Vertical Server Midplane Bracket Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
In rack server chassis, the installation of a midplane orthogonal to the chassis poses challenges due to width constraints, requiring a method to maximize available surface area while minimizing mechanical structure space, and existing solutions often interfere with the midplane's real estate or cause electronic interference.
Innovation Solution
The use of first and second locating guides secured to the chassis interior, with a bracket comprising three sections that align and secure the midplane orthogonal to the chassis, allowing for precise alignment and additional electronic device placement without interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If the midplane is installed orthogonal to the chassis, then the available surface area for electronic subassemblies is maximized, but the mechanical structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is divided into three separate sections that can be independently installed and adjusted. This segmentation allows the mechanical structure to accommodate the orthogonal midplane installation while maintaining modularity and reducing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The midplane is installed in an orthogonal orientation (90 degrees) relative to the chassis, utilizing a different spatial dimension. This dimensional change maximizes the available surface area for electronic subassemblies while the three-section bracket provides the necessary mechanical support
2Productivity
If the midplane is installed orthogonal to the chassis, then space utilization is optimized, but electronic interference may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The three-section bracket acts as an intermediary component between the chassis and the orthogonal midplane. This intermediate structure provides electrical isolation and proper positioning, enabling space-optimized orthogonal installation while preventing direct electronic interference between the chassis and midplane components
3Manufacturing precision
If a bracket structure is used to support the orthogonal midplane, then alignment precision is improved, but the mechanical structure space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is segmented into three compact sections that can be closely integrated with the chassis structure. This segmentation provides precise alignment features for the orthogonal midplane while minimizing the overall volume occupied by the mechanical support structure
Solution Approach 2:
The three-section bracket provides localized precision alignment features exactly where needed at the midplane connection points, rather than requiring a bulky overall structure. This local quality approach achieves high alignment precision with minimal mechanical structure space
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention relate to a system and method to enable and support vertical installation of a rack server midplane. The system is comprised of two primary components, including a guide and a bracket. The guide is secured to a server chassis, and is sized to receive the bracket. Upon receipt of the bracket, the bracket is held in position by the guide. The bracket is configured to frictionally hold the midplane in position. Installation of the bracket with the midplane within the chassis includes a direct installation of the bracket to the guide and an indirect installation of the midplane to the guide.