Optical Module Port With Flexible Alignment Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

In modular computing systems, the communication bottleneck between modules connected via a chassis-based electrical communications bus limits data transfer speed, as components process information faster than the bus can carry it.

Innovation Solution

Implementing direct optical communication between modules using ports with alignment devices and flexible members to bypass the chassis, allowing for faster data transfer through optical signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If modules communicate through the chassis using an electrical communications bus, then the system structure is simple and reliable, but the data transfer speed is limited creating a bottleneck

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidcommunication system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the electrical communications bus (mechanical/electrical system) with optical communication channels. Optical ports are provided on module faces adjacent to one another, enabling direct optical communication between modules without relying on the electrical bus through the chassis. This substitution achieves higher data transfer speeds while maintaining system reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If modules communicate directly with each other using optical ports, then data transfer speed increases, but the alignment and connection complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidmodule connection ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs flexible members that allow the optical ports to move dynamically. When modules are inserted into the chassis, the flexible members enable the optical ports to adjust their positions automatically to achieve proper alignment and connection, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment and simplifying the connection process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The optical ports with flexible members are designed to self-align and self-connect when modules are inserted into the chassis. The flexible members allow the ports to automatically adjust to the correct position and establish optical connection without external intervention, making the system easy to operate and configure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Speed

If optical communication is implemented between modules, then data transfer speed improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication speedVSAvoidmanufacturing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the optical ports and flexible members as universal components that can be integrated into standard module structures. The optical communication interface is built into the module faces themselves, allowing the same module design to serve both optical communication and traditional electrical communication functions, thereby simplifying manufacturing processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution reduces the communication bottleneck by enabling modules to communicate directly, utilizing optical channels for high-speed data transfer, thereby enhancing the system's processing efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The first port including an attraction field to attract a second port if the second port was within the attraction field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAttraction field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

Optical communications can transmit data at the speed of light and may include multiple channels of data in the form of modulation of the light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical communication: Light

Data Source

PatentUS9201450B2Module and port
Publication Date: 2015.12.01 HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE DEV LP
  • US9201450B2 patent drawing
  • US9201450B2 patent drawing
  • US9201450B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A first module including a first port to connect to a second module including a second port. The first port including an attraction field to attract a second port if the second port was within the attraction field. A flexible member can be connected to the first port and a first edge can apply a force to the first port.