Computer Module Cooling Assembly With Controlled Spring Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling device mounting systems for computer modules lack consistency and control in mounting force, leading to potential damage and difficulty in assembly/disassembly due to over-tightening, cross-threading, and obstructed access, which compromises efficiency and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A cooling assembly with a non-rotatable rod-shaped fastening element and elastic element that exerts a consistent mounting force, using a single thread and thumb nut configuration to ensure secure and easy mounting without tools, while hiding the fastening components for improved design and access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple standoffs with male threads and thumb nuts are used to mount the cooling device, then the cooling device can be securely mounted, but the mounting force becomes inconsistent and uncontrollable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mounting mechanism from manual thumb nut tightening to an elastic element-based system that automatically applies a controlled mounting force. The elastic element (spring) provides a predetermined force that presses the cooling device against the heat source, ensuring consistent and controllable mounting pressure without relying on user technique.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an elastic element as an intermediary between the cooling device and the mounting structure. This elastic element acts as a force mediator that translates the mechanical compression into a controlled mounting force, replacing the direct manual tightening approach with a buffered, controllable force application mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If thumb nuts are tightened by hand to secure the cooling device, then assembly is simple, but the mounting force cannot be controlled and may exceed maximum limits causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is designed to be self-regulating through the elastic element. The spring automatically applies the correct mounting force without requiring user judgment or technique. The system serves itself by using the elastic deformation of the spring to naturally limit and control the force applied, eliminating the need for user skill in tightening.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element provides beforehand cushioning by being pre-compressed or pre-loaded to a specific degree. This pre-compression creates a built-in force limit that prevents over-tightening before it can occur. The elastic element acts as a protective cushion that absorbs excess force and ensures the mounting pressure never exceeds safe limits.
3Strength
If multiple threaded components are used for mounting, then secure fastening is achieved, but components can become locked together making removal difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mounting system into distinct functional elements: the elastic element provides the mounting force, the stop provides the mechanical limit, and the cooling device is the payload. This segmentation allows the elastic element to be easily compressed and released, enabling simple disassembly by relieving the compression on the spring, which then expands to release the cooling device.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic elastic connection. The elastic element can dynamically compress and expand, allowing the cooling device to be easily installed by compressing the spring and removed by releasing the compression. This dynamic behavior replaces the permanent-like nature of threaded connections with a reversible elastic mechanism.
4Ease of operation
If mounting components are accessible for hand tightening, then assembly is easy, but the overall size and form of the cooling device is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the elastic element and stop inside the mounting structure, with the elastic element positioned within the mounting bracket or housing. This nesting allows the mounting components to be contained within the overall form factor of the cooling device, eliminating the need for external protruding threads and nuts, thereby maintaining compact dimensions while preserving functionality.
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
The solution provides a controlled and consistent mounting force for efficient heat dissipation, simplifies assembly and disassembly, and enhances the aesthetic appeal by concealing the fastening mechanism, reducing the risk of damage and improving installation ease.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic element being arranged along the axis of the fastening element and configured to press or to pull the stop away from the computer module
Implementation Method 2
a cooling device configured to thermally contact a heat source of the computer module, and to dissipate heat from said heat source
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling assembly for a computer module has a cooling device and a mounting device. The mounting device includes a rod shaped fastening element having a male thread and a stop. The fastening element is nonrotatable and movable along its axis with respect to the cooling device. The fastening element is guided through a first hole in the cooling device and a second hole in the computer module, when the cooling device is mounted on the computer module. The stop prevents the fastening element from sliding through the first and second holes. The mounting device also has an elastic element arranged along the axis of the fastening element that presses or pulls the stop away from the computer module. A nut on the mounting device is engageable with the male thread of the fastening element. The stop and the nut are arranged at opposite sides of the computer module.