Blind Connector Alignment for Serviceable Computing Cabinets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing systems face challenges in efficiently connecting computing tiles between adjacent cabinets, particularly in high-performance computing applications, due to mechanical constraints on electrical connections and limited space within cabinets.
Innovation Solution
A blind connector system that uses an external tool to connect blind connectors to computing tiles, allowing for independent alignment and connection of opposing sides of the blind connector, and incorporating a Y-pullback mechanism to provide clearance for system tray insertion and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If internal actuators are used to connect computing tiles within the cabinet, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the actuator mechanism from the cabinet interior and relocates it to an external tool. The external tool contains the actuator that pushes connectors through the cabinet wall from the outside, eliminating the need for internal actuators and reducing cabinet complexity while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an external tool as an intermediary device that mediates the connection process. This tool houses the actuator and interfaces with the connector system from outside the cabinet, allowing reliable connections without compromising internal cabinet simplicity
2Manufacturing precision
If fixed connector positions are used within the cabinet, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability to different configurations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability in the connector positioning system. Connectors are designed with adjustment mechanisms that allow their positions to be modified after installation, enabling the system to adapt to different configurations while maintaining precise connections when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the connector system into independently adjustable components. Each connector can be individually positioned and adjusted, allowing flexible configuration changes without affecting the precision of other connections in the system
3Volume of moving object
If connectors are positioned close to computing tiles to reduce space, then the volume efficiency is improved, but the ease of servicing decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the servicing function from the cabinet interior by using an external tool that accesses connectors from outside the cabinet. This allows connectors to be positioned close to computing tiles for space efficiency while maintaining ease of servicing through external access via holder tubes
4Ease of operation
If blind connectors are used to simplify the connection process, then the ease of operation is improved, but the alignment precision between opposing sides becomes more difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-alignment features where the connector design inherently guides proper positioning. Alignment features on the connectors work together to automatically establish correct alignment when brought into contact, maintaining precision while preserving the simplicity of the blind connection approach
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that provide alignment information during the connection process. This feedback enables operators to achieve precise alignment between opposing connectors while maintaining the ease of operation characteristic of blind connections
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
The blind connector system reduces mechanical constraints on electrical connections, simplifies the computing cabinet design by eliminating internal actuators, and enhances the ability to service computing cabinets without disturbing adjacent cabinets, while maintaining high signal integrity for high-speed signals.
Implementation Method 1
one or more magnets configured to provide rough alignment between the connector and the first computing tile
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of this disclosure relate to a computing system. A computing system can include a first computing tile housed in a first computing cabinet and a second computing tile housed in a second computing cabinet. The computing system can include a connector configured to connect the first computing tile and the second computing tile. The computing system can include a first holder tube positioned within a first computing cabinet providing access to the connector and dimensioned to receive an assembly tool to adjust the connector in at least one dimension. The computing system can include a second holder tube positioned within the second computing cabinet, where the second holder tube provides access to the connector and is dimensioned to receive the assembly tool to adjust the connector in at least one dimension.