PCB Management Interface for Multi-Component Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computing devices face challenges in efficiently interfacing and managing multiple components connected to a printed circuit board, particularly in terms of secure mounting and effective communication between hardware components and the information handling device.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves a printed circuit board with multiple interfaces, including M.2 and U.2 interfaces, that communicatively couple hardware components such as SSDs, network interfaces, and wireless communication devices, along with a mounting tray and flexible fasteners for secure attachment, enabling efficient communication and data transmission between components and the information handling device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware components are connected to a printed circuit board, then the functionality and versatility of the computing device is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of management increases
Solution Approach 1:
A management interface is introduced as an intermediary between the information handling device and multiple hardware components. This management interface consolidates control functions, allowing a single point of management rather than requiring separate management for each component, thus reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The printed circuit board is designed with multiple standardized interfaces (M.2, U.2) that can accommodate different types of hardware components (storage devices, network devices, graphics devices). This universal interface design allows the same board to manage diverse components through common protocols, improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
2Reliability
If hardware components are securely mounted to the printed circuit board, then the reliability of connections is improved, but the ease of installation and removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static - components can be easily inserted and locked into place, and just as easily released and removed. The fastening structure transitions between locked and unlocked states, providing secure mounting during operation while enabling simple installation and removal when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is segmented into separate functional elements: the interface connector, the fastening mechanism, and the component holder. This segmentation allows the component to be securely attached through a simple fastening action rather than requiring complex multi-step mounting procedures, balancing reliability with ease of installation
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interface types are provided on the printed circuit board, then the adaptability to different hardware components is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The printed circuit board incorporates multiple interface types (M.2, U.2) that share common manufacturing processes and materials. By designing these different interfaces using standardized construction methods and compatible components, the board achieves high interface compatibility without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Despite providing diverse interface types, the printed circuit board uses homogeneous materials and standardized construction techniques across all interfaces. This homogeneity in manufacturing approach allows different interface types to be produced using the same production line and processes, reducing the impact of interface diversity on manufacturing complexity
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 configuration allows for secure mounting and effective communication of multiple hardware components, enhancing the upgrade, repair, and maintenance capabilities of computing devices while ensuring reliable data transmission and compatibility with various hardware configurations.
Implementation Method 1
the insertion end flexes around the printed circuit board and the hardware component via the flexible member
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, systems, and methods for interfacing with multiple components connected to a printed circuit board. An apparatus includes a plurality of hardware components that each include a first interface. An apparatus includes a printed circuit board that includes a plurality of interfaces that communicatively couple each of the hardware components to the printed circuit board via the first interface. The printed circuit board includes a second interface that communicatively couples the printed circuit board to an information handling device and manages communications between the information handling device and each of the hardware components coupled to the printed circuit board.