Rack Adapting Device for Mixed Width Server Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing server racks face challenges in accommodating server modules of different widths, requiring time-consuming and costly mechanical adjustments that can be unstable, as they are typically designed for either 19-inch or 21-inch modules, with limited flexibility to adapt to varying standards.
Innovation Solution
A rack adapting device that modifies the housing width of server racks to accommodate modules of different widths by using adapter bodies with rack-engaging features that connect to existing mounting features, allowing for the secure mounting of both 19-inch and 21-inch modules without extensive mechanical adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If server racks are designed for specific standardized widths (19-inch or 21-inch modules), then mounting precision and stability are improved, but adaptability to different module widths deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rack adapting device serves multiple functions: it acts as a mounting bracket for narrow modules, a spacer to maintain proper spacing, and an adapter to interface between different rack standards. This multi-functional design allows a single device to resolve multiple mounting requirements without requiring separate solutions for each module type.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter body functions as an intermediary component between the rack structure and the electronic equipment modules. It mediates the interface between racks designed for 19-inch modules and 21-inch modules, allowing narrow modules to be mounted in racks designed for wider modules through the adapter's intermediate mounting features.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical adjustments are made to accommodate different module widths, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and instability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solution segments the mounting system into distinct components: the existing rack structure, the adapter body with specific width dimensions, and the electronic equipment modules. This segmentation allows the adapter to handle all width adaptation requirements independently, eliminating the need for complex mechanical adjustments to the rack itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter body is pre-configured with mounting features and dimensions specifically designed for the target module width. This preliminary preparation of the adapter eliminates the need for on-site mechanical adjustments, as the adapter arrives ready-to-install with all necessary mounting characteristics already established.
3Adaptability or versatility
If extensive mechanical adjustments are performed to adapt rack width, then adaptability is improved, but time consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter body is designed as an inexpensive, simple component that can be quickly installed and removed if needed. Rather than investing significant time and resources in permanent rack modifications, the adapter provides a cost-effective, temporary adaptation solution that fulfills the width compatibility requirement without long-term commitment.
Data Source
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AI summary
A rack adapting device for an electronic equipment rack is disclosed. The electronic equipment rack is configured to house first electronic equipment modules having a first module width between left and right equipment supports laterally spaced apart from one another by a rack housing width corresponding to the first module width. The rack adapting device is configured to adapt the electronic equipment rack to house a plurality of second electronic equipment modules having a second module width and comprises: an adapter body; a plurality of rack-engaging features disposed on a first lateral side thereof and configured to engage rack mounting features of one of the left and right equipment supports; and a plurality of adapter mounting features disposed on a second lateral side such that, in use, the second electronic equipment modules are mounted between the rack adapting device and an other one of the left and right equipment supports.