Rear Cable Connector Alignment for Compact Enclosure Depth
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional Mini-SAS HD connector configuration for computer systems increases enclosure depth due to the connector's length and minimal bend radius of the cable, making it difficult to fit in designated spaces and complicates installation due to lack of alignment features.
Innovation Solution
A recessed port system in the enclosure with a perpendicular clearance space for the cable connector and adjustable alignment features, allowing the connector to be fully inserted and securely coupled to the receptacle adapter, compensating for the added depth and facilitating easy installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the Mini-SAS HD connector is positioned at the edge of the chassis, then the connector can be easily accessed, but the enclosure depth increases by up to 32 mm plus cable bend radius
Solution Approach 1:
The connector position is moved from the lateral edge of the chassis to the rear surface, changing the spatial dimension of connection. This allows the connector to be accessible from the back of the enclosure rather than extending the front depth, effectively transferring the connection interface to a different spatial plane.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of extending the connector forward from the chassis edge, the receptacle is positioned on the rear surface and the connector plugs in from the back. This inverts the conventional front-to-back connection approach, allowing cable management to occur behind the enclosure rather than in front.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the connector body extends beyond the enclosure, then the cable can be connected, but the total depth required to fit the enclosure in a rack increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector interface is extracted from the front edge of the enclosure and repositioned on the rear surface. This separates the connection function from the front profile of the enclosure, allowing the enclosure to maintain a compact depth while still providing full cable connectivity through the rear interface.
3Device complexity
If the connector lacks guidance and alignment features, then the design remains simple, but installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle incorporates built-in alignment features including guide pins and positioning surfaces that automatically align the connector during insertion. These self-aligning features eliminate the need for manual positioning or complex alignment procedures, allowing the connector to self-correct during the mating process.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle is pre-configured with alignment guides and positioning elements before the connector is inserted. These preliminary alignment features ensure that the connector approaches the receptacle in the correct orientation and position, preventing misalignment or forced insertion.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a computer system comprising an enclosure adapted to contain one or more printed circuit boards, the enclosure including a back plane having a recessed port for coupling a data communication cable to a printed circuit board, the recessed port including a receptacle adapter coupled to the printed circuit board adapted to receive a connector of the data communication cable, and a perpendicular clearance space for facilitating alignment of the connector of the data communication cable with the receptacle.