CAMM Broaching Mounts for Torque-Free Compression Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compression-attached memory modules (CAMMs) face issues with screw mounting, which can lead to open contacts, bending/warping, and damage due to improper torque application, and are time-consuming in high-volume manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
The use of compression-defined broaching mounts with insertable pins that apply accurate, evenly-distributed compression without requiring torque, utilizing features like snap-pins, washers, and gaskets to ensure proper electrical connections and conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screws are used to mount CAMMs, then the modules can be securely attached, but improper torque application may result in open contacts, bending/warping, and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the screw-based mechanical fastening system with a broach-based system. The broach is inserted into aligned openings and locked into position, eliminating the need for torque application while maintaining secure attachment. This substitution resolves the contradiction by providing mounting security without the risk of torque-induced damage to electrical contacts and PCB structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the torque application step from the mounting process. By using a broach that is inserted and locked into position rather than requiring rotational tightening, the patent removes the problematic torque variable that causes both insufficient contact pressure and excessive force damage, thereby improving reliability while maintaining attachment strength.
2Reliability
If screws with proper torque are used, then reliable electrical connections can be achieved, but the process requires tools and is time-consuming in high-volume manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the screw-and-wrench mechanical system with a broach insertion and locking system. This eliminates the need for torque-wrench tools and the associated learning curve and quality control steps, enabling faster assembly while maintaining reliable electrical connections through the broach's compression force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The broach is designed with pre-formed compression surfaces that apply force as soon as the broach is inserted and locked into position. This preliminary action of compression force application eliminates the need for subsequent torque adjustment steps, speeding up the assembly process while ensuring reliable electrical connections from the outset.
3Ease of operation
If insufficient torque is applied to screws, then assembly is easier and faster, but open contacts may result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the torque-dependent screw system with a broach system where compression force is applied through direct insertion and locking. This eliminates the need to worry about torque sufficiency, making assembly easier while guaranteeing contact closure through the broach's mechanical locking action that inherently applies adequate compression force.
4Strength
If too much torque is applied to screws, then secure attachment is achieved, but bending/warping of memory module and PCB may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rotational torque system with a linear insertion and locking system. The broach applies compression force axially as it is inserted and locked, distributing the force evenly along the attachment interface without creating the localized high-stress points that cause PCB and memory module bending and warping associated with screw torque application.
Data Source
AI summary
A compression-defined broaching mount for compression-attached memory module (CAMM) includes a plurality of pins configured to retain a plurality of circuit boards in a compressed position. The pins may include a snap-pin, a push-pin, and/or a spring-loaded pin. The pin is removable. The CAMM may include a flat washer and/or a counter-sunk washer configured to receive the pin. The counter-sunk washer may have an opening to a chamber therein, where an inner surface of the chamber has a channel to receive a locking member of the pin. The CAMM may include a compressible material to exert a force when the pin is in a locked position. The compressible material may include an O-ring, a gasket, and/or a film. The CAMM may include a visual compression indicator.