Hot Swappable Storage Tray With Slidable Rows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Server device assemblies with industry standard sizing have limited space for hot-swappable components, restricting the number and arrangement of storage modules that can be used without disassembling the system, which hinders the expansion of storage capacity within the same space constraints.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a slidable tray system within the server device assembly that allows for the arrangement of storage modules in rows, with the first row accessible from the front and subsequent rows transitionable for access, coupled to the motherboard via a retractable cable, enabling hot-swapping without shutting down the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If industry standard size server device assemblies are used, then the device fits standard rack configurations, but the space for hot-swappable components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-row storage arrangement to a multi-row storage configuration within the same server device footprint. By stacking storage modules in multiple rows along the length of the server assembly, the system increases storage capacity without expanding the vertical rack footprint, effectively utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the available space.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system is divided into multiple independent rows of storage modules, each row accessible through the front panel. This segmentation allows individual rows to be hot-swapped independently while maintaining connections to the system bus, enabling incremental storage expansion and flexible maintenance without affecting the entire storage subsystem.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple rows of storage modules are added to increase capacity, then storage capacity increases, but the complexity of the tray and cable management system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tray assembly is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple rows of storage modules with standardized form factors. The same basic tray structure, cable routing channels, and connection mechanisms are reused across all rows, reducing the need for row-specific components and simplifying the overall system architecture despite the increased number of modules.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple storage modules across different rows share common infrastructure elements including the main tray assembly, power cable routing, and data connection pathways. By merging these shared resources, the system reduces redundant components and simplifies cable management compared to having completely independent connections for each module.
3Quantity of substance
If storage modules are arranged in multiple rows, then storage capacity increases, but accessibility for hot-swapping becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the accessibility issue by organizing storage modules in multiple rows that all face the front panel of the server. This linear arrangement along the longitudinal axis allows all storage modules to be accessed from the same direction (front), eliminating the need to reach into deep cavities or access modules from multiple directions, thus maintaining ease of hot-swapping despite increased capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A server assembly including a housing having a slidable tray transitionable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. A plurality of tray bodies disposed in the slidable tray, each of the plurality of tray bodies configured to removably receive at least one component module. The plurality of tray bodies arranged in rows, one behind the other, thereby having an first tray body and a second tray body. The second tray body is transitionable between a loading configuration and stored configuration. The storing configuration, the second tray body is arranged adjacent to the first tray body such that the receiving assembly is inaccessible. The loading configuration, the second tray body is translated relative to the tray and the first tray body such that the receiving assembly is accessible.