Support Cage Assembly for Mid-Chassis OCP Module Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information processing devices face challenges in efficiently accommodating open compute platform (OCP) modules due to space constraints, requiring large keep-out zones and cumbersome installation processes, especially when positioned in the middle region of the chassis, which complicates maintenance and increases costs.

Innovation Solution

A support cage system is introduced that allows OCP modules to be removably coupled externally to the device, utilizing an outer and inner frame design with minimal horizontal translation, eliminating the need for large keep-out zones and enabling tool-free installation and removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If OCP modules are positioned in the middle region of the chassis, then device functionality is expanded, but space constraints require large keep-out zones increasing device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoidkeep-out zone requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support cage is divided into an outer frame and an inner frame that can be assembled separately. The inner frame holds the OCP module while the outer frame provides mounting interfaces to the chassis, allowing modular installation that avoids large keep-out zones and reduces device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support cage acts as an intermediary component between the OCP module and the chassis. It provides a compact mounting structure that bridges the module to the device, enabling middle region positioning without requiring extensive keep-out zones

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If OCP modules are detachably connected to expand functionality, then adaptability is improved, but installation and maintenance become cumbersome increasing time loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality expansionVSAvoidinstallation and maintenance time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The inner frame is pre-assembled with the OCP module outside the device, and the support cage is pre-assembled with mounting fasteners. This preliminary preparation enables rapid installation by simply sliding the pre-assembled unit into place and securing it with fasteners, significantly reducing installation and maintenance time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The support cage enables dynamic, tool-free installation and removal of OCP modules through sliding motions and snap-fit connections. The design allows the module to be easily inserted and secured without complex tools, making frequent changes practical and time-efficient

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Stability of the object's composition

If traditional mounting methods are used for OCP modules, then structural stability is maintained, but installation requires tools and extensive space increasing device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidinstallation requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support cage is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The outer frame includes mounting fasteners that automatically align with mounting features on the chassis, and the structure provides inherent stability through its geometric design, eliminating the need for additional tools or complex installation procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12526950B2Support cage for an electronic module of an information processing device
Publication Date: 2026.01.13 HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE DEV LP
  • US12526950B2 patent drawing
  • US12526950B2 patent drawing
  • US12526950B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A support cage includes an outer frame having first vertical walls and a base including an engagement element, and an inner frame having a beam and second vertical walls. The electronic module is slidably disposed along the second vertical walls and detachably coupled to the inner frame. The inner frame is slidably disposed along the first vertical walls and detachably coupled to the outer frame. In an installed state of the inner frame to the outer frame and the electronic module to the inner frame: horizontal translation of the support cage along a first direction attaches the support cage to information processing device and electrically connects the electronic module to the information processing device, and horizontal translation of the support cage along a second direction opposite to the first direction releases the support cage from the information processing device and electrically disconnects the electronic module from the information processing device.