Multi-Axis Connector Alignment for Tight SoW Cabinet Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Connecting system on a wafer (SoW) assemblies in tight spaces poses challenges due to alignment mismatches and limited accessibility, leading to performance issues in high-performance distributed computing systems.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with a support structure, alignment adjustment structures, and actuators that enable precise alignment and connection of connectors across multiple axes, allowing for connections between processing systems in different cabinets, even in tight spaces, by using compressible springs and alignment pins to compensate for alignment tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If connectors are connected in tight spaces, then connection density is improved, but alignment precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system employs movable holders with multi-axis adjustment capabilities, allowing the connector position to be dynamically adjusted along X, Y, and Z axes. This dynamic positioning mechanism enables precise alignment even when connecting in tight spaces with limited accessibility, resolving the contradiction between high connection density and alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
An alignment adjustment structure serves as an intermediary between the fixed support structure and the movable holder. This intermediary component provides the necessary degrees of freedom for alignment while maintaining the compact form factor required for tight space connections.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment adjustment is used, then alignment precision is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system incorporates self-aligning features through the movable holder and alignment adjustment structure that automatically compensate for misalignments. The system performs its own alignment function without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining high alignment precision while reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustment is replaced with an automated actuation system that controls the movable holder's position along multiple axes. This substitution eliminates the need for manual alignment operations while maintaining or improving alignment precision.
3Productivity
If connector line length is reduced, then system performance is improved, but connection difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable holder with multi-axis adjustment capabilities enables the connector to dynamically adapt its position to achieve optimal connection geometry. This dynamic adjustment simplifies the connection process even when connector line length is reduced, thereby maintaining ease of operation while improving system performance through shorter connection paths.
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
Facilitates short connections between processing systems, reduces connector line length, and improves performance by aligning connectors within a mismatch tolerance of 0.1 millimeter, enabling automated connection and disconnection without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
The alignment adjustment structure is compressible along a first axis and movable along a second axis different from the first axis
Implementation Method 2
The alignment adjustment structure comprises a spring. The spring can be configured to release datum of the datum structure in response to being compressed along the first axis
Data Source
AI summary
A connector system is disclosed. The connector system can include a support structure, a holder coupled to the support structure, an alignment adjustment structure positioned between the support structure and the holder, and an actuator. The holder can receive a first connector of a connection line. The alignment adjustment structure is compressible along a first axis and movable along a second axis different from the first axis. The actuator is configured to provide movement of the holder so as to connect the first connector to a second connector of a processor system, such as a system on wafer (SoW) assembly.