Multi-Sided Holder Module for Expansion Card Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Information handling systems face challenges in securely accommodating various expansion cards due to differences in size, weight, and configuration, leading to complex and error-prone installation processes and increased combinational complexity.

Innovation Solution

A holder module with a multi-sided component that is orientable to correspond to different expansion cards, allowing for secure installation by matching the component to the specific make/model of the card, thereby simplifying the installation process and reducing combinational complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different holders are used to accommodate various expansion cards, then adaptability to different card sizes and configurations is improved, but device complexity and inventory management complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different expansion cardsVSAvoidcombinational complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holder module is designed as a universal multi-functional device that can accommodate multiple types of expansion cards (PCIe, PCI, ISA, etc.) through a single standardized interface. The holder module includes a standardized holder receptacle that receives different card types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized holders for different card formats.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The holder module is divided into separable components including the holder receptacle, retention mechanism, and mounting features. This segmentation allows the same holder module design to be used across different server configurations and card types, reducing inventory complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different holders are used to accommodate various expansion cards, then adaptability to different card sizes and configurations is improved, but ease of operation and installation process simplicity worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different expansion cardsVSAvoidinstallation process simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The standardized holder module provides a uniform installation interface for all expansion cards, creating a consistent and simple installation process. technicians use the same mounting procedure regardless of card type, improving ease of operation while maintaining adaptability to different card configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different holders are used to accommodate various expansion cards, then adaptability to different card sizes and configurations is improved, but manufacturing complexity and training requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different expansion cardsVSAvoidmanufacturing and training complexities

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The holder module is designed as a universal component that can be manufactured using standardized processes and specifications. This universality simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need to produce multiple specialized holder variants, reducing both manufacturing complexity and training requirements for assembly personnel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If expansion cards with different sizes and weights are secured, then versatility in card accommodation is improved, but reliability and risk of connector failure worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveversatility in card accommodationVSAvoidrisk of PCIe connector failure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The holder module incorporates localized support features including retention clips, mounting brackets, and distributed contact points that provide targeted mechanical support to the PCIe connector and card edges. This localized quality enhancement ensures reliable electrical and mechanical connection regardless of card size or weight variations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The holder module includes pre-designed stress distribution features and mechanical support structures that cushion and distribute the weight and stress of different expansion cards before they can affect the PCIe connector. This beforehand cushioning prevents connector failure by absorbing mechanical stresses from heavy or large cards.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS11953954B2Variable holder module for securing expansion cards

Publication Date: 2024.04.09 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

A variable holder module secures a variety of different expansion cards that may be installed within a computer or other information handling system. The holder module has a multi-sided component that is orientable according to which expansion card is to be secured within the computer. Each side of the component may thus correspond to a different one of the expansion cards. Once the expansion card is determined, a human or robotic picker need only orient component to the side that corresponds to the make/model of the expansion card. The holder module is thus adaptable to secure many different expansion cards that may be installed within the computer.