Lowered Seating Plane DIMM Connector for Space Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DIMM connectors often leave the lower notch of dual in-line memory modules (DIMMs) underutilized, as they either use the upper notch or do not allow for the utilization of both notches, leading to inefficient use of space and reduced capacity for additional electronic components.

Innovation Solution

A DIMM connector design that utilizes the lower notch with a lowered seating plane, allowing for the attachment of a second electronic component while freeing the upper notch, and features shorter connector arms that do not block access to the lower notch, enabling more efficient use of space and allowing for closer placement of neighboring DIMMs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a DIMM connector uses the upper notch for connection, then the connector can be securely mounted, but the lower notch remains underutilized and space is wasted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenotch utilizationVSAvoidavailable space above DIMM

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into separate upper and lower connector portions that can independently engage with the upper and lower notches of the DIMM module, allowing both notches to be utilized simultaneously rather than treating the connector as a single unified structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design transitions from utilizing only the upper notch (single-point engagement) to engaging both upper and lower notches (multi-point engagement), effectively adding another dimension of connection and space utilization

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If connector arms are made longer to reach the lower notch, then connection is achieved, but access to the lower notch is blocked and space is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenotch connection capabilityVSAvoidaccess to lower notch

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector arms are segmented into distinct upper and lower portions with independent functionality, allowing the lower connector portion to access the lower notch without requiring long arms that would block access

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lowered seating plane acts as an intermediary structure that enables the lower connector portion to reach and engage the lower notch while maintaining proper clearance and access, serving as a mediator between the connector arms and the DIMM module

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the seating plane is positioned higher for structural support, then connector stability is improved, but space above the DIMM is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector stabilityVSAvoidspace above DIMM

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The seating plane is repositioned to a lower elevation, creating additional vertical space above the DIMM module while the connector stability is maintained through the distributed support structure of the upper and lower connector portions engaging with respective notches

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS10136544B2Dual in-line memory module connector

Publication Date: 2018.11.20 HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE DEV LP

AI summary

A dual in-line memory module (DIMM) connector can include a double data rate fourth generation (DDR4) DIMM connector to connect to a DIMM via a lowest notch of the DIMM relative to an electronic component on which the DIMM is located.