Universal Slot Configuration for Multi-Peripheral Server Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Servers, especially 1U servers, face space constraints for expansion cards, necessitating innovative solutions to accommodate various types of peripherals while optimizing limited space.
Innovation Solution
The computing device features a body with a rear wall defining slots for different peripherals, a motherboard with corresponding slots, and connectors that interface with these peripherals, allowing for the accommodation of multiple types of expansion cards, including PCIe and custom form-factor adapter cards, while providing ventilation and cooling options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of peripherals are accommodated in limited space, then device versatility is improved, but slot configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal slots that can accommodate multiple types of peripherals (PCIe adapter cards, HDD modules, and other expansion cards) through a single slot design. The slot configuration includes a first slot for PCIe adapter cards and a second slot for HDD modules, with both slots sharing common mounting structures and electrical connection pathways, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The slot configuration is segmented into specialized zones within the limited space: a first region for PCIe adapter cards and a second region for HDD modules. Each region has dedicated mounting structures and connection interfaces, allowing different peripheral types to be accommodated systematically without creating confusion or increasing overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If space for expansion cards is maximized, then device functionality is improved, but available space for ventilation and cooling is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes vertical stacking and multi-layer routing to accommodate expansion cards in the vertical dimension rather than only horizontally. The slot configuration extends in multiple dimensions within the limited chassis space, allowing PCIe adapter cards and HDD modules to be mounted in a space-efficient arrangement that preserves ventilation pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The chassis design provides localized cooling solutions near the slot regions, with dedicated ventilation openings and cooling channels positioned adjacent to the first and second slots. This localized approach ensures adequate cooling for the expansion cards without requiring excessive overall space, balancing thermal management with maximized expansion capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Computing devices having slots and components for receipt of different types of peripherals are disclosed. According to an aspect, a computing device includes a body that defines an interior and comprises a rear wall defining a slot that extends into the interior. The slot is sized and shaped for receipt of two or more different types of peripherals. The computing device includes a motherboard that defines another slot being sized and shaped for receipt of the different types of peripherals. The other slot is substantially coplanar with the second slot. The computing device includes a connector operably interfaced with the motherboard and configured to interface with the different types of peripherals.