Multi-Drive Carrier for High-Density Storage with Single Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage device carriers and chassis assemblies face limitations in storage density, as they cannot fully utilize smaller drive sizes, lack hot-swappable capabilities, and require cumbersome maintenance procedures due to the need for tool-based drive insertion and removal.
Innovation Solution
A multi-drive carrier design that accommodates up to 24 2.5-inch HDDs per rack unit, featuring a tool-less mechanism, hot-swappable SCA2-40 or SCA2-80 electrical connectors, and support members with projecting structures for secure drive retention, allowing for high-density storage without increasing chassis cross-sectional dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple small drives are mounted in a common carrier, then storage density is improved, but connector complexity and quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple drive connectors are merged into a single common connector on the carrier. The connector assembly includes multiple connector contacts that electrically connect to multiple drives simultaneously, reducing the total number of connectors needed while maintaining individual drive connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The common connector is designed to serve multiple functions by providing electrical connections to multiple different drives through a single interface. This universal connector can accommodate various drive configurations and sizes while maintaining a standardized connection point on the carrier.
2Ease of operation
If conventional drive carriers are used, then individual drive installation is simple, but maintenance requires tool-based removal and causes disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier incorporates tool-less release mechanisms that allow drives to be removed and installed without external tools. The drive can be easily ejected by applying pressure to a release mechanism or lever, enabling quick maintenance operations without requiring screwdrivers or other tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier uses dynamic retention mechanisms such as spring-loaded clips or movable retention arms that automatically engage and disengage drives. These mechanisms transition between locked and released states, enabling quick drive removal and installation while maintaining secure retention during operation.
3Ease of operation
If drives are mounted in traditional chassis configurations, then individual drive access is easy, but storage capacity per rack unit is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier stacks drives vertically in a multi-layer configuration, utilizing the vertical dimension to increase storage density. Multiple drives are arranged in layers above and below each other within the same horizontal footprint, allowing more drives to be accommodated per rack unit while maintaining front-accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Smaller drives are nested within a compact carrier assembly that fits into standard rack mounting spaces. The carrier itself is designed to be space-efficient, with drives arranged in a nested or compacted layout that maximizes the use of available vertical and horizontal space within the rack enclosure.
Data Source
AI summary
Carrier for the rack mounting of two or more data storage devices into a chassis. The carrier includes support members along the length of the carrier, to receive and retain the two or more data storage devices. The carrier further includes a single electrical communication connector to provide an electrical communication interface for all of the data storage devices in the carrier, to and from a mating connector on a board of the chassis. The carrier further includes an interposer to adapt electrical signals from the single electrical communication connector into a form that is usable by the data storage devices.