Remote Power Button Actuation for Pre-Assembled Servers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cloud provider networks face challenges in integrating and managing large fleets of pre-assembled computer systems with proprietary software, such as Apple Mac OS, due to limitations in remote firmware updates, physical infrastructure integration, and compatibility with virtualization technologies, making it economically unfeasible to manage and operate these systems efficiently.
Innovation Solution
The integration of pre-assembled computer systems with proprietary software into cloud provider networks is achieved through a virtualization offloading component and a baseboard management controller, which creates a virtual environment mimicking consumer interactions, enables remote management, and allows for the use of proprietary software on third-party hardware, while maintaining security and operational efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pre-assembled computer systems with proprietary software are integrated into cloud provider networks, then hardware utilization and operational efficiency are improved, but device complexity and difficulty of remote management increase
Solution Approach 1:
A mechanical linkage system acts as an intermediary between the external environment and the power button of pre-assembled computer systems. The linkage translates external actuation forces into precise button presses, enabling remote power control without requiring direct physical access to the device. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by providing simple external control for otherwise complex proprietary systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The power button actuation mechanism is segmented into separate functional components: an external actuator, a mechanical linkage system with cam mechanisms, and the power button itself. This segmentation allows the complex proprietary computer system to be controlled through a simplified external interface, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining full control capability.
2Ease of operation
If remote power actuation is implemented for pre-assembled computer systems, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic or software-based remote control systems with a purely mechanical linkage system. The cam mechanisms and linkages provide reliable power button actuation through simple mechanical means, avoiding the need for complex electronics, power connections, or software interfaces while achieving ease of remote operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical linkage system is designed to be actuated from the external environment without requiring power, control signals, or complex coordination. The cam mechanisms automatically translate the actuation motion into precise power button presses, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for additional control infrastructure.
3Productivity
If pre-assembled computer systems are integrated into server chassis, then productivity is improved through better resource management, but ease of repair and maintenance worsens due to integrated design
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical linkage system serves as an intermediary that provides external access points for power control without requiring physical access to the integrated computer system. Operators can actuate the power button from outside the server chassis, maintaining productivity while enabling easy maintenance and repair operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the control interface from the internal dimension (requiring physical access to the power button on the computer system) to the external dimension (providing actuation points on the server chassis exterior). This dimensional change allows maintenance personnel to perform power operations without disassembling or accessing the integrated system.
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 enables the efficient management and operation of compute instances with proprietary software within cloud provider networks, providing customers with flexible and secure access to proprietary software environments, enhancing hardware utilization and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a cam mechanism, and a mechanical linkage, wherein the mechanical linkage is configured to cause the cam mechanism to press a power button of the pre-assembled computer system when the mechanical linkage is pressed
Data Source
AI summary
A branded fleet server system includes a pre-assembled third-party computer system integrated into a chassis of the branded fleet server system. The pre-assembled third-party computer system is configured to execute proprietary software that is only licensed for use on branded hardware. A baseboard management controller (BMC) included in the server chassis couples with the pre-assembled computer system via one or more cables coupled to ports of the pre-assembled computer system. The BMC enables remote control of the pre-assembled computer system, such as remote power on and power off. An electro-mechanical device, such as a solenoid, presses a power button of the pre-assembled computer system based on control signals from the BMC to change a power state of the pre-assembled computer system.