Memory Module Insertion Control With Force and Distance Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation of memory modules into computing devices is labor-intensive and prone to errors, leading to potential damage and system failures due to improper seating, which can result in sub-par operation or unavailability of memory modules.

Innovation Solution

A memory insertion machine equipped with insertion rods, profilometers, and an insertion controller that applies controlled force and measures distance to ensure proper seating of memory modules into memory sockets, using load cells to monitor force and motors to manage rod movement, thereby automating the installation process and reducing the risk of damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual installation of memory modules is performed, then labor intensity is high and errors are prone, but automation equipment increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidequipment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The installation machine is divided into independent functional modules: insertion rods for force application, profilometers for distance measurement, load cells for force measurement, and motors for positioning. Each module operates independently but coordinates through the control system, allowing the complex installation task to be broken down into measurable and controllable segments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors insertion force via load cells and position via profilometers, comparing real-time measurements against target values. The control system adjusts motor positions and insertion forces dynamically based on this feedback, ensuring precise memory module installation while preventing damage from excessive force or misalignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If automated insertion machine is used, then installation precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation precisionVSAvoidmachine complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Traditional mechanical positioning and force application methods are replaced with automated motor-driven systems controlled by electronic feedback loops. Motors precisely position insertion rods based on circuit board geometry data, while load cells and profilometers provide real-time measurement feedback to the control system, replacing manual mechanical adjustment with automated electronic control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts insertion force magnitude and rod positioning based on real-time measurements from load cells and profilometers. The control system modifies operational parameters such as insertion speed, force application rate, and final positioning coordinates to optimize installation precision for different memory module and socket configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Object-affected harmful factors

If force monitoring is implemented, then damage risk is reduced, but measurement precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage riskVSAvoidforce measurement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system establishes target insertion force values and acceptable force ranges before the insertion process begins, based on the specific memory module and socket type. Load cells continuously monitor actual insertion force, comparing it against pre-set thresholds to detect potential damage conditions before they occur, allowing preventive action to be taken.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Load cells provide real-time feedback on insertion force magnitude to the control system, which compares measurements against target values and damage thresholds. When force approaches dangerous levels or deviates from the expected insertion curve, the system automatically adjusts or stops insertion to prevent damage, using continuous feedback to maintain force within safe operational boundaries.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

The memory insertion machine efficiently and accurately installs memory modules, reducing the risk of errors and system failures by ensuring proper seating, thus enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the installation process.

Implementation Method 1

one or more load cells, wherein the one or more load cells measure the insertion force applied to the memory module by the one or more insertion rods

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce measurement: Force

Implementation Method 2

one or more profilometers... determine, based on information received from the one or more profilometers, a measured distance between a top of the memory module and a top of the memory socket

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSurface profilometry:

Data Source

PatentEP3822047A1Memory insertion machine
Publication Date: 2021.05.19 GOOGLE LLC
  • EP3822047A1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3822047A1 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP3822047A1 patent drawingFigure 2B

AI summary

The technology relates to a memory insertion machine for inserting memory modules into memory sockets on a circuit board. The memory insertion machine may include one or more insertion rods moveably mounted to one or more vertical guides, one or more profilometers, and an insertion controller. The insertion controller may be configured to apply an insertion force to a memory module in a memory socket, by controlling the movement of the one or more insertion rods on the one or more vertical guides. The insertion controller may be further configured to determine, based on information received from the one or more profilometers, a measured distance between a top of the memory module and a top of the memory socket.