Server Rack Rail Connector Assembly for Fast Multi-Rail Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server rail mounting systems require individual end brackets for each sliding rail, making installation difficult due to restricted space and access issues, especially when dealing with heavy servers that create significant cantilevered loads.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with front and rear connectors, each featuring a base plate with apertures and slots to secure multiple sliding rails, eliminating the need for individual end brackets by allowing rails to be pre-attached and easily installed using finger clips and locking plates that engage with the rack frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual end brackets are used to mount each sliding rail, then the rails are adequately secured to the racks, but the installation becomes difficult due to restricted space and access issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual end brackets into a single connector assembly that can secure multiple sliding rails simultaneously. The connector assembly includes a body with multiple attachment points that interface with both the rack frame and multiple rails, eliminating the need to install separate end brackets for each rail and thereby resolving the access restriction problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that performs the function of multiple end brackets simultaneously. It provides universal attachment capability for multiple sliding rails to a single rack frame location, making the installation process simpler while maintaining secure rail mounting.
2Reliability
If multiple individual connectors are used for multiple rails, then each rail is securely mounted, but the installation time and tool requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual connector functions into a single integrated connector assembly. This assembly includes multiple attachment points and securing mechanisms built into one component, allowing installers to secure multiple rails in a single operation rather than installing separate connectors for each rail, thereby reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is pre-configured with multiple attachment points and securing mechanisms already integrated into the single component. This preliminary preparation of multiple functions in one assembly eliminates the need for sequential installation of individual connectors, reducing the overall installation time and tool requirements.
3Reliability
If individual end brackets are used for each sliding rail, then adequate rail support is achieved, but the complexity of the mounting structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual end bracket components into a single integrated connector assembly. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts that need to be handled, positioned, and secured during installation, thereby simplifying the overall mounting structure while maintaining adequate rail support through the integrated design.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly for securing multiple rails in a computer rack system, the rack system having at least four racks positioned on separate corners to form a front, rear and two sides of a rack frame, and wherein each rack has a plurality of rack openings. The connector assembly comprising two pair of front and rear connectors, each pair being secured to the rack frame against one of the sides defined thereby, and wherein each pair of front and rear connectors are configured to secure thereto a plurality of rails. In addition, each connector, of the front and rear connectors, includes a base plate extending from a top to a bottom, and the base plate of each connector being configured to secure to a plurality of rails.