Split and Collapsible Top Hat Frame for Easier Server Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing height and weight of computing system frames pose challenges in transportation and installation, requiring costly and time-consuming breakdown and reassembly processes, which can lead to installation errors and increased service costs.
Innovation Solution
A split top hat design or collapsible top hat mechanism that allows for easy removal and height adjustment of the frame, reducing weight and size to facilitate easier shipment and installation, with options for partial or complete disassembly to manage weight and height effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the frame height and weight are increased to accommodate more electronic components, then the component capacity is improved, but the transportation and installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple segments that can be easily disconnected and reconnected. The side walls include disconnectable portions with coupling mechanisms that allow the frame to be split into manageable sections for transportation and then reassembled at the installation site, resolving the contradiction between component capacity and transportation ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame incorporates adjustable and collapsible elements that allow it to dynamically change its configuration. The side walls can be collapsed to reduce height for transportation and then expanded to the full height for installation, enabling the frame to adapt between transportation and operational states.
2Strength
If the frame is designed as a complete rigid structure, then the structural integrity is improved, but the transportation flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid frame structure is segmented into modular sections with coupling mechanisms. Each segment maintains its structural integrity independently, while the coupling systems ensure that when assembled, the complete frame achieves the required overall strength. This segmentation allows flexible transportation while preserving structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed with pre-engineered coupling mechanisms and alignment features that ensure proper assembly. The coupling systems are pre-configured to automatically align segments during assembly, maintaining structural integrity without requiring complex field modifications or specialized tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complete breakdown and reassembly process is used for transportation, then the transportation feasibility is improved, but the installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into standardized modules that can be independently handled during transportation. The coupling mechanisms are designed for quick connection and disconnection, allowing the segmented frame to be rapidly reassembled at the installation site without requiring time-consuming field fabrication or complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame segments and coupling mechanisms are designed with universal interfaces that can be used across different frame configurations. This standardization allows the same assembly procedures and tools to be used regardless of the specific frame size or configuration, reducing installation time through procedural consistency and eliminating the need for custom assembly processes.
Data Source
AI summary
An enhanced computer assembly and related method is provided that enables easy shipment and installation of such computing systems. In one embodiment a split top hat design is provided that can be removed. The removable split hat comprises a receiving member and an inner member that are secured to the frame in a manner that can be easily removed. In an alternate embodiment, a collapsible top hat is provided which adjusts the height of the assembly from a first to a second position. The collapsible feature has an upper portion that is connected to a plurality of pivoted side members that are capable of collapsing onto themselves.