Memory Carrier Pinion Cam Coupling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information handling systems face challenges in fitting a large number of memory modules within a limited chassis volume while providing the necessary high insertion forces to securely mate the modules with connectors, while also optimizing the volume used for coupling and mating.
Innovation Solution
A memory carrier system featuring a carrier chassis with rotatably mounted pinion cams and a moveable handle with rack arms, which engages the pinion cams to provide a cam force that mates the board connector to the IHS connector, allowing for efficient use of space and secure module attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional coupling systems are used to mate memory modules to connectors, then the insertion forces can be provided, but the volume occupied by the coupling mechanism is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a cam mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear insertion force. The cam profile dynamically transforms the small rotational movement of the coupling element into the large linear insertion force needed to mate the memory module, providing high force output while keeping the mechanism compact.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism operates in a rotational dimension to generate linear insertion force in the coupling dimension. By converting the direction and type of motion, the system achieves high insertion forces without requiring a large linear displacement volume, effectively using dimensional transformation to resolve the space-force tradeoff.
2Quantity of substance
If more memory modules are fitted in the IHS chassis, then the memory capacity increases, but the available volume for housing components decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a modular carrier design that segments the memory module housing into standardized, compact units. Each carrier can hold multiple memory modules in a space-efficient arrangement, allowing the chassis to accommodate more modules by repeating this optimized segment rather than using custom large-scale configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier design nests multiple memory modules within a compact housing structure. The modules are arranged in a space-efficient configuration where components are nested or closely packed, maximizing the number of modules that can fit within the limited chassis volume while maintaining accessibility through the coupling mechanism.
3Reliability
If high insertion forces are provided to mate memory modules, then secure connections are achieved, but the complexity of the coupling system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the user's natural insertion motion. As the user inserts the memory module, the cam profile automatically converts this motion into the required insertion force, eliminating the need for separate actuators, motors, or complex control systems. The geometry itself provides the force multiplication needed for secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical systems (such as threaded fasteners, clips, or multi-component latches) with a simple cam mechanism. The cam's geometric profile inherently provides the force multiplication and motion transformation needed, achieving secure connections with a minimal number of parts and reduced mechanical complexity.
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 the fitting of multiple memory modules within a compact IHS chassis with high insertion forces, optimizing volume usage and ensuring secure connections without exceeding the available space, while maintaining user-friendly interaction points flush with the chassis surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of pinion cams that are rotatably mounted to the carrier chassis; and a handle that is moveably coupled to the carrier chassis and includes a pair of rack arms, wherein each rack arm engages a respective pinion cam; wherein the carrier chassis is operable to be positioned in an information handling system (IHS) chassis that includes an IHS connector, and the handle is operable to be moved relative to the carrier chassis in order to rotate the pinion cams into an engagement with the IHS chassis that provides a cam force that mates the board connector to the IHS connector
Data Source
AI summary
A memory carrier system includes a carrier chassis that includes a board having a board connector. The board is operable to couple to a plurality of memory modules. A pair of pinion cams are rotatably mounted to the carrier chassis. A handle is moveably coupled to the carrier chassis and includes a pair of rack arms. Each rack arm engages a respective pinion cam. The carrier chassis is operable to be positioned in an information handling system (IHS) chassis that includes an IHS connector, and the handle is operable to be moved relative to the carrier chassis in order to rotate the pinion cams into an engagement with the IHS chassis that provides a cam force that mates the board connector to the IHS connector.