Riser Card Expansion Module for 2U Computer Chassis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional computer casings of height 2 U can only accommodate three or four expansion cards vertically due to limited motherboard space, which is insufficient for increasing functional requirements in industrial or commercial computers.
Innovation Solution
A control device with vertical connection elements that screw and fix right and left riser cards, which are welded with adaptive slots to allow for the insertion of at least seven expansion cards, utilizing the space above the motherboard to increase card capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If expansion cards are vertically inserted into adaptive slots on the motherboard, then the cards can be easily installed, but the number of cards that can be installed is limited to three or four due to limited motherboard space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-plane vertical insertion layout to a three-dimensional configuration by introducing riser cards that extend vertically from the motherboard. This allows expansion cards to be installed in multiple levels (first level on motherboard, second level on riser cards), effectively utilizing vertical space to increase card capacity from three or four to at least seven cards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the expansion card installation system into separate functional modules: the motherboard, multiple riser cards, and expansion cards. Each riser card acts as an independent platform that can hold multiple expansion cards, allowing the system to be segmented into modular units that can be independently installed and configured.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more expansion cards are installed to increase functional requirements, then the computer's functionality is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The riser cards serve multiple functions: they provide mechanical support for expansion cards, create vertical stacking capability, provide electrical connections between motherboard and expansion cards, and offer structural reinforcement to the casing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby managing complexity while enhancing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where expansion cards are inserted into slots on riser cards, which are themselves attached to the motherboard. This nested arrangement (motherboard → riser cards → expansion cards) allows multiple cards to be compactly organized within the limited 2U casing space, maintaining structural integrity while maximizing card capacity.
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
Enables the installation of more than seven expansion cards in a standard 2 U casing, effectively utilizing the internal space to enhance the functional capabilities of the computer host.
Implementation Method 1
two sides of the connection element are screwed and fixed respectively with a vertical right riser card and a left riser card
Implementation Method 2
the left and right riser cards are welded with a plurality of adaptive slots
Data Source
AI summary
A control device used for a computer casing on which a plurality of expansion cards is inserted, is composed of a first frame and a second frame which are installed in a casing of height of 2 U; a connection element, which is connected on the first and second frames, and is in a vertical state; a right riser card, which is connected on a right side of the connection element; a left riser card, which is connected on a left side of the connection element; a plurality of expansion cards, which is inserted horizontally into a plurality of slots of the right riser card; and a plurality of expansion cards, which is inserted horizontally into a plurality of slots of the left riser card. By this control device, at least more than seven expansion cards or interface cards can be inserted.