Server Connector Binary ID Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Server systems face errors due to incorrect connections of cables with similar shapes but different signals, leading to operational failures, as the interfaces on the motherboard are close together and prone to reverse or wrong connections.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a complex programmable logic device (CPLD) and a baseboard management controller (BMC) that utilize binary IDs on connectors to determine correct connections by comparing them to preset signals, with a prompt module like LEDs to indicate incorrect connections, ensuring proper operation of the server system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple connectors with similar shapes are used to connect different signals, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to increased risk of incorrect connections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of connectionVSAvoidconnection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by assigning unique visual characteristics (such as different colors, shapes, or patterns) to each connector type on the cable. This allows connectors that physically look similar to be differentiated through localized visual cues, enabling users to quickly identify correct connections without increasing mechanical complexity. For example, connectors for different signals may have distinct color coding or pattern markings that guide proper insertion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes color changes or color coding on connectors to indicate their function and proper pairing. By assigning specific colors to different signal types or connector orientations, the system provides immediate visual feedback to users during connection, preventing incorrect connections while maintaining simple connector designs. The visual differentiation through color allows multiple connector types to coexist without confusion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

2Area of stationary object

If interfaces on the motherboard are placed close together, then the device compactness is improved and space utilization is optimized, but the reliability deteriorates due to increased likelihood of reverse or wrong connections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotherboard areaVSAvoidconnection correctness
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by designing connectors with non-symmetric physical characteristics or orientation-dependent visual cues. Connectors are designed so that they can be inserted in only the correct orientation, or at least made distinctly identifiable through asymmetric features. This prevents reverse connections and reduces the risk of connecting the wrong interface, even when interfaces are densely packed on the motherboard.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by providing visual indicators or guiding features on connectors and corresponding receptacles before the connection is made. These pre-configured visual cues (such as colored markings, patterns, or geometric guides) are already in place to guide the user or system in correctly identifying and establishing connections, preventing errors before they occur during the connection process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If no connection detection mechanism is implemented, then the device complexity is minimized, but the reliability deteriorates due to undetected incorrect connections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection system complexityVSAvoidoperational reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the connection system to automatically detect and verify its own state through built-in detection mechanisms. The system includes self-diagnostic capabilities that can identify incorrect connections without requiring external intervention or complex additional hardware. Detection functions are integrated into the existing connector-receptacle interface, allowing the system to self-verify connection correctness and provide feedback automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes feedback mechanisms that provide real-time information about connection status to the user or system controller. Visual indicators, LED lights, or electronic signals give immediate feedback on whether connections are correct or incorrect. This feedback loop allows the system to detect connection errors and alert users, enabling corrective action before operational failures occur, while keeping the detection system integrated and not overly complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11921665B2Server system and method for detecting correctness of connections therein
Publication Date: 2024.03.05 SHENZHEN FULIAN FUGUI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO LTD
  • US11921665B2 patent drawing
  • US11921665B2 patent drawing
  • US11921665B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A server system with inbuilt ability to determine the correctness of connections within the server and prevent operation in the event of a misconnection includes a server motherboard, a connection cable, and a server backplane. The server backplane is electrically connected to the server motherboard through the connection cable. The connection cable comprises a first connector and a second connector, the first connector and the second connector are configured to connect to the server motherboard, the first connector and the second connector carry their own individual binary IDS, and the server motherboard is configured to determine whether the connection cable is correctly connected according to the binary IDs. The present disclosure also provides a method for same.