Modular Backplane for Flexible PCB Module Upgrades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current backplane structures in data storage systems are inflexible, requiring the replacement of the entire backplane for upgrading or adding printed circuit board modules, leading to significant expenses and delays, and lack the ability to support customized interconnections for advanced processing tasks.
Innovation Solution
A modular backplane design with removable storage units and printed circuit board modules, featuring adaptable connectors and buses (such as SATA, Ethernet, and PCIe) that allow for flexible configuration and easy upgrade of modules without replacing the entire backplane, enabling scalable and cost-effective data processing and storage solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current fixed backplane structures are used, then system stability is maintained, but upgrading printed circuit board modules requires replacement of the entire backplane, leading to increased expenses and delays
Solution Approach 1:
The backplane is segmented into independent functional components: a base backplane structure and removable module carriers. Each module carrier holds one or more printed circuit board modules and can be independently installed or removed from the backplane without affecting other modules. This segmentation enables selective upgrading of individual modules while maintaining the stability of the overall backplane system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If current fixed connector arrangements are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but customized interconnections between modules are not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The connector arrangement transitions from a fixed static configuration to a dynamic reconfigurable system. Module carriers are equipped with connectors that can be selectively activated or deactivated based on the specific interconnection requirements. This dynamic capability allows customized data paths and communication routes between modules while maintaining a standardized physical connector design for ease of manufacture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated backplanes are included to meet specific operating requirements, then operational versatility is improved, but hardware usage, power, and cooling consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single backplane is designed to support multiple different module carriers, each optimized for specific operational requirements such as data processing, storage, or networking. The universal backplane interface and connector design enable any module carrier to be installed in any slot, allowing one backplane to fulfill the functions previously requiring multiple dedicated backplanes, thereby reducing hardware quantity, power consumption, and cooling requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A backplane (1) comprising -a first module connector (2d) configured to receive a first printed circuit board module (5d)and including a first connector portion (23d- 26d); -a second module connector (2e) configured to receive a second printed circuit board module (5e)and including a second connector portion (23e-26e), the first connector portion (23d-26d) being connected to the second connector portion (23e-26e) through a backplane bus.