CAMM Bolster Plate With Ramped Keyholes for Toolless Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Information Handling Systems (IHSs) lack a toolless installation method for Compression Attached Memory Modules (CAMMs), which complicates the installation and removal of these modules without compromising signal integrity or increasing the space envelope.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a toolless-installation CAMM bolster plate with ramped keyholes that convert lateral displacement into vertical compression, allowing for secure attachment and detachment of CAMMs without tools, using a flange portion for additional stability and a dielectric insulating material with low friction to facilitate smooth movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional installation methods are used for CAMMs, then signal integrity can be maintained through proper compression, but the installation process requires tools and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The bolster plate incorporates a self-service mechanism where the installation tool serves dual purposes: it both installs the CAMM module and applies the necessary compression force. The tool engages with the ramped keyhole to automatically deflect the spring contact elements during insertion, eliminating the need for separate compression application steps and tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramped keyhole acts as an intermediary mechanism between the installation tool and the spring contact elements. It converts the linear motion of the tool into the lateral deflection force needed to compress the springs, mediating the force transmission in a controlled manner that simplifies the overall installation process.
2Reliability
If compression force is applied to maintain signal integrity, then connection reliability improves, but the installation process becomes more complex requiring additional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic spring contact elements that automatically adjust their compression force based on the insertion depth and alignment of the CAMM module. The spring mechanism provides continuous contact force during operation while allowing for thermal expansion and contraction, maintaining reliable electrical connection without requiring over-engineered static compression structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring contact elements serve themselves by automatically generating the necessary compression force through their elastic deformation during module insertion. The mechanism self-regulates the compression level based on the module's position, eliminating the need for externally controlled compression application devices.
3Ease of operation
If toolless installation is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but ensuring sufficient compression force becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The ramped keyhole introduces a dimensional transformation by converting vertical insertion motion into lateral deflection force. This geometric conversion allows the simple vertical insertion action to generate sufficient lateral force to compress the spring contact elements, solving the force generation challenge without requiring complex mechanical advantage structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of force application by using elastic spring elements instead of rigid contacts. The spring's force-displacement characteristic automatically provides the necessary compression force while accommodating manufacturing tolerances and thermal variations, maintaining reliable contact without requiring precisely controlled high forces.
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
Enables toolless installation and removal of CAMMs, maintaining compression force for signal integrity while minimizing space requirements, thus simplifying module handling and reducing the need for tools.
Implementation Method 1
each ramped keyhole converts lateral displacement of the toolless-installation CAMM bolster plate into vertical displacement, providing the compression between the CAMM and the z-axis compression connector
Implementation Method 2
a dielectric insulating material having a low coefficient of friction disposed on a bottom surface of the bolster plate body portion, to contact the surface of the CAMM PCB
Data Source
AI summary
Toolless Compression Attached Memory Module (CAMM) installation systems and methods employ a bolster plate with a generally flat, parallelepiped body portion configured to contact one surface of a CAMM Printed Circuit Board (PCB) and provide compression between the CAMM and a z-axis compression connector. The bolster plate body defines (a) ramped keyhole(s), each ramped keyhole converts lateral displacement of the bolster plate into vertical displacement, providing the compression between the CAMM and the z-axis compression connector, by the ramped keyhole(s) sliding along (a) bottom face(s) of (a) head(s) of (a) fixed standoff(s) extending from an information handling system (IHS) PCB, through the z-axis compression connector and the CAMM PCB. The bolster plate may lock in place, laterally displaced, to maintain the compression between the CAMM and the z-axis compression connector. The bolster plate may also have a flange portion extending generally perpendicular from the body portion.