According to an embodiment of the present invention, with reference to Figure 2 as shown, the locking member 1122 includes but is not limited to being disposed on the first wall plate 11211. Specifically, the mounting end 11221 of the locking member 1122 is mounted on the first wall plate 11211. When the moving end 11222 of the locking member 1122 is in the first position, it is configured to pass through the first wall plate 11211 and penetrate into a hole (or groove) provided in the loading and unloading member 12 to connect the loading and unloading member 12 to the first wall plate 11211 (i.e., mount the loading and unloading member 12 on the frame body 1121) to prevent it from falling off from the first opening. Further, when the locking member 1122 is in the second position, the moving end 11222 retracts from the loading and unloading member 12 into the first wall plate 11211, so that the loading and unloading member 12 can be disengaged from the frame body 1121 through the first opening. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0078] For example, the loading and unloading member 12 can also be detachably connected to the frame body 1121 by means of snap fit, bolt connection or any other method.

[0079] In such an embodiment, the loading and unloading member 12 is installed and removed by the locking member 1122 located outside the frame body 1121, which facilitates the operation thereof.

[0080] In some exemplary embodiments, the locking member 1122 includes but is not limited to a plunger. Specifically, it includes a sleeve (i.e., the mounting end 11221) mounted on the first wall plate 11211 and a cylindrical member (i.e., the moving end 11222) passing through the sleeve. Among them, the cylindrical member can penetrate out of the first wall plate 11211 in response to pressure and can also retract into the first wall plate 11211 under the action of tension.

[0081] In such an embodiment, the locking member 1122 uses a plunger. When reciprocally adjusting the plunger between the first position and the second position, no external installation tool (such as a screwdriver, etc.) is required for assembly. This can facilitate the operation and also achieve quick disassembly and quick installation of the loading and unloading member 12. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0082] For example, the locking member 1122 may also adopt other pin structures similar to the plunger and other components that can be installed and disassembled without tools.

[0083] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 2 as shown, the third wall plate 11213 is provided with a limiting groove 11216. One end of the loading and unloading member 12 facing the third wall plate 11213 is provided with a first limiting end, and the first limiting end is configured to be engaged with the limiting groove 11216.

[0084] In some exemplary embodiments, referring to Figure 2 as shown, the third wall plate 11213 is provided with at least two limiting grooves 11216. Specifically, the two limiting grooves 11216 are arranged at intervals in the first direction. Further, a columnar first limiting end is provided at a position of the loading and unloading member 12 opposite to the two limiting grooves 11216, so that when the loading and unloading member 12 is assembled to the housing 1121, the first limiting end is embedded in the limiting groove 11216. In this way, the loading and unloading member 12 can be restricted in the third direction (referring to the y direction shown in Figure 1 ), and the loading and unloading member 12 can be prevented from rotating in the plane formed by the first direction (referring to the z direction shown in Figure 1 ) and the third direction (referring to the y direction shown in Figure 1 ).

[0085] Figure 5 is Figure 1 a partial enlarged view of the loading and unloading member shown in

[0086] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 5 as shown, one end of the loading and unloading member 12 away from the third wall plate 11213 is provided with a second limiting end, and the second limiting end is configured to be bent in the third direction to be engaged with the bottom plate 11214. Among them, the third direction is orthogonal to both the first direction and the second direction.

[0087] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 5 as shown, the second limiting end has a first tooth portion 121, and the first tooth portion 121 includes a plurality of first teeth arranged at intervals in the first direction. A second tooth portion 11215 is provided at a portion of the bottom plate 11214 engaged with the second limiting portion, and the second tooth portion 11215 includes a plurality of second teeth arranged at intervals in the first direction. Among them, the first teeth and the second teeth are arranged in a staggered manner in the first direction to be engaged with each other.

[0088] In some exemplary embodiments, the second limiting end of the loading and unloading member 12 is bent towards the bottom plate 11214 of the housing 1121 to be clamped at the end of the bottom plate 11214 where the first opening is formed. Further, a first tooth portion 121 is provided at the second limiting end, and a second tooth portion 11215 is provided at the bottom plate 11214. Among them, the first tooth formed by the first tooth portion 11214 and the second tooth formed by the second tooth portion 11215 form a concave portion and a convex portion with each other along the first direction (refer to Figure 1 the z - direction shown). They are fitted with each other in an interlocking manner. In this way, the loading and unloading member 12 can be restricted both along the first direction (refer to Figure 1 the z - direction shown) and the third direction (refer to Figure 1 the y - direction shown), and the loading and unloading member 12 can be prevented from rotating in the plane formed by the second direction (refer to Figure 1 the x - direction shown) and the third direction (refer to Figure 1 the y - direction shown).

[0089] In such an embodiment, when the first connector 2 adopts a high - density connector, its docking with the external second connector (also a high - density connector) has relatively high and strict precision requirements. For this reason, the embodiments of the present invention adopt a variety of limiting structures (that is, the above - mentioned tooth structures formed by the first limiting end and the limiting groove, and the second limiting end and the bottom plate) to restrict the installation position of the loading and unloading member 12 and the housing 1121. In this way, it not only plays a role in preventing mistakes, that is, the two ends of the loading and unloading member 12 are different, and the correct direction can be distinguished only by touch during assembly to prevent incorrect installation; but also can achieve high - precision assembly of the loading and unloading member 12 and the housing 1121, so that the first connector 2 can be accurately maintained at an installation position suitable for assembling with the external second connector.

[0090] Figure 6 is Figure 5 the exploded view of the parts of the loading and unloading member and the first connector shown.

[0091] According to the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in reference to Figure 5 , Figure 6 the first connector 2 is detachably arranged on the loading and unloading member 12.

[0092] According to the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in reference to Figure 5 , Figure 6 the first connector 2 is connected to the loading and unloading member 12 through the connecting member 3.

[0093] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in reference to Figure 6As shown, the first connector 2 is disposed on the mounting plate, which has a shoulder protruding outward from the first connector 2. Further, a bolt hole is provided at a position corresponding to the shoulder on the loading and unloading member 12, and the first connector 2 is detachably mounted on the loading and unloading member 12 by screwing the connecting member 3 with the bolt hole. Among them, the connecting member 3 includes but is not limited to a bolt.

[0094] In such an embodiment, the first connector 2 is detachably disposed on the loading and unloading member 12 through the connecting member 3, so as to be synchronously disposed on the second part 112 of the bracket 11 with the loading and unloading member 12. Before the first connector 2 is connected to the housing 1121, it can be pre-mounted on the loading and unloading member 12 first, and then the loading and unloading member 12 is connected to the housing 1121. In this way, it is beneficial to shorten the time for installing the first connector 2 (or the hardware module equipped with the first connector 2) on the server. Similarly, when removing the first connector 2 or the hardware module equipped with the first connector 2 from the server, the corresponding removal time can also be shortened.

[0095] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the loading and unloading member 12 is provided with a first through hole 122 suitable for the connection terminal of the first connector 2 to pass through.

[0096] In some illustrative embodiments, referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the first through hole 122 provided in the loading and unloading member 12 penetrates along the third direction (the y direction shown in Figure 1 ), so that the connection terminal of the first connector 2 and the cable connected to the connection terminal can pass through the first through hole 122. Further, a second through hole is also correspondingly provided in the part of the bottom plate 11214 of the housing 1121 facing the first through hole 122 to accommodate and guide the connection terminal of the first connector 2 and the cable connected to the connection terminal, so as to prevent the part of the cable connected to the connection terminal from being squeezed and bent. Among them, the inner edge shape of the first through hole can be configured to match the external shape of the connection terminal of the first connector 2, so that the first connector 2 is fitted into the first through hole, thereby playing a further limiting role.

[0097] In some illustrative embodiments, referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the loading and unloading member 12 is further provided with a cable trough 123. Specifically, the cable trough 123 is communicated with the first through hole 122 to limit the cable connected to the connection terminal of the first connector 2 to pass through when the loading and unloading member 12 is assembled with the first connector 2, so as to prevent the cable from swinging disorderly in the first through hole 122.

[0098] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the end of the loading and unloading member 12 facing the third wall plate 11213 is provided with a second opening, and the second opening communicates with the first through hole 122.

[0099] In some exemplary embodiments, with reference to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, a second opening is provided at the right end of the loading and unloading member 12. Specifically, the second opening communicates with the first through hole 122. For this reason, the first connector 2 can be inserted into the loading and unloading member 12 along the extending direction of the through hole, so as to be engaged with the loading and unloading member 12. This can simplify the installation of the first connector 2 and the loading and unloading member 12, and avoid the obstruction caused by the cable when the first connector 2 is assembled to the loading and unloading member 12 in a direction orthogonal to the first through hole 122. Further, the direction of the second opening provided in the first through hole 122 is opposite to the direction of the first opening provided in the bottom plate 11214. For this reason, when the loading and unloading member 12 is assembled to the second part 112 of the bracket 11, the first opening and the second opening will form a closed structure to further prevent the second connector 2 from detaching from the loading and unloading member 12.

[0100] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a server according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 is Figure 7 a perspective view of the server shown in the figure with the cover removed. With reference to Figure 7 As shown, the chassis 4 of the server has a height direction, a length direction, and a width direction. To make the direction of the bracket 11 of the connection mechanism correspond to that of the chassis 4, the height direction of the chassis 4 can be regarded as the first direction (z direction), the width direction of the chassis 4 can be regarded as the second direction (x direction), and the length direction of the chassis 4 can be regarded as the third direction (y direction).

[0101] Based on the same inventive concept, the present invention also provides a server. With reference to Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, it includes a chassis 4, a connection mechanism 1, and at least two hardware modules. The first connector 2 of the first hardware module is disposed on the connection mechanism 1, and the second connector of the second hardware module is connected to the first connector 2 so that the first hardware module and the second hardware module form an electrical connection.

[0102] In some exemplary embodiments, the first hardware module and the second hardware module include, but are not limited to, using board cards, specifically at least one of a motherboard, a central processing unit card, a memory card, a hard disk drive (HDD) / solid state drive (SSD) card, a network interface card, a RAID card, a graphics card, an HBA card, an expansion card, and a management card. Specifically, the first hardware module is provided with the first connector 2, and the second hardware module is provided with the second connector.

[0103] In a schematic embodiment, the first connector 2 is disposed on the bracket 11 of the connection mechanism 1, specifically, it can be disposed on the second part 112 of the bracket 11. The technical features regarding how the first connector 2 is connected to the bracket 11 have been described in detail in the above embodiments, and thus will not be elaborated herein.

[0104] In such an embodiment, the loading and unloading member 12 is adapted to directly mount the first connector 2 inside the chassis 4. Since the first connector 2 is no longer fixedly connected to the main body of the first hardware module, when the main body of the first hardware module is mounted on the mounting base, the first connector 2 can be assembled within the range allowed by the cable to a mounting position suitable for connecting to the second connector, so as to have higher flexibility. When arranging the first hardware module in the chassis 4, it is not necessary to consider whether the mounting position of the first hardware module is opposite to the second connector of the second hardware module. Therefore, there are fewer installation restrictions on the first hardware module, which is conducive to making full use of the installation space inside the chassis 4 (such as arranging the first hardware modules more densely), so that the server equipped with the connection mechanism 1 has higher space utilization.

[0105] In addition, since the first connector 2 is directly disposed in the chassis 4, the mounting position of the first connector 2 relative to the chassis 4 is also fixed, and the first connector 2 can be regarded as being located at a preset point. When configuring the second hardware module connected to the first connector 2, only the relative position between the second connector provided on the second hardware module and the preset point needs to be considered, without considering the mounting position of the first hardware module, nor pre-installing the first connector 2 at the above preset point. Therefore, it is conducive to modular design of the hardware modules in the server to make full use of the space inside the chassis 4.

[0106] According to an embodiment of the present invention, one of the first connector 2 and the second connector is a male connector, and the other is a female connector.

[0107] In a schematic embodiment, referring to Figure 1 and Figure 6 as shown, the first connector 2 can adopt a male connector. Correspondingly, the second connector (not shown) should adopt a female connector. Among them, a male connector refers to a connector having protruding contacts or pins, and a female connector refers to a connector having concave contacts or sockets. The female connector is adapted to cooperate with the male connector to allow the contacts or pins of the male connector to be inserted, so that two hardware modules (i.e., the first hardware module and the second hardware module) form an electrical connection to transmit current and / or signals. Similarly, the first connector 2 can also adopt a female connector, and the corresponding second connector should be configured as a male connector.

[0108] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 7As shown, the server further includes a machine cover 5, which is detachably disposed on the chassis 4 to cover at least a part of the hardware modules.

[0109] In some illustrative embodiments, referring to Figure 7 As shown, the chassis 4 includes, but is not limited to, a box structure configured to be generally cubic. Specifically, the cavity formed by the chassis 4 is for installing hardware modules (i.e., the first hardware module and the second hardware module). Further, a machine cover 5 is detachably disposed on the top of the chassis 4 to enclose the cavity.

[0110] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 7 As shown, the server further includes a first partition 6. The first partition 6 is disposed inside the chassis 4 to divide the chassis 4 into two accommodation spaces along a second direction. The first part 111 of the bracket 11 of the connection mechanism 1 is disposed on the first partition 6.

[0111] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 8 As shown, the server further includes a second partition 7, which is disposed inside the chassis 4 to divide the inside of the chassis 4 into at least two accommodation spaces along a first direction. The bracket 11 of the connection mechanism 1 has a second part 112 corresponding to the number of accommodation spaces, and each second part 112 corresponds to an accommodation space along the first direction.

[0112] In some illustrative embodiments, referring to Figure 7 As shown, the interior of the chassis 4 includes, but is not limited to, at least one first partition 6 disposed therein. Specifically, the first partition 6 extends along the plane formed by the first direction (z direction) and the third direction (y direction) to divide the cavity inside the chassis 4 into two accommodation spaces along the second direction (x direction). Among them, the smaller accommodation space formed by the first partition 6 and the inner wall of the chassis 4 can be used for threading, restricting, and hiding the use of cables. Further, both ends of the first part 111 of the bracket 11 in the first direction are formed with bent portions for mounting on the first partition 6. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0113] For example, the first part 111 of the bracket 11 can also be directly mounted on the inner wall of the chassis 4 (such as the inner wall of the side and / or the inner wall of the bottom).

[0114] In some illustrative embodiments, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the interior of the chassis 4 includes, but is not limited to, at least one second partition 7. Specifically, the second partition 7 extends along the plane formed by the second direction (x direction) and the third direction (y direction) to divide the cavity in the chassis 4 into two accommodation spaces along the first direction (z direction). In this way, it can adapt to the structural design of a 4U (U is a standard rack height unit, 1U equals 1.75 inches) server, enabling the server to have a larger expansion space.

[0115] In some exemplary embodiments, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the bracket 11 of the connection mechanism 1 has second parts 112 corresponding to the number and positions of the stacked accommodation spaces (i.e., there are two second parts 112, and each of the two second parts 112 faces an accommodation space), and the second part 112 is suitable for installing a handling member 12 (equipped with a first connector 2). In this way, the first connector 2 of the first hardware module arranged in the accommodation space can be fixed.

[0116] Figure 9 is Figure 7 a schematic cross-sectional view of the server formed by the first partition and the second partition.

[0117] In some exemplary embodiments, referring to Figure 9 As shown, the first partition 6 and the second partition 7 provided in the chassis 4 divide the chassis into three regions along the first direction (z direction) and the second direction (x direction), namely the first partition 41 located on the left as shown in Figure 9 and the second partition 42 and the third partition 43 located on the right as shown in Figure 9 Among them, the first partition 41 can be used to arrange the first hardware module and the cable for the first hardware module. The part of the cable passing out of the first partition 41 is provided with a first connector 2, and the first connector is connected to the bracket 11 through the handling member 12; the stacked second partition 42 and third partition 43 can be used to arrange the second hardware module with a second connector, and when the partition is installed in the chassis 4, the second connector and the corresponding first connector 2 are connected.

[0118] In such an implementation, the first partition 6 and the second partition 7 provided in the chassis 4 respectively utilize the width (corresponding to the thickness of the hardware module) and height (corresponding to the width of the hardware module) inside the chassis 4. In this way, more hardware modules can be arranged within the cross-section defined by the first direction and the second direction, thereby making more full use of the internal space of the chassis 4 to further improve the space utilization rate inside the chassis 4.

[0119] In some exemplary embodiments, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, at least a part of the chassis 4, the machine cover 5, the first partition 6, the second partition 7, and the bracket 11 is provided with Latin holes, and the corresponding mechanisms are connected by riveting in the Latin holes.

[0120] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 7 and 8 As shown, the connecting mechanism 1 is arranged in the middle of the chassis 4. Along the third direction, at least two hardware modules are respectively arranged on both sides of the connecting mechanism 1.

[0121] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 7 and 8 As shown, one of the first hardware module and the second hardware module is arranged on the chassis 4, and the other is arranged on the second partition 7 and moves relative to the chassis 4 along with the second partition 7, so that when the second partition 7 is assembled to the chassis 4, the first connector 2 and the second connector are synchronously connected.

[0122] In some illustrative embodiments, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the connecting mechanism 1 is arranged in the middle of the chassis 4 along the third direction (y direction). That is to say, the interior of the chassis 4 is regarded as being divided into two regions by the connecting mechanism 1 along the third direction. Among them, one region can be used to arrange the first hardware module, and the body of the first hardware module can be connected inside the chassis 4, while the other region can be used to arrange the second hardware module on the second partition 7. Specifically, the first connector 2 of the first hardware module is connected to the bracket 11 of the connecting mechanism 1 by the loading and unloading part 12, and the second connector of the second hardware module is installed on the second partition 7. In this way, when the second partition 7 is pushed into the chassis 4 along the third direction, the second connector will approach the first connector 2 synchronously with the second partition 7. Thus, by designing the stroke of the second partition 7 (i.e., the design of the displacement distance), the second partition 7 can be installed on the chassis 4 while the second connector is synchronously connected to the first connector 2, thereby saving the assembly time of the server.

[0123] On this basis, if the second partition 7 is provided with a plurality of second connectors along the second direction, and a plurality of corresponding installation positions are arranged in the chassis 4 through the second part 112 provided by the bracket 11. Then, during the process of pushing the second partition 7 into the chassis 4 at one time, the connection of a plurality of second connectors and the first connector 2 can be completed synchronously, thereby further saving the assembly time of the server.

[0124] It should also be noted that the directional terms mentioned in the embodiments, such as "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", etc., are only for reference to the drawings and are not used to limit the protection scope of the present invention. Throughout the drawings, the same elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. Conventional structures or configurations will be omitted when they may cause confusion in the understanding of the present invention.

[0125] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, these embodiments are only for illustrative purposes and not for limiting the scope of the present invention. Although the embodiments have been described separately above, this does not mean that the measures in each embodiment cannot be used advantageously in combination. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Without departing from the scope of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make various substitutions and modifications, and all such substitutions and modifications should fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A connecting mechanism, characterized in that, Comprising: A bracket (11) configured to be connected to an external mounting base; A loading and unloading member (12) connected to a first connector (2) of a hardware module and detachably disposed on the bracket (11). In a state where the loading and unloading member (12) is assembled on the bracket (11), the first connector (2) is mounted on the loading and unloading member (12), movable within the length range of the cable along with the loading and unloading member (12), and assembled on the bracket (11), and the first connector (2) is connected to the mounting base through the bracket (11); Wherein, the mounting base is located outside the main body of the hardware module, and the main body includes a housing of the hardware module; The bracket (11) includes a first part (111) and at least two second parts (112). The second part (112) is provided with at least one mounting position, and the loading and unloading member (12) is detachably connected to the mounting position of the second part (112).

2. The connecting mechanism according to claim 1, wherein The first connector (2) is detachably disposed on the loading and unloading member (12).

3. The connecting mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first connector (2) is connected to the loading and unloading member (12) through a connecting member (3).

4. The connection mechanism according to claim 2 or 3, wherein The first part (111) extends along a first direction; The second part (112) is disposed on the first part (111) and extends along a second direction, and the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction.

5. The connecting mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that At least two of the second parts (112) are arranged at intervals along the first direction.

6. The connecting mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, At least two of the mounting positions are arranged at intervals along the second direction.

7. The connecting mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second part (112) includes: A frame body (1121) disposed on the first part (111). The frame body (1121) has a receiving groove, and the mounting position is defined in the receiving groove; A locking member (1122) having a first state of locking the loading and unloading member (12) to the frame body (1121) and a second state of disengaging from the loading and unloading member (12) to enable the loading and unloading member (12) to be detached from the frame body (1121).

8. The connecting mechanism according to claim 7, wherein, The locking member (1122) includes: A mounting end (11221) disposed on the frame body (1121); A moving end (11222) disposed on the mounting end (11221), configured to move along the first direction between a first position of extending into the receiving groove and connecting to the loading and unloading member (12) and a second position of disengaging from the loading and unloading member (12) and retracting into the frame body (1121), so that the locking member (1122) has the first state and the second state.

9. The connecting mechanism according to claim 8, wherein The frame body (1121) has a bottom plate (11214) and a wall plate formed on the bottom plate (11214); A first wall plate (11211) and a second wall plate (11212) are arranged facing each other along the first direction, and a third wall plate (11213) is located between the first wall plate (11211) and the second wall plate (11212). A first opening is formed on a side of the frame body (1121) facing the third wall plate (11213); Among them, the space surrounded by the bottom plate (11214), the first side plate (11211), the second side plate (11212), and the third side plate (11213) forms the receiving groove.

10. The connecting mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that, The locking member (1122) is disposed on the first side plate (11211) and / or the second side plate (11212).

11. The connecting mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that, The third side plate (11213) is provided with a limiting groove (11216); One end of the loading and unloading member (12) facing the third side plate (11213) is provided with a first limiting end, and the first limiting end is configured to be fitted with the limiting groove (11216).

12. The connecting mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that, One end of the loading and unloading member (12) away from the third side plate (11213) is provided with a second limiting end, and the second limiting end is configured to bend in a third direction to be engaged with the bottom plate (11214); Among them, the third direction is orthogonal to both the first direction and the second direction.

13. The connecting mechanism according to claim 12, characterized in that, The second limiting end has a first tooth portion (121), and the first tooth portion (121) includes a plurality of first teeth arranged at intervals along the first direction; A portion of the bottom plate (11214) engaged with the second limiting portion is provided with a second tooth portion (11215), and the second tooth portion (11215) includes a plurality of second teeth arranged at intervals along the first direction; Among them, the first teeth and the second teeth are arranged in a dislocation manner along the first direction to be engaged with each other.

14. The connecting mechanism according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that, The loading and unloading member (12) is provided with a first through hole (122) suitable for the connection terminal of the first connector (2) to pass through.

15. The connecting mechanism according to claim 14, characterized in that, One end of the loading and unloading member (12) facing the third side plate (11213) is provided with a second opening, and the second opening is communicated with the first through hole (122).

16. A server, characterized in that, Including: A chassis (4); The connection mechanism (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15; At least two hardware modules, a first connector (2) of a first hardware module is disposed on the connection mechanism (1), and a second connector of a second hardware module is connected to the first connector (2) so that the first hardware module and the second hardware module form an electrical connection.

17. The server according to claim 16, wherein One of the first connector (2) and the second connector is a male end connector, and the other is a female end connector.

18. The server according to claim 16, wherein It further includes a first partition plate (6) disposed in the chassis (4) to divide the chassis (4) into two accommodation spaces along the second direction; A first portion (111) of the bracket (11) of the connection mechanism (1) is disposed on the first partition plate (6).

19. The server according to claim 16, characterized in that, It further includes a second partition plate (7) disposed in the chassis (4) to divide the interior of the chassis (4) into at least two accommodation spaces along the first direction; The bracket (11) of the connection mechanism (1) has a second portion (112) corresponding to the number of the accommodation spaces, and the second portion (112) corresponds to one of the accommodation spaces along the first direction.

20. The server according to claim 19, wherein One of the first hardware module and the second hardware module is disposed in the chassis (4), and the other is disposed on the second partition (7) and moves relative to the chassis (4) along with the second partition (7), so that the first connector (2) is synchronously connected to the second connector when the second partition (7) is assembled to the chassis (4).

21. The server according to claim 16, wherein The connection mechanism (1) is arranged in the middle of the chassis (4); Along the third direction, at least two of the hardware modules are respectively arranged on both sides of the connection mechanism (1).

22. The server according to any one of claims 16 to 21, characterized in that, It further includes a machine cover (5), which is detachably arranged on the chassis (4) to cover at least a part of the hardware modules.

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