Blade Server Switch-off Delay Device for Data Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blade server removal processes often result in data loss due to premature disconnection from the network, as the servers are removed before data transfer is complete.
Innovation Solution
A device with a rotatable arm and latch mechanism that delays the removal of a blade server by maintaining power until data transfer is finished, featuring a damper mechanism to resist arm movement and ensure data safety, and a power circuit that switches off power when the arm is open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the blade server is removed quickly from the slot, then the removal process is efficient and fast, but data in the server can be irretrievably lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary data transfer and saving operations before the blade server is physically removed from the slot. The enclosure controller initiates data transfer from the blade server to the enclosure or network storage before the removal process completes, ensuring data is preserved even if the server is quickly removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure controller acts as an intermediary between the blade server and the removal process. It monitors the removal status through sensors and controls the power circuit to maintain power supply during the critical data transfer period, mediating between the fast removal action and the data safety requirement.
2Reliability
If the blade server is kept powered on during removal, then data transfer can be completed, but power is consumed during the removal process
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply to the blade server is controlled in periodic stages rather than continuously. The power circuit remains closed initially to enable data transfer, then opens automatically when the enclosure controller detects that data transfer is complete or the removal process is finalized, eliminating unnecessary power consumption during the actual physical removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from sensors that detect the blade server's position and removal status to control the power circuit. When the sensor indicates the server is being removed or has been removed, the enclosure controller receives this feedback and automatically opens the power circuit, stopping power consumption while ensuring data transfer occurred during the powered-on period.
3Reliability
If a delay mechanism is added to prevent premature removal, then data safety is improved, but the removal process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The delay and control functions are merged into the existing enclosure controller rather than adding a separate delay mechanism. The enclosure controller integrates sensor input, power circuit control, and removal monitoring into a single unified system, achieving the delay effect through software/control logic rather than additional mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure controller performs multiple functions: it manages power distribution to blade servers, monitors removal status via sensors, controls the power circuit timing, and coordinates data transfer operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate delay mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining data safety.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a device for controlling the time period required to remove a server from a slot. The time period is sufficient for data to be saved from the server prior to power being shut off to the server and its removal from the slot. The device has an arm with a proximal end and a distal end. The arm is mounted for rotation about a first axis from a closed position to an open position. A mechanism applies a motive force to the arm to bias the arm to the open position.