Low Profile Battery Pack for PCI Storage Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional PCI storage controller cards face challenges with large battery and connector systems that only allow for single battery replacement through the tailstock, necessitating a solution for redundant batteries to enhance maintenance and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A low profile auto docking multi-battery pack system with two batteries shrink-wrapped inside a frame, allowing slideable removal through the PCI tailstock, along with auto docking connectors and keying features for secure positioning, and an in-place service PCI storage controller card system with redundant cache and hot swappable batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional large battery and connector systems are used, then single battery replacement through tailstock is achieved, but redundant batteries cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is segmented into multiple individual battery units (first battery, second battery) that are arranged in-line within a shared frame structure. Each battery can be independently replaced through the tailstock opening, enabling redundancy while maintaining a compact footprint that fits through the PCI card tailstock.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple battery units are nested within a common frame structure that consolidates them into a single removable package. The frame acts as a container that holds multiple batteries in an organized in-line arrangement, allowing the entire battery pack to be inserted or removed through the tailstock as one unit while providing redundant battery capacity.
2Reliability
If multiple separate batteries are installed, then redundant battery backup is achieved, but profile thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple batteries are arranged in an in-line configuration along the length of the PCI card rather than stacking them in the thickness dimension. This dimensional reorganization allows redundant battery capacity to be achieved by extending along the card's length profile, maintaining a low-thickness form factor that fits standard PCI slot requirements.
3Ease of operation
If batteries are made removable through tailstock, then field replacement is simplified, but secure positioning and connection are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack incorporates self-aligning features including guide rails that automatically position the battery pack correctly during insertion, and keying features that ensure proper orientation without requiring manual alignment. The auto-docking connectors automatically engage with the printed circuit board when the battery pack is inserted, providing secure electrical and mechanical connections through self-service mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure acts as an intermediary between the removable battery units and the fixed PCI card structure. It provides stable mounting points, guide rails for proper insertion, and keying features for secure positioning, while allowing the entire battery pack to be easily removed and replaced through the tailstock as a single unit.
Data Source
AI summary
A low profile auto docking multi-battery pack system and an in place service PCI storage controller card system with redundant cache and concurrently maintainable redundant battery backup are provided. A first battery and a second battery are disposed in line to provide a low profile battery pack. The first battery and second battery are shrink-wrapped together inside a frame and are slideably removable through an opening in a PCI tailstock and are hot swappable. The PCI storage controller card system is defined by a two card assembly that includes an internal connector, such as a SCSI connector to connect the two cards together.