Modular Server Casing with Removable Support Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 2U server casings are inflexible, as they can only accommodate either 12 3.5-inch hard disks or 8 hard disks with an ODD/tape module, requiring removal of support plates to switch configurations, limiting their usability.
Innovation Solution
A modular casing design with a support module that allows the casing to accommodate three configurations by dividing the main space into multiple smaller spaces using a pivotally disposed catching member and spring mechanism, enabling flexible arrangement of electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If support plates are removed to accommodate ODD/tape module, then the casing can receive 8 hard disks with 1 ODD/tape module, but the casing cannot be changed back to accommodate 12 hard disks
Solution Approach 1:
The casing is divided into a fixed portion and a removable support module portion. The support module can be removed to convert the casing between different configurations (12 hard disk bays vs. 8 hard disk bays with ODD/tape module), allowing the casing structure to be segmented and reconfigured without permanent modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The support module is designed to be dynamically removable and installable, transforming the static casing into a dynamic structure that can adapt its configuration. The catching member mechanism enables the support module to be easily removed or fixed, providing dynamic reconfigurability between different server configurations.
2Ease of operation
If support plates are permanently removed for ODD/tape module installation, then configuration switching is simplified, but the casing loses reconfigurability
Solution Approach 1:
The support module with catching member provides dynamic reconfigurability, allowing users to easily remove or install the support module to switch between configurations. This dynamic design maintains both ease of operation and reconfigurability, as the support module can be quickly removed without permanent structural changes.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single casing design is used for both 12-hard-disk and 8-hard-disk-with-ODD configurations, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the casing structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the casing into fixed and removable support module portions, the design allows a single casing base to support multiple configurations. This segmentation enables manufacturing cost reduction through standardized casing production while managing structural complexity through modular support modules that can be added or removed based on configuration needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A casing includes a casing module and a support module. The casing module includes two side plates spaced apart from each other, a top-plate unit disposed between and perpendicular to the side plates, and a bottom plate spaced apart from and parallel to the top-plate unit. The side plates, the top-plate unit and the bottom plate define a first accommodating space for receiving a first electronic device. The support module is disposed between the top-plate unit and the bottom plate, and is removably caught in the top-plate unit to divide the first accommodating space into two second accommodating spaces for receiving two second electronic devices that differ in size from the first electronic device.