Modular Carrier Integrating NIC and U.2 Connectors for Storage Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage systems face physical limitations in density and capacity, particularly in networked and cloud environments, due to constraints in space, redundancy, and reliability, especially with increasing data storage and retrieval needs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of enhanced modular carrier form factors, including a carrier insertable into a chassis assembly with a network interface card (NIC) and U.2 connectors for PCIe signaling, allowing for increased storage capacity and redundancy by enabling the use of multiple M.2 SSDs and network card modules in previously unused slots, along with power control and holdup circuitry for reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional storage systems are used to increase storage capacity, then more devices can be included per host, but physical space limitations and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple storage devices and network interface cards into a single modular carrier assembly that interfaces with the host through a single U.2 connector. This merging approach allows multiple devices to be accessed through one physical interface, increasing storage capacity without proportionally increasing physical space requirements or device complexity at the host level.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular carrier assembly nests multiple storage devices and network interface cards within a single carrier structure. This nested configuration allows multiple devices to be housed in a compact form factor, enabling increased storage capacity while minimizing the physical space occupied in the chassis.
2Quantity of substance
If density of networked storage systems is increased, then more storage is available, but physical limitations including space for network interconnect and environmental control are reached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates network interface cards alongside storage devices within the same modular carrier assembly. This combination consolidates network interconnect requirements into the modular bay structure, allowing storage density to increase without proportionally increasing the space dedicated to network interconnect infrastructure.
3Quantity of substance
If more devices are included per host to increase capacity and redundancy, then storage needs are met, but the number of host interfaces and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The U.2 connector serves as a universal interface that provides both storage and network functionality through a single connection. This multi-functional interface allows multiple devices to be accessed without increasing the number of host interfaces, maintaining simplicity while meeting storage capacity and redundancy requirements.
4Quantity of substance
If traditional configurations are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but storage density and capacity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into modular carrier assemblies that can be independently configured and replaced. This segmentation allows storage density to be increased by adding modular units without complicating the overall system architecture, as each module maintains a standardized interface and configuration approach.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and software are disclosed herein having enhanced modular carrier form factors. In an implementation, an apparatus includes a carrier insertable into a modular bay of a chassis assembly, and a network interface card (NIC). The apparatus includes an Ethernet network cable connector configured to carry Ethernet signaling of the NIC, and a device U.2 connector configured to carry host communications of the NIC and mate with a mating U.2 connector of the modular bay when the carrier is inserted into the chassis assembly.