Server rails for blind-mate connections

Abstract

A server rail assembly is provided for facilitating a blind-mate connection between a server chassis assembly and one or more components of a server rack. The server rail assembly may include a first server rail having a first mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a first server rack column and a second mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a second server rack column. The server rail assembly may also include an adjustable track assembly slidably secured to the first mounting assembly and the second mounting assembly. In one example, the server rail assembly may include a biasing element having a first end secured to the first mounting assembly and a second end secured to the adjustable track assembly to apply a biasing force to the adjustable track assembly to bias the adjustable track assembly toward the first mounting assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to server slides for blind-mate connections. Background Art

[0002] The server (e.g., a server chassis) may be held within a server rack that includes one or more server rails configured to support the server. In one example, the server may be connected to a power or cooling source within the server rack, and an interface connection for fluid or electrical transmission allows power, cooling, or other signals to be transmitted to the server. Summary of the invention

[0003] Some embodiments of the present invention provide a server rail assembly for facilitating a blind-mate connection between one or more components (e.g., a power supply or a cooling system) of a server chassis and a server rack. The server rail assembly may include a pair of server rails, each server rail including an adjustable track fixed to a fixed track. In one example, the server rail assembly may include a male connector fixed between the pair of server rails. In addition, the server chassis may include a female connector configured to be connected to the male connector by an interface. In one example, one or more biasing elements are fixed to the adjustable track. The biasing element may be configured to facilitate a blind-mate connection between the male connector and the female connector.

[0004] Some embodiments of the present invention provide a server rail assembly for facilitating a blind-mate connection between a server chassis assembly and one or more components of a server rack (e.g., a power supply or cooling system). The server rail assembly may include a first server rail having a first mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a first server rack column and a second mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a second server rack column. The server rail assembly may also include an adjustable track assembly slidably secured to the first mounting assembly and the second mounting assembly. In one example, the server rail assembly may include a biasing element having a first end secured to the first mounting assembly and a second end secured to the adjustable track assembly to apply a biasing force to the adjustable track assembly to bias the adjustable track assembly toward the first mounting assembly.

[0005] Some embodiments of the present invention provide a server rail assembly for facilitating a blind-mate connection between a server chassis assembly and one or more components (e.g., a power supply or a cooling system) of a server rack. The server rail assembly may include a pair of server rails, each server rail including an adjustable track fixed to a fixed track. In one example, the server rail assembly may include a male connector fixed between the pair of server rails. In addition, the server chassis assembly may include a female connector configured to be connected to the male connector by an interface. In one example, one or more biasing elements are fixed to an external connector interface arranged between the pair of server rails to bias a first connector toward a server chassis assembly slidably supported by a first server rail and a second server rail. In one example, the biasing element may be configured to facilitate a blind-mate connection between a male connector and a female connector.

[0006] Some embodiments of the present invention provide a server rail assembly for facilitating a blind-mate connection between a server chassis assembly and one or more components of a server rack (e.g., a power supply or cooling system). The server rail assembly may include a first server rail having a first mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a first server rack column and a second mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a second server rack column. The server rail assembly may also include an adjustable track assembly slidably fixed to the first mounting assembly and the second mounting assembly. In one example, the server rail assembly may include an external connector interface including a first connector for fluid or electrical transmission. The external connector interface may be supported between the first server rail and the second server rail. In one example, a biasing element may be fixed to the external connector interface to bias the first connector toward the server chassis assembly slidably supported by the first server rail and the second server rail.

[0007] Some embodiments of the present invention provide a method for fixing a server chassis assembly in a server rack. The method may include aligning the server chassis assembly with a first server rail of the server rack. In one example, the server chassis assembly may include an internal connector interface. In another example, the first server rail may include a first mounting assembly, a second mounting assembly, an adjustable track assembly slidably fixed between the first mounting assembly and the second mounting assembly, and an external connector interface fixed to the adjustable track assembly. The method may also include inserting the server chassis assembly into the server rack via a slidable engagement between the server chassis assembly and the first server rail until the internal connector interface contacts the external connector interface, and pulling the external connector interface into connection with the internal connector interface via a biasing element fixed between the first mounting assembly and the adjustable track assembly.

[0008] Some embodiments of the present invention provide a method of assembling a server chassis assembly. The method may include securing a chassis rail to a first side of a server chassis of the server chassis assembly, the chassis rail including one or more T-shaped protrusions and a biasing stop extending from an inner surface of the chassis rail; providing an internal connector interface defining one or more keyhole slots and an eyelet; aligning the one or more keyhole slots with the one or more T-shaped protrusions and aligning the eyelet with the biasing stop; and inserting the one or more T-shaped protrusions into the one or more keyhole slots and inserting the biasing stop into the eyelet to provide a tool-free connection between the chassis rail and the internal connector interface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments of the present invention:

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a server rack including a server rail assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a server rail of a server rail assembly of a server rack.

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partial side view of a server slide including a biasing element, with certain components removed or rendered transparent for clarity of presentation.

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Cross-section view of a server rail.

[0014] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a server rack including a server chassis assembly located outside the server rack.

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a server rack, including the Figure 5 Server chassis components.

[0016] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Magnified view of the blind-mate connection between the server rail assembly and the server chassis assembly.

[0017] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A perspective view of the server chassis components.

[0018] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 An enlarged view of a portion of a server chassis assembly.

[0019] Fig.10 is used for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a bias connector of a server rail assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following discussion is presented to enable those skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the present disclosure. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art with the benefit of the present disclosure, and the principles herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but to conform to the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0021] The following detailed description will be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same elements in different drawings have the same reference numerals. The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, depict selected embodiments, and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Before explaining any embodiment of the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the following figures. The present disclosure can have other embodiments and can be practiced or executed in various ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered as limitations. The use of "including", "comprising" or "having" and its variations in this article is intended to include the items listed thereafter and their equivalents and additional items. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mount", "connect", "support" and "couple" and their variations are used in a broad sense and include direct and indirect mounting, connection, support and connection. In addition, "connect" and "couple" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or connections.

[0023] As generally noted above, a server rail assembly can support a server within a server rack for servicing, including utilizing various interface connections to engage for electrical or fluid transfer to or from the server. However, in some cases, due to the limited space within the server rack, connecting the server to a power or cooling source may be a difficult or time-consuming process. For example, the installer may not be able to easily see or engage the connection portion toward the rear of the server rack to ensure proper alignment and proper secure engagement. In addition, the accumulation of tolerances on the machined parts of the rail assembly may result in misalignment or misengagement of associated connectors. Examples of the disclosed technology may provide an improved server rail assembly to address these or other problems. For example, one or more biasing elements may be arranged on the server rail assembly to automatically provide a biasing force to ensure proper engagement of an electrical connector or a fluid connector for the server, including being able to accommodate a range of component sizes (e.g., due to relatively large manufacturing tolerances).

[0024] In one example, the server rack may include a server rail assembly having one or more server rails. In one example, the server rail may be configured to support a server chassis assembly. The server rails may each include an adjustable track assembly (e.g., an adjustable track having a fixed track and fixed to the fixed track). In one example, the fixed track and the adjustable track may be fixed together to form a single component via one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, nuts, adhesives, rivets, welding, etc.). The adjustable track assembly may extend slidably between a first bracket (e.g., a bracket located at the front of the server rack) and a second bracket (e.g., a bracket located at the rear of the server rack). In one example, the adjustable track is configured to slide along the first and second brackets so that a user can install or access the server chassis. In a specific example, the server rails may each include a biasing element (e.g., a spring or elastic material) fixed between the first bracket and the adjustable track assembly.

[0025] The biasing element can be configured to bias the server rails (e.g., via an adjustable rail) to a forward position, i.e., toward the front opening of the server rack. In one example, the biasing element is configured to facilitate a blind-mate connection between a first (e.g., male) connector of an external connector interface (e.g., supported and connected between the server rails) and a second (e.g., female) connector of an internal connector interface (e.g., a component of a chassis assembly slidably received in the server rails). In one example, the blind-mate connection can be used for power transmission. However, in other examples, the biasing element can be configured to facilitate a blind-mate connection for other purposes (e.g., cooling, safety, etc.). In one example, the external connector interface can extend between a pair of server rails within a server rack. Accordingly, the internal connector interface can extend between a pair of chassis rails mounted to a server chassis.

[0026] In one exemplary use, when a user inserts a server chassis assembly into a corresponding opening in a server rack (e.g., via a plug-in connection between a chassis rail and a fixed rail), the second connector of the internal connector interface moves toward the first connector of the external connector interface accordingly. Once the second connector contacts the first connector, the user continues to apply (or further applies) an insertion force to complete the connection between the male connector and the female connector. In this regard, in order to facilitate blind mating of the first and second connectors, the biasing element is opposed to the force applied by the user (e.g., when the user applies a force to move the second connector toward the first connector, the biasing element pulls the first connector into the second connector). In other words, the biasing element may be opposed to the force applied to the adjustable rail via contact between the connectors, which may result in a net force that is insufficient to push the connectors to fully engage. In one example, the biasing element applies force in the last 10 mm of travel between the first connector and the second connector.

[0027] In some examples, the biasing element also enables additional tolerance or spacing between the face of the server chassis assembly and the front of the server rack. For example, a server chassis lock can be positioned adjacent to the front of the server rack and configured to secure the server chassis assembly within the server rack. To mitigate the risk of a poor fit of the server chassis assembly within the server rack (e.g., the server chassis assembly protrudes from the server rack and cannot be secured by the chassis lock), the biasing element enables additional travel or space for inserting the server chassis assembly into the server rack.

[0028] Figure 1An example of a portion of a server rack 100 is shown that includes a server rail assembly 102 having one or more server rails 105 secured to one or more mounting posts 120. In one example, the server rail assembly 102 can include a pair of server rails 105 (e.g., a first server rail 110 and a second server rail 115). Accordingly, the mounting posts 120 can include a pair of first (front) mounting posts 125 and a pair of second (rear) mounting posts 130. In one example, the server rails 105 can be secured to both the first mounting posts 125 and the second mounting posts 130 to support a load (e.g., a server chassis assembly or other load, Figure 1 not shown).

[0029] Figure 2-4 An example of a server rail 105 is shown. In the example shown, the server rails 105 are substantially identical to one another, so a discussion of one of the rails 105 also applies to the other. However, in other examples, the rails 105 may be configured differently on different sides of the assembly.

[0030] In one example, the server rail 105 may include a first mounting assembly 205 having a first bracket 210 configured to secure a portion of the server rail 105 to a first mounting post 125 of the server rack 100. Accordingly, the server rail 105 may include a second mounting assembly 215 having a second bracket 220 configured to secure a portion of the server rail 105 to a second mounting post 130 of the server rack 100. In one example, the first mounting assembly 205 and the second mounting assembly 215 are fixed components that do not slide or move within the server rack 100. In some examples, including as shown, the first mounting assembly 205 and the second mounting assembly 215 may include track segments that slidably receive an adjustable track assembly (as discussed further below).

[0031] In one example, the server rail 105 further includes an adjustable track assembly 224 extending between the first mounting assembly 205 and the second mounting assembly 215 (see FIG. Figure 2 ). Assembly 224 may include an adjustable track 225, which may be configured to partially surround first mounting assembly 205 and second mounting assembly 215 (see Figure 4), or otherwise enable the adjustable rail 225 to slide along both the first mounting assembly 205 and the second mounting assembly 215. In one example, the fixed rail 230 can be fixed to the adjustable rail 225 so that the adjustable rail 225 and the fixed rail 230 form a single unitary component. Therefore, when the adjustable rail 225 translates or slides along the first mounting assembly 205 or the second mounting assembly 215, the corresponding movement of the fixed rail 230 expands or contracts the server slide rail 105 from within the server rack 100.

[0032] In other words, because the adjustable rail 225 and the fixed rail 230 are fixed together as a single component, movement of the adjustable rail 225 produces corresponding movement in the fixed rail 230, and movement of the fixed rail 230 produces corresponding movement in the adjustable rail 225. Therefore, expansion or contraction of the server slide 105 can be achieved by the joint movement of the rails 225, 230 along the rail segments of the mounting assemblies 205, 215.

[0033] In one example, the fixed rail 230 can be configured to slidably receive the chassis rail 405 via an elongated slot 410 defined by the fixed rail 230 (see, e.g., Figure 4 ). Chassis rails 405 are configured to be mounted to a server chassis (see, e.g., Figure 5 ) to achieve a slidable connection between the server chassis and the server slide rail 105. In one example, the chassis rail 405 can be fixed to the fixed rail 230 by a plug-in connection, although other methods as generally known in the art are also possible.

[0034] In one example, the server rail 105 may include a biasing element 305 (eg, a spring or other resilient member known in the art) configured to move in the direction of arrow 320 (see FIG. Figure 1 and 3 ) in the direction shown. In different examples, in response to the server chassis being inserted into the rack, the biasing element can be fixed in various ways to provide the biasing force and thereby push the connectors of the connector interface together (e.g., into operative engagement for transmitting cooling fluid or electrical signals). For example, Figure 3 As shown, the biasing element 305 can be fixed to the adjustable rail 225 at one end by a first protrusion 310 and fixed to the first mounting assembly 205 at the other end by a second protrusion 315. In one example, the biasing element 305 is configured to help form a blind-mate connection between the server slide rail assembly 102 and the server chassis assembly. In another example, the biasing element 305 is configured to provide additional tolerance within the server rack 100 to help the assembly of the server chassis assembly within the server rack 100.

[0035] Figure 5-7 An example of first and second chassis assembly insertion stages 500, 600 is shown, wherein the server chassis assembly 502 is inserted into the opening 507 in the server rack 100 in the direction indicated by the arrow 520. As previously described, the chassis rails 405 can be mounted to one or more sides 512 (e.g., opposing sides 512) of the server chassis 505. In one example, the server chassis assembly 502 can be connected to the server rails 105 via a slidable connection between the chassis rails 405 and the fixed rails 230.

[0036] In one example, the chassis rails 405 also support an internal connector interface 515 supported (e.g., vertically arranged) between the chassis rails 405. The internal connector interface 515 can be connected to a corresponding external connector interface 510 vertically arranged between the fixed rails 230 of the server slide 105 to form a blind-mate connection. Therefore, when a user pushes or applies force to the server chassis assembly 502 to slide the server chassis assembly 502 into the server rack 100 in the direction indicated by the arrow 520, the external connector interface 510 and the internal connector interface 515 are configured to self-align and form a blind-mate connection. In one example, the internal connector interface 515 can include one or more guide pins 525 configured to assist in self-alignment of the internal connector interface 515 with the external connector interface 510. For example, when a user pushes or applies force to the server chassis assembly 502 to slide the server chassis assembly 502 into the server rack 100, the guide pins 525 can be configured to nest within one or more corresponding sockets defined by the external connector interface 510 to verify the alignment of the internal connector interface 515 with the external connector interface 510. In some examples, blind mating (e.g., the external connector interface 510 and the internal connector interface 515) can be used for various connection types. For example, the external connector interface 510 and the internal connector interface 515 can be used for electrical connection, liquid cooling connection, or other connection types.

[0037] In one example, the internal connector interface 515 includes a female connector 710 that contacts the male connector 705 of the external connector interface 510 during insertion of the server chassis assembly 502, although the opposite configuration is possible in some cases (e.g., connector 710 as a female connector and connector 705 as a male connector). When the female connector 710 contacts (e.g., applies force to / pushes) the male connector 705, the external connector interface 510 is pushed rearward (in the direction of arrow 520), which produces a corresponding rearward movement of the adjustable rail 225 via the fixed rail 230. As a result, the biasing element 305 is stretched, which increases the biasing force applied by the biasing element to the adjustable rail 225 (e.g., in the direction shown by arrow 605).

[0038] In one example, the biasing force applied by the biasing element 305 to the adjustable rail 225 helps form a blind-mate connection between the male connector 705 of the outer connector interface 510 and the female connector 710 of the inner connector interface 515 by “pulling” the male connector 705 into the female connector 710. For example, during the last 20 mm of travel of the server chassis assembly 502, the biasing element 305 applies a force to the adjustable rail 225 (and therefore to the outer connector interface 510) to pull the male connector 705 into the female connector 710. In another example, the biasing element 305 applies a force to the adjustable rail 225 during the last 10 mm of travel of the server chassis assembly 502.

[0039] In one example, the biasing element 305 can provide additional tolerance or spacing for the server chassis assembly 502 within the server rack 100. For example, the server chassis assembly 502 can be secured within the server rack 100 via a chassis latch 610 (e.g., a slam latch) configured to interact with a hook extending from the first bracket 210. To prevent the server chassis assembly 502 from being accidentally disconnected from the server rack 100, an auxiliary latch 620 (e.g., a flag) can be configured to snap or slide over an edge 615 of the server chassis assembly 502 to prevent the server chassis assembly 502 from being accidentally removed from the server rack 100 (or can be configured in other ways in other examples). In one example, the auxiliary latch 620 can include a visual indicator that reminds a user to power off the server before removing the server chassis assembly 502 from the server rack 100.

[0040] In some cases, tolerances between the components of the server rack 100 may prevent the chassis lock 610 from effectively securing the server chassis assembly 502 (e.g., the server chassis assembly protrudes from the server rack so that it cannot be secured via the chassis lock). Therefore, the biasing element 305 allows some "play" or extra space to adjust (e.g., push the server chassis assembly 502 in the direction of arrow 605) the server chassis assembly 502 and enables the chassis lock 610 to effectively secure the server chassis assembly 502.

[0041] Figure 8 and 9An example of a chassis assembly 502 is shown. As previously described, the chassis assembly 502 includes a server chassis 505 that includes a pair of chassis rails 405 mounted to opposite sides 512 of the server chassis 505. In addition, an internal connector interface 515 is vertically disposed between the chassis rails 405. In one example, the internal connector interface 515 is secured to the chassis rails 405 via a tool-less connection feature 805. The tool-less connection feature 805 enables a user to attach the chassis rails 405, the internal connector interface 515, and other components of the chassis assembly 502 without using additional tools that may involve additional time or expense.

[0042] The tool-free connection structure 805 may include one or more protrusions 905 extending from the chassis rail 405. In one example, the protrusion 905 may be a T-shaped protrusion, the diameter of the head of the protrusion being larger than the diameter of the shaft of the protrusion. The protrusion 905 may be inserted into one or more corresponding keyhole slots 910 defined by the internal connector interface 515. In one example, the chassis rail 405 may include a biased stop 915 configured to pass through the eyelet defined by the internal connector interface 515 to provide additional security to the tool-free connection structure 805. For example, a user may position two protrusions 905 in corresponding keyholes 910 of the internal connector interface 515, and then slide the internal connector interface 515 or the chassis rail 405 to align the stop 915 with the eyelet of the internal connector interface 515. Once the stop 915 is aligned with the eyelet, the stop 915 may automatically extend through the eyelet to secure the internal connector interface 515 to the chassis rail 405. To remove the internal connector interface 515 from the chassis rail 405, the user can press the stopper 915 so that the stopper 915 no longer protrudes through the eye of the internal connector interface 515. Then, the user can slide the chassis rail 405s or the internal connector interface 515 so that the protrusion 905 can be removed from the key hole 910 of the internal connector interface 515.

[0043] Fig.10An example of a biasing connector interface 1000 for use with a server rail assembly 102 or a chassis assembly 502 is shown. For example, the biasing connector 1000 can be used with the male connector 705 of the external connector interface 510 or the female connector 710 of the internal connector interface 515 (e.g., can form a portion of the external connector interface 510 or a portion of the internal connector interface 515). In addition, the biasing connector interface 1000 can be used for a variety of different connection types, including electrical connections, cooling connections, or other connection types. In one example, the connection between the external connector interface 510 and the internal connector interface 515 allows fluid to flow into the server chassis assembly to promote liquid cooling. The biasing connector interface 1000 can include a first connector 1005 that protrudes to engage with another connector (e.g., through a wall 1010 of the biasing connector interface 1000) and is arranged to be subjected to a biasing force from a biasing element 1030 during engagement between the connectors.

[0044] In different examples, the biasing element 1030 can be arranged in different ways. In one example, the biasing connector interface 1000 is fixed adjacent to the wall 1010 via one or more fasteners 1015 fixed relative to (e.g., through) the wall 1010. The biasing element 1030 can then be arranged circumferentially between the head 1020 and the face 1032 of the wall 1010 around the axis 1025 of the fastener 1015. In other examples, the biasing element can be arranged in other ways to extend to apply a biasing force to the connector, or can be arranged to be compressed by engagement of the connector instead.

[0045] In one example, when the second connector 1035 contacts the first connector 1005 and begins to apply a force (in the direction shown by arrow 1040) to the first connector 1005, the biasing element 1030 begins to extend and thus applies an opposite biasing force opposite to the direction of arrow 1040. The biasing force applied by the biasing element 1030 biases the first connector 1005 in the direction shown by arrow 1045. Thus, when the second connector 1035 is pushed into the first connector 1005, the first connector 1005 is pushed back into the second connector 1035, which facilitates a secure and reliable connection between the first connector 1005 and the second connector 1035. In addition, the compression or expansion of the biasing element 1030 enables additional tolerance or space to be achieved between the first connector 1005 and the second connector 1035, which allows the use of components with fewer tolerances or assembly issues.

[0046] In some examples, connector 1035 can be part of a server chassis assembly and connector 1005 can be part of a server rail that slidably receives the server chassis assembly. In some examples, connector 1005 can be part of a server chassis assembly and connector 1035 can be part of a server rail that slidably receives the server chassis assembly. In some examples, a similar biasing arrangement can be provided for two corresponding connectors (e.g., for each of connectors 1005, 1035).

[0047] In some embodiments, methods embodying aspects of the present disclosure may be used to utilize, manufacture, or install the devices or systems disclosed herein. Accordingly, any description herein of a particular feature, capability, or intended purpose of a device or system is generally intended to include disclosure of methods for using such a device for the intended purpose, methods for otherwise realizing such capabilities, methods for manufacturing related components of such a device or system (or the device or system as a whole), and methods for installing disclosed (or otherwise known) components to support such purposes or capabilities. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated or limited, discussion herein of any method for manufacturing or using a particular device or system, including installing a device or system, is intended to inherently include disclosure of the utilized features and implemented capabilities of such a device or system as an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] In this regard, for example, the disclosed technology includes a method for inserting and securing a server chassis assembly (e.g., server chassis assembly 502) within a server rack (e.g., server rack 100). In some examples, the method may include providing a pair of server rails (e.g., server rails 105) that include a first mounting assembly (e.g., first mounting assembly 205), a second mounting assembly (e.g., second mounting assembly 215), and an adjustable track assembly (e.g., having a fixed track 230 and an adjustable track 225). In some examples, the method may include providing a biasing element (e.g., biasing element 305) disposed between the first mounting assembly and the adjustable track. In some examples, the method may include biasing the adjustable track toward the first mounting assembly via the biasing element.

[0049] In some examples, the method may include inserting the server chassis assembly into an opening (e.g., opening 507) defined by the server rails. In some examples, the method may include providing an external connector interface (e.g., external connector interface 510) comprising a male connector (e.g., male connector 705) vertically arranged between the pair of server rails. In some examples, the method may include providing a pair of chassis rails (e.g., chassis rails 405) arranged on either side of the server chassis (e.g., server chassis 505). In some examples, the method may include providing an internal connector interface (e.g., internal connector interface 515) vertically arranged between a pair of chassis rails. In some examples, the method may include sliding the server chassis into the opening defined by the server rails via a slidable connection between the chassis rails and the fixed rails until the female connector of the internal connector interface contacts the male connector of the external connector interface. In some examples, the method may include applying a biasing force to the adjustable rail via a biasing element to pull the male connector of the external connector interface to connect with the female connector of the internal connector interface.

[0050] Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, "or" indicates a non-exclusive list of components or operations that can exist in any various combinations, rather than an exclusive list of components that exist only as alternatives to each other. For example, a list of "A, B, or C" indicates the following options: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B, and C. Accordingly, the term "or" as used herein is intended to indicate exclusive substitutions only when preceded by an exclusive term (e.g., "or," "one of," "only one of," or "exactly one of"). For example, a list of "one of A, B, or C" indicates the following options: A, but not B and C; B, but not A and C; and C, but not A and B. A list of elements preceded by "one or more" (and variations thereof) and including "or" to separate the listed elements indicates an option of one or more of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases "one or more of A, B, or C" and "at least one of A, B, or C" indicate the following options: one or more A; one or more B; one or more C; one or more A and one or more B; one or more B and one or more C; one or more A and one or more C; and one or more A, one or more B, one or more C. Similarly, a list preceded by "plurality" (and variations thereof) and including "or" to separate the listed elements indicates the option of multiple instances of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases "plurality of A, B, or C" and "two or more of A, B, or C" indicate the following options: A and B; B and C; A and C; and A, B, and C.

[0051] As used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, directional terminology is used for ease of reference in discussing a particular figure or example. For example, references to a downward (or other) direction or a top (or other) position may be used to discuss aspects of a particular example or figure, but similar orientations or geometries are not necessarily required in all installations or configurations.

[0052] Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or restricted, "substantially parallel" refers to directions within ±12 degrees (e.g., within ±6 degrees) of a reference direction, inclusive. For a non-linear path, a path may be considered substantially parallel to a reference direction if a straight line between the endpoints of the path is substantially parallel to the reference direction, or if the average derivative of the path in a common reference frame shared with the reference direction is substantially parallel to the reference direction.

[0053] Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or restricted, "substantially perpendicular" refers to a direction within ±12 degrees (e.g., within ±6 degrees) of perpendicular to a reference direction, inclusive. For a non-linear path, a path may be considered substantially perpendicular to a reference direction if a straight line between the endpoints of the path is substantially perpendicular to the reference direction, or if the average derivative of the path in a common reference frame shared with the reference direction is substantially perpendicular to the reference direction.

[0054] Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or qualified, "unitary" and its derivatives (e.g., "integrally") describe an element that is manufactured as a single piece without fasteners, adhesives, or the like to secure the separate components together. For example, an element that is stamped, cast, or otherwise molded as a single-piece component from a single piece of metal or using a single die without the use of rivets, screws, or adhesives to hold the separately formed pieces together is a unitary (and integrally formed) element. In contrast, an element formed from multiple components that are initially formed separately and then subsequently connected together is not a unitary (or integrally formed) element.

[0055] In addition, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "about" and "approximately" as used herein with respect to a reference value refer to a change of ±15% or less from the reference value, including the end values ​​of the range. Similarly, the term "substantially equal" (or similar terms) as used herein refers to a change of less than ±30% relative to the reference value, including the end values, relative to the reference value. In specified cases, "substantially" can specifically indicate a change in a numerical direction relative to the reference value. For example, "substantially less than" a reference value (or similar value) means a value that is reduced by 30% or more from the reference value, and "substantially greater than" a reference value (or similar value) means a value that is increased by 30% or more from the reference value.

[0056] Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or specified, "substantially the same" refers to two or more components or systems that are manufactured or used according to the same processes and specifications, where the variations between the components or systems are within the limits of acceptable tolerances for the relevant processes and specifications. For example, if two components are manufactured according to the same standardized manufacturing steps, with the same materials, and within the same acceptable dimensional tolerances (e.g., as specified for a particular process or product), then the two components may be considered to be substantially the same.

[0057] The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the present disclosure. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure, and the principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but rather should be construed in the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A server slide rail assembly, characterized in that: The server slide rail assembly comprises: A first server rail, the first server rail being configured to receive a server chassis assembly, the first server rail comprising: a first mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a first server rack column; a second mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a second server rack column; an adjustable track assembly slidably secured to the first mounting assembly and the second mounting assembly; an external connector interface secured to the adjustable track assembly, the external connector interface comprising a first connector for fluid transmission or electrical transmission; an internal connector interface fixed to the server chassis assembly, the internal connector interface comprising a second connector for fluid transmission or electrical transmission with the first connector; and a biasing element having a first end secured to the first mounting assembly and a second end secured to the adjustable rail assembly to apply a biasing force to the adjustable rail assembly to bias the first connector of the external connector interface toward the second connector of the internal connector interface via the adjustable rail assembly.

2. The server slide rail assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first end of the biasing element is secured to a protrusion extending from the first mounting assembly, and wherein the second end of the biasing element is secured to a protrusion extending from an adjustable track of the adjustable track assembly.

3. The server slide rail assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The server slide rail assembly also includes: A second server slide rail, wherein the second server slide rail comprises: a third mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a third server rack column; a fourth mounting assembly configured to support the server rail assembly relative to a fourth server rack column; an adjustable track assembly, the adjustable track assembly of the second server rail being slidably secured to the third mounting assembly and the fourth mounting assembly; and a biasing element, the biasing element of the second server rail having a first end secured to the third mounting assembly and a second end secured to the adjustable rail assembly of the second server rail; wherein the external connector interface is supported between the first server rail and the second server rail; And wherein the biasing element of the first server rail and the biasing element of the second server rail thereby bias the first connector of the external connector interface toward the second connector of the internal connector interface.

4. The server slide rail assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The server slide rail assembly also includes: A second biasing element is secured to the external connector interface to bias the first connector toward a server chassis assembly slidably supported by the first server rail and the second server rail.

5. The server slide rail assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The server slide rail assembly also includes: a server chassis assembly including chassis rails mounted on opposite sides of a server chassis and slidably engaged with the adjustable rail assembly of the first server rail and the adjustable rail assembly of the second server rail; Wherein, the internal connector interface is supported between the chassis rails.

6. The server slide rail assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: Each of the chassis rails includes one or more T-shaped protrusions and a biased stop extending from an inner surface of the chassis rail; wherein the internal connector interface defines an eyelet and one or more keyhole slots; and wherein the one or more keyhole slots receive the one or more T-shaped protrusions and the eyelet receives the biased stop to provide a tool-less connection configuration between the chassis rail and the internal connector interface.

7. The server slide rail assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that: Each of the chassis rails includes two of the T-shaped protrusions on opposite sides of the eyelet, respectively.

8. The server slide rail assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The adjustable track assembly of the first server slide rail includes a first adjustable rail slidably secured to the first mounting assembly and the second mounting assembly and a first fixed rail fixedly secured to the first adjustable rail; wherein the adjustable rail assembly of the second server slide rail comprises a second adjustable rail slidably fixed to the third mounting assembly and the fourth mounting assembly and a second fixed rail fixedly fixed to the second adjustable rail; and Wherein, the chassis rail is slidably engaged with an elongated slot defined by the first fixed rail and the second fixed rail to slidably support the server chassis assembly relative to the first server slide rail and the second server slide rail.

9. The server slide rail assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The chassis rails support the server chassis assembly such that the second connector of the internal connector interface engages the first connector of the external connector interface, wherein the biasing element moves away from a neutral position to urge the first connector and the second connector together.

10. The server slide rail assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first connector and the second connector allow fluid to flow into the server chassis assembly to facilitate liquid cooling.

11. A method for fixing a server chassis assembly in a server rack, characterized in that: The method comprises: aligning the server chassis assembly with a first server rail of the server rack, the server chassis assembly having an internal connector interface, and the first server rail having a first mounting assembly, a second mounting assembly, an adjustable rail assembly slidably secured between the first mounting assembly and the second mounting assembly, and an external connector interface secured to the adjustable rail assembly; inserting the server chassis assembly into the server rack via slidable engagement between the server chassis assembly and the first server rail until the internal connector interface contacts the external connector interface; and The server chassis assembly is further inserted into the server rack to urge the external connector interface into operative connection with the internal connector interface via a responsive biasing force from a biasing element secured between the first mounting assembly and the adjustable rail assembly.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The external connector interface includes a first connector for fluid transmission, the internal connector interface includes a second connector for fluid transmission, and the first connector and the second connector are urged into operative connection by the responsive biasing force to allow fluid to flow into the server chassis assembly for liquid cooling of servers supported on the server chassis assembly.

13. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The server chassis assembly further includes a pair of chassis rails mounted on opposite sides of the server chassis, and the internal connector interface is supported between the pair of chassis rails; and Wherein, further inserting the server chassis assembly into the server rack further pushes the external connector interface into operative connection with the internal connector interface via a responsive biasing force from a second biasing element fixed to the external connector interface.

14. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The server chassis assembly includes a chassis rail including one or more T-shaped protrusions and a biased stop extending from an inner surface of the chassis rail; wherein the internal connector interface defines an eyelet and one or more keyhole slots; and Wherein, the method further comprises: The one or more T-shaped projections are inserted into the one or more keyhole slots and the biasing stop is inserted into the eyelet to provide a tool-less connection configuration between the chassis rail and the internal connector interface.

15. A method for assembling a server chassis assembly, characterized in that: The method comprises: securing a chassis rail to a first side of a server chassis of the server chassis assembly, the chassis rail comprising one or more T-shaped tabs and a biased stop extending from an inner surface of the chassis rail; providing an internal connector interface defining an eyelet and one or more keyhole slots; aligning the one or more keyhole slots with the one or more T-shaped projections and aligning the eyelet with the biased stop; and The one or more T-shaped projections are inserted into the one or more keyhole slots and the biased stop is inserted into the eyelet to provide a tool-less connection configuration between the chassis rail and the internal connector interface.

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