Mobile Plate Connector Module for Server Chassis Fluid Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Server racks face challenges in accommodating varying server configurations, ensuring efficient installation and removal of server chassis, and preventing accidental disconnection of fluid lines, which are not adequately addressed by existing cooling systems.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with a mobile plate that allows for flexible and modular connection of fluid connectors to accommodate different server configurations, featuring movable connectors that mate with rack fluid connectors and include locking mechanisms to prevent improper disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed connector assembly is used to fluidly connect server chassis to rack fluid lines, then the connection is stable and reliable, but the system cannot accommodate varying server configurations and requires different connector arrangements for different server densities
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates a movable plate that can shift position to accommodate different server configurations. The plate moves along guide rails or tracks within the connector housing, allowing the fluid connectors mounted on it to align with various server positions (single server, dual server, high-density configurations) while maintaining a unified connector assembly design.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed as a universal interface that can serve multiple server configurations through the movable plate mechanism. A single connector assembly design with the movable plate can accommodate single server, dual server, and high-density configurations, eliminating the need for different connector arrangements for different server densities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fluid connectors are made movable to accommodate different server positions, then adaptability to varying configurations is improved, but the risk of accidental disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly includes pre-positioned locking mechanisms that automatically engage when the movable plate reaches its designated position for a specific server configuration. The locking mechanisms (such as spring-loaded latches or detent systems) are prepared in advance and activate automatically, securing the connectors before any fluid flow begins, thus preventing accidental disconnection while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates preliminary anti-action through automatic locking mechanisms that prevent disconnection before it can occur. The locking systems are positioned to engage automatically when the movable plate is moved to the correct position, creating a counter-force that prevents accidental disconnection while allowing intentional repositioning when needed.
3Ease of operation
If the connector assembly is designed for easy installation and removal of server chassis, then serviceability is improved, but the risk of improper disconnection of fluid lines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates pre-positioned locking mechanisms that automatically engage when the movable plate reaches its designated position for a specific server configuration. The locking mechanisms (such as spring-loaded latches or detent systems) are prepared in advance and activate automatically, securing the connectors before any fluid flow begins, thus preventing accidental disconnection while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly features self-servicing locking mechanisms that automatically lock and unlock based on the position of the movable plate. When the server chassis is installed or removed, the movable plate moves accordingly, and the locking mechanisms automatically engage or disengage, providing both ease of operation and connection integrity without requiring manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A server chassis for a server rack can include a connector assembly. The connector assembly can include a first pair of connectors to fluidly connect to one or more cold plates that are thermally coupled to one or more electronic server components, and a second pair of connectors, to fluidly connect to a supply line and return line of the server rack. The connector assembly may further include a mobile plate upon which the second pair of connectors are attached to. The mobile plate may be attached as part of the connector assembly and movable to and from a direction that connects or disconnects the second pair of connectors to the supply line and the return line of the server rack.