Adapter Module for Nested Instrumentation Chassis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular test instrumentation systems often have unused chassis space due to obsolete or incompatible modular form factors, leading to inefficiencies and reduced functionality.
Innovation Solution
A specialized adapter module that fits within a larger chassis, enabling the use of smaller functional modules by providing electrical connections, air flow, and power management, while isolating unnecessary signals and allowing user-configurable signal conditioning and power alteration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standardized chassis houses multiple modules, then multiple functions can be provided in a single chassis, but unused chassis space is created due to obsolete or incompatible modular form factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested configuration where a smaller first chassis is housed within a larger second chassis. The first chassis contains first modules while the second chassis contains second modules, allowing both chassis types to coexist in a single rack unit. This nesting approach enables utilization of previously unused chassis space by accommodating smaller form factor modules within the gaps of larger form factor slots.
2Reliability
If obsolete modular form factors are replaced with different form factors, then system reliability is improved, but unused chassis space is created due to form factor incompatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows replacement of obsolete modules with newer form factor modules by nesting the smaller new modules within the larger chassis slots. The first chassis with first modules can be installed within the second chassis, enabling OEMs to upgrade to more reliable newer form factors while maintaining rack space utilization through the nested configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal rack mounting system that can accommodate multiple form factors simultaneously. The second chassis is designed to accept both its native second modules and the nested first chassis containing first modules, making the rack space universal for different module types and form factors.
3Area of stationary object
If a nested chassis configuration is implemented, then unused chassis space is utilized, but device complexity increases due to adapter requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested chassis configuration where the first chassis is housed within the second chassis. This nesting approach utilizes unused chassis space by fitting smaller modules within the gaps of larger module slots, achieving better space utilization without requiring complex external adapters or mounting mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the rack space into different levels or zones, with the second chassis occupying the outer framework and the first chassis nested within. This segmentation allows independent installation and removal of each chassis type while maintaining organized space utilization and reducing overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the effective utilization of unused chassis space by accommodating smaller modules with different standards, enhancing reliability and flexibility in test equipment configurations without requiring significant redesign or expansion.
Implementation Method 1
at least one air passage for conveying air from an opening of the larger chassis that provides air flow to cool the larger functional module to an area in which the smaller functional module is situated when mated with the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A module that incorporates a chassis for enabling use of at least one smaller functional module in at least one slot of a chassis designed to mate with a larger functional module having a different standard than the smaller functional module. The module has a housing having electrical connections adapted to mate with electrical connections provided by the chassis for the larger functional module and dimensions that fit within at least one slot provided by the chassis for housing the larger functional module. The module includes at least one set of electrical connections adapted to mate with the electrical connections of the smaller functional module(s) and at least one air passage for conveying air from an opening of the chassis that provides air flow to cool the larger functional module to an area in which the smaller functional module(s) is/are situated when mated with the housing.