Configurable Server Chassis with Modular Tray System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing server chassis configurations are limited by standardized sizing, which restricts flexibility in accommodating varying numbers and types of components within server racks, hindering efficient use of space and component placement.
Innovation Solution
A configurable server chassis design featuring a modular tray system that can be slidably or pivotally attached to the main chassis, allowing for adjustable width configurations and cable management, enabling the placement of different components in upper and lower portions while maintaining connectivity and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standardized server chassis sizing is used, then compatibility with server racks is improved, but flexibility in component placement and configuration is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The server chassis is divided into multiple removable trays that can be independently configured and removed. Each tray can be customized with different components while maintaining compatibility with the standardized chassis structure, allowing flexible component placement without compromising rack compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The trays are designed to be movable between different positions within the chassis and can be removed entirely. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to different component requirements while maintaining a standardized overall structure for rack compatibility.
2Productivity
If fixed-width server chassis are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but space utilization efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the chassis into standardized trays, the design maintains manufacturing simplicity for each individual tray while enabling flexible configurations that optimize space utilization. The standardized tray interfaces allow different tray configurations to fit within the same chassis envelope.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized tray design serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables flexible component configurations, and maintains compatibility with standardized rack dimensions. This universal design achieves both manufacturing simplicity and space utilization efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular tray system is added for configurability, then component placement flexibility is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The tray system is segmented into discrete, interchangeable units with standardized interfaces. This segmentation simplifies the overall complexity by breaking down the configuration problem into manageable tray units that can be independently designed and assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple trays can be nested or stacked within the chassis structure, allowing flexible configurations without proportionally increasing external dimensions. This nesting approach manages complexity by allowing multiple functional layers within a compact footprint.
Data Source
AI summary
Server chassis having a main chassis with a bottom surface and first and second lower sidewalls that extend vertically from opposing sides of the bottom surface. First and second flanges extend horizontally outward from the first and second lower sidewalls, respectively. First and second upper sidewalls vertically extend from the first and second flanges. The distance between the first and second upper sidewalls is greater than the distance between first and second lower sidewalls. A tray resting on each of the flanges divides a portion of the main chassis into an upper and a lower portion. A first lateral recess is defined by the first lower sidewall and the first flange, and a second lateral recess is defined by the second lower sidewall and the second flange. The first and second recesses are configured to receive a rail defining an outer boundary substantially flush with the first and second sidewalls.