Multifunction Power Bus and Adapter Plate for Motherboard Space Optimization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Data processing systems face challenges in efficiently managing power distribution and mechanical loads, leading to space constraints on motherboards and reduced compatibility with diverse devices, as existing solutions often require dedicating areas for power distribution and stabilization, which can hinder communication and mechanical support.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multifunction power buses and adapter plates that abstract power distribution and mechanical stabilization away from motherboards, using elevated components to distribute power and provide mechanical support, allowing for standardized motherboard designs compatible with a wide range of devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If power distribution components are integrated directly on the motherboard, then power delivery is simplified, but motherboard space for communication pathways is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts power distribution functionality from the motherboard by introducing removable adapter plates that interface with the motherboard through connectors. This separates the power delivery function from the communication pathways, allowing the motherboard to dedicate its surface area primarily to high-speed data transmission while adapter plates handle power distribution to devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments power distribution into modular adapter plates that can be selectively attached to the motherboard. Each adapter plate can serve specific device types or power requirements, allowing the motherboard to maintain a clean communication-focused design while power needs are met through configured adapter plates.
2Adaptability or versatility
If motherboard design is standardized for compatibility, then versatility with diverse devices is improved, but mechanical support customization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter plates serve multiple functions: they provide mechanical support through standardized mounting features, deliver power through integrated circuits, and enable device attachment. This multi-functional approach allows a single standardized adapter plate design to handle both structural support and electrical power delivery across various device types.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter plate acts as an intermediary between the standardized motherboard and diverse devices. It provides the necessary mechanical strength and power distribution capabilities that the standardized motherboard alone cannot provide, while maintaining compatibility through standardized interfaces.
3Device complexity
If power distribution and mechanical stabilization are handled by the motherboard, then system integration is simplified, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static integrated motherboard design to a dynamic configuration where adapter plates can be selectively attached and removed based on specific device requirements. This allows the base motherboard to be manufactured in high volumes with standardized features, while adapter plates are added only when needed for specific power and mechanical support requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for managing power distribution and/or mechanical load in data processing systems is provided. The power distribution may be managed using multifunction power buses that may relieve a motherboard of a data processing system from distributing power. The mechanical load may be managed using an adapter plate that may relieve the motherboard of the data processing system from providing for attachment of devices based on the location of the mechanical mounting hardware on the devices. By doing so, motherboards may be standardized and customized for use with various devices.