Universal Chassis Tray Mounting for Mixed Module Form Factors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chassis designs limit flexibility by allowing only specific form factors of electronic modules, inhibiting upgrades and requiring multiple chassis designs for different configurations, which increases costs and reduces system adaptability.
Innovation Solution
Trays in the chassis are configured to accommodate multiple form factors of electronic modules, using engagement members to ensure correct installation and prevent incorrect positioning, allowing for flexible upgrades without changing the chassis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If trays are designed to accommodate specific form factors only, then installation precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tray is designed with multiple engagement members that can accommodate different form factors of electronic modules (e.g., half-height and full-height modules). The engagement members include guide members and retention members that work together to secure various module types, making the tray universal rather than specific to one form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the tray have different structures optimized for specific functions. The guide members have engagement features at different heights and positions, while retention members are positioned to secure various module types. This local differentiation allows the overall tray to handle multiple form factors while maintaining precise installation for each.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple chassis designs are created for different configurations, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chassis incorporates trays with universal engagement members that can secure multiple form factors of electronic modules. This eliminates the need for different chassis designs for different configurations, as a single chassis can accommodate various module types through the versatile tray design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple form factor accommodations into a single tray design. Instead of creating separate chassis for half-height and full-height modules, the engagement members and retention members are integrated into one tray structure that can secure both types, reducing overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If engagement members are added to prevent misinstallation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is segmented into multiple independent engagement members, each with specific functions. Guide members provide alignment and initial engagement, while retention members provide secure locking. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in structure while collectively providing reliable misinstallation prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide members are positioned to engage with the electronic module first during installation, providing preliminary alignment and guidance before the retention members engage. This preliminary action ensures correct positioning is established before final securing, improving reliability without requiring complex active control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A chassis for an electronic device includes a tray and a frame. The tray is removably coupled to the frame and includes engagement members to engage with complementary engagement members of electronic modules mounted to the tray. The engagement members include pairs of engagement members disposed adjacent to each other on the tray. The engagement members in each of a first pair and a second pair are spaced apart from each other by a first distance. The first pair and the second pair of engagement members are spaced apart from each other by a second distance different from the first distance. The engagement members are configured to allow for mounting of a first electronic module having a first width to the tray and to allow for mounting of a second electronic module having a second width to the tray, where the second width is different from the first width.