Universal Bracket for Multiple PCIe Card Form Factors in OCP Sleds
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing bracket systems for PCIe cards in OCP sled environments are complex and require different mounting systems for various form factors, leading to potential incorrect assembly, damage, and increased manufacturing costs due to the need for multiple brackets.
Innovation Solution
A universal bracket system that accommodates six different form factors of PCIe cards, including both standard-profile and low-profile, half-length, three-quarter-length, and full-length cards, by using a single design with adjustable components and support structures that eliminate the need for individual brackets, simplifying assembly and reducing confusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different brackets are used for different PCIe card form factors, then each card type can be properly mounted, but the system complexity increases and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal bracket design that can accommodate multiple PCIe card form factors (standard-profile and low-profile, various lengths) through a single standardized bracket structure. This eliminates the need for multiple different bracket types, directly resolving the contradiction by making one bracket serve multiple functions for different card form factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket incorporates adjustable and removable components, including adjustable support arms and removable panel sections, that can be configured to accommodate different card sizes and profiles. This dynamic adjustability allows the same bracket structure to adapt to various PCIe card form factors without requiring multiple specialized brackets.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different brackets are used for different PCIe card form factors, then each card type can be properly mounted, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a single universal bracket that replaces multiple form-factor-specific brackets, the patent reduces manufacturing costs through economies of scale. The standardized design allows for bulk production of identical components, eliminating the need to manufacture and inventory multiple different bracket types, directly addressing the cost issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple different brackets into a single standardized bracket design. This consolidation reduces the total number of unique parts that need to be manufactured, simplifying the supply chain and reducing per-unit manufacturing costs while maintaining compatibility with all PCIe card form factors.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different brackets are used for different PCIe card form factors, then each card type can be properly mounted, but the risk of incorrect assembly and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal bracket with its standardized design and clear configuration guidelines eliminates confusion about which bracket to use for which card type. Since there is only one bracket design, the risk of selecting the wrong bracket is eliminated, directly improving reliability and preventing assembly errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable and removable components of the universal bracket allow for easy configuration and verification of proper installation. The modular design enables users to adjust the bracket to match the specific card form factor, providing visual and physical confirmation of correct assembly, thereby reducing the risk of installation errors and damage.
4Ease of operation
If PCIe front panels are removed for use in the bracket system, then cards can be installed, but the complexity of assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket incorporates removable panel sections that can be easily detached to accommodate card installation and then reattached. This dynamic design eliminates the need to permanently remove front panels, simplifying the assembly process by providing a reversible, integrated solution that maintains panel coverage while enabling easy card installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal bracket includes a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall. The first wall is configured to be fixed to a first circuit card and a second circuit card. The first circuit card and the second circuit card include any of at least two different standardized types of circuit cards. The second wall is opposite the first wall. The third wall extends between the first wall and the second wall and is configured to be fixed to a riser card having a first connector for receiving a first mating connector of the first circuit card and a second connector for receiving a second mating connector of the second circuit card.