Server Chassis Cable Threading Layout for PCIe Module Cooling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing I/O-type servers face challenges with high human power requirements for threading operations and inadequate heat dissipation of PCIE modules at the rear end due to the 'front-and-rear row' layout, which also limits compatibility with active heat dissipation modules.

Innovation Solution

A chassis architecture is designed with a PCIE module layer, threading layer, and computing layer, featuring aligned PCIE modules, tool-free assembly components, and a closed cavity for efficient heat dissipation, allowing single-person threading operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a 'front-and-rear row' layout is used to arrange PCIE modules, then the structural compactness is improved, but the heat dissipation performance of rear-end PCIE modules deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural compactnessVSAvoidheat dissipation performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the PCIE module arrangement into two independent rows (front row and rear row) with separate air cooling channels for each row. This segmentation allows each row to have dedicated cooling airflow, solving the heat dissipation problem of rear-end modules while maintaining compact structural arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Volume of moving object

If PCIE modules are arranged in a 'front-and-rear row' layout, then the space utilization is improved, but the compatibility with active heat dissipation modules deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidcompatibility with active heat dissipation modules
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates independent air cooling channels for front and rear rows, allowing active heat dissipation modules to be installed in either row without interfering with each other's cooling airflow, thus improving compatibility while maintaining space utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent provides different cooling solutions for different locations: front row modules can use passive cooling or active cooling, while rear row modules are equipped with dedicated cooling channels. This localized quality adjustment ensures compatibility with various heat dissipation types while optimizing space use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Stability of the object's composition

If a 'front-and-rear row' layout is used, then the structural integration is improved, but the threading operation difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrationVSAvoidthreading operation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a riser card as an intermediary component between the PCIE modules and the motherboard. The riser card simplifies the threading operation by providing a standardized interface and cable management structure, reducing the complexity of direct connections while maintaining structural integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Reliability

If multiple persons are required for threading operations, then the operational safety is improved, but the operational efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational safetyVSAvoidoperational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The riser card serves as a mediator that simplifies the threading process to a程度 where single-person operation becomes feasible. It provides standardized connection interfaces and cable routing structures that reduce the complexity and physical effort required, thereby improving operational efficiency while maintaining safety through proper design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs the threading structure with self-aligning features and standardized interfaces that guide the installation process, reducing the need for multiple persons to coordinate complex manual operations. The structure itself facilitates the threading process, enabling more efficient single-person operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

The solution reduces manpower needs and ensures effective heat dissipation for both passive and active PCIE modules, enhancing operational efficiency and compatibility with various heat dissipation methods.

Implementation Method 1

a closed cavity is not formed at a position where the PCIE modules are installed, and therefore this layout may not be compatible with the active heat dissipation PCIE module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAir flow: Convection

Data Source

PatentEP4517480B1Chassis architecture and server comprising same
Publication Date: 2026.02.25 INSPUR SUZHOU INTELLIGENT TECH CO LTD
  • EP4517480B1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP4517480B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6
  • EP4517480B1 patent drawingFigure 7~8

AI summary

A chassis architecture and a server comprising same. The chassis architecture includes: a PCIE module layer (1), a threading layer (2) and a computing layer (3). The threading layer (2) is provided with a plurality of first threading holes (21), allowing a passage of PCIE cables connected to PCIE modules (7); the upper surface of the threading layer (2) is configured for bearing the PCIE cables; the computing layer (3) is provided with a plurality of second threading holes (33), allowing a passage of the PCIE cables. The threading layer (2) is added to bear the PCIE cables connected to the PCIE modules (7), so that in an installing process, a threading operation may be completed by fixing the PCIE cables to the threading layer (2), then arranging the computing layer (3) and extending the PCIE cables to a mainboard installing area (31) and/or a power supply installing area (32) on the computing layer (3) by one person, thereby reducing manpower requirements and facilitating the operation. Moreover, an upper surface of the threading layer (2) is configured for bearing the PCIE cables, so that a plurality of PCIE modules (7) may be arranged in one row, and thus each of the plurality of PCIE modules (7) may meet the heat dissipation requirement thereof.