Carrierless Hard Disk Retainer Assembly for Horizontal Server Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server designs using standard hard disk drives result in substantial wasted space within server chassis, particularly when using carrierless hard disk drives, leading to inadequate computing or storage capacity, especially in densely packed rack systems.
Innovation Solution
A data storage module with a retainer assembly that securely holds multiple carrierless hard disk drives in a horizontal orientation, optimizing space usage and allowing for efficient installation and removal, with a chassis that can be configured as a drawer in a conventional electronic equipment rack, and a retainer assembly that includes end capture portions and a locating member to securely position and connect the drives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If standard off-the-shelf hard disk drives are used in server designs, then cost effectiveness is improved, but space utilization deteriorates due to substantial wasted space in the server chassis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional vertical mounting of hard disk drives to a horizontal arrangement within a compact retainer assembly. This dimensional change allows carrierless drives to be positioned side-by-side in a plane, maximizing space utilization while maintaining cost effectiveness through the use of standard off-the-shelf drives
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer assembly nests multiple carrierless hard disk drives within a compact housing structure. The drives are arranged horizontally and nested within the retainer, which itself can be mounted within the server chassis, creating a nested configuration that optimizes space usage
2Area of stationary object
If carrierless hard disk drives are used to reduce dimensions and spacing, then space efficiency is improved, but retention and positioning difficulty increases due to lack of carriers
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer assembly serves as an intermediary structure between the carrierless hard disk drives and the server chassis. It provides the necessary retention mechanisms, positioning features, and structural support that would otherwise be provided by carriers, enabling easy installation and secure retention of carrierless drives
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer assembly performs multiple functions: it retains carrierless hard disk drives, provides precise positioning, facilitates easy installation and removal, and interfaces with the server chassis. This multi-functional design addresses all retention and positioning needs in a single component
3Quantity of substance
If hard disk drives are spaced closely together to maximize density, then storage capacity is improved, but retention complexity increases due to limited conventional solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer assembly is segmented into distinct functional portions: a base for support, end capture portions for retaining each drive, and locating members for precise positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, managing retention complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer assembly implements local quality by providing specific retention and positioning features at precise locations: end capture portions at each end of the drive, locating members at specific points on the drive housing, and support features at the base. This localized approach optimizes retention for closely spaced drives
Data Source
AI summary
A carrierless mass storage device retainer assembly for retaining a carrierless mass storage device in a horizontal orientation comprises a base and first and second end surface receiving portions. The base defines a generally horizontal surface. The first end surface receiving portion is shaped to receive a first end of the drive and is movable between an at rest position and an engaged position. The second end surface receiving portion is shaped to receive a second end surface of the drive and has an at rest position spaced from the first end surface receiving portion. The second end surface receiving portion is movable to accommodate a length of the drive, and, with the first and second ends of the drive received therein, is movable back to the at rest position to retain the drive.