Server Storage Tray Layout for High-Density Hard Drive Packing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server storage systems face limitations in accommodating a large number of hard disk drives due to space constraints, as typical racks can only fit a limited number of drives, and existing solutions like tape backup units are inadequate for modern computing needs.
Innovation Solution
A server storage component design featuring a backplane and trays with connectors that allow for the mounting and connection of multiple hard disk drives, including the use of secondary or auxiliary connectors to position drives forwardly of the backplane, enabling efficient packing and replacement of drives within a compact 1 U server frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If hard disk drives are connected directly to a backplane in a conventional rack, then the connection is stable and reliable, but only a limited number of drives can fit in the system due to space constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions connectors forwardly of the backplane, creating a three-dimensional connection architecture rather than a flat two-dimensional arrangement. This allows drives to be spaced forwardly from the backplane while maintaining stable electrical connections, effectively utilizing vertical and depth dimensions to increase drive density without expanding the front footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The tray structure nests multiple components within a compact form factor. The forwardly positioned connectors are integrated into the tray assembly, which itself is designed to fit within the rack unit constraints. This nested arrangement allows multiple drives to be housed in a 1U server by efficiently packing connectors, trays, and drives within the limited space.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple hard disk drives are mounted in a compact 1 U server, then the server size is minimized, but the complexity of connecting and maintaining multiple drives increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tray assembly serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for drives, houses forwardly positioned connectors for electrical connection, and enables easy installation and removal of drives. This multi-functional design simplifies the overall system by consolidating connection and mounting functions into a single integrated component rather than requiring separate mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into modular tray assemblies, each containing connectors and drive bays. This segmentation allows individual trays to be independently installed, removed, or replaced without affecting other parts of the system. Each tray acts as an independent module that can be easily handled and maintained, reducing the complexity of managing multiple drives.
3Quantity of substance
If connectors are positioned forwardly of the backplane to accommodate more drives, then drive capacity increases, but the connector positioning becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connectors are merged with the tray structure, forming an integrated assembly where the connector positioning is determined by the tray design rather than requiring separate complex mounting mechanisms. This combination simplifies the overall system architecture by reducing the number of independent components and their associated positioning requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage component of a server arrangement includes a backplane and a plurality of trays, each of the plurality of trays including at least one frame, at least one frame having at least one hard disk drive mounted thereto, and all of the plurality of trays being configured to receive at least one hard disk drive. Each of the plurality of trays includes a connector adapted to connect the at least one hard disk drive to the backplane.