SSD Connector Layout for Compact Stacking and Thermal Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems face challenges in efficiently managing multiple SSD modules due to unbalanced device arrangement and heat radiation performance, particularly when modules are stacked, leading to increased size and reduced thermal efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A storage system configuration with a connector featuring reverse terminal arrangements between slots allows for symmetrical placement of SSD modules, reducing installation area and enhancing thermal balance by using a multi-stage connector with separated slots and shared conductive connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If SSD modules are stacked in a conventional configuration with identical terminal arrangements, then the installation area is reduced, but the heat radiation performance becomes unbalanced and device arrangement is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring the terminal arrangements of the first and second slots in reverse directions. Specifically, the first terminal group in the first slot has terminals arranged in a first direction, while the second terminal group in the second slot has terminals arranged in a second direction that is not parallel to the first direction. This asymmetric reverse arrangement allows SSD modules to be mounted in opposite orientations, enabling balanced heat radiation from both modules while maintaining a compact stacked configuration.
2Temperature
If SSD modules are stacked with reverse terminal arrangements, then thermal balance is improved and installation area is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to asymmetric connector design
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with multi-functionality to accommodate both conventional and reverse-mounted SSD modules. The first and second slots are configured with reverse terminal arrangements, allowing the same connector structure to support modules mounted in opposite directions. This universal design enables the storage system to achieve balanced thermal performance while maintaining compatibility with standard SSD modules, without requiring completely different connector designs.
3Device complexity
If conventional terminal arrangements are used in stacked SSD modules, then device arrangement is simplified, but thermal management efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-dimension terminal arrangement to a multi-dimensional configuration by arranging terminals in the first slot in a first direction and terminals in the second slot in a second direction that is not parallel to the first direction. This dimensional change in terminal arrangement enables SSD modules to be oriented in opposite directions, allowing heat to radiate in different spatial directions and improving overall thermal management efficiency in the stacked configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a storage system includes a circuit board, a connector, a first memory system, and a second memory system. The connector is on the circuit board and includes first and second slots, the first slot having a first terminal group of first terminals aligned in a first direction, and the second slot being separated from the first slot in a second direction not parallel with the first direction and having a second terminal group of second terminals aligned in the first direction. The first terminal group is reverse to the second terminal group in terminal arrangement order in the first direction. The first memory system is connectable to the first terminal group, while the first memory system is inserted into the first slot. The second memory system is connectable to the second terminal group, while the second memory system is inserted into the second slot.