OCP 3.0 Insertion Tool for Force Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The insertion of OCP 3.0 expansion cards without an ejector latch into server chassis slots requires significant force, making it difficult for users to insert the cards without damaging the communication ports, and there is a need for a tool that distributes force evenly and protects the ports during insertion.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a handle and a head featuring two contact areas in perpendicular relation, designed to contact the front plate of the expansion card, allowing for even force distribution and protection of the ports during insertion, suitable for both pull tab and internal lock form factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an ejector latch version is used, then the insertion force is easily applied, but the device cost increases due to additional mechanical parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool with a head and handle that mediates between the user and the expansion card. The tool's head contacts the front plate and distributes insertion force, while the handle provides leverage. This intermediary mechanism achieves easy force application without requiring the expansion card itself to include complex ejector latch mechanical parts.
2Device complexity
If a pull tab version is used, then the device cost is reduced, but the insertion operation becomes difficult due to insufficient force distribution area
Solution Approach 1:
The tool acts as an intermediary that compensates for the pull tab's insufficient force distribution area. By placing the tool's head against the front plate and applying force through the handle, users can generate sufficient insertion force without directly manipulating the small pull tab, thereby maintaining simplicity while improving operability.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool extends the interaction dimension by introducing a lever arm through the handle. Instead of applying force directly at the small pull tab area, the user applies force at the end of the handle, creating mechanical advantage through dimensional extension and making insertion feasible.
3Force
If direct finger pressure is applied to the pull tab, then the insertion force can be applied, but the ports may be damaged due to force concentration
Solution Approach 1:
The tool's head serves as an intermediary between the applied force and the expansion card. It distributes the insertion force across a larger area of the front plate through its contact surfaces, preventing force concentration that could damage the ports while still delivering sufficient total force for successful insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool's head is designed with specific contact areas that concentrate force distribution to appropriate locations on the front plate while avoiding the ports. This local quality differentiation ensures force is applied where structurally appropriate rather than at vulnerable port areas.
Data Source
AI summary
An insertion tool for assisting in the insertion of an OCP 3.0 type expansion card in an expansion card slot of a computer system is disclosed. The expansion card may be a pull tab type form factor that does not have a mechanism such as an ejector latch to assist in applying force to insert the card. The expansion card has a front panel opposite a distal edge connector. The tool has a handle and a head coupled to the handle. The head has two contact areas that contact different areas of the front panel of the expansion card. For example, one of the contact areas may be an extended side arm and the other area may be a lateral rib extending from the head.