Multi-Device Rack Width Adapter for 19-Inch Devices in 21-Inch Racks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rack width adapters for transitioning from 19-inch to 21-inch racks are complex, cumbersome, and result in significant packaging waste, especially when adapting multiple server devices.
Innovation Solution
A multi-device rack width adapter system comprising first and second multi-device rack width adapter subsystems mounted to opposite sides of a rack, with pairs of device coupling elements allowing devices with a smaller width to be coupled to a larger rack, reducing complexity and waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adapter systems are used to house 19-inch server devices in 21-inch racks, then device compatibility is achieved, but device complexity and deployment difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple adapter components (side adapters and end adapters) into a single integrated adapter unit that interfaces directly between the 19-inch device and 21-inch rack. This merging eliminates the need for separate conversion shelves and multiple mounting steps, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter system is designed as a universal solution that can accommodate various 19-inch devices in 21-inch racks through standardized coupling mechanisms. The adapter includes multiple coupling elements that can interface with different device types while providing a consistent mounting interface to the rack, enabling broad adaptability without requiring device-specific custom adapters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adapter systems are deployed for multiple server devices, then device compatibility is maintained, but packaging waste increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple adapter functions into a single integrated unit that can accommodate multiple devices. Instead of requiring separate adapter assemblies for each device slot, the design allows one adapter structure to serve multiple mounting positions, thereby reducing the total number of adapters needed and minimizing packaging materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter system is designed to be reusable and easily deployable without extensive packaging. The simplified structure allows for compact packaging that can be efficiently reused or recycled, and the adapter itself can be quickly installed and removed without damage, enabling recovery and reuse of the adapter components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adapter systems are used, then 19-inch devices can be housed in 21-inch racks, but deployment time and effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is pre-configured with all necessary coupling elements and mounting features before deployment. The coupling elements are pre-positioned to match standard 19-inch device interfaces, eliminating the need for on-site adjustments or customizations. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid installation by simply mounting the adapter to the rack and attaching devices without additional configuration steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter system is divided into modular coupling elements that can be independently attached or detached. This segmentation allows for quick assembly and disassembly of individual device connections without requiring the entire adapter structure to be removed or reconfigured, significantly reducing deployment and reconfiguration time.
4Ease of operation
If multiple conversion components are used in conventional adapter systems, then device mounting is achieved, but the number of parts and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of side adapters and end adapters into a single integrated adapter unit that provides both lateral and end mounting capabilities. This consolidation reduces the total number of components from multiple separate pieces to one unified structure, simplifying inventory management, assembly, and installation while maintaining full device mounting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated adapter is designed with universal coupling elements that can interface with various device types through multiple mounting interfaces. The single adapter structure incorporates both side coupling elements and end coupling elements, providing comprehensive mounting capability without requiring separate specialized components for different mounting orientations.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-device rack-width-adapted rack system includes a multi-device rack width adapter system mounted to a rack having first and second sides defining a rack housing having a first housing width. The multi-device rack width adapter system includes a first multi-device rack width adapter subsystem mounted to the first side of the rack, a second multi-device rack width adapter subsystem mounted to the second side of the rack and defining a first device housing a first device, and pairs of device coupling elements each including a first device coupling element on the first multi-device rack width adapter subsystem and a second device coupling element on the second multi-device rack width adapter subsystem. Each pair of device coupling elements may couple a second device to the rack in a second device housing defined by that pair of device coupling elements with a second housing width smaller than the first housing width.