Board Module Preload Structure for Tolerance-Stable Connector Mating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server designs face challenges in ensuring reliable connections between riser boards and module connectors due to manufacturing and assembly tolerances, leading to potential damage from interference.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a preload unit with elastic members and a restriction unit that applies a controlled elastic force to securely connect the module connector to the circuit board connector, compensating for manufacturing tolerances and preventing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an interference is pre-designed between the module bracket and the housing to compensate for negative tolerance, then the riser board connector can be sufficiently connected to the module connector, but when the assembly tolerance is positive tolerance, the interference generates damage to related elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a preload unit with elastic members that can dynamically adjust the connection parameters between the board module and riser board. The elastic members provide a controllable preloading force that compensates for tolerance variations without causing damage, transforming the rigid interference fit into a flexible elastic connection that adapts to both negative and positive tolerance conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The preload unit with elastic members serves as a cushioning mechanism that is pre-installed in the connection structure. This cushioning element absorbs the shock and stress that would otherwise cause damage when positive tolerance occurs, while still providing sufficient connection force when negative tolerance occurs, thereby protecting related elements from damage in advance.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional rigid connection design is used between riser board and module connector, then manufacturing and assembly tolerances are not compensated, but the structure remains simple
Solution Approach 1:
The preload unit with elastic members acts as an intermediary element between the board module and riser board connection structures. This intermediary component provides the tolerance compensation function without requiring complex modifications to the main connection structures, thereby achieving manufacturing precision improvement with minimal increase in overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If no preload mechanism is used, then the connection structure is simple, but manufacturing tolerances cause insufficient connection or element damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the preload mechanism with elastic members only at the specific connection points where tolerance compensation is needed, rather than throughout the entire structure. This localized application provides the necessary connection stability and tolerance compensation while minimizing the overall complexity increase, as only specific areas of the connection structure are enhanced.
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
This solution ensures reliable and durable connections by compensating for both negative and positive manufacturing tolerances, enhancing the reliability and lifespan of the electronic device.
Implementation Method 1
The preload unit is connected to the restriction unit and applies a first elastic force toward the restriction unit
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a device housing, a circuit board, and a board module. The device housing includes a restriction unit. The circuit board includes a circuit board connector, wherein the circuit board is disposed in the device housing. The board module includes a module housing, a module board, a module connector, and a preload unit. The module connector is disposed on the module board. The preload unit and the module board are disposed on the module housing. The preload unit is connected to the restriction unit and applies a first elastic force toward the restriction unit. The module connector can thus be sufficiently connected to the circuit board connector.