Co-Planar Edge Connector for Compact System Board
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Solution Overview
Problem
Incorporating add-in cards into compact 'all-in-1' computer systems, which combine a display and system board in a single structure, is challenging due to space constraints and thermal management issues when existing orthogonal connections are used.
Innovation Solution
The system employs edge electrical connectors on the system board that allow add-in cards to be mounted in a substantially co-planar configuration, reducing the overall height and enabling efficient thermal cooling, while accommodating various card types with different interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If add-in cards are connected using existing orthogonal connections, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but the system height increases and thermal management becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from orthogonal (perpendicular) card connections to edge connectors positioned at the edges of the system board, allowing cards to connect in a substantially coplanar arrangement. This dimensional reconfiguration reduces the vertical height requirement while improving thermal access from above the board plane.
2Volume of moving object
If add-in cards are mounted in coplanar configuration, then system height is reduced, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system board is divided into functional regions with edge connectors positioned at specific edges, allowing modular addition of cards without requiring complex internal routing. Each edge connector operates independently, simplifying the overall connection architecture despite the coplanar arrangement.
3Ease of manufacture
If edge connectors are used for add-in cards, then manufacturing ease improves, but adaptability to different card types must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The edge connector design provides a universal interface that can accommodate different types of add-in cards (display cards, graphics cards, network cards, etc.) while maintaining a consistent manufacturing process. The standardized edge connector position and interface enable flexible card selection without requiring custom manufacturing for each card type.
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprises a chassis and a system board contained within the chassis. The system board has an edge connector adapted to receive an add-in card in a configuration in which the system board and add-in card are substantially co-planar.