Detachable Capacitor Module Layout for Compact Memory Backup Power

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing memory systems with NAND memory and volatile memory face dimensional restrictions, limiting the size and shape of electronic components that can be mounted, particularly due to the large mounting area required by backup power supplies like tantalum capacitors or aluminum electrolytic capacitors, which affects repairability and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A capacitor module is formed by mounting capacitors on a substrate with a wiring member that connects them in parallel, allowing for efficient use of space and easy detachment for repair, eliminating the need for lead bending and land formation, thus reducing the mounting area and improving repairability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If tantalum capacitors or aluminum electrolytic capacitors are used as backup power supply, then power loss protection function is achieved, but mounting area increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower loss protection functionVSAvoidmounting area
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The capacitor is divided into a body portion and a lead portion, where the lead portion is detachably connected to the board. This segmentation allows the capacitor to be mounted without requiring extensive land areas for soldering, as the lead can be inserted through holes and secured with retainers, significantly reducing the mounting footprint while maintaining the backup power protection function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lead of the capacitor is configured to extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the board surface, utilizing the vertical dimension rather than consuming horizontal mounting area. This dimensional transition allows the capacitor leads to pass through the board thickness, reducing the area required on the board surface while maintaining electrical connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If capacitors are mounted directly on the board with leads, then electrical connection is achieved, but lead bending and land formation are required increasing complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidmounting process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A retainer is introduced as an intermediary component between the capacitor lead and the board. The retainer holds the lead in place through friction or mechanical engagement, eliminating the need for traditional land formation and soldering processes. This intermediary component simplifies the mounting process by providing a straightforward mechanical connection that ensures reliable electrical contact without complex preparation steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Area of stationary object

If capacitors are mounted directly on the board, then space is used for mounting, but repairability and reuse are difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidrepairability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The capacitor is segmented into a body portion and a lead portion with detachable connection. This allows the capacitor to be easily removed and replaced without damaging the board or requiring complex desoldering operations. The detachable lead connection enables straightforward repairability while maintaining secure electrical connection during operation, and allows the replaced capacitor to be tested and potentially reused.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection between the capacitor lead and the board is made dynamic rather than fixed, allowing the capacitor to be easily detached and reattached. This dynamic connection mechanism, through the retainer system, enables the capacitor to be removed for repair or replacement and reinstalled, significantly improving ease of repair compared to permanent soldered connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12131062B2Memory system
Publication Date: 2024.10.29 KIOXIA CORP
  • US12131062B2 patent drawing
  • US12131062B2 patent drawing
  • US12131062B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A memory system of an embodiment includes a memory, a controller configured to control the memory, and a first board on which the memory and the controller are mounted. The memory system further includes a module component including at least one capacitor, a second board, and a wiring member, each of the at least one capacitor including a lead, the at least one capacitor being mounted on the second board, the wiring member being electrically connected to the lead of the at least one capacitor and extending from the second board. The first board and the module component are connected to each other via the wiring member.