Tool-Less Expansion Card Guide With Cable Routing and Fan Mounts
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of expansion cards in computer systems is often hindered by cluttered interiors with cables and obstructions, leading to airflow and stability issues post-installation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional expansion card guide made of molded plastic with attachment features, cable management features, and fan mount features that allow for tool-less installation and retention of expansion cards, motherboards, and cooling fans, enhancing airflow and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If expansion cards are installed in a computer system with existing cables and components, then the system gains additional functionality, but the installation becomes difficult and cluttered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the computer system interior into distinct zones using the expansion card guide structure. The guide creates separate pathways for cables, expansion cards, and airflow, segmenting the cluttered space into organized regions that facilitate easier installation and maintenance while preserving system functionality.
2Volume of stationary object
If cables and components are densely packed in the computer system, then space is utilized efficiently, but airflow and stability issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion card guide implements local quality by creating specific zones with different functions: cable management channels for organizing wires, expansion card slots for hardware installation, and airflow channels for ventilation. Each zone is optimized for its specific purpose, allowing efficient space utilization while maintaining proper airflow and system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional space by creating vertical and horizontal pathways within the guide structure. Cable management features extend in one dimension while airflow channels operate in another, allowing efficient packing of components without compromising airflow or stability through multi-dimensional organization.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple expansion card guide structure is used, then manufacturing is easier and cost is lower, but cable management and airflow control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion card guide is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides cable management, airflow control, expansion card support, and structural organization. This universal design allows a single manufactured part to perform multiple functions, reducing the need for additional separate components while maintaining ease of manufacture through integrated molding or assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
In at least some embodiments, an expansion card guide for a computer system includes a frame having lanes for receiving expansion cards and a plurality of chassis attachment features provided on at least one side of said frame for tool-less attachment of the expansion card guide to a chassis of the computer system. The expansion card guide also includes a set of cable management features provided on at least one side of said frame for tool-less management of auxiliary expansion card cables.