Expansion Module Frame for Vertical Interface Card Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional interface cards installed in a horizontal manner occupy large areas on computer motherboards, reducing available space for other components and are prone to instability due to loose screws, which increases production costs and reduces yield rates.
Innovation Solution
An expansion module with a frame that allows interface cards to be vertically mounted, using a detachable securing portion integrally formed with the frame to securely fasten the card and resist external impacts, reducing material consumption and manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If interface cards are installed in a horizontal manner, then electrical connection is achieved, but the occupied area on the motherboard increases and reduces space for other components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the installation dimension from horizontal (parallel to motherboard surface) to vertical (perpendicular to motherboard surface). The expansion module enables the interface card to be mounted vertically, thereby reducing the occupied area on the motherboard while maintaining electrical connection functionality.
2Reliability
If screws are used to fix the interface card on the frame, then stability is improved, but the punching procedure becomes complex and production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fixing portion and securing portion into a single integrated frame structure. The fixing portion is formed as one piece with the securing portion, eliminating the need for separate punching procedures and additional components. This integration simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the stability function through the integrated structure that securely holds the interface card.
3Reliability
If the stud is fixed through punch method, then the stud is secured on the frame, but incomplete or displaced punching causes the stud to loosen or detach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the fixing portion directly with the frame body, forming a unified structure. This eliminates the separate stud component that required punching to secure. The integrated design ensures that the fixing function is built-in from manufacturing, removing the risk of incomplete or displaced punching and the associated reliability issues.
4Reliability
If additional components and punching procedures are used, then the frame can secure the interface card, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (fixing, securing, and stabilizing) into a single integrated frame structure. This eliminates the need for separate studs, punching operations, and additional fastening components. The integration reduces part count, simplifies assembly, and lowers production costs while maintaining reliable interface card fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated frame structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, secures the interface card through the integrated fixing portion, and maintains electrical connection stability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing overall production cost.
Data Source
AI summary
An expansion module, for electrically connecting an interface card to a circuit board, includes an electrical connector and a frame. One side surface of the electrical connector is disposed on the circuit board and an electrical slot is disposed on the other side surface of the electrical connector for one end of the interface card to be inserted therein. The frame includes a main body, a fixing portion, and a securing portion. The fixing portion and the securing portion are integrally extended from the main body. The fixing portion is detachably installed to the circuit board, and the securing portion is for the other end of the interface card to be detachably fixed thereon, so as to arrange the interface card upright on the circuit board and reduce area on the circuit board occupied by the interface card.