GPU Module Tray Connector Mechanism for Easy Plugging and Unplugging

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increased size and weight of graphics processing unit (GPU) modules make it difficult to plug and unplug the connection port in the restricted space of a server.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device with a tray unit, housing, and moving mechanism, utilizing coaxial gears and elastic members to facilitate easy connection and disconnection of the connector to/from the connection port, allowing for easy mounting and removal of the GPU module.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the GPU module size and weight are increased to provide greater computing power, then the computing capability is improved, but the ease of operation for plugging and unplugging the connection port deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomputing powerVSAvoidease of plugging and unplugging
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A tray unit is introduced as an intermediary carrier between the operator and the heavy GPU module. The tray unit includes a connecting mechanism with gear sections that can be engaged or disengaged from gear units on the tray body, allowing the operator to manipulate the lighter tray rather than directly handling the heavy module. This intermediary structure transmits force efficiently while improving operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Power

If the GPU module weight is increased to achieve higher computing power, then the computing capability is improved, but the time required for assembly and disassembly increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomputing powerVSAvoidassembly and disassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including gear sections that can be selectively engaged or disengaged, and elastic members that provide automatic resetting functionality. When the tray unit is inserted or removed, the gear sections automatically mesh or separate from the gear units, and the elastic members return the mechanism to its initial state, enabling rapid repeated operations without manual resetting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The tray unit is pre-configured with gear sections and elastic members before use. The elastic members are pre-loaded to provide the necessary force for engagement and disengagement operations. This preliminary preparation ensures that when assembly or disassembly is needed, the mechanism is ready to execute the action quickly without requiring additional setup or adjustment steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 and labor-saving assembly and disassembly of the GPU module by reducing the time and effort required, even with large and heavy modules.

Implementation Method 1

the elastic member is adapted to apply an elastic force to the connecting rod

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12366902B2Electronic device with plugging and unplugging function
Publication Date: 2025.07.22 WISTRON CORP
  • US12366902B2 patent drawing
  • US12366902B2 patent drawing
  • US12366902B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device with plugging and unplugging function is provided. The electronic device has a connector. The connector is adapted to be connected to a connection port of an electronic module. The electronic device includes a tray unit, a housing and a moving mechanism. The tray unit is moveably disposed in the housing. The moving mechanism is disposed on the housing, wherein the tray unit moves the moving mechanism, and the moving mechanism moves the connector to be connected to or disconnected from the connection port.