PSU Connector Adapter Layout for Airflow-Friendly Redundant Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of Power Distribution Boards (PDBs) in enterprise information processing systems increases costs and restricts airflow to power supply units (PSUs), necessitating costly cooling solutions and limiting system configurations.
Innovation Solution
A compact power supply adapter that connects PSUs directly to the primary system board using flexible wires, eliminating the need for PDBs, allowing for multiple PSU configurations and improved airflow by reducing vertical obstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Power Distribution Boards (PDBs) are used to connect additional PSUs to the primary system board, then power redundancy and system capacity are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the power connection system into two parts: PSUs that connect directly to the primary system board via edge connectors, and a separate PDB module that can be added independently when additional power capacity is needed. This segmentation allows the basic system to remain simple while enabling scalability through optional module addition.
Solution Approach 2:
The primary system board is designed with multiple edge connectors that can serve dual purposes: connecting individual PSUs directly or connecting to a PDB module. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware interface to support both simple and complex configurations, reducing overall system complexity.
2Power
If Power Distribution Boards (PDBs) are used to accommodate additional PSUs, then power capacity is improved, but airflow to PSUs is restricted and cooling efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a vertical stacking arrangement (where PDBs block airflow) to a horizontal arrangement where PSUs are positioned side-by-side with direct access to the rear of the chassis. This dimensional change restores unobstructed airflow paths from the front to rear of the chassis, improving cooling efficiency while maintaining power capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the PDB module from the mandatory system architecture and makes it an optional component. By removing the PDB from the primary power distribution path, airflow is no longer restricted, and PSUs can be cooled directly by chassis airflow without intermediate obstructions.
3Power
If multiple PSUs are stacked and connected through PDBs, then power requirements are met, but cost increases due to additional components and cooling solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the PSU connection function directly into the primary system board by providing multiple edge connectors on the board itself. This eliminates the need for separate PDB hardware in many configurations, reducing component count, manufacturing complexity, and overall system cost while still meeting power requirements through direct PSU connections.
4Adaptability or versatility
If PDBs are used to connect PSUs, then adaptability to high power requirements is improved, but airflow impedance increases and restricts system configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a dynamic system where the power architecture can adapt to different configurations: PSUs can connect directly to the primary board for low-power applications, or additional PSUs can be added in horizontal configurations for high-power applications. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to scale power capacity without the fixed airflow restrictions imposed by vertical PDB stacking.
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply adapter, a system and a method. The power supply adapter comprising a casing, a power supply unit (PSU) connector comprising a socket configured of receive an edge connector of a PSU, an output connector configured to receive a first connector of a power cable and comprising connector pins, wherein the PSU connector comprises a ground conductor assembly housed in the casing and comprising a first plate assembly and a first conductivity clamp comprising a set of ground contacts, a primary conductor assembly housed in the casing and comprising a second plate assembly and a second conductivity clamp.