DIMM Retention Assembly for LGA Compression Connector Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current DIMM form factors using card edge connectors suffer from decreased signal integrity performance and limited pin counts, which restrict bandwidth and capacity.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a latch assembly that utilizes compression forces via LGA and CMT connectors, featuring a lever mechanism and spring bias, to securely engage memory modules and enhance signal integrity and pin count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If card edge connector latch design is used to secure DIMM, then ease of operation is improved, but signal integrity performance and pin count are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical card edge connector latch system with a compression mount technology that uses elastic compliance and compression forces. The connector employs a spring-loaded contact system where contacts are biased toward the DIMM contacts, eliminating the need for complex latch mechanisms while improving signal integrity through consistent compression force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameter from latch-based mechanical engagement to compression-based electrical contact. By using elastic compliance and spring bias, the system maintains continuous compression force on the contacts, improving signal integrity and enabling higher pin counts without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
2Productivity
If card edge connector is used, then ease of manufacture is maintained, but bandwidth and capacity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connector into multiple independent compression contacts, each with its own spring element and compliance mechanism. This segmentation allows for increased pin counts and bandwidth while maintaining manageable force requirements through distributed compression across multiple contact points rather than a single high-force latch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic elastic compliance through spring elements that automatically adjust compression forces. The connector system dynamically adapts to dimensional variations and maintains optimal contact force through elastic deformation, enabling higher pin counts without requiring proportionally higher compression forces.
3Reliability
If compression mount technology is implemented, then signal integrity and pin count increase, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through elastic compliance where the spring elements automatically maintain compression force without external control mechanisms. The connector self-adjusts to dimensional variations and maintains optimal contact pressure through inherent elastic properties, eliminating the need for complex control systems while improving signal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses elastic compliance and spring elements as intermediary components that mediate between the connector housing and contact points. These intermediaries absorb dimensional variations and maintain consistent compression force, simplifying the overall assembly while improving signal integrity through stable electrical contact.
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
This solution provides improved signal integrity performance and increased pin counts, meeting electrical performance requirements for CMT and LGA technologies, thereby enhancing the memory module's capacity and bandwidth.
Implementation Method 1
a spring to bias the L-shaped load member away from the opening in the first lever
Data Source
AI summary
A memory module, a motherboard, and a latch assembly coupled to the memory module and the motherboard are described, the latch assembly including a connector coupled to the motherboard, a first lever coupled to the connector via a first pivot point, an load member extending through an opening in the first lever, a second lever coupled to the load member via a second pivot point, and a spring to bias the load member away from the opening in the first lever. The latch assembly may be used as a dual inline memory module (DIMM) retention assembly for compression mount technology (CMT) and land grid array (LGA) connector loading.