Fan Module Frame With Latches For Server Chassis Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing demand for customized servers with varying heat dissipation requirements poses challenges in efficiently managing heat dissipation, as existing server fan modules are not easily adaptable to different applications and require frequent revisions, leading to inefficiencies in rotational speed and chassis structure.

Innovation Solution

A fan module frame comprising a first frame component, a second frame component with multiple chambers, and latches that securely attach the fan module to the server chassis, allowing for easy detachment and compatibility with various server models, utilizing an elastic fastener and anti-backflow structures to enhance airflow and prevent backflow.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing server fan modules are used with fixed structures, then manufacturing and installation are simple, but adaptability to different server models and heat dissipation requirements is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different server modelsVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fan module is divided into independent components: fan units, frame components, and latches. Each chamber in the frame can independently accommodate different fan units, allowing customization for different server models without redesigning the entire structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame component with multiple chambers and latches is designed as a universal structure that can accommodate different fan units for various server models (2U, 4U, etc.). The same frame structure serves multiple functions across different applications.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If fan modules require frequent revisions for different applications, then adaptability improves, but design costs and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization for various applicationsVSAvoiddesign revision time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The frame component is pre-designed with multiple chambers and latch mechanisms that can accommodate different fan configurations. This preliminary design allows quick adaptation to different applications without requiring frequent revisions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism allows dynamic adjustment and reconfiguration of fan units within the frame. Users can easily reposition or remove fan units by operating the latches, enabling quick adaptation to different heat dissipation requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If traditional fixed fan modules are used, then structural stability is maintained, but ease of installation and removal deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installation and removalVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism is divided into independent units that can be operated separately. Each latch can be opened or closed independently, allowing easy installation and removal of individual fan units without affecting the stability of the entire structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The latch acts as an intermediary mechanism between the frame and fan units. It provides a simple interface for installation and removal while maintaining structural stability when engaged, eliminating the need for additional tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables efficient heat dissipation by allowing for customizable fan module placement and easy installation/removal without additional tools, reducing design costs and saving space while maintaining compatibility with different server models.

Implementation Method 1

The first frame component connects a server fan unit to the second frame component by an elastic fastener

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11313383B2Fan module frame
Publication Date: 2022.04.26 INVENTEC PUDONG TECH CORPOARTION
  • US11313383B2 patent drawing
  • US11313383B2 patent drawing
  • US11313383B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fan module frame is configured to fix a fan module in a chassis. The fan module frame includes a first frame component, a second frame component and two latches. The first frame component connects a server fan unit to the second frame component by an elastic fastener. The second frame component has a plurality of chambers, and each of the chambers is configured for the server fan unit to be placed therein. The latches are disposed on two opposite sides of the second frame component and connected to the second frame component. The second frame component fixes the fan module in the chassis through the latches. As such, the fan module is detachably fixed in the chassis and can be removed from the chassis without additional tools, and the fan module frame is compatible with various servers and models, thereby saving design costs and saving space.