Adapter Assembly for Hot-Pluggable Storage in Server Riser Slots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer systems, particularly server systems, face inefficiencies in utilizing unused space around expansion slots for upgrade options, leading to wasted internal volumetric space and the need for disassembly to install or upgrade storage drives, which can be hot-pluggable but require redesigning structural components.
Innovation Solution
An adapter assembly that mounts within the computer system, utilizing unused space above or around empty expansion slots to provide a hot-pluggable storage drive upgrade option without significant structural changes, comprising an adapter cage and board that engages with the system's riser board and expansion slots, allowing for the installation of additional components in a compact configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hot-pluggable storage drives are implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity worsens due to redesigning structural components
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly acts as an intermediary component that interfaces between the existing riser board and the hot-pluggable storage drive. It includes a connector that engages with the riser board and another connector for the storage drive, enabling hot-plug functionality without modifying the original system structure. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by providing ease of operation through the adapter while preserving the existing structural components.
2Volume of stationary object
If unused space around expansion slots is utilized, then volume of stationary object is improved, but device complexity worsens due to adapter assembly integration
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is designed to utilize the vertical space above the riser board by extending upward to engage with expansion slots. This dimensional approach allows the storage drive to be mounted in the previously unused vertical volume, effectively utilizing internal space without requiring horizontal expansion or major structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly is nested within the existing system architecture, fitting between the riser board and the available space above it. The connector engages with the riser board's expansion slot interface, and the storage drive is housed within the adapter's cage structure, creating a nested configuration that efficiently uses available volume without significant structural changes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adapter assembly is integrated with riser board, then adaptability is improved, but ease of manufacture worsens due to integration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The solution segments the hot-plug functionality into a separate adapter assembly that can be manufactured and tested independently before integration with the riser board. The adapter contains the connector, cage, and mounting structures as distinct components, allowing modular manufacturing and simplifying the overall production process while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
An example adapter assembly may comprise an adapter cage to removably mount to a riser board of a computer system. Further, the example adapter assembly may comprise an adapter board disposed on the adapter cage, wherein the adapter cage is to receive multiple computer components, and the adapter board is to engage with the multiple computer components.