EDSFF Drive Mounting Structure for 2C Connector Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information handling systems face challenges in accommodating diverse EDSFF drive form factors and connector configurations, which can lead to issues with backplane structure strength and compatibility, particularly with taller 2C type connectors, and require solutions that meet sound and vibration test requirements.

Innovation Solution

A modular EDSFF storage device mounting system with multi-functional components that secure orthogonal-hybrid cables and connectors, providing improved connection stability and facilitating easy installation and removal of backplane modules, while conforming to EDSFF specifications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a modular EDSFF storage device mounting system is used to support various drive form factors and connector configurations, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need to accommodate multiple connector types and configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with EDSFF drive form factorsVSAvoidmounting system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system employs universal mounting components that can accommodate multiple EDSFF drive form factors (E1.L, E1.S, E2.L, E2.S, E3.L, E3.S) and connector configurations (1C, 2C) through a standardized interface design. The backplane module with standardized connector aperture housing and top panel portion can universally mount different drive types without requiring separate mounting structures for each form factor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system is divided into modular components including the backplane module, mounting component, connector aperture housing, and top panel portion. This segmentation allows each component to be independently designed and optimized while maintaining overall system adaptability. The modular design enables easy assembly and disassembly of different drive configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If taller 2C type connectors are used to increase connectivity options, then adaptability is improved, but backplane structure strength deteriorates due to increased height and vulnerability to damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector configuration optionsVSAvoidbackplane structure strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The top panel portion extends substantially perpendicularly from the connector aperture portion, creating a protective overhang structure. This dimensional extension provides mechanical protection for the taller 2C connectors by shielding them from direct impact and reducing their exposure to vibration and stress, thereby maintaining backplane structure strength while accommodating taller connector types.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting component is designed with pre-positioned structural support elements that provide cushioning and protection for the connectors before they are subjected to external forces. The connector aperture housing and top panel portion are configured to absorb and distribute mechanical stresses, protecting the vulnerable taller 2C connectors from damage during installation and operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Manufacturing precision

If a standardized connector aperture housing with predefined pitch is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to specific geometric requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector aperture spacingVSAvoidmounting component fabrication
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The standardized connector aperture housing with predefined pitch serves multiple functions: it provides precise positioning for connectors, ensures compatibility across different EDSFF form factors, and simplifies the manufacturing process through repetition. The same housing design can be used for all drive types, reducing the need for custom tooling and fixtures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system uses standardized pitch parameters that are optimized for manufacturing. The predefined pitch between connector apertures is selected to balance manufacturing precision requirements with ease of fabrication, allowing for efficient machining and assembly processes while maintaining the necessary precision for proper connector alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If the top panel portion extends perpendicularly from the connector aperture portion, then connection stability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional structural elements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidmounting component geometry
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The top panel portion extends substantially perpendicularly from the connector aperture portion, utilizing the vertical dimension to provide structural support and protection. This perpendicular extension creates a rigid framework that enhances connection stability by reducing flexing and movement of the connectors, while the simple geometric form minimizes the increase in overall device complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20250386449A1Server System Storage System Mounting System
Publication Date: 2025.12.18 DELL PROD LP
  • US20250386449A1 patent drawing
  • US20250386449A1 patent drawing
  • US20250386449A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A drive mounting system. The drive mounting system includes a connector housing; and, a mounting component physically coupled to the connector housing, the mounting component comprising: a connector aperture portion, the connector aperture portion comprising a connector aperture housing, the connector aperture housing defining a plurality of longitudinally shaped connector apertures, the plurality of longitudinally shaped connector apertures being spaced apart by a predefined pitch, the predefined pitch corresponding to a fixed pitch defined by a connector housing; and, a top panel portion, top panel portion extending substantially perpendicularly from the connector aperture portion.