Server Module Tray with Cam Handle Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing server expansion modules are difficult to install and remove due to their size and weight, leading to collisions with internal server components during assembly, which can cause damage.

Innovation Solution

An assembly mechanism featuring a frame mechanism, a tray, a first fixing member, and a handle member with cam portions that cooperatively form a U-shaped structure, allowing the tray to be securely attached and detached from the server modules, preventing damage by providing controlled pressing and lifting forces during assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the server expansion module is made large to provide sufficient computing capability and memory, then the computing capability and memory capacity are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in installation and removal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomputing capabilityVSAvoidease of installation and removal
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A tray is introduced as an intermediary carrier between the operator and the heavy server expansion module. The tray has a handle member that allows operators to easily grasp and maneuver the tray, thereby easily installing and removing the heavy module without direct handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The assembly mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a detachable tray for holding the module, a handle member for manipulation, and a frame mechanism for support. This segmentation allows the heavy module to be separated from the manipulation interface, improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Quantity of substance

If the server expansion module is made heavy to accommodate more components, then the memory capacity is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in handling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvememory capacityVSAvoidease of handling
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The tray serves as a mediator between the operator's hands and the heavy expansion module. By attaching the module to the tray and using the handle member, operators can control and move heavy modules with minimal physical effort, directly addressing the handling difficulty.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Power

If the server expansion module is made large and heavy, then the computing capability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to collision damage during assembly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomputing capabilityVSAvoidcomponent integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The frame mechanism provides a pre-established protective structure that guides the tray and module during insertion. The frame includes support members that prevent lateral movement and collision with internal components before the module is fully seated, thereby protecting components from damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The tray acts as a protective intermediary between the heavy module and the server chassis. During installation, the tray is inserted first, followed by the module, which prevents direct contact and potential collision between the heavy module and sensitive internal components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Device complexity

If a simple direct attachment method is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to lack of protection during assembly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly structure complexityVSAvoidcomponent protection
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is segmented into distinct functional elements: the tray for holding, the handle member for manipulation, and the frame mechanism for support and protection. This segmentation provides reliability through specialized protection functions while keeping each component relatively simple in design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The assembly mechanism stabilizes the tray's approach and separation from the server modules, preventing internal component damage and facilitating safe installation and removal of the server expansion module.

Implementation Method 1

The first cam portion abuts against and slides on the first fixing member when the handle member is rotated relative to the tray along a first rotating direction, so as to activate the tray to approach the first module and couple the second module with the first module. The second cam portion abuts against and slides on the first fixing member when the handle member is rotated relative to the tray along a second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Data Source

PatentUS9936599B1Assembly mechanism adapted to a server system and server system therewith
Publication Date: 2018.04.03 INVENTEC PUDONG TECH CORPOARTION
  • US9936599B1 patent drawing
  • US9936599B1 patent drawing
  • US9936599B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An assembly mechanism and a server system therewith are disclosed. The server system includes a casing, a first module and a second module. The first module is installed inside the casing. The second module is selectively installed inside the casing. The assembly mechanism includes a frame mechanism, a tray, a first fixing member and a handle member. The frame mechanism is disposed around the first module. The tray is combined with the second module and supports the second module above the first module cooperatively with the frame mechanism. The first fixing member is fixed on the frame mechanism. The handle member is pivoted to the tray. The handle member activates the tray to approach the first module as being rotated in a first direction. The handle member activates the tray to separate from the first module as being rotated in a second direction.