Patent Application
20210112674
Examples pertain to adapter modules for circuit board devices and housing assembly for same.
Circuit-board devices utilize a wide-variety of configurations. Motherboards, for example, house and interconnect the numerous components (e.g., processor, memory units, etc.) of a server or work station. Likewise, within the individual components, there exists sub-components that are typically interconnected by a component's circuit board. Such purposed circuit boards are typically deployed with a default configuration in which certain types of components or sub-components are pre-installed, or are provided for in the event of a subsequent installation or reconfiguration.
While some circuit board devices can be reconfigured from their initial default configuration, the ability of an owner or proprietor to reconfigure a circuit board device can be subject to pre-defined physical constraints. The physical constraints can include, for example, the layout (e.g., spacing, footprint, positioning of mounting holes) which the circuit board device provides for individual components that are mounted onto the circuit board device. As another example, the physical constraints can also include the mechanical and electrical configurations of one or more connector interfaces that are used by the circuit board device. Typically, the physical constraints are defined by a published standard from an industry consortium, and components of the circuit board device which conform to a particular standard can be said to be of a particular type. In many cases, the components of a circuit board device can be readily replaced, provided that the replacement component is of the same type as that of the existing component being replaced, or alternatively, of a compatible type as that of the existing component being replaced.
An example adapter module includes a bottom housing segment, a top housing segment and an internal electrical interface (e.g., internal circuit board) to receive other components (e.g., memory components). In examples, the bottom housing segment is structured to mount to a topside of an external circuit board (e.g., motherboard) as a first type of component. The interior electrical interface is structured to mount to an interior region of the bottom housing segment, where one or more components of a second type may be received. The top housing segment may be pivotably connected to the bottom housing segment to move between a closed position and an open position, and in the open position, the interior region can be exposed to allow for components of the second type to be accessed.
In many examples, an adapter module is provided for motherboards, to enable memory components of a first-type to be replaced on the motherboard with memory components of a second type. In specific examples, an adapter module is provided to enable an operator (e.g., engineer or technician) to replace a U.2 type memory component on a motherboard with one or more M.2 memory components. In examples, the adapter module can utilize the footprint and electrical interface of the default component (e.g., U.2 type memory component) as provided on a motherboard, while allowing the operator to substitute another type of memory component (e.g., M.2 type memory component) which could not otherwise be accommodated as a replacement for the original memory component. In context of a server, or multiple servers of a server rack, some examples as described enable or promote use of M.2 type memory components on motherboards that are otherwise designed or configured to utilize U.2 type memory components.
Additionally, some examples include a latch component to connect a component to a circuit board. In such examples, the latch component includes a base structured to attach to a circuit board, and a rotatable pivot structure that is positioned to extend vertically within a slot formed in the component when the base structure is attached. The latch component may also include a latch arm that extends laterally over the component of the circuit board, where the latch arm includes a base segment that joins or attaches to the pivot structure. In examples, the pivot structure includes one or more mechanisms to guide rotation of the pivot structure between a set range that coincides with the latch arm being pivoted between an engaged and an unengaged position.
Still further, other examples include a circuit board device that includes a circuit board, a component mounted on the circuit board, and a component latch that is attached to the circuit board. In examples, the component latch includes a rotatable pivot structure that extends vertically within a slot formed in the component. The component latch also includes a latch arm latch arm is configured to extend laterally over a top surface of the component, as well as a base segment that joins or attaches the latch arm to the pivot structure. In examples, the pivot structure may include one or more mechanisms to guide rotation of the pivot structure between a set range that coincides with the latch arm being pivoted between an engaged position where the component is retained, and an unengaged position where the component can be accessed and removed.
Among other benefits, examples as described enable an operator to access a component retained by a component latch from a topside of the underlying circuit board. Moreover, examples enable use of latches which require a minimal footprint on the underlying circuit board.
Adapter Housing Assembly
In examples, the adapter housing assembly 102 includes a bottom housing segment 110, and a top housing segment 120 that is pivotably connected the bottom housing segment 110. The bottom housing segment 110 includes a base panel 108, and opposing lateral sidewalls 116 which extend a length (L) of the bottom housing segment 110. The lateral sidewalls 116 can extend a height (H) from an interior of the base panel 108 to at least partially define an interior region 115 in which one or more circuit board devices can be retained. The bottom housing segment 110 can also include mounting holes and/or other features to receive and/or extend mechanical fasteners or connectors to the external motherboard, so as to enable an underside 119 of the bottom housing segment 110 to mount onto a topside of the external motherboard. The various physical configurations, such as the dimensions and mounting pin configuration of the bottom housing segment can be determined from a target form factor or specification, as described with other examples.
The top housing segment 120 can be pivotably connected (e.g., hinge-connected) to the bottom housing segment 110 to pivot between an open position and a closed position. The top housing segment 120 can include, for example, lateral sidewalls 122 which extend a length of the top housing segment 120. When in the open position, some examples provide that the top housing segment 120 can be extended to a position that is at or about 90 degrees from a reference plane that is parallel to the bottom housing segment 110. Depending on implementation, the range by which the top housing segment 120 can pivot can be more or greater than 90 degrees.
When in the top housing segment 120 is in the open position, an operator is given sufficient room to insert and/or remove (i) the circuit board device (see
In examples, the top housing segment 120 is connected to the bottom housing segment 110 by one or more hinge connections 125. In an example, the lateral sidewalls 122 of the top housing segment 120 can include openings that align with corresponding openings of the lateral sidewalls 116 of the bottom housing segment 110. Each of the aligned openings can retain a connecting member that enables the top housing segment 120 to pivot between the open and closed positions.
As shown by
In examples, each latch 140 is structured to enable the corresponding latch member 142 to be moved inward (or outward), under bias, to enable a front end of the top housing segment 120 to latch and unlatch to the bottom housing segment 110. Each latch member 142 can include a retention structure 146 that can be made to engage, under bias, a latch opening 129 or structure of the top housing segment 120. In some examples, the retention structures 146 correspond to protrusions that extends outward from the latch member 142 to engage a suitably dimensioned latch opening 129 formed as part of a corresponding lateral surface region of the top housing segment 120. In the closed position, the retention structures 146 can be received within the respective latch openings 129 of the top housing segment 120. To move the top housing segment 120 into the open position, an operator can manipulate each latch members 142 inward toward one another to disengage the respective retention structure 146 from the corresponding latch opening 129 of the top housing segment 120. In examples, the bottom housing segment 110 includes a pair of access openings 117 that align with the latch openings 129 of the top housing segment 120, to allow an operator to access and manipulate the latch members 142 inward to latch and unlatch the front end of the top housing segment 120. Once the retention structures 146 are moved inward to disengage from the latch openings 129, the front end of the top housing segment 120 can be pivoted away from the bottom housing segment 110 into the open position.
Likewise, an operator may manipulate the latch members 142 inward again to enable the top housing segment 120 to be moved into the closed position, where the latch openings 129 are aligned with corresponding access openings 117 and retention structures 146 of the bottom housing segment 110. Once aligned, the operator can release the latch members 142, where the bias causes the retention structures 146 to move outward and engage the respective latch openings 129.
Adapter Module
In some examples, when the adapter module 100 is mounted on an external circuit board device or other computing environment, the memory components 180 can be subsequently accessed by an operator from above, while the adapter module 100 remains mounted onto its computing environment. Thus, an operator may be able to inspect, repair or replace the components 180 of the adapter module 100, while the adapter module 100 remains mounted in its computing environment, thereby saving considerable time and effort for the operator.
According to examples, the placement of the adapter module 100 can compress the base portion 144 (see
With reference to
The adapter housing assembly 102 may also include thermal material within the interior region 115 for purpose of transferring accumulated heat to the top housing segment 120. In examples, the adapter housing assembly 102 can include thermal pads which can be positioned, for example, on an underside of the top housing segment 120 to contact heated elements within the interior region 115.
As an addition or variation, each of the latches 140 can be formed from thermally-resistive material (e.g., nylon, polymer, etc.). When the circuit board device 160 is seated within the bottom segment, the latches 140 may be forced into contact with the circuit board 170. When the top housing segment 120 is moved into the closed position, portions of the latches 140 may further contact the top housing segment 120. The latches 140 may heat with the increase in temperature of the interior region 115, and the heat accumulated with the material of the latches 140 (as well as with thermal pads) can be transferred to the top housing segment 120, where it is dissipated.
In some examples, the adapter module 100 is manufactured as a complete assembly that integrates the circuit board device 160 within the adapter housing assembly 102. In such examples, the operator can replace a target component in a given computing environment with the preassembled adapter module 100. Subsequently, if the memory components 180 of the adapter module 100 need inspection, repair or replacement, the operator can access the components without removing the adapter module 100 from its connected environment. For example, an operator may initially mount the adapter module 100 on a topside of a motherboard, then subsequently access the memory components 180 retained within the adapter housing assembly 102 from a topside direction, such that the adapter module 100 may be accessed without removal from its connected environment.
In variations, the adapter housing assembly 102 may be manufactured separately from the circuit board device 160. In such examples, an operator may combine the adapter housing assembly 102 with the circuit board device 160 to form adapter module 100. The circuit board 170 may, for example, be preconfigured to retain memory components 180 of a desired type (e.g., M.2 type connector). In some examples, the circuit board device 160 may be provided to the operator in the form of a kit which the operator can integrate with the adapter housing assembly 102.
Still further, in some variations, the adapter housing assembly 102 may be pre-mounted onto a given computing environment (e.g., motherboard), and the circuit board 170 and/or the components 180 can be subsequently added to the adapter housing assembly 102 while it is mounted. In such examples, the operator can assembly the adapter module 100 while the adapter housing assembly 102 is mounted on a given computing environment. In other variations, the circuit board device 160 can be manufactured or pre-assembled as an integrated circuit board device for use with the adapter housing assembly 102, and the circuit board device 160 and the adapter housing assembly 102 can be combined to form the adapter module 100.
Circuit Board Device
Depending on implementation, the circuit board device 160 may be preassembled (e.g., manufactured as assembly), or the circuit board device 160 may be assembled by an operator. In examples, the component latches 176 enable an operator to attach and detach components 180 to the circuit board 170 for purpose of assembling the circuit board device 160. Additionally, when the adapter module 100 is mounted into a computing environment, the component latches 176 can be individually manipulated by an operator from a topside (or in a top-bottom) orientation for purpose of securing or removing a corresponding component 180. In some examples, each of the component latches 176 include corresponding retention arms 178 which can pivot over a top surface 181 of the corresponding component 180 between engaged and unengaged positions.
In examples, the circuit board 170 is configured (i) to be received by the adapter housing assembly 102, and (ii) to receive a particular type of component 180, such as a particular type of M.2 memory component. In some examples, the dimensions and layout of the circuit board 170 may match those of the bottom housing segment 110, so that the circuit board 170 can be received within the interior region 115 of the bottom housing segment 110. Additionally, the circuit board can be preconfigured such that mounting holes and other retention features of the circuit board 170 are aligned with corresponding structures and features of the base panel 108.
In examples, the circuit board 170 also includes an electrical interface for allowing an external component to interface with the components 180. The electrical interface can include component connectors for components 180, the external connector 164, and trace elements and/or embedded logic. The resulting electrical interface can extend connectivity between the component connectors of components 180 and the external connector 164 (see
In examples, an overall dimension of the circuit board 170 may be constrained by, for example, the dimensions or form factor of the target device (which may be specified by an industry standard specification), as well as the available space on the computing environment where the adapter module 100 is to be mounted. As shown, a substantial portion of the available space on the circuit board 170 may also be occupied by the components 180, thus limiting the available real-estate of the circuit board for carrying trace elements and other resources for implementing logic (e.g., such as logic to implement the conversion process). In recognition of the limited amount of circuit board area available for implementing signal format conversion and other logic, some examples provide for the circuit board device 160 to include design and layout configurations that are selected to increase the amount of circuit board area that is available in the rear region 174, where the component connector(s) and external connector 164 are provided. The added circuit board area can facilitate inclusion trace elements and logic for performing signal format conversion and other logic.
To increase the available area of the circuit board 170 in the rear region 174, some examples provide for the layout of the circuit board to minimize a segment of the circuit board 170 that extends beyond the front-most edge 183 of the component 180. As shown with
Component Latch
In some examples, the individual latch arms 178 may be configured to pivot about 180 degrees when manipulated between engaged and unengaged positions. For example, in
The base segment 179 of the retention arm 178 may extend to join or connect with the pivot structure along an arc length of the pivot structure 188. In this way, the pivot structure 188 rotates within the notch 175 when the latch arm 178 is pivoted above the component 180.
In examples, the latch 176 can include one or more types of clasping mechanisms, stops and/or other structures that guide the rotation of pivot structure, within the confines of the notch 175 and/or as part of the base structure 192. In some examples, the pivot structure 188 include structures or surface features which, in combination with other structures extending from the base structure 192 or elsewhere, control or guide the rotation of the pivot structure 188, and thus the retention arm 178. In some examples, the pivot structure 188 may include a recess 185 or opening that moves circumferentially with rotation of the pivot structure 188. The recess 185 may be configured to receive and retain a tab 187 of the base structure 192. The radial position of the recess 185 may be selected so that the tab 186 engages the recess 185 when the latch arm 178 is in the engaged position. Thus, when the tab 186 is engaged with the recess 185, the pivot structure 188 may fix in position, resulting in the retention arm 178 remaining in the engaged position, so as to retain the corresponding component 180. While an example as described provides for the pivot structure 188 to include recess 185, in variations, the pivot structure can provide the tab 186 to engage an opening, divot or other surface feature of the surrounding base structure 192.
The recess 185 and tab 186 may also be structured to allow for the tab to disengage from the recess with application of a rotational force on the latch arm that is readily achieved by an operator's use of fingers. In this manner, the retention arm 178 can be pivoted through user manipulation by, for example, 180 degrees, such that the retention arm 178 is moved from the engaged position to the unengaged position. Subsequent movement of the retention arm 178 can translate into rotation of the pivot structure 188, which in turn can rotate the recess 185 of the pivot structure 188 back into a position where it is engaged by the tab 186
The pivot structure 188 and/or the base structure 192 may also include additional structures that serve as, for example, stops or guides for the movement of the retention arm 178. For example, one or more stops 184 may be formed on the base structure 192 to prevent the retention arm 178 from rotating beyond a preset range of movement (e.g., no more than 200 degrees between open and closed positions).
As an addition or alternative, the component latches 176 can utilize a biasing element to constrain extension arm 178. For example, the pivot structure 188 can house a spring that biases against rotation to prevent, for example, unintended vibrational forces from moving the extension arm away from the engaged position. Still further, in other variations, the pivot structure 188 can house a ferrule and spring, which combine to prevent rotation of the pivot structure beyond preset limits.
While examples as described provide for component latch 176 to be implemented as part of an adapter module, in variations, the component latch 176 (and variants) can be implemented for other types of computing environments. For example, the component latch 176 can be provided for use in attaching motherboard components, so as to enable an operator to readily engage and disengage a retained component from the motherboard.
Conclusion
Although examples are described in detail herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the concepts are not limited to those precise examples. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of the concepts be defined by the following claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, it is contemplated that a particular feature described either individually or as part of an example can be combined with other individually described features, or parts of other examples, even if the other features and examples make no mentioned of the particular feature. Thus, the absence of describing combinations should not preclude having rights to such combinations.
This application claims benefit of priority to Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62/914,283, filed on Oct. 11, 2019, entitled ADAPTER MODULE FOR CIRCUIT BOARD DEVICES AND HOUSING ASSEMBLY FOR SAME; the aforementioned priority application being hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62914283 | Oct 2019 | US |
