Connector-Coupled DIMM Mount Structure Without PCB Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information handling systems face challenges in mounting components like dual inline memory modules (DIMMs) without creating holes in the circuit board, especially in component-dense areas, which can lead to keep out zones and routing issues.
Innovation Solution
A mount structure is designed to mechanically couple to multiple connectors on a circuit board, using support structures and attachment mechanisms to secure components like DIMMs without drilling holes, allowing for electrical coupling and alignment features for additional accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If mounting holes are created in the circuit board to secure information handling resources, then mechanical coupling strength is improved, but the circuit board area available for electrical components and routing is reduced due to keep out zones
Solution Approach 1:
A mount structure serves as an intermediary component between the circuit board and information handling resources. The mount structure includes attachment mechanisms that couple to connectors on the circuit board, providing mechanical support and coupling strength without requiring holes in the circuit board itself. This intermediary approach preserves the circuit board area while achieving secure mechanical coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is segmented into separate functional components: the circuit board with connectors, the mount structure with attachment mechanisms, and the information handling resources. This segmentation allows the mount structure to provide mechanical coupling functions without compromising the circuit board's integrity or available area for electrical components.
2Ease of manufacture
If mounting holes are drilled in the circuit board, then mechanical attachment is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The mount structure is pre-assembled with attachment mechanisms before installation. The attachment mechanisms are pre-configured to engage with connectors on the circuit board, eliminating the need for on-site hole drilling and mechanical fastening operations during assembly. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces manufacturing complexity and assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts, rivets requiring holes) with an attachment mechanism that couples to existing electrical connectors on the circuit board. This substitution eliminates the need for drilling and mechanical fastening operations, simplifying the manufacturing process and improving productivity.
3Reliability
If traditional hole-based mounting is used, then secure attachment is achieved, but component density is reduced due to keep out zones around holes
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanisms on the mount structure are designed to couple to existing electrical connectors on the circuit board, serving dual functions: electrical connection and mechanical attachment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting holes, allowing maximum utilization of circuit board area for high-density component placement while maintaining reliable attachment through the universal connector interface.
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system may include a plurality of connectors and a mount structure configured to mechanically couple to a first connector and a second connector of the plurality of connectors. Each connector of the plurality of connectors may be configured to mechanically and electrically couple to a respective information handling resource.