Server System Control Board Switching Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional server systems face challenges in reducing the use of connecting lines and managing server units efficiently, particularly in compact configurations like 1U rack mount servers, which limits space and cooling efficiency and complicates component replacement.

Innovation Solution

A server system comprising a motherboard, a control board with an I/O module and a switching module, and a power module that electronically connects and switches power to each motherboard, reducing the need for connecting lines and enabling easy management and power distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the number of computer units disposed in the same server is increased, then the data processing capability is improved, but the number of buses or connecting lines increases causing complicated disposition that occupies inner space and reduces cooling effect

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing capabilityVSAvoidinner space occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple computer units into a single integrated server system with a unified motherboard and shared power supply. Multiple processing units and memory units are disposed on the same motherboard, eliminating the need for separate connecting lines between independent servers. This consolidation reduces inner space occupation while maintaining enhanced data processing capability through parallel processing across multiple units within the same chassis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If the number of computer units disposed in the same server is increased, then the data processing capability is improved, but the complicated disposition of buses or connecting lines reduces cooling effect

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing capabilityVSAvoidcooling effect
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

By consolidating multiple computer units onto a single motherboard with shared power and control resources, the patent reduces the overall density of connecting lines and heat-generating components. The unified architecture allows for more efficient thermal management with fewer obstructing buses and cables, improving airflow and cooling effectiveness while maintaining high data processing capability through multi-core or multi-processor configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If one element of the computer unit is breakdown, then the system reliability is affected, but it is difficult to replace the element due to the buses or connecting lines

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoidelement replacement difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs modular design where the power supply system is segmented into a centralized power module that can be independently replaced. The control board with switching module provides standardized interfaces that facilitate modular replacement of failed components. This segmentation allows for easier maintenance and repair while maintaining system reliability through redundant power paths and hot-swappable modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Volume of moving object

If a rack mount server with 1U standard is used, then the physical volume is reduced and servers can be furnished regularly, but only one or two computer unit can be disposed in the case due to inner space limitations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephysical volumeVSAvoidnumber of computer units
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested architecture where multiple processing units and memory units are densely integrated on a single motherboard, which itself is nested within the 1U rack mount chassis. The control board and power module share common resources and mounting space, maximizing the utilization of the limited 1U volume. This nested design enables容纳 of multiple functional units within the compact standardized form factor, maintaining small physical volume while increasing effective computing capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS8611080B2Server system
Publication Date: 2013.12.17 WISTRON CORP
  • US8611080B2 patent drawing
  • US8611080B2 patent drawing
  • US8611080B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A server system includes at least one motherboard, a control board, and a power module. The control board is connected electronically to each motherboard. The control board includes an I/O module for connecting at least one external device and a switching module for switching each motherboard to connect electronically to the at least one external device. The power module is connected electronically to the control board. The power module may supply power to each motherboard through the control board, and the power supplied to each motherboard is switched by the switching module.