BMC Carrier Module Upright Mounting for Server Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server layouts with horizontally positioned BMC boards and memory cards occupy excessive space and complicate maintenance, particularly in non-uniformly sized system sleds, making it difficult to access or replace these components efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A BMC carrier module with a bracket system that secures BMC boards and memory cards upright, allowing for perpendicular installation to the motherboard, and includes a thumb screw mechanism to accommodate various card dimensions, such as M.2 and M.3 SSDs, optimizing space usage and facilitating easier maintenance across different sled sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the BMC board and memory card are positioned horizontally on the motherboard, then the components can be easily installed, but the space occupation increases and maintenance access becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the BMC board and memory card from horizontal positioning (2D plane on motherboard) to vertical positioning (3D space utilizing height dimension). The BMC carrier module elevates these components upright, reducing their footprint on the motherboard while maintaining accessibility for installation and maintenance.
2Area of stationary object
If the BMC board is elevated via a BMC carrier to match 1U system sled height, then space efficiency improves, but the same configuration cannot be applied to 2U system sleds
Solution Approach 1:
The BMC carrier module is designed with universal adaptability to function across different system sled configurations. The module can be installed in both 1U and 2U sleds, with the ability to adjust or accommodate varying height requirements, making a single design solution applicable to multiple platform types.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier module incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through elements such as adjustable positioning mechanisms or flexible mounting options, allowing the same module to adapt to different sled heights and configurations rather than being fixed to a single dimensional constraint.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed screw mechanism is used to secure the memory card, then the installation is stable, but it cannot accommodate various dimensions of memory cards
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening mechanism incorporates dynamic adjustability, allowing the memory card holder to be positioned at various locations along the card edge. This enables the same mechanical structure to securely fasten memory cards of different dimensions while maintaining stable installation, rather than requiring fixed-position screws for each card type.
Data Source
AI summary
A baseboard management controller (BMC) carrier module that contains a BMC carrier bracket and a thumb screw is disclosed. The BMC carrier bracket has a back plate, a top plate, a side plate, and a corner plate. The corner plate includes a first section and a second section. The second section of the corner plate extends perpendicularly from the first section of the corner plate. The BMC carrier bracket is configured to receive a BMC board between the first section of the corner plate and the side plate. The BMC board includes an aperture to receive a screw to secure the BMC board to the BMC carrier bracket, at a distance from the back plate. The thumb screw is coupled to the second section of the corner plate of the BMC carrier bracket, and is configured to bias a memory carrier module against the side plate.