Modular Chassis Panel Structure for Reconfigurable Module Bays

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information processing devices are limited by rigid rear panels that restrict the compatibility and installation of electronic modules with specific form factors, inhibiting flexibility, upgrades, and requiring multiple chassis designs, and are prone to deformation under load.

Innovation Solution

A customizable modular rear panel section with partition brackets that allows reconfiguration of bays to accommodate various electronic module form factors, enabling the same chassis to support multiple configurations and withstand mechanical stress.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a rigid rear panel is used to maintain structural stability, then the chassis maintains structural integrity, but the compatibility and flexibility for installing different electronic module form factors is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidcompatibility for different electronic module form factors
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The rear panel is divided into multiple removable sections, each designed to accommodate specific electronic module form factors. This segmentation allows the chassis to maintain overall structural integrity while providing flexible configuration options for different module types and sizes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rear panel transitions from a fixed rigid structure to a dynamic reconfigurable structure. Sections can be removed, added, or repositioned based on the specific electronic modules being installed, enabling the chassis to adapt its configuration while maintaining structural stability during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple chassis designs are created to support different electronic module configurations, then compatibility with various form factors is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with various form factorsVSAvoidnumber of chassis designs
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A single universal chassis design incorporates a standardized rear panel system that can accommodate multiple electronic module form factors through removable sections. This eliminates the need for multiple specialized chassis designs, reducing complexity while maintaining broad compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The rear panel's reconfigurable nature allows one chassis design to serve multiple configuration purposes. By dynamically adjusting the rear panel sections, the same chassis can support different module arrangements without requiring separate chassis variants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If partition brackets are removably coupled to accommodate different module configurations, then flexibility and adaptability are improved, but structural strength may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconfiguration flexibilityVSAvoidstructural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The partition brackets are pre-designed with specific coupling mechanisms that ensure proper alignment and secure attachment before modules are installed. This preliminary preparation ensures that when brackets are removably coupled, they maintain sufficient structural strength to support the modules during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling mechanism for partition brackets is designed to provide different levels of connection strength based on operational requirements. During installation and reconfiguration, the brackets can be easily attached or detached, while during normal operation, the coupling provides sufficient structural strength to maintain stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250294698A1Chassis of an information processing device having modular panel section
Publication Date: 2025.09.18 HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE DEV LP
  • US20250294698A1 patent drawing
  • US20250294698A1 patent drawing
  • US20250294698A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A chassis includes a base and a modular panel section having vertical support members, a horizontal support structure, partition brackets, and bracket mounting locations. The vertical support members are coupled to the base to define an opening therebetween. The horizontal support structure extends between and coupled to the vertical support members to divide the opening into a first region and a second region. The bracket mounting locations are defined in the first and/or second regions, and each bracket mounting location includes mounting elements configured to connect one of the partition brackets to the base and/or the horizontal support structure. The partition brackets are disposed at respective bracket mounting locations and removably coupled to the base and/or to the horizontal support structure and divide the first and/or second regions into bays. Each bay is configured to receive and allow an electronic module to be electrically connected to an information processing device.