Modular Backplane Assembly for Rapid Open-Standard Prototyping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designing a backplane for specific applications increases development time and cost, limiting the flexibility and adaptability of modular systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular system backplane composed of interconnected backplane modules with multi-pin connectors and mezzanine connectors, allowing for rapid assembly and configuration of electronic modules conforming to open system standards, facilitating rapid prototyping and demonstration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a particular backplane is designed or optimized for a particular application, then the functionality and performance are improved, but the development time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The backplane is divided into multiple independent modules, each with specific functions (power, RF, digital, etc.). These modules can be independently designed, manufactured, and assembled. The segmentation allows rapid reconfiguration for different applications without redesigning the entire backplane, thus reducing development time while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular backplane design creates universal building blocks that can serve multiple purposes. Each module conforms to open system standards, enabling them to be used across different applications and configurations. This universality allows the same module to be reused in various contexts, reducing overall development time and cost while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a particular backplane is designed or optimized for a particular application, then the functionality and performance are improved, but the development cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the backplane into standardized modules, each module can be manufactured independently using common processes and materials. This reduces tooling costs, allows for economies of scale in module production, and eliminates the need for expensive custom manufacturing for each application. The standardized interfaces further reduce assembly costs.
Solution Approach 2:
Universal modules that conform to open standards can be mass-produced and reused across multiple applications. This eliminates the need for expensive application-specific custom designs and allows procurement of modules from multiple suppliers, reducing costs through competition and standardization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a particular backplane is designed for demonstration or prototyping purposes, then the flexibility and adaptability are improved, but the development time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modular architecture enables rapid assembly and disassembly of different module combinations for various demonstration scenarios. Each module can be independently tested and validated, then quickly integrated into demonstration configurations. This segmentation dramatically reduces the time required to create flexible demonstration systems compared to custom-designed backplanes.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular system backplane can be built from a variety of individual backplane modules. The backplane modules may have edge connectors for connection to one another to provide a modular system backplane for rapid development of a backplane for demonstration and/or prototyping of electronic devices using electronic modules conforming with the open system standard. A backplane module can be configured with spaced electronic module connectors for providing between two and five slots for single-slot or dual-slot electronic modules conforming with an open system standard. Various backplane modules may be designed for specific functions, such as providing power, RF communications, networking, inertial and navigation sensing, etc. using a variety of electronic modules conforming with the open system standard. A set of backplane modules can then be connected to each other as a modular system backplane to provide a particular backplane for the desired functionality.