Self-Aligning Joint Module for Server Coolant Plug Misalignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Misalignment of plug connectors on servers and racks due to manufacturing tolerances prevents proper connection for coolant circulation, leading to ineffective cooling.
Innovation Solution
A joint module with rotatable and movable components allows for auto-calibration of plug connectors, ensuring alignment with rack plugs by rotating and moving the plug connector around multiple axes, facilitated by springs for reset functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid plug connectors are used for connection, then structural strength is improved, but alignment precision deteriorates due to manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The plug connector is designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities through multiple degrees of freedom (rotation around first axis, rotation around second axis, and translation along third axis) rather than being rigidly fixed. This allows the connector to dynamically adapt its position and orientation to achieve precise alignment with the rack plug despite manufacturing tolerances, while maintaining structural strength through the support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds multiple dimensional adjustment capabilities to the plug connector by introducing rotation around a first axis (perpendicular to insertion direction), rotation around a second axis (parallel to insertion direction), and translation along a third axis. These multi-dimensional movements transform a simple linear insertion problem into a multi-degree-of-freedom alignment system, enabling precise connection despite manufacturing variations.
2Reliability
If manual alignment adjustment is performed, then connection reliability is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plug connector is designed to perform self-alignment automatically during the insertion process. The multi-degree-of-freedom structure allows the connector to self-adjust its position and orientation through controlled movements (rotation around first and second axes, translation along third axis) without requiring external manual intervention. This self-service capability maintains high connection reliability while minimizing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint module acts as an intermediary between the server and rack connection systems. It provides a standardized interface with built-in alignment capabilities that mediate the connection process, absorbing the complexity of multi-axis alignment adjustments and presenting a simple plug-and-play interface to users. The intermediary structure includes support components and resetting mechanisms that facilitate automatic alignment.
3Manufacturing precision
If multi-degree-of-freedom movement is added to plug connector, then alignment capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment function is segmented into independent degrees of freedom, each handled by a separate mechanical component or mechanism within the joint module. The rotation around the first axis, rotation around the second axis, and translation along the third axis are implemented as distinct movable features. This segmentation allows each alignment dimension to be independently controlled and simplified, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive alignment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint module is designed as a universal connection interface that integrates multiple functions: structural support, multi-axis alignment, resetting capability, and coolant flow management. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional module rather than separate components, the design reduces overall system complexity while achieving sophisticated alignment capabilities through shared structural elements.
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
Ensures reliable connection between server plug connectors and rack plugs, enabling efficient coolant circulation and effective cooling by compensating for manufacturing tolerances through auto-alignment.
Implementation Method 1
a spring, which is used to move the plug connector along a third axis, parallel to a direction Y
Implementation Method 2
The middle joint support is rotatable around a first axis, parallel to a direction X
Implementation Method 3
The inner joint support is rotatable around a second axis, parallel to a direction Z, and is movable along the second axis B
Data Source
AI summary
A joint module for offsetting manufacturing tolerance comprises an outer joint support, a middle joint support, an inner joint support, a plug connector, and a reset component. The middle joint support is rotatably and movably connected to the outer joint support along a first axis. The inner joint support is rotatable and movable connected to the middle joint support along a second axis. The plug connector is connected to the inner joint support. The reset component is placed between the outer joint support, the middle joint support, and the inner joint support to reset the middle joint support and the inner joint support. When the joint module is reset, a third axis of the plug connector is perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis, the plug connector moves along the third axis to connect a plug. A computing device with the joint module is also disclosed.