Elastomeric Hinge Fan Module for Vibration Isolation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fan module designs face challenges in providing adequate retention within a server chassis while allowing easy removal for maintenance, and they often fail to isolate vibrations from other components, leading to vibration transmission and adhesion issues during installation and removal.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a 'pinch release' fan module with an integrated elastomer living hinge or resilient bridge between support frames, allowing for easy installation and removal with a single motion and providing enhanced vibration isolation by maintaining the module's position even under shock loading, eliminating direct contact between the fan module and the chassis lid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid mounting structures are used to provide adequate retention, then retention strength is improved, but vibration transmission to the chassis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible elastomeric mounting brackets that conform to the mounting post surface, providing retention through elastic deformation rather than rigid connection. The elastomeric material acts as a flexible intermediary that maintains mechanical attachment while isolating vibration between the fan module and chassis.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric mounting brackets serve as an intermediary element between the fan module and the rigid chassis structure. This intermediate layer provides the necessary retention force while preventing direct mechanical coupling that would transmit vibration, effectively decoupling the two structural components.
2Strength
If rigid retention structures are used, then module retention is improved, but ease of installation and removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets are designed with dynamic elastomeric properties that allow them to deform during installation and removal operations. The flexible material can be compressed to release the fan module and naturally returns to its original shape to provide retention during operation, enabling easy maintenance while maintaining strong attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric mounting brackets change their mechanical parameters (stiffness, deformation) based on the operational state. During installation/removal, the material is compressed beyond its elastic limit to release retention, then returns to its original state to provide strong retention, dynamically adapting its properties to the operational requirements.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If vibration isolation is prioritized with flexible materials, then vibration transmission is reduced, but retention strength under shock loading deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fan module assembly combines rigid structural components (mounting posts, bracket framework) with flexible elastomeric materials in a composite configuration. This composite structure provides both vibration isolation through the elastomeric elements and shock resistance through the rigid framework that maintains overall structural integrity during shock events.
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 enhances module retention and vibration isolation, facilitating intuitive removal and installation while reducing adhesion issues and maintaining compatibility with existing chassis designs, all while being cost-effective and compatible with existing server and computer chassis configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The bridge includes a body that is formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber... the resilient material of the body combined with the two-part fan frame allows the fans to be rotated outward during installation or removal
Implementation Method 2
the resilient or spring nature of the elastomeric material used to form the hinge/bridge enable the hinge/bridge to apply adequate forces against the post to retain the fan module within the server chassis
Implementation Method 3
the hinge/bridge maintains the module in its design position even under shock loading... the fan module also eliminates the vibration pathway of prior designs between the top of the module and the lid
Data Source
AI summary
A fan module for use with fan trays or decks within a computer chassis for forced-air cooling. The fan tray typically includes an elongated mounting post, and the fan module is configured to facilitate installation, retention, and removal such as with a single pinch release. The fan module includes first and second fan supports or frames housing cooling fans. The fan supports are spaced apart, and a bridge or living hinge member is positioned between the fan supports and acts to join the frames, e.g., in a resilient and pivotal/hinge manner. The bridge includes a body that is formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber. A retention groove is provided along one side of the bridge body and is configured for receiving and mating with the mounting post of the fan tray with its beveled or inward sloping sidewalls applying a spring or retaining force against the post sidewalls.