Fan Module Traction Structure for Hot-Plug Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Server maintenance requires disassembly of the case to replace fans, leading to increased labor costs and service downtime due to the inability to perform fan maintenance without shutting down the server.
Innovation Solution
A fan module with a traction structure that allows for plug-and-pull installation and removal from the case, eliminating the need for disassembly and power shutdown during maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the case is designed with external interfaces on front and rear panels, then the server meets functional requirements for connectivity, but the fan cannot be hot-plugged without disassembling the case
Solution Approach 1:
The fan assembly is segmented from the case structure, allowing the fan to be independently accessed and replaced. The connection structure includes a connection plate with plug portions that interface with the case, enabling the fan module to be separated and replaced without disassembling the entire case.
Solution Approach 2:
The fan module is extracted as a removable unit from the case. The connection structure with plug portions allows the fan to be taken out and replaced independently, enabling hot-plug capability while maintaining the integrated design of the case with external interfaces.
2Ease of repair
If the case is disassembled to replace the fan, then the fan can be replaced, but the server needs to be disassembled from the rack and shut down, increasing maintenance labor cost and reducing service utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The fan assembly is segmented as a独立的可拆卸模块，通过连接结构与机箱连接。这种分割设计使得维护人员可以仅拆卸风扇模块而不需要拆解整个机箱，从而避免服务器下架和关机操作，减少停机时间并降低维护成本。
Solution Approach 2:
风扇模块被设计为可从机箱中提取的独立单元。通过连接板上的插接结构，风扇模块可以便捷地取出和更换，实现快速维修而不影响服务器整体运行，解决了传统需要整机拆解的问题。
3Stability of the object's composition
If the fan is fixed within the case, then the fan is stable, but the case needs to be disassembled to access the fan for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The fan assembly is segmented with a connection structure that provides both stable fixation and easy accessibility. The connection plate with plug portions secures the fan firmly in the case while allowing simple connection and disconnection, enabling maintenance without case disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure transitions from a fixed permanent attachment to a dynamic removable connection. The plug portions allow the fan module to be easily connected and disconnected, providing both stability during operation and accessibility during maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a fan module and a case including the fan module. The fan module includes a fan, a fan bracket and a traction structure. The fan bracket includes: a fixed bottom plate for carrying and fixing the fan; and a connection structure, connected to the fixed bottom plate and used for being connected to a case through plugging. The traction structure is mounted on the fan bracket, and is used for pulling the fan bracket from the inside of the case to the outside of the case. In the present disclosure, the fan module is plugged into the case, and is pulled to the outside of the case from the inside of the case through a traction interface. In this way, the fan maintenance is implemented without disassembling the case or cutting off the power, the maintenance efficiency is improved, and the maintenance cost is reduced.