Modular Data Storage Enclosures with Keyed Couplers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage systems face challenges with high data capacity and efficient data access times due to increased computing power and device density, leading to complexities in removing and replacing data storage devices, especially in densely arranged rack systems, where errors and failures can occur, and physical handling can be hazardous.
Innovation Solution
A modular data storage system utilizing enclosures with keyed couplers that align along a common plane and are supported by a single pair of rails, allowing for easy removal and installation with minimal invasive force, and incorporating unidirectional hinges to reduce weight and increase density, enabling efficient rack space usage and concurrent operation of enclosures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If data storage devices are densely arranged in rack systems to increase data capacity, then data storage density increases, but device complexity and difficulty of removal/installation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The data storage system is divided into modular enclosures that can be independently removed and installed. Each enclosure contains specific data storage devices and can be handled as a discrete unit, simplifying maintenance operations while maintaining high density through modular organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic keyed couplers that enable enclosures to be easily engaged and disengaged from the rack structure. The couplers transition between locked and unlocked states, allowing rapid removal and installation of enclosures without complex manual operations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional rail support systems are used for each enclosure, then structural stability is maintained, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple enclosures are combined to share a common pair of rails. The keyed couplers allow enclosures to be interconnected and collectively supported by shared rails, reducing the total number of rails needed while maintaining structural stability through the integrated coupling mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If keyed couplers are used to align enclosures along a common plane, then ease of operation improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The keyed couplers feature asymmetric geometries with specific key shapes and corresponding receptacles. This asymmetric design provides inherent alignment guidance, allowing enclosures to be easily positioned along a common plane while the manufacturing precision is concentrated in the critical mating surfaces of the keyed interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular data storage system can consist of at least first and second enclosures spanning a single pair of rails. The first and second enclosures may each have keyed couplers that mate to align the first and second enclosures along a common plane while being suspended between the single pair of rails.