Floating Cam Pin Mechanism for Processor Expansion Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information handling systems face challenges in consistently applying the retaining force between a processor expansion module (PEM) and the base system due to variations in stack-up tolerances, leading to potential misalignment and stress on connections.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a floating cam pin mechanism, which includes a mounting bracket movably affixed to the side wall and tensioning springs connected between the mounting stud and the mounting hole, allows for a consistent application of retaining force by absorbing overpressure and ensuring sufficient connection pressure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If rigid mounting structures are used to ensure stable connection, then mechanical strength is improved, but adaptability to stack-up tolerance variations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidadaptability to tolerance variations
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting bracket is designed to be movably affixed to the side wall rather than rigidly fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position to accommodate stack-up tolerance variations. This mobility enables the bracket to self-align with the processor expansion module while maintaining secure retention, thus providing both strength and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If fixed retention force is applied to ensure consistent connection pressure, then connection reliability is improved, but mechanical stress from tolerance variations worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmechanical stress on connections
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStress or pressure

Solution Approach 1:

The spring mechanism changes the retention force parameter dynamically based on the engagement conditions. As the mounting bracket moves to accommodate tolerance variations, the spring adjusts the retention force accordingly, ensuring consistent connection pressure without transmitting excessive mechanical stress to the electrical connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If movable mounting bracket is used to accommodate tolerance variations, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to stack-up tolerancesVSAvoidmounting mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the movably affixed bracket, the spring element, and the retention features. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while achieving the required adaptability through the coordinated action of these simple, well-defined parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This solution effectively reduces mechanical deflection and stress on connections, ensuring a secure and consistent mechanical and electrical contact between the PEM and the base system, even with varying stack-up tolerances.

Implementation Method 1

The spring may be attached between the mounting stud and the mounting hole

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12216513B2Processor expansion module socket floating cam pin
Publication Date: 2025.02.04 DELL PROD LP
  • US12216513B2 patent drawing
  • US12216513B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information handling system includes a processing system, a side wall, and a spring. The side wall includes a mounting stud and a capture mechanism to retain a second processing system. The capture mechanism includes a mounting bracket movably affixed to the side wall. The mounting bracket includes a mounting hole and a retention stud rigidly affixed to the mounting bracket. The retention stud engages with a retaining mechanism of the second processing system to couple the second processing system to the first processing system. The spring is attached between the mounting stud and the mounting hole.