Movable Backplane Module for Compact Server Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing server computer systems face challenges in reducing volume while maintaining effective heat dissipation and ease of assembly/disassembly, particularly due to the need for a larger operation space for removable control interface cards.

Innovation Solution

An assembled module with a movable backplane and actuating unit, comprising a first rack, complex gear, and second rack, allows the backplane to move between positions, enabling easy electrical connection and disconnection from the main board without requiring extensive operation space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a removable control interface card is installed by pluggable way on the main board, then the disk array can be controlled and connected to the main board, but a larger operation space is needed for plugging the interface card

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremovable control interface cardVSAvoidoperation space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic sliding mechanism where the control interface card is integrated with a sliding component that moves along a guide rail on the main board. This allows the interface card to be smoothly inserted and removed within a compact space, eliminating the need for large operation space while maintaining removability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control interface card is nested within a sliding assembly that includes a guide rail and positioning structures. When not in use, the interface card can be retracted into a compact position on the main board, effectively reducing the occupied space while preserving the ability to be removed and reinstalled.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of stationary object

If the operation space is reduced to meet volume requirements, then the server computer volume is reduced, but it becomes inconvenient to assemble or disassemble the control interface card

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveserver computer volumeVSAvoidassembly and disassembly convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary sliding mechanism that mediates between the control interface card and the main board. This sliding assembly includes a guide rail, positioning holes, and elastic components that automatically guide and secure the interface card during insertion and removal, making the operation convenient even within a reduced space environment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The sliding mechanism incorporates self-aligning features such as positioning holes that automatically align with guide pins, and elastic components that provide automatic engagement and disengagement forces. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex manual alignment operations, maintaining ease of assembly and disassembly despite the compact design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If the control interface card is directly installed on the circuit board connector, then the connection is stable, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidinstallation structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the control interface card with a sliding assembly that integrates the connector, guide rail, and positioning structures into a single unified component. This combined structure maintains stable electrical connection through the integrated connector while simplifying the overall installation process, as the entire assembly moves as one unit during insertion and removal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables easy assembly and disassembly of the module within a narrow space, facilitating the reduction of server computer volume without compromising heat dissipation or operational convenience.

Implementation Method 1

The first gear is engaged with the first rack and configured to rotate when the first rack is operated

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical engagement: Gear

Implementation Method 2

The complex gear includes a first gear and a second gear, the first gear and the second gear are co-axial and able to rotate simultaneously

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCo-axial gear rotation: Gear

Implementation Method 3

The second rack is configured to be fixed on the casing along a second direction and engaged with the second gear

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRack and pinion mechanism: Rack and Pinion

Data Source

PatentUS9137921B2Assembled module and electronic apparatus having the same

Publication Date: 2015.09.15 WISTRON CORP

AI summary

An assembled module and an electronic apparatus having the same are disclosed. The assembled module is disposed in a case of the electronic apparatus. The assembled module includes a backplane and an actuating unit. The backplane is disposed on the case and used to be moved between a first position and a second position. The actuating unit is disposed on the backplane and used to be operated so as to drive the backplane moving relative to the first position and the second position. The actuating unit includes a first rack, a complex gear, and a second rack; wherein when the first rack is operated to move along a first direction, the complex gear is carried by the first rack to allow the second rack to move along a second direction, such that the assembled module is able to move between the first position and the second position.