Modular Computer Expansion for PCIe Capacity and Power Scaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing industrial computers face limitations in expanding functionalities for AI image processing and cloud computing due to limited PCIe expansion card capacity and power supply requirements, necessitating flexible and modular solutions for storage, expansion cards, and power supply units.
Innovation Solution
A modularized and expandable computer system comprising a host electronic device, first, second, and third expansion electronic devices, each with storage modules, expansion card modules, and power supply units, allowing for easy addition, removal, or repair of electronic components through guided interfaces and screw holes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If expansion cards are added to extend industrial computer functionality, then the computer can perform new functions (e.g., AI image processing), but the rack size limits the total number of PCIe expansion cards that can be added
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the computer into modular components: a host device and separate expansion electronic devices. Each expansion device can be independently added or removed, allowing functionality extension without increasing the host's rack size. The expansion electronic devices connect via PCIe interfaces, enabling AI image processing and other functions while keeping the main system compact.
2Adaptability or versatility
If storage devices and power supply units are integrated into the industrial computer, then the system can support AI image processing and cloud computing, but the rack size and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Storage devices and power supply units are separated from the host and placed in independent expansion electronic devices. This modular approach allows the host to remain compact while supporting high-capacity storage and high-power GPUs through external devices connected via PCIe interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The expansion electronic devices serve multiple functions: they provide PCIe connectivity for GPUs, accommodate high-capacity storage devices (HDD/SSD), and include integrated power supply units. This multi-functionality allows a single expansion device to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate components.
3Productivity
If multiple storage devices and expansion cards are integrated, then the system can handle AI image processing and cloud computing demands, but the power supply requirements increase necessitating replacement with higher power units
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into multiple independent power supply units, each housed in its own expansion electronic device. This allows flexible configuration where each GPU or storage device can be powered by dedicated PSU modules, enabling high-power configurations without requiring a complete power supply replacement in the host.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic configuration of power supply capacity by adding or removing power supply units from expansion devices. Users can scale power capacity to match actual processing demands, rather than being locked into a fixed high-power configuration from the start.
4Adaptability or versatility
If expansion cards are added to the host, then new functions are enabled, but maintenance and repair become difficult due to integrated design
Solution Approach 1:
Expansion electronic devices are designed as independent, removable modules that connect to the host via standardized PCIe interfaces. This segmentation allows individual expansion devices to be easily removed, replaced, or repaired without affecting the host or other expansion devices, significantly improving maintenance ease.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modularized and expandable computer system is disclosed, which comprises a host electronic device, a first expansion electronic device, a second expansion electronic device, and a third expansion electronic device, wherein the first expansion electronic device has a plurality of storage modules, the second expansion electronic device has a plurality of expansion card modules, and the third expansion electronic device has a plurality of power supply units (PSUs). Moreover, the host electronic device is in communication with the first expansion electronic device and the second expansion electronic device, and the third expansion electronic device generates electric power that is further transmitted to the second expansion electronic device, and then the second expansion electronic device further transmits the electric power to the host electronic device, thereby making the first expansion electronic device receive the electric power thorough the host electronic device.