Server Expansion Cage Assembly for Cable-Based Card Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional servers face difficulties in electrically connecting expansion cards to the motherboard due to their interior structure, making it challenging to install and ensure a stable connection.
Innovation Solution
A server and expansion cage assembly design that allows expansion cards to be connected to the motherboard via cables, utilizing a detachable expansion cage assembly with side boards and partitions that facilitate easy installation and electrical connection without the need for golden fingers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If expansion cards are connected to the motherboard via golden finger in a conventional server, then the electrical connection is direct and stable, but the interior structure of the server makes it difficult to install and connect expansion cards
Solution Approach 1:
The server interior is segmented into functional zones using partitions that create separate compartments for different components. This segmentation allows expansion cards to be installed in dedicated spaces with proper cable routing paths, separating the expansion card installation area from the motherboard area and enabling independent access and connection.
Solution Approach 2:
Cables serve as intermediaries connecting expansion cards to the motherboard, replacing the direct golden finger connection. This intermediary approach allows flexible routing through the server interior, accommodating the structural constraints while maintaining electrical connection functionality.
2Ease of operation
If expansion cards are connected via cables instead of golden finger, then the convenience of installation is improved, but the electrical connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Cable management structures and routing paths are pre-configured during server assembly, with cables pre-positioned and secured before expansion cards are installed. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when expansion cards are connected, the cables are already in optimal positions for stable connections, reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical golden finger contact system is replaced with a cable-based electrical connection system. This substitution uses flexible cable connectors that can accommodate slight misalignments and movements, providing reliable electrical connections through a more adaptable mechanical interface that is less sensitive to precision requirements.
3Ease of operation
If a detachable expansion cage assembly is used, then the ease of installation and removal is improved, but the structural stability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion cage assembly employs dynamic mounting mechanisms that allow the structure to transition between locked and unlocked states. During installation or removal, the cage can be easily detached from the mounting plates, but once secured, the same mechanisms provide firm structural support and stability for the expansion cards.
Solution Approach 2:
The expansion cage assembly integrates multiple functions into a single structure: it provides mechanical support for expansion cards, serves as a mounting interface for detachable connection to the server, and incorporates cable management features. This merging of functions allows a compact design that maintains stability while enabling easy installation and removal.
Data Source
AI summary
An expansion cage assembly is configured to be installed onto two mounting plates, and is configured for an installation of an expansion card. The expansion cage assembly includes a supporting member, two side boards, a plurality of partitions and at least one expansion cage. The two side boards are connected to two opposite sides of the supporting member, respectively, and are detachably disposed the two mounting plates, respectively. The plurality of partitions are connected to the supporting member, and are disposed between the two side boards. The plurality of partitions are spaced apart from one another. The at least one expansion cage is disposed on one of the two side boards and the plurality of partitions.