Locking mechanism for liquid-cooled pluggable modules

Abstract

An information processing device includes a slot for removably receiving a pluggable module, a liquid cooling system including a cold plate located in the slot, and a module locking mechanism. The cold plate is movable between an engaged state and a disengaged state with the pluggable module. The module locking mechanism prevents the pluggable module from being inserted into or removed from the slot if the cold plate is in the engaged state, and allows insertion / removal of the pluggable module if the cold plate is in the disengaged state. The apparatus may also include a cold plate engagement mechanism actuatable to move the cold plate between an engaged state and a disengaged state, and a module locking mechanism may be mechanically coupled to the cold plate engagement mechanism, such that actuation of the cold plate engagement mechanism switches the drive module locking mechanism between insertion / removal prevention and insertion / removal permission.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Some information processing devices (such as computers, networking devices, etc.) have slots arranged to removably receive pluggable modules (such as pluggable media drives or other pluggable auxiliary devices). These slots can each include a socket for receiving the pluggable module and one or more connectors disposed in the socket to mate with a complementary connector of the pluggable module to establish an electrical, optical or other connection through which signals can be transmitted.

[0002] A pluggable module can be distinguished from other components of an information processing device (such as a main system board, a CPU, etc.) in that a pluggable module is designed to be easily and repeatedly installed and removed, whereas other components of an information processing device may be more permanently installed. For example, a pluggable module slot may be arranged to be accessible from the outside of the chassis, and the installation / removal of a pluggable module generally does not require the use of tools or the need to disassemble or power off the information processing device (e.g., a pluggable module may be hot-swappable). In contrast, while it is technically possible to remove and install other components of an information processing device (such as a CPU, memory, etc.) as needed (such as for upgrades or repairs), this is generally more difficult and generally requires partial disassembly of the device (e.g., opening the chassis) and powering off the information processing device.

[0003] Common examples of pluggable modules are pluggable media drives, such as pluggable solid-state drives (SSDs) (which may include, for example, NVMe or M.2 SSDs) and pluggable hard disk drives (HDDs). Other examples of pluggable modules include pluggable optical transceivers, pluggable PCIe cards, and other similar pluggable auxiliary devices.

[0004] Pluggable modules generate heat when in use, so information handling devices with pluggable modules are often configured to remove heat from the pluggable modules in some way. For example, in air-cooled information handling devices, a portion of the air flowing through the device can pass through the pluggable modules to cool them. In other information handling devices, liquid cooling can be used to cool the pluggable modules (and other components of the information handling device). In order to liquid cool the pluggable modules, a cold plate can be thermally coupled to the pluggable modules, and the cold plate can transfer heat from the pluggable modules to the liquid coolant flow. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Alone or with Figure 1 The present disclosure can be understood from the following detailed description. These drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more examples of the present teachings and together with the description explain certain principles and operations. In the drawings:

[0006] Figure 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an example information handling device having a pluggable module locking mechanism.

[0007] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram Figure 1 A block diagram of a portion of an information processing device in which a pluggable module locking mechanism is in a locked state.

[0008] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram Figure 1 A block diagram of a portion of an information processing device in which a pluggable module locking mechanism is in an unlocked state.

[0009] Figure 4 is a perspective view of another example information handling device, wherein the pluggable module locking mechanism is in a locked state.

[0010] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A three-dimensional diagram of an information processing device, wherein the pluggable module locking mechanism is in an unlocked state.

[0011] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A front view of an information processing device, wherein the pluggable module locking mechanism is in a locked state.

[0012] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A front view of an information processing device, wherein the pluggable module locking mechanism is in an unlocked state.

[0013] Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of a blocking unit of a pluggable module locking mechanism of an information processing device.

[0014] Fig. 9 yes Figure 4 A plan view of a portion of an information handling device including a cold plate engagement lever, a cold plate force transfer mechanism, and a pluggable module locking mechanism in a locked state.

[0015] Fig.10 yes Figure 4 A partial plan view of a portion of an information handling device including a cold plate engagement lever, a cold plate force transfer mechanism, and a pluggable module locking mechanism in an unlocked state.

[0016] Fig.11 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of the internal portion of an information processing device in which a pluggable module is omitted and a pluggable module locking mechanism is in a locked state.

[0017] Fig.12yes Figure 4 A perspective view of the internal portion of an information processing device in which a pluggable module is omitted and a pluggable module locking mechanism is in an unlocked state.

[0018] Fig.13 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of a cold plate force transfer mechanism and a cold plate engagement rod of an information processing device, wherein the cold plate force transfer mechanism is in an engaged position.

[0019] Fig.14 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of a cold plate force transfer mechanism and a cold plate engagement rod of an information processing device, wherein the cold plate force transfer mechanism is in a disengaged position.

[0020] Fig.15 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of a liquid cooling system for an information processing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Good thermal contact with sufficient contact pressure is usually required between the cold plate and the pluggable module to achieve the desired thermal conductivity. However, since the pluggable module is designed to be easily and repeatedly installed and removed, it may be challenging to achieve such good thermal contact. For example, it may not be possible to fix the cold plate to the pluggable module in the same way as for the CPU or other components, because this will impair the ability to easily install or remove the pluggable module. Therefore, in order to provide good thermal contact between the cold plate and the pluggable module while still allowing easy insertion / removal of the module, some information processing devices arrange the cold plate to be movable between an engagement position and a disengagement position. In the engagement position, the cold plate contacts the pluggable module (directly or via a thermal interface material (TIM)) with sufficient contact pressure to provide the desired thermal conductivity. In the disengagement position, the cold plate moves away from the pluggable module and stops contacting the pluggable module, so the cold plate in this position does not hinder the easy insertion or removal of the pluggable module.

[0022] However, one problem faced by information processing devices that utilize a removable cold plate to cool pluggable modules is that a user may forget to disengage the cold plate before inserting a new pluggable module or removing an existing pluggable module. If a user attempts to remove the pluggable module while the cold plate is still in the engaged position, sliding contact may occur between the cold plate and the pluggable module when the pluggable module is removed from the slot, which may cause the cold plate and / or the pluggable module to be scratched or otherwise damaged. In addition, if a TIM is provided between the cold plate and the pluggable module, the TIM may be damaged or wiped off due to the sliding contact. If a user attempts to install a new pluggable module while the cold plate is still in the engaged position, the cold plate may protrude into the path of the pluggable module, and thus the pluggable module may collide with the cold plate, which may cause damage to the cold plate and / or the pluggable module. Additionally, the sliding contact described above with respect to removal of a pluggable module may also occur during insertion of a pluggable module—for example, collision of the pluggable module with the cold plate may push the cold plate aside, allowing the pluggable module to continue to be inserted farther into the slot, whereupon the same type of sliding contact and resulting damage described above may occur.

[0023] The technical solution to the above problem includes a pluggable module locking mechanism, which is configured to automatically prevent the pluggable module from being installed into or removed from these slots when the cold plate serving a group of slots is in an engaged state. In addition, the pluggable module locking mechanism is configured to automatically unlock and allow the installation or removal of the pluggable module when the cold plate is moved to a disengaged state. In other words, the pluggable module locking mechanism can be moved between a locked state in which it prevents the installation or removal of the pluggable module and an unlocked state in which it allows the installation or removal of the pluggable module, and the pluggable module locking mechanism is configured to automatically move between these states in response to the engagement or disengagement of the cold plate. Accordingly, when the cold plate is engaged, the user cannot accidentally install or remove the pluggable module, and damage to the cold plate, the pluggable module and / or the TIM that may otherwise occur can be prevented.

[0024] In some examples, in the locked state, the pluggable module locking mechanism prevents the pluggable module from being inserted into or removed from the slot by physically blocking the slot. For example, the pluggable module locking mechanism may include one or more blocking members that are positioned over a portion of each slot in the locked state to physically block the pluggable module from being inserted or removed.

[0025] In some examples, in addition to physically blocking the slot, in the locked state, the blocking member may also cover the ejection mechanism of the pluggable module installed in the slot and block access to it, thereby preventing a user from actuating the ejection mechanism. For example, in some cases, the ejection mechanism may include an ejection button disposed on the front surface of the pluggable module, the ejection button being actuatable to initiate an ejection sequence (e.g., pressing the ejection button may release a connect / disconnect rod of the pluggable module from a stowed state), and the blocking member may cover the button and prevent it from being pressed. As another example, in some cases, the ejection mechanism may include the aforementioned connect / disconnect rod that is pulled outward to eject the module, and the blocking member may cover the rod and thereby physically prevent (block) it from being pulled outward.

[0026] In some examples, the pluggable module locking mechanism is a mechanical interlocking device that is mechanically coupled to the cold plate engagement mechanism such that the locked state and the unlocked state of the pluggable module locking mechanism are mechanically related to (i.e., dependent on) the engaged state and the disengaged state of the cold plate, respectively. In other words, such mechanical coupling causes the locking mechanism to be locked whenever the cold plate is engaged, and to be unlocked whenever the cold plate is disengaged. More specifically, in some examples, the cold plate engagement / disengagement mechanism is actuatable to move the cold plate between an engaged position and a disengaged position (in some examples, the cold plate engagement / disengagement mechanism is manually actuatable, while in other examples, it is actuated by a powered actuator), and the pluggable module locking mechanism is mechanically linked to the cold plate engagement mechanism such that when the cold plate engagement mechanism is actuated to move the cold plate, movement of the cold plate engagement mechanism also causes movement of the pluggable module locking mechanism. In other words, in these examples, actuation of the cold plate engagement mechanism causes actuation of the pluggable module locking mechanism via a mechanical linkage between the cold plate engagement mechanism and the pluggable module locking mechanism, without relying on any separate electronic control or actuation system for the pluggable module locking mechanism.

[0027] In some examples, the cold plate engagement mechanism is a manually actuated mechanism. For example, in some embodiments, the cold plate engagement mechanism includes a rod that is manually actuated by a user to move the cold plate between an engaged state and a disengaged state. In some examples, the pluggable module locking mechanism is mechanically linked to the same rod so that at least a portion of the force manually applied to the rod by the user is mechanically converted into a force that drives the actuation of the pluggable module locking mechanism. In some examples, the pluggable module locking mechanism includes a follower that engages a cam connected to the rod so that actuation of the rod moves the cam, which in turn moves the follower. The follower is in turn coupled to a blocking member that selectively blocks the slots. Therefore, in such examples, the movement of the rod is converted by the cam and the follower into movement of the blocking member between a locked state and an unlocked state. Therefore, a single user action of actuating the rod will cause and provide power for: (1) engaging or disengaging the cold plate, and (2) locking or unlocking the pluggable module locking mechanism.

[0028] Turning now to the drawings, various devices, systems, and methods according to aspects of the present disclosure will be described.

[0029] Figure 1 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the information processing device 10. It should be understood that Figure 1 The particular shapes, sizes, or other structural details are not intended to be accurate or to scale, and implementations of information handling device 10 may have a different number and arrangement of the components shown and may also include other parts not shown. Figure 1 In the figure, physical joints or linkages are conceptually indicated by dashed lines.

[0030] The information processing device 10 may be a computing device (eg, a server), a networking device (eg, a switch, a router, etc.), or any other device that includes information processing circuitry and is configured to receive a pluggable module. Figure 1 As shown, the information processing device 10 includes a chassis 20, a set of pluggable module slots 30, pluggable modules 40 in the slots 30, a main system board 45, a liquid cooling system 50, a module locking mechanism 60, and a cold plate engagement mechanism 80. These components will be described in more detail in turn below.

[0031] The chassis 20 includes walls, panels, brackets, and / or other support structures that support and / or accommodate other components of the information processing device 10. The chassis 20 supports and accommodates a main system board 45, which includes information processing circuits, such as a CPU, an ASIC, or other circuits. The set of pluggable module slots 30 can be arranged at one of the panels of the chassis 20 and can form a part of the panel. For example, the set of pluggable module slots 30 can be a part of the front panel of the chassis 20. The set of pluggable module slots 30 includes a plurality of slots 32, wherein each slot 32 is configured to removably receive a pluggable module 40 ("30" is used herein to refer to the group of slots as a whole, and "32" is used to refer to each slot). Each slot 32 may include a connector (not shown) that is configured to connect to a complementary connector of the module 40 when the pluggable module 40 is installed in the slot 32 to connect the pluggable module 40 to the main system board 45 in a communicative manner (e.g., electrically or optically). The slots 32 need not necessarily be identical to one another, and the pluggable modules 40 need not necessarily be identical to one another; for example, in some embodiments, one slot 32 is configured to receive one type of pluggable module 40 while another slot is configured to receive a different type of pluggable module 40 .

[0032] Although only one set of slots 30 is illustrated to simplify the drawings, in various examples, more than one set of slots 30 may be provided, each set of slots including one or more slots 32. In some examples where multiple sets of slots 30 are provided, they may be provided on the same panel (e.g., the first and second sets 30 are both on the front panel), while in other examples, they may be provided on different panels of the chassis 20 (e.g., the first set of slots 30 is on the front panel, and the second set of slots is on the rear panel).

[0033] The pluggable module 40 may include a media drive (e.g., SSD, HHD) or any other pluggable module. Non-limiting examples of form factors of pluggable media drives that can be used as pluggable modules 40 include form factors defined by a series of standards called Enterprise and Data Center Standard Form Factor (EDSFF). The EDSFF standards include, but are not limited to, SFF-TA-1006, SFF-TA-1007, or SFF-TA-1008. Other examples of pluggable module types that can be used as pluggable modules 40 include pluggable optical transceivers (e.g., quad small form factor pluggable (QSFP) connectors, eight small form factor pluggable (OSFP) connectors, etc.), pluggable PCIe cards, and other similar devices. In some examples, the pluggable module 40 includes an ejector mechanism 42 ("ejector") that can be actuated to cause the installed pluggable module 40 to be ejected from the slot 32. For example, the ejector 42 may include a button, a lever, a button and a lever, or other mechanisms that can be actuated by a user to cause ejection. In some examples, ejector 42 may include a button and a lever, wherein the button is pressed to release the lever from the stowed position and the lever is then pulled to eject module 40 from slot 32 .

[0034] The liquid cooling system 50 includes a cold plate 51 and a liquid cooling loop (not shown) configured to flow a liquid coolant through the device 10. The cold plate 51 is thermally coupled to the liquid coolant. The liquid cooling loop may include a pump, coolant lines, a heat exchanger, accessories, and / or other liquid cooling components familiar to those of ordinary skill in the art. Some portions of the liquid cooling loop (e.g., pumps, heat exchangers) may be separate from the information processing device 10 and may be shared by multiple such devices, while other portions (e.g., coolant lines, cold plates, etc.) may be housed within the information processing device 10 or be part of the information processing device. Liquid cooling systems are familiar to those of ordinary skill in the art and are therefore not shown or described in further detail herein.

[0035] Each cold plate 51 is disposed in one of the slots 32 and is configured to removably engage with a pluggable module 40 installed in the slot 32. More specifically, the cold plate 51 is movable between an engaged position, wherein in the engaged position, each cold plate 51 is positioned to thermally contact the pluggable module 40 (if present) installed in the corresponding slot 32, and in the disengaged position, each cold plate 51 moves away from the pluggable module installed in the corresponding slot 32 and is not in thermal contact therewith. When it is mentioned herein that the cold plate 51 is in thermal contact with the pluggable module 40, it means that the cold plate 51 is in direct contact with the pluggable module 40 or is in indirect contact with the pluggable module 40 by virtue of both being in contact with a heat conductive medium (such as a TIM) disposed therebetween.

[0036] Each cold plate 51 can be mechanically connected to a cold plate force transfer mechanism 52, which is configured to move all cold plates 51 in a given group of slots 30 together as a group between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The cold plate force transfer mechanism 52 can be mechanically connected to a cold plate engagement mechanism 80, which can be actuated to drive the engagement or disengagement of the cold plate 51. The cold plate force transfer mechanism 52 converts the movement of the cold plate engagement mechanism 80 into the movement of the cold plate 51. In particular, the cold plate force transfer mechanism 52 can move between an engaged position and a disengaged position based on the movement of the cold plate engagement mechanism 80. When the mechanism 52 is in the engaged position, the cold plate 51 is forced to enter its corresponding engaged position. Conversely, when the mechanism 52 is in the disengaged position, the cold plate 51 is forced to enter its corresponding disengaged position.

[0037] In some examples where there are multiple groups of slots 30, each group of slots 30 may be provided with a corresponding cold plate force transmission mechanism 52 and a corresponding cold plate engagement mechanism 80, so that one group of cold plates 51 may be engaged or disengaged separately from another group of cold plates 51. For example, if the first group of slots 30 is provided with a first cold plate force transmission mechanism 52 and a first cold plate engagement mechanism 80, and the second group of slots 30 is provided with a second cold plate force transmission mechanism 52 and a second cold plate engagement mechanism 80, the cold plates 51 arranged in the first group of slots 30 may be moved between an engaged position and a disengaged position by actuation of the first cold plate engagement mechanism 80 without affecting the cold plates 51 arranged in the second group of slots 30, and vice versa. In the following description, only a single group of slots 30 is discussed to simplify the description, but this does not exclude the possibility that other groups of slots exist in other examples.

[0038] For example, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram illustrates how the cold plate 51 moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position based on the state of the cold plate engagement mechanism 80. Figure 2 In the embodiment, the mechanism 80 is in the first position, and in Figure 3 In the embodiment, the mechanism 80 is in the second position. When the mechanism 80 is moved from the first position ( Figure 2 ) moves to the second position ( Figure 3 ), the mechanism 80 forces the cold plate force transmission mechanism 52 to move to the disengaged position, which forces the cold plate 51 to leave the pluggable module 40, thereby obtaining Figure 3 On the other hand, when the mechanism 80 is moved from the second position ( Figure 3 ) moves back to the first position ( Figure 2 ), the mechanism 80 forces (or allows) the cold plate force transfer mechanism 52 to move to its engaged position, which in turn causes the cold plate 51 to move into thermal contact with the pluggable module 40.

[0039] In some embodiments, the cold plates 51 coupled to the same cold plate force transfer mechanism 52 are biased toward the engagement position by biasing elements (such as springs). These biasing elements can, for example, be directly connected to the cold plate transfer mechanism 52 and bias it toward the engagement position, thereby also biasing the cold plate 51 coupled to the cold plate force transfer mechanism 52 to its corresponding engagement position. The biasing force can also help provide a contact pressure between the cold plate 51 and the pluggable module 40, which ensures good thermal conductivity across the thermal interface while also allowing some compliance between the cold plate 51 and the pluggable module 40 to account for manufacturing tolerances. In examples where the cold plate 51 is biased toward the engagement position, the mechanism 80 and the biasing member (spring) can work together to move the cold plate 51 between the engagement position and the disengagement position. More specifically, in those examples where the cold plate 51 is biased toward the engagement position, when the mechanism 80 is moved toward the second position, it forces the mechanism 52 toward the disengagement position ( Figure 3 ) moves, wherein the mechanism 80 overcomes the biasing force opposing the movement. Thereafter, as long as the mechanism 80 remains in the second position, the mechanism 80 will continue to hold the mechanism 52 in the disengaged position, thereby counteracting the biasing force. However, when the mechanism 80 moves back toward the first position, the mechanism 80 ceases to hold the mechanism 52 in the disengaged position and allows the now unopposed biasing force to move the mechanism 52 back to the engaged position.

[0040] The pluggable module locking mechanism 60 includes a blocking unit 61 and a cam 75. The blocking unit 61 includes a follower 70 and one or more blocking members 62. The blocking unit 61 is movably connected to the chassis 20 near the group of pluggable module slots 30, so that the blocking unit 62 can move between two positions associated with a locked state and an unlocked state relative to the slots 32. In the locked state, the one or more blocking members 62 are positioned to collectively block each slot 32 in the group of slots 30. More specifically, in the locked state of the blocking unit 61, each slot 32 in the group of slots 30 is at least partially covered by one of the blocking members 62 to block the pluggable module 40 from being inserted into the slot 32 and to block the pluggable module 40 (if any) already in the slot 32 from being removed therefrom. In some examples, the group of slots 30 includes multiple columns and / or multiple rows of slots 32, and each blocking member 62 can be configured to block one column or one row of slots 32 when in the locked state. For example, in some embodiments, the blocking member 62 may include vertically oriented bars that each cover and thus block a corresponding column of slots 32. As another example, in some embodiments, the blocking member may include horizontally oriented bars that each cover and thus block a corresponding row of slots 32. In some embodiments, the blocking member 62 may also block the ejectors 42 of the pluggable module when in the locked state. In the unlocked state, the blocking member 62 does not block any slot 32 in the set of slots 30 (and does not block the ejectors 42 of the pluggable module 40), so the pluggable module 40 can be installed in or removed from the slot 32.

[0041] If there are more than one group of slots 30, each group having a different group of cold plates 51 actuated by a different engagement mechanism 80, in some examples, each such group of slots 30 may be provided with its own corresponding blocking unit 61. For example, a first blocking unit 61 may be configured to block the slots 32 of a first group of slots 30 associated with a first mechanism 80, and a second blocking unit 61 may be configured to block the slots 32 of a second group of slots 30 associated with a second mechanism 80. In the following description, for simplicity of description, an example having only one group of slots 30 and one blocking unit 61 is described.

[0042] The blocking unit 61 can be moved between a locked state and an unlocked state in response to actuation of the cold plate engagement mechanism 80, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 In other words, the state of the cold plate engagement mechanism 80 controls the state of the blocking unit 61, and a change in the state of the mechanism 80 will change the state of the blocking unit 61. Specifically, if the mechanism 80 is in the first position corresponding to the cold plate 51 being engaged, the blocking unit 61 is in a locked state in which the blocking member 62 blocks the groove 32, as shown in FIG. Figure 2On the contrary, if the mechanism 80 is in the second position corresponding to the cold plate 51 being disengaged, the blocking unit 61 is in the unlocked state where the blocking member 62 does not block the groove 32, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 In addition, the movement of the mechanism 80 between the first position and the second position causes the blocking unit 61 to move between the locked state and the unlocked state.

[0043] The state of the cold plate engagement mechanism 80 controls the state of the blocking unit 81 because of the way in which the follower 70 of the blocking unit 61 interacts with the cam 75 of the mechanism 80. The cam 75 is connected to the cold plate engagement mechanism 80, so when the mechanism 80 is actuated, the cam 75 moves with the mechanism 80. The follower 70 also engages with the cam 75 so that when the cam 75 moves, the follower 70 also moves. The follower is connected to the blocking member 62, and so movement of the follower 70 driven by the cam 75 and the mechanism 80 to which the cam 75 is connected causes movement of the blocking member 62.

[0044] In particular, if the mechanism 80 is moved from the second position ( Figure 3 ) moves to the first position ( Figure 2 ), which causes the cam 75 to move in a manner that forces the follower 70 to move in the first direction 89 toward the locked state, thereby causing the blocking member 62 to be moved to cover the slot 32, such as Figure 2 Conversely, if the mechanism 80 is moved from the first position ( Figure 2 ) moves to the second position ( Figure 3 ), which causes the cam 75 to move in a manner that forces the follower 70 to move in the second direction 88 toward the unlocked state, thereby causing the blocking member 62 to move away from the slot 32, such as Figure 3 shown.

[0045] Thus, when the user actuates the mechanism 80 to disengage the cold plate 51, the locking mechanism 60 automatically moves to the unlocked state in response to the same movement of the mechanism 80. Conversely, when the user actuates the mechanism 80 to engage the cold plate 51, the locking mechanism 60 automatically moves to the locked state in response to the same movement of the mechanism 80. Thus, when the cold plate 51 is engaged, the user cannot inadvertently remove the module 40 or install a new module 40 because the locking mechanism 60 physically blocks the insertion or removal of the module 40 as long as the cold plate 51 is in the engaged position. Furthermore, a single movement, i.e., actuation of the mechanism 80, simultaneously accomplishes two tasks: engaging / disengaging the cold plate 51, and locking / unlocking the locking mechanism 60.

[0046] Now turn to Figures 4 to 15, another example information processing device 110 will be described. Information processing device 110 is an example configuration of information processing device 10. Therefore, some components of information processing device 110 correspond to components of the above-mentioned information processing device 10 (i.e., are the same as, similar to, and / or are example configurations thereof). Corresponding components of information processing device 110 and information processing device 10 are given reference numerals with the same last two digits, such as 20 and 120. The above description of the components of information processing device 10 applies to the corresponding components of information processing device 110 110 (unless otherwise indicated or logically contradictory), so the repeated description of some aspects already described above will be omitted below.

[0047] Figures 4 to 15 The information handling device 110 is shown in various perspectives and various states, and aspects of the information handling device 110 can be seen in multiple figures. The following description will refer to the figures as they relate to the described aspects and when such a relationship exists, rather than in strict numerical order.

[0048] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the information handling device includes a chassis 120, a set of pluggable module slots 130, pluggable modules 140, a main system board (not visible), a liquid cooling system 150, a module locking mechanism 160, and a cold plate engagement lever 180. In this example embodiment, the information handling device 110 is a computing device and the pluggable module 140 includes a pluggable media drive (e.g., an SSD).

[0049] The chassis 120 includes a plurality of walls or panels, including a front panel 121, and top, bottom, left, right, and rear walls / panels. The chassis 120 may also include brackets and / or other support structures (not labeled). The chassis 120 supports and accommodates a main system board, which includes information processing circuits such as a CPU, ASIC, or other circuits.

[0050] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the pluggable module slot 130 is arranged at the front panel 121 of the chassis 120 and forms a part of the front panel. The pluggable module slot 130 includes a plurality of slots 132, wherein each slot 132 is configured to removably receive a pluggable module 140 ("130" generally refers to a group of slots, and "132" refers to an individual slot). Each slot 132 may include a connector (not shown) configured to connect with a complementary connector of the module 140 when the pluggable module 140 is installed in the slot 132, so as to communicatively (e.g., electrically or optically) connect the pluggable module 140 to the main system board. Figures 4 to 7In the example shown, the set of slots 130 includes an array having three columns 131 of slots 132, including a first column 131-1, a second column 131-2, and a third column 131-3. This is merely an example, and in other embodiments, the slots 132 may be arranged differently, including having more or fewer slots 132, more or fewer columns, and / or more or fewer rows.

[0051] As described above, in this example, the pluggable module 140 may include a media drive. The pluggable module 140 also includes an ejector mechanism that includes an ejector button 142 and an ejector lever 143. Figure 5 As shown, the pluggable module 140 is ejected by pressing the ejector button 142 in (see arrow 194), which releases the rod 143 from the stowed position. Next, the now released rod 143 can be pulled outward (see arrow 195), which generates a force applied to the chassis 120, which pushes the module 140 in the -y direction and causes the pluggable module 140 to disconnect from the electrical connector in the slot 132 and move out of a portion of the slot 132, so that the user can grab the pluggable module 140 and move the module 140 out of the remaining portion of the slot 132.

[0052] like Fig.15 As shown, the liquid cooling system 150 includes a cold plate 151 and a liquid cooling circuit, which includes a fluid coupler 158 and a fluid conduit 156 configured to flow a liquid coolant through the device 110. The cold plates 151 are all connected together to form a first cold plate unit 159, which can move together in a vertical (+ / -z) direction. The first cold plate unit 159 is thermally coupled to the liquid coolant carried in the fluid conduit 156. As described in more detail below, the cold plate engagement rod 180 can be actuated to drive the movement of the cold plate 151. Each cold plate 151 is disposed in one of the slots 132 and is configured to removably engage with a pluggable module 140 installed in the slot 132. More specifically, the cold plate 151 is positioned above the module 140 and can move in the +z and -z directions to move between an engagement position and a disengagement position. The cold plate unit 159 moves downward (-z direction) to engage the cold plate 151 with the pluggable module 140. The cold plate unit 159 moves upward (in the +z direction) to disengage the cold plate 151 from the pluggable module 140 .

[0053] In some examples, the liquid cooling system 150 includes a second cold plate unit 185, which includes a cold plate 186. The second cold plate unit 185 is fixed relative to the chassis 120 and does not move when the rod 180 is actuated. In these examples, the pluggable module is disposed in the space between the cold plates 186 and 151, wherein each cold plate 186 is located below a corresponding pluggable module and each cold plate 151 is located above a corresponding pluggable module. When the first cold plate unit 159 moves downward, the pluggable module is clamped between the cold plates 186 and 151. When the first cold plate unit 159 moves upward, the pluggable module is no longer clamped by the cold plates 186 and 151. This example of the liquid cooling system 150 is only an example embodiment, and a pluggable module locking mechanism 160 is disclosed, which can be used with any other type of liquid cooling system. In particular, in other examples, the liquid cooling system can include a set of movable cold plates, but does not include a fixed cold plate.

[0054] like Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the device 110 includes a cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 configured to move all movable cold plates 151 in the set of slots 130 together as a group between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the example shown, the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 includes a plate-like structure that is horizontally oriented and located below the set of slots 130 in the chassis 120. The cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 is movably coupled to the horizontal support member 123 of the chassis 120 via a slot 153 and a bobbin 125 engaged with the slot 153, and these allow the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 to move horizontally along the + / -y direction. Fig. 9 and Fig.13 The cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 is shown in an engaged position, and Fig.10 and Fig.14 The cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 is shown in a disengaged position. In this example, the disengaged position ( Fig.10 and Fig.14 ) in the +y direction than the joint position ( Fig. 9 and Fig.13 The cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 is engaged with eccentrics 155, which are attached to the horizontal support member 123 via brackets 124, such as Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown. Fig.11 As shown, the bracket 124 is coupled to the horizontal support member 123 and extends vertically from the horizontal support member. Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 , when the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position, it engages with the eccentric 155 and moves the eccentric. The cold plate unit 159 rests on the eccentric 155 and is vertically supported by it. Therefore, the movement of the eccentric 125 causes the vertical (+ / -z direction) movement of the cold plate 151. In particular, when the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 is in the engaged position ( Fig. 9 and Fig.13 ), the eccentric wheel 155 is in the low position and the cold plate unit 159 is therefore in its lowest position, which corresponds to the engaged position of the cold plate 151. When the cold plate force transmission mechanism 152 is in the disengaged position ( Fig.10 and Fig.14 ), the eccentric wheel 155 is in the raised position, and the cold plate unit 159 is thus raised to its highest position, which corresponds to the cold plate 151 being in the disengaged position. The springs 154 are coupled to the cold plate force transmission mechanism 152 and the horizontal support mechanism 152, and these springs 154 apply a biasing force to move the cold plate force transmission mechanism 152 toward Fig. 9 In addition, as shown in Fig.15 As shown, spring-loaded shoulder screws 157 can movably couple the first cold plate unit 159 to the second cold plate unit 185, and these spring-loaded shoulder screws 157 can bias the cold plate unit 159 (and therefore each cold plate 151) to the engaged position. Gravity also provides some bias of the cold plate 151 toward the engaged position.

[0055] Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 The diagram illustrates how the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 moves between an engaged position and a disengaged position based on the state of the cold plate engagement lever 180. The lever 180 can pivot over a pivot 182. In addition, the lever 180 includes a cam surface 183 that abuts a forward-facing (-y direction) edge of the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152. This cam surface 183 moves as the lever 180 is actuated, thereby protruding more or less in the y direction depending on the orientation of the lever. The position of the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 is controlled by the position of the cam surface 183, and therefore by the orientation of the lever 180. In particular, when the lever 180 is in the Fig. 9 In the first position shown, the cam surface 183 protrudes only a small distance in the +y direction, so the cam surface 183 allows the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 to be positioned in its furthest forward (-y direction) position, which corresponds to the engaged position of the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152. Fig.10In the second position shown, the proximal end 181 of the rod 180 rotates and the cam surface 183 begins to protrude farther and farther in the +y direction, and thus the cam surface 183 begins to force the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 to move in the +y direction. The spring 154 resists this movement, but the force applied by the user to the rod 180 can overcome the biasing force of the spring 154. Eventually, the rod 180 reaches the second position ( Fig.10 ), and in this position, the cold plate force transfer mechanism 152 is at its furthest extension in the +y direction, which corresponds to the disengaged position.

[0056] The lever 180 can be moved between a first position and a second position by moving the distal end 188 of the lever 180 toward or away from the chassis 120 so that the lever 180 pivots about the pivot 182. When the lever 180 is in the first position, the latch 189 can engage the distal end 188, such as Fig. 9 As shown. The user can disengage the latch 189 before moving the rod 180 from the first position to the second position. When the rod 180 is moved from the second position to the first position, the latch 189 can be automatically engaged.

[0057] like Figures 4 to 8 As shown, the pluggable module locking mechanism 160 includes a blocking unit 161. The pluggable module locking mechanism 160 also includes a cam 175, which will be described below with reference to FIG. Figures 9 to 12 Describe in more detail. Return Figure 8 The blocking unit 161 includes a follower 170 and a plurality of blocking members 162. Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the blocking member 162 of the blocking unit 161 is disposed on the outer side of the front panel 121, and the follower 170 is disposed on the inner side of the front panel 121, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown. Figures 4 to 8 As shown, the blocking members 162 include vertically extending bars. In addition, each of the blocking members 162 corresponds to one of the columns 131 of the slots 132 - that is, the blocking member 162-1 corresponds to the column 131-1, the blocking member 162-2 corresponds to the column 131-2, and the blocking member 162-3 corresponds to the column 131-3. Each blocking member 162 is configured to selectively block the corresponding column 131 of the slots 132, as will be described in more detail below. The blocking unit 161 further includes horizontal bars 163, 166, and 168 connected to the vertical blocking members 162. As shown in FIG. Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the base horizontal bar 163 is located below the pluggable modules 140 , the horizontal bar 166 is located in the area between vertically adjacent pluggable modules 140 , and the top horizontal bar 168 is located above the pluggable modules 140 .

[0058] like Figures 4 to 7As shown, the blocking unit 161 is movably connected to the front panel 121 of the chassis 120, adjacent to the set of pluggable module slots 130. The blocking unit 161 is coupled to the front panel 121 via slots 164 provided in the horizontal bars 163, 166 and / or 168, which are engaged with fasteners 165 coupled to the front panel 121 to allow the blocking unit 161 to slide horizontally in the + / -x direction. Thus, the blocking unit 162 can be moved relative to the slots 132 in a locked state ( Figure 4 and Figure 6 ) and unlocked state ( Figure 5 and Figure 7 ) to move between two locations associated with each other.

[0059] like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, in the locked state, each of the blocking members 162 is positioned to cover a portion of each slot 132 in the corresponding column 131 - that is, the blocking member 162-1 blocks the slot 132 in the column 131-1, the blocking member 162-2 blocks the slot 132 in the column 131-2, and the blocking member 162-3 blocks the slot 132 in the column 131-3. Therefore, the blocking members 162 of the blocking member unit 161 collectively block all of the slots 132 in the group of slots 130. More specifically, when in the locked state, the blocking members 162 block the ejector buttons 142 of the pluggable modules. Therefore, in the locked state, no pluggable module 140 can be removed from any slot 132 in the group of slots 130, and no pluggable module 140 can be installed into any slot 132 in the group of slots 130.

[0060] like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, in the unlocked state, the blocking member 162 does not block any slot 132 in the group of slots 130, so the pluggable module 140 can be installed in or removed from the slot 132. Specifically, in this state, the blocking member 162 is laterally positioned on the side of the slot 132, wherein the blocking members 162-1 and 162-2 are positioned between the slots 132 of adjacent columns 131, and the blocking member 162-3 is positioned on the side of the group of slots 130.

[0061] The blocking unit 161 can move between a locked state and an unlocked state in response to actuation of the cold plate engagement mechanism 180. In other words, the state of the cold plate engagement mechanism 180 controls the state of the blocking unit 161, and a change in the state of the mechanism 180 will change the state of the blocking unit 161. Specifically, as Figure 4 As shown, if the mechanism 180 is in the first position corresponding to the cold plate 151 being engaged, the blocking unit 161 is in a locked state where the blocking member 162 blocks the groove 132. Figure 5As shown, if the mechanism 180 is in the second position corresponding to the cold plate 151 being disengaged, the blocking unit 161 is in an unlocked state where the blocking member 162 does not block the slot 132. In addition, the movement of the mechanism 180 between the first position and the second position causes the blocking unit 161 to move between the locked state and the unlocked state.

[0062] The state of the cold plate engagement mechanism 180 controls the state of the blocking unit 181 because of the way in which the follower 170 of the blocking unit 161 interacts with the cam 175 of the mechanism 180. Figures 9 to 12 As shown, the cam 175 is connected to the cold plate engagement mechanism 180, so that when the mechanism 180 is actuated, the cam 175 moves with the mechanism 180. The follower 170 includes a channel 171 through which the cam 175 extends. The channel 171 has a first wall side 173 (see Fig. 9 and Fig.12 ) and the second side wall 172 (see Fig.10 and Fig.12 ), and when the cam 175 moves, it engages and pushes against these walls 172 and 173. Therefore, when the cam 175 moves, the follower 170 also moves. Figure 8 As shown, the follower is connected to the stopper 162. In particular, the stopper 162 is located on the outside of the front panel 121, and the follower 170 is located on the inside of the chassis 120, and the follower 170 extends through the front panel 121 via the slot 122, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 Thus, movement of the follower 170 driven by movement of the cam 175 and (ultimately) movement of the mechanism 180 causes movement of the blocking member 162 .

[0063] More specifically, when the rod 180 is moved along Fig.10 When the direction 192 shown is moved from the first position to the second position, the proximal end 181 of the rod 180 rotates, thereby causing the cam 175 to move along an arc in the general +x direction (the arc is Fig.10 The cam 175 moving in the general +x direction eventually collides with the second wall 172, and the cam 175 begins to push the follower 170 in the +x direction. While the cam 175 moves along an arc, the follower 170 translates linearly along the x-axis. Eventually, when the rod 180 reaches the second position ( Fig.10 and Fig.12 ), the follower 170 achieves its farthest travel range in the +x direction, which corresponds to the unlocking position of the blocking unit 161.

[0064] Conversely, when the rod 180 is moved in the opposite direction 196 (see Fig. 9 ) moves from the second position toward the first position, the cam 175 moves along an arc in the general -x direction (the arc is Fig. 9The cam 175 moving in the general -x direction eventually collides with the first wall 173, and the cam 175 begins to push the follower 170 in the -x direction. Finally, when the rod 180 reaches the first position ( Fig. 9 and Fig.11 ), the follower 170 achieves its farthest travel range in the −x direction, which corresponds to the locking position of the blocking unit 161.

[0065] Thus, when the user actuates the mechanism 180 in direction 192 to disengage the cold plate, the locking mechanism 160 automatically moves to the unlocked state in response to the same movement of the mechanism 180. Conversely, when the user actuates the mechanism 180 in direction 193 to engage the cold plate, the locking mechanism 160 automatically moves to the locked state in response to the same movement of the mechanism 180. Thus, when the cold plate is engaged, the user cannot inadvertently remove the module 140 or install a new module 140 because the locking mechanism 160 physically blocks the insertion or removal of the module 140 as long as the cold plate 51 is in the engaged position. Furthermore, a single movement, i.e., actuation of the mechanism 180, accomplishes two tasks simultaneously: engaging / disengaging the cold plate, and locking / unlocking the locking mechanism 160.

[0066] In the above description, various types of electronic circuits are described. As used herein, "electronic" is intended to be broadly understood to include all types of circuits that utilize electricity, including digital and analog circuits, direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) circuits, and circuits for converting electricity into another form of energy, as well as circuits for performing other functions using electricity. In other words, as used herein, there is no distinction between "electronic" circuits and "electrical" circuits.

[0067] It should be understood that both the general description and the detailed description provide examples that are illustrative in nature and are intended to provide an understanding of the present disclosure without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Various mechanical, compositional, structural, electronic and operational changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present specification and claims. In some instances, well-known circuits, structures and techniques are not shown or described in detail to avoid blurring these examples. In two or more drawings, the same number represents the same or similar element.

[0068] In addition, unless the context indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well. In addition, the terms "comprise", "include", "includes", etc. indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts, and / or groups. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the components described as connected may be directly electrically or mechanically connected, or may be indirectly connected via one or more intermediate components. Unless the context of the specification indicates otherwise, mathematical and geometric terms do not necessarily have to be used according to their strict definitions, as one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that, for example, substantially similar elements that function in a substantially similar manner can easily fall within the scope of a descriptive term, even if the term also has a strict definition.

[0069] And / or: Occasionally, the phrase "and / or" is used herein in conjunction with a list of enumerated items. This phrase is meant to include any combination of the items in the list - from a single item to all items, and any permutations in between. Thus, for example, "A, B, and / or C" means one of "{A}, {B}, {C}, {A, B}, {A, C}, {C, B}, and {A, C, B}".

[0070] Elements and related aspects described in detail with reference to one example may be included in other examples where they are not specifically shown or described when feasible. For example, if an element is described in detail with reference to one example and is not described with reference to a second example, the element may still be claimed to be included in the second example.

[0071] In addition, unless otherwise stated herein or the context implies otherwise, when approximate terms such as "substantially," "approximately," "about," "around," "roughly," and the like are used, this should be understood to mean that mathematical precision is not required, but rather refers to a range of variation that includes but is not strictly limited to the stated value, characteristic, or relationship. In particular, in addition to any ranges (if any) explicitly recited herein, the range of variation implied by the use of such approximate terms includes at least any insignificant variations and those variations that are typical for items of the type in question due to manufacturing tolerances or other tolerances in the relevant art. In any case, unless otherwise indicated, the range of variation may at least include values ​​within the range of ±1% of the recited value, characteristic, or relationship.

[0072] In view of the disclosure herein, many modifications and variations will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the apparatus and method may include additional components or steps omitted from the diagram and description for operational clarity. Accordingly, this description is only interpreted as illustrative and is to teach those skilled in the art the general manner of performing this teaching. It should be understood that the various examples shown and described herein will be considered exemplary. Elements and materials, and the arrangement of these elements and materials may be used to replace those shown and described herein, components and processes may be reversed, and certain features of this teaching may be utilized independently, all of which will be clear to those skilled in the art after benefiting from the description herein. Without departing from the scope of this teaching and the appended claims, the elements described herein may be changed.

[0073] It is to be understood that the specific examples set forth herein are non-limiting and that modifications in structure, dimensions, materials, and methods may be made without departing from the scope of the present teachings.

[0074] Other examples from this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered exemplary only, and that the following claims be given their fullest breadth, including equivalents under applicable law.

Claims

1. An information processing device, comprising: Chassis; a set of slots coupled to the chassis, each of the slots being configured to removably receive a pluggable module; a liquid cooling system comprising a set of cold plates, the cold plates being respectively disposed in the slots, wherein the cold plates are movable between (i) an engaged state and (ii) a disengaged state, wherein in the engaged state, the cold plates are positioned to thermally contact the pluggable modules respectively received in the slots, and in the disengaged state, the cold plates are positioned to be disengaged from the pluggable modules; A module locking mechanism, the module locking mechanism being configured to: If the cold plate is in the engaged state, preventing the pluggable module from being inserted into or removed from the slot, and If the cold plate is in the disengaged state, the pluggable module is allowed to be inserted into or removed from the slot.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the module locking mechanism is movable between a locked state and an unlocked state, in which the locking mechanism prevents insertion and removal of the pluggable module and in which the locking mechanism allows insertion and removal of the pluggable module; and Wherein the module locking mechanism is configured to: automatically transitioning from the unlocked state to the locked state in response to the cold plate moving to the engaged state; and In response to the cold plate moving to the disengaged state, automatically transitioning from the locked state to the unlocked state.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, comprising: a cold plate engagement mechanism configured to move the cold plate between the engaged state and the disengaged state; and Wherein the module locking mechanism is mechanically coupled to the cold plate engagement mechanism such that movement of the cold plate engagement mechanism drives movement of the module locking mechanism.

4. The information processing device according to claim 3, Wherein the cold plate engagement mechanism comprises a manually actuatable lever.

5. The information processing device according to claim 4, The module locking mechanism includes a blocking unit configured to block the slot in the locked state, a cam coupled to the rod, and a follower, wherein the follower is coupled to the blocking unit and engages with the cam, so that actuation of the rod drives the movement of the blocking unit via interaction between the cam and the follower.

6. The information processing device according to claim 4, comprising: a cold plate force transfer mechanism engaged with the cold plate engagement mechanism and movable in response to actuation of the cold plate engagement mechanism, The cold plate force transfer mechanism is configured to convert movement of the cold plate force transfer mechanism into movement of the cold plate.

7. The information processing device according to claim 1, Wherein the module locking mechanism is configured to prevent the pluggable module from being inserted into or removed from the slot by physically blocking the slot.

8. The information processing device according to claim 7, The module locking mechanism is configured to physically block the slot while physically blocking an ejection mechanism of a pluggable module installed in the slot.

9. The information processing device according to claim 7, The module locking mechanism includes a blocking unit, which is configured to move between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the blocking unit blocks the slot to prevent the pluggable module from being inserted and removed from the slot, and in the unlocked state, the blocking unit does not block the slot.

10. The information processing device according to claim 9, The group of slots includes a plurality of rows of slots, and the blocking unit includes a plurality of vertical blocking members configured to respectively block the plurality of rows of slots in the locked state.

11. The information processing device according to claim 1, comprising: a cold plate engagement mechanism actuatable to move the cold plate between the engaged state and the disengaged state; and Wherein the module locking mechanism is mechanically coupled to the cold plate engagement mechanism such that actuation of the cold plate engagement mechanism causes the module locking mechanism to change between preventing insertion and removal and allowing insertion and removal.

12. The information processing device according to claim 11, wherein the module locking mechanism comprises a blocking unit configured to move between a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein in the locked state, the blocking unit blocks the slot to prevent the pluggable module from being inserted and removed from the slot, and in the unlocked state, the blocking unit does not block the slot, and Wherein the blocking unit is mechanically coupled to the cold plate engagement mechanism such that actuation of the cold plate engagement mechanism causes the blocking unit to move between the locked state and the unlocked state.

13. The information processing device according to claim 11, Wherein the cold plate engagement mechanism is configured to be manually actuated.

14. An information processing device comprising: Chassis; a set of slots coupled to the chassis, each of the slots being configured to removably receive a pluggable module; a liquid cooling system comprising a set of cold plates, the cold plates being respectively disposed in the slots, wherein the cold plates are movable between (i) an engaged state, in which the cold plates are positioned to thermally contact the pluggable modules respectively received in the slots, and (ii) a disengaged state, in which the cold plates are positioned to be disengaged from the pluggable modules; a cold plate engagement lever configured to be manually actuatable to drive the cold plate to move between the engaged state and the disengaged state; as well as a module locking mechanism mechanically coupled to the cold plate engagement lever such that actuation of the cold plate engagement lever drives the module locking mechanism to change between: a locked state in which the module locking mechanism prevents the pluggable module from being inserted into or removed from the slot; and An unlocked state in which the module locking mechanism allows the pluggable module to be inserted into or removed from the slot.

15. The information processing device according to claim 14, The module locking mechanism is configured such that if the cold plate is in the disengaged state, the module locking mechanism is in the locked state, and if the cold plate is in the engaged state, the module locking mechanism is in the unlocked state.

16. The information processing device according to claim 14, wherein in response to actuation of the cold plate engagement lever in a first direction, the cold plate is moved by the cold plate engagement lever to the disengaged state and the module locking mechanism is moved by the cold plate engagement lever to the unlocked state, and wherein in response to actuation of the cold plate engagement lever in the second direction, the cold plate is moved by the cold plate engagement lever to the engaged state, and the module locking mechanism is moved by the cold plate engagement lever to the locked state.

17. The information processing device according to claim 14, wherein the module locking mechanism comprises a blocking unit configured to block the slot in the locked state to prevent insertion and removal of the pluggable module in the slot and to avoid blocking the slot in the unlocked state; and The module locking mechanism includes a cam connected to the cold plate engagement lever, and a follower connected to the blocking unit and engaged with the cam, so that actuation of the cold plate engagement lever drives movement of the blocking unit.

18. A method comprising: actuating a cold plate engagement lever of an information handling device in a first direction, the information handling device comprising a set of slots configured to removably receive a pluggable module and a liquid cooling system comprising a set of cold plates disposed in the slots, wherein actuating the cold plate engagement lever in the first direction causes the cold plate to move from an engaged state to a disengaged state, wherein in the engaged state the cold plate is positioned to thermally contact the pluggable modules, respectively, the pluggable modules being received in the slots, and in the disengaged state the cold plate is positioned to be disengaged from the pluggable modules, and Actuating the cold plate engagement lever in the first direction also causes the module locking mechanism to move from a locked state to an unlocked state, wherein in the locked state, the module locking mechanism prevents the pluggable module from being inserted into or removed from the slot, and in the unlocked state, the module locking mechanism allows the pluggable module to be inserted into or removed from the slot.

19. The method according to claim 18, comprising: actuating the cold plate engagement lever in a second direction, wherein actuating the cold plate engagement lever in the second direction causes the cold plate to move from the disengaged state to the engaged state, and Wherein actuating the cold plate engagement lever in the second direction further causes the module locking mechanism to move from the unlocked state to the locked state.

20. The method according to claim 18, comprising: A pluggable module is removed from one of the slots or inserted into one of the slots, wherein the removal or insertion is performed after actuating the cold plate engagement lever in the first direction and before actuating the cold plate engagement lever in the second direction.

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