Flexible Chassis Partition for Multi-Size Module Configurations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional computer chassis require replacement when modules of different sizes are swapped, leading to high costs and logistical burdens due to the need for multiple pre-configured chassis bodies to support various module combinations.

Innovation Solution

A flexible chassis partition with a middle portion that can bend and adjust to accommodate modules of different sizes, featuring receiving elements at the ends and tapered ends to allow modules to slide over, enabling the partition to shift between raised and lowered positions, thus allowing for the use of a single chassis with multiple module configurations without full replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If permanent partitions are used in conventional chassis to support multiple modules, then the chassis can hold modules of different sizes, but the entire chassis must be replaced when module sizes change, resulting in high costs and logistical burdens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule size configurationVSAvoidchassis replacement requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The partition is designed with a flexible middle portion that can dynamically change its position between raised and lowered states. This dynamic capability allows the same partition to accommodate different module configurations without requiring chassis replacement, directly resolving the adaptability versus complexity contradiction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The partition's physical state is changed by allowing the middle portion to transition between raised and lowered positions. This parameter change enables the partition to adapt to different module sizes and configurations, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-configured chassis bodies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple pre-configured chassis bodies are maintained to support every combination of module sizes, then all possible configurations are readily available, but this results in high costs and additional burdens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration availabilityVSAvoidnumber of chassis bodies
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The partition is designed to perform multiple functions by transitioning between raised and lowered positions. A single universal partition design can accommodate various module configurations, eliminating the need to maintain multiple specialized chassis bodies for different configurations.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The dynamic positionability of the middle portion allows one chassis body to serve multiple configuration purposes, reducing the total quantity of chassis bodies needed while maintaining versatility across different module size combinations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If a single module is switched out with another module of a different size, then module replacement is possible, but the entire computer chassis needs to be replaced, resulting in high costs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule replacementVSAvoidchassis replacement requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible middle portion dynamically adjusts its position in response to modules of different sizes. When a module is replaced, the partition automatically adapts to the new configuration without requiring chassis replacement, making module replacement simple and cost-effective.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The partition's geometric configuration changes by lowering the middle portion to accommodate modules of different widths. This parameter change enables easy module replacement while maintaining the same chassis body, eliminating the complexity of chassis replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Strength

If permanent partitions are used to provide structural support for multiple modules, then the chassis can support various module combinations, but any size change necessitates replacing the entire chassis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural supportVSAvoidmodule size flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The partition transitions from a static permanent structure to a dynamic flexible structure. The middle portion can bend and change position while still providing structural support, enabling the chassis to adapt to different module sizes without compromising strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The middle portion is made of flexible material that can bend and deform to accommodate different module configurations. This flexibility allows the partition to maintain structural support functionality while adapting to various module sizes, eliminating the need for chassis replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 the use of a single computer chassis to support various module sizes without the need for full chassis replacement, reducing costs and logistical burdens by allowing modules of different widths to be easily integrated without interfering with the chassis body.

Implementation Method 1

The middle portion can flexibly bend towards the floor of the chassis body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFlexibility: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10768675B1Flexible chassis partition
Publication Date: 2020.09.08 QUANTA COMPUTER INC
  • US10768675B1 patent drawing
  • US10768675B1 patent drawing
  • US10768675B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides for a partition in a chassis, which can transition between at least two positions to receive more than one configuration of modules. The partition can include a first end and a second end, each of which has resting positions adjacent to the chassis body. The partition can further include a middle portion, which is in a raised position above the floor of the chassis body, but can bend flexibly towards the floor. In a first configuration of the chassis, a single, larger module can slide over the partition. In a second configuration of the chassis, two smaller modules can slide into adjacent positions in the chassis body, separated by the partition.