Shelf with removable backplane

The embodiments of the present invention generally relate to the field of array storage systems. More specifically, it relates to, but is not limited to, removable rear-end shelf dividers and removable backplanes for multi-disc arrays.

Increasing demands on data storage capacity have facilitated the development of improved data array storage systems in which multiple data storage devices are electronically coupled and work synergistically. Data integrity is also enhanced in arrays that allow fail-safe redundant storage, such as redundant arrays of inexpensive device (RAID) systems.

There are a number of challenges facing array designers. For example, the large number of complex mechanical and electronic connections required for each data storage device are multiplexed by the number of data storage devices in the array. That is, each data storage device requires sufficient mechanical support to separate sensitive head and disk components from vibration levels that cause data transfer errors. Not only must we be aware of self-excitation, the vibrations caused by the rotating disks of the data storage device itself, but we also need to be careful about external excitation sources in such an environment. External excitation can result from the installation and removal of other data storage devices in the array, electrical components in the array such as power supplies and fans, and data storage devices while the array is in operation.

As the number of data storage devices in the array increases, so does the problem associated with electromagnetic interference containment. In order to properly shield data storage devices, not only pay attention to leak paths between drives in adjacent shelves, but also multiple data storage devices can be created by multiple openings into which each is inserted. Attention should also be paid to the leak path. Appropriate shielding of these openings must be provided while allowing the data storage to be attached and detached without disturbing the location shielding of adjacent data storage in the array.

Flexibility can also be an issue. For example, traditionally, electrical systems such as connector boards, controllers, and connecting buses are actually wired to a given number and size of data storage devices in an array. This is needed to maintain the electrical integrity of the array while allowing repeated in-service exchanges of individual data storage devices. For this reason, storage shelves and their corresponding electrical systems have traditionally been dedicated to a given number and size of data storage devices. Therefore, due to both mechanical and electrical constraints, arrays designed for a particular shape factor configuration cannot be easily adapted for use with different shape factor configurations. Also, if data storage grouping is required for specific functions such as data storage duplication, such functionality must traditionally be achieved at the highest host programming level. This requires complex and consistent programming of many data storage devices.

<p> Various approaches have been proposed in the art to address maximization of data storage capacity while also providing operational flexibility when using data storage devices in array storage systems, but nevertheless. , There remains a continuous demand for improvement in our industry. The present invention is intended for such improvements.</p><p> According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a device and a method for convertibly dividing a data storage device in a multi-disk array into components are considered.</p><p> In some preferred embodiments, an array storage system is provided that includes a shelf that limits the tubular closed aisle at the front and rear openings. The front end divider is adapted to support a first component inserted into the front end. The removable rear end partition is adapted to support a second component inserted at the rear end. The removable backplane support is electrically connected to the first and second components to provide operational support for the backplane.</p><p> In another preferred embodiment, shelves are provided that limit the tubular closed aisle at the front and rear openings. The front end divider is adapted to support a first component inserted into the front end. The removable rear end partition is adapted to support a second component inserted at the rear end. The removable backplane support is electrically connected to the first and second components to provide operational support for the backplane.</p><p> In another preferred embodiment, the removable rear end divider includes a backplane support.</p><p> In another preferred embodiment, a method for electrically connecting components, a front end partition designed to support a front end opening, a rear end opening, and a first component inserted into the front end opening. To provide a shelf that limits the tubular closed passage, to attach the backplane to the backplane support, to insert the backplane support removable into the rear end opening, and to insert the backplane into the rear end. A method comprising inserting a removable rear end divider designed to support the second component and inserting the second component into the rear end opening so as to electrically engage the backplane. Is provided.</p><p> These and various other features and advantages that characterize the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description and illustrations.</p>

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an array storage system 100 of related technology in which the cabinet 102 supports a plurality of data storage devices 104. The host 106 is electrically connected to each of the data storage devices 104 to provide a bulk data storage configuration such as providing a network interface or using a data integrity method in a RAID system or the like.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a data storage device 104 suitable for use in the form of a rotating magnetic medium disk drive, together with the present invention. The data storage disk 108 is rotated by the electric motor 110 to present the storage location of the disk 108 to the read / write head (head) 112. The head 112 is supported at the far end of a rotary actuator 114 that can move the head 112 radially between the inner and outer tracks of the disc 108. The head 112 is electrically connected to the circuit board 116 via the deflection circuit 118. The circuit board 116 is configured to send and receive control signals that control the functions of the data storage device 104. The connector 120 is electrically connected to the circuit board 116 and is configured to connect the data storage device 104 to the control electronics of the array 100.

The array storage system 100 provides one way to combine the storage functions of a large number of data storage devices 104. However, typically, the individual openings in the cabinet 102 are sized and wired to accommodate individual data storage devices 104 or a certain number and size of data storage devices 104.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show an array storage system 200 constructed according to a novel embodiment of the present invention, in which multiple disc arrays (MDA) 201 are utilized. The MDA201 generally includes a plurality of convertible componentized data storage devices 104. Convertable means that the existing MDA201 can easily replace, add, or remove one or more data storage devices 104, or another MDA that can support data storage devices of different numbers, sizes, or configurations. It means that it can be used. "Componentization" means integrating multiple data storage devices and corresponding control electronics within the MDA201 and presenting them functionally as a single component to the backplane.

Cabinet 202 limits a plurality of cavities, each of which accommodates shelf 206. Each shelf 206 limits one or more cavities 207, each of which receives a carrier 204. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the shelf 206 limits two cavities 207 that accept the two carriers 204. Equivalent alternative embodiments assume a different number of carriers 204 per shelf 206.

This solution generally provides an array storage system 200 that includes a plurality of carriers 204, each of which has a size corresponding to each cavity 207 in a motion correspondence relationship. Each carrier 204 is configured to operate and support a variable number, size, and configuration of data storage devices 104. More specifically, the solution is an array storage system 200 that includes a shelf 206 that accepts and engages carriers 204 from different carriers, with each carrier of the plurality of carriers limiting the operational correspondence of the shelf 206 with the cavity 207. Provides an array storage system 200 with common outer dimensions, such that each carrier of a plurality of carriers has a different inner support shape for supporting a data storage device 104 of a selected number, size, or configuration. To do.

FIG. 5 is a disassembled and assembled isometric view showing the carrier 204. The carrier 204 is received in one cavity 207 of the shelf 206 (FIG. 4) and the shelf 206 is accommodated in the cavity of the cabinet 202 (FIG. 3). In some embodiments of the invention, the shelf 206 is secured within the cabinet 202 and the carrier 204 is removable from the shelf 206 so that individual data storage devices 104 can be easily added, removed, and replaced. In another embodiment of the invention, the carrier 204 is another carrier with different data storage support shapes for electrically connecting data storage devices 104 of different selected numbers, sizes, or configurations within the shelf 206. Can be exchanged for.

The carrier 204 supports a circuit board 208 and one or more data storage devices 104. The circuit board 208 includes a number of connectors 210 arranged to align with the connectors 120 of each data storage device 104. Preferably, the circuit board 208 further includes a connector 209 configured to be connected to the electronics of the array storage system 200 via a backplane (discussed below). In the configuration of FIG. 5, it can be seen that by moving the circuit board 208 in the direction 211 along the vertical depth of the shelf 206 (FIG. 4), the connector 209 is aligned for an operable connection with the backplane. .. By inserting the carrier 204 into the shelf 206 (FIG. 4) in this way, an electrical connection between the circuit board 208 and the array storage system 200 is facilitated. By selectively configuring the circuit board 208, the host 106 can be arranged to electrically communicate with each data storage device 104 in the MDA 201 when the carrier 204 is inserted, and the data storage device 104 Can be electrically communicated with other data storage devices 104 both inside and outside a particular MDA 201.

In the embodiment assumed in FIG. 5 and below, the carrier 204 includes a two-body configuration in which the data storage device 104 is sandwiched between the partition member 212 and the cap member 214 facing the partition member 212. This configuration was determined to provide favorable manufacturing and component cost benefits. The members 212 and cap 214 of this configuration described are suitable for production by conventional die casting methods and provide relatively inexpensive but structurally robust components. Alternatively, the carrier 204 may include a single (integral) configuration or may include an assembly of three or more components.

The carrier 204 includes a number of posts 215 that serve as struts for positioning and supporting the circuit board 208. Preferably, four posts 215 are utilized to engage the corners of circuit board 208, as shown in FIG. Each post 215 limits the positioning surface 216 at its far end. In order to arrange the circuit board 208 substantially parallel to the partition 212, a plurality of positioning surfaces 216 are arranged substantially on the same plane.

The partition 212 includes a channel surface that limits a large number of channels 218. Within each channel 218, the data storage device 104 can slide and engage with the circuit board 208 and can be operationalally aligned with the circuit board 208. For example, partition 212 includes a pair of opposing surfaces 220, 222. The opposing surfaces 220, 222 are arranged at intervals that limit the relationship that operably corresponds to the cross-sectional height of the data storage device 104. Partition 212 includes a second pair of opposing surfaces 224, 226. The opposing surfaces 224 and 226 are arranged at intervals that limit the relationship that operably corresponds to the cross-sectional width of the data storage device 104. Thereby, the two pairs of opposing surfaces 220, 222 and 224, 226 limit the tubular closed passage circumscribing the cross section of the data storage device 104. The closed correspondence between the surfaces 220, 222 and 224, 226 and the data storage device 104 provides a supportive engagement with the data storage device. In this support relationship, the partition 212 provides lateral support to the data storage device 104 in all directions. This is particularly beneficial in that it is expected that the MDA will often move around when swapping or changing the placement of the MDA201.

In addition to the importance of the size of the channel 218, the position is also important in that the connector 120 of the data storage device 104 is operationally aligned with each connector 210 of the circuit board 208.

With the data storage device supported and fitted within channel 218 and aligned with the connector 210 on circuit board 208, the embodiments of the present invention store data for both mechanical and electrical integrity. We are considering a means for pressing the device 104 against the circuit board 208. By placing the data storage device 104 in the compressed state, the operating vibration is attenuated. Further, by pressing the data storage device 104 toward the circuit board 208, it is guaranteed that the connectors 120 and 210 remain electrically connected even in the event of an impact caused by the normal handling of the carrier 204. To.

One way to press the data storage device 104 against the circuit board 208 is to attach the data storage device to the channel surface using fasteners such as screws 228. For example, the clearance between the channel surface and the data storage device with respect to the threaded fastener and the position of the receiving hole are such that the data storage device 104 is pressed against the circuit board 208 when these holes are aligned with the fastener. It can be provided as follows. As can be seen in FIG. 5, four such fasteners 228 are used to tighten both the partition 212 and the cap 214 to the data storage device 104. However, as can be seen as well, such mechanical fasteners are not always used to press the data storage device 104. For example, in Figure 5, there are six channels that are not screwed in this way. In those channels, the other data storage device 104 is pressed against the circuit board 208 by engaging the cap 214, which is positioned by being attached to some of the data storage devices 104, so as to press against the other data storage device 104.

In the two-body configuration of FIG. 5, the channel 218 defined by the partition 212 engages and supports the near end of the data storage device 104 adjacent to the circuit board 208. Channel 218 is continued at cap 214 by discontinuous surfaces 220, 222 and 224, 226 that also mesh and support the far end of data storage device 104.

In this configuration, the data storage device 104 provides the carrier 204 with intermediate structural integrity. Although not shown, in an alternative equivalent embodiment, the carrier can include an integral configuration, or their attachments can be provided on the carrier to directly connect the divider 212 and the cap 214, or so. A mounting linkage can be provided for this purpose.

The carrier 204 can support a wrapper 229 for enclosing one or both of the data storage device 104 and the circuit board 208 for electrical shielding. The wrapper 229 shown in FIG. 5 covers the very front and circuit board portion of the MDA201.

The carrier of FIG. 5 limits 10 channels 218 for engaging and accepting 10 data storage devices 104. Returning to FIG. 4, the assembled carrier 204 limits the width 230 and height 232 in cross section and the depth 234 in the vertical direction. These outer dimensions provide a working correspondence with the unique volumetric dimensions of the cavity 207 of shelf 206. This operable correspondence makes it easy to attach a shielding member as needed to cover the gap between the attached carrier 204 and the shelf 206.

FIG. 6 shows another carrier 204'including 12 channels 218 for engaging and supporting 12 data storage devices 104 instead of the 10 in FIG. The carrier 204'has different inner support shapes, but when assembled the carrier 204' limits approximately the same volumetric dimensions 230, 232, 234 for similar operable correspondence engagements within cavity 207 of shelf 206. ..

In the examples shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, 10 and 12 data storage devices 104, characterized by a 3.5 inch shape factor, are componentized within carriers 204, 204', respectively. If a smaller data storage device 104 is used, the size of channel 218 will be smaller. For example, in another embodiment not shown, the carrier 204 may be provided with as many as 24 channels 218 to engage and support the same number of data storage devices characterized by a 2.5 inch shape factor. In yet another embodiment, the channel 218 can be sized to be suitable for engaging and supporting at the same time as two or more sized data storage devices 104 within the carrier 204.

As described, the data storage device 104 is sandwiched between the partition 212 and the cap 214 in channel 218. The cap 214 engages and supports the data storage device 104 by pressing the data storage device 104 against the circuit board 208, between the connector 120 (of the data storage device 104) and the connector 210 (of the circuit board 208). Securely maintain electrical connections.

As shown in FIG. 7, the elastic member 240 can be compressed and inserted between the cap 214 and the far end of the data storage device 104. The dashed line represents the size of the elastic member 240 in the uncompressed state. The elastic member 240 remains in the compressed state and helps to securely press the data storage device 104 against the circuit board 208 as described above. In another alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 8, a threaded fastener 242, such as a set screw, can pass through the cap 214 and engages compressively with the far end of the data storage device 104. It can be pressed against the circuit board 208.

The carrier 204 preferably includes one or more guide members that are aligned with the corresponding shape of the backplane to ensure that the carrier 204 is aligned during insertion. For example, in FIG. 5, two alignment pins 246 hanging from the tip of the partition 212 and a third alignment pin 246 hanging from the cap 214 are provided to ensure three-point alignment.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart of steps exemplifying the method 300 of supporting a plurality of data storage devices in the MDA21 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Method 300 first determines the desired number of data storage devices in step 302 and determines the desired data storage device size in step 304. From these decisions, a carrier appropriately configured in step 306 can be selected. The number and size of channels need not exactly match the desired number and size of data storage devices, and carriers with channels 218 that are not currently in use add more data storage devices 104 to that same carrier 204. By doing so, it can be used for future capacity expansion.

After the data storage device 104 is inserted into the carrier 204 in step 308, the carrier 204 is inserted into the shelf 206 in step 310. In determination step 312, it is determined whether any of the currently used data storage devices 104 needs to be changed for maintenance, repair, storage, or the like. If yes, determine if the carrier 204 currently in use in determination block 314 has a support channel 218 of appropriate capacity. If yes, such as when replacing one data storage device 104 with the same, then in step 316 the carrier 204 is removed from the shelf 206 and one or more data storage devices 104 are removed from the carrier 204. The method then returns to step 308, where one or more data storage devices 104 are inserted into the carrier 204.

If the decision in step 314 is no, a carrier with a different configuration is required. The method returns to steps 302 and 304 to determine the appropriate carrier, and the method returns to carrier delivery step 306.

Next, the shelf 206 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 10-12. FIG. 10 is a front isometric view of the shelf 206 including the enclosure 400 limiting the tubular closed aisle 402. That is, for electrical shielding purposes, the enclosure 400 preferably comprises a first pair of 404s, 406s of opposite faces and a second pair of 408s, 410s of opposite faces, which are joined together to open the front end. It limits the tubular closed passage 402 that limits the 412 and the opposite rear end opening 414.

The cavity 207 that engages with and accepts the carrier 204 is defined by the front end divider 416 and, in this example, in cooperation with the enclosure 400. In the embodiment of FIG. 10 and elsewhere herein, the partition 416 meshes with the two carriers 204 and limits the two cavities 207 that accept them. As mentioned above, equivalent alternative embodiments of the present invention assume one or more carriers 204 per shelf 206.

The portion of the front end opening 412 that is not part of the cavity 207 meshes with one or more electrical components that are optionally used to electrically connect the data storage device 104 in the MDA 201 (FIG. 3). It can be conveniently used to accept these. For example, in FIG. 10, the cavity 420 is suitable for accepting the respective data storage controller 421 (FIG. 4). In an equivalent alternative embodiment, other electrical components can be inserted through the front end opening 412. Other electrical components are, for example, but are not limited to, appropriately partitioned power supply units, interface units, and battery units.

FIG. 11 is a rear isometric view of the shelf 206 including a second partition that limits one or more cavities that engage and accept electrical components in an operational relationship through the rear end opening 414. Preferably, the cavity of the second partition is configured to engage and accept different types of control components. The cavity is configured to accept electrical components, such as, but not limited to, a data storage controller, a power supply unit, an interface unit, and a battery unit. In the example of FIG. 11, the rear end partition 422 is configured to engage and accept the power supply unit 425 (FIG. 4) and the battery unit 427 (FIG. 4) for each of the rear end partitions 422. It limits the configured cavity 426 and the cavity 428 configured to engage and accept the interface unit 429 (FIG. 4).

Shelf 206 further includes a backplane support 430 configured to support a backplane 432 between the front end partition 416 and the rear end partition 422 in the middle portion of the aisle 402. The backplane 432 is configured for electrical connections on either side of it. In the example of FIGS. 10 and 11, the backplane 432 aligns the connector 434 with the connector 209 (FIG. 5) of the circuit board 208 (FIG. 5) when inserted into the respective cavities 207, 420, 424, 426, 428. , Align connector 436 with data storage controller 421 (Fig. 4), align connector 438 with power supply unit 425 (Fig. 4), align connector 440 with interface unit 429 (Fig. 4), and align connector 442 with battery unit 427 (Fig. 4). It is configured to align with Fig. 4).

The rear end divider 422 is attached to the enclosure in such a way that it can be easily removed from the rear end opening 414. This can be done in a number of conventional ways such as accessible fasteners, latches, slotted seams and the like. By making the trailing divider 422 removable, you can access and remove the backplane support 430. The backplane support 430 is similarly attached to the enclosure 400 in a way that makes it easy to remove. This is accomplished in some embodiments by providing a support portion to which the backplane support 430 is attached. The support portion is, for example, tab 444, but is not limited thereto. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, FIG. 12 shows a configuration in which the rear end partition 422 includes a backplane support 430. In this configuration, the backplane support 430 is removed along with the rear partition 422. This is advantageous in that the trailing partition 422 can be removed along with all the electrical components still electrically connected to the backplane 432. That is, the backplane 432 can be replaced without first disconnecting all electrical components within the trailing partition 422.

An embodiment of the present invention considers a method for electrically connecting components. This method provides a shelf that limits the tubular closed passage at the front and rear openings and a backplane support configured to support the first component inserted into the front opening. Removable rear end configured to support a second component inserted at the rear end, with the backplane attached to the rear end opening, with a removable backplane support inserted into the rear end opening. Insert a partition, insert the first component into the front end opening and electrically engage with the backplane, and insert the second component into the rear end opening and electrically engage with the backplane. Including that.

Next, with reference to Figure 12-18, a new, thin outer shape enhanced configuration for enclosure 400 will be described. Preferably, the opposing surfaces 404, 406, and 408, 410 are substantially seamless conductive members that attenuate electrical noise, such as radio frequency interference, from equipment supported within the enclosure 400. For this reason, enclosures made of sheet steel provide a relatively inexpensive solution. However, light gauge sheet metal materials usually require a large number of reinforced reliefs, flanges, gussets, etc. to obtain the necessary structural integrity to support the load therein. These reinforcements can significantly increase the outer size and reduce the available aisle size of the enclosure. An embodiment of the present invention optimally solves this problem by forming the enclosure 400 as a composite waveform panel that includes a pair of alternating panels with the reinforcement waveforms reversed.

In some embodiments, for example, in a conventional sheet metal processing process, panel pairs can be stacked to form an enclosure 400 with a central passage 402. However, it has been found that the clamshell configuration offers a manufacturability advantage. FIG. 13 includes first and second corrugated panels 502, 504 that can be attached to a second portion 506 that includes first and second corrugated panels 508, 510 to form enclosure 400 (FIG. 12). The first part 500 is shown. The first portion 500 includes the intermediate web 512 and the nearly orthogonal flanges 514, 516 extending from its near and far ends. Similarly, the second portion 506 includes the intermediate web 518 and the nearly orthogonal flanges 520, 522 extending from its near and far ends. When the first and second portions 500, 506 are joined, the opposing surfaces 404, 406 (FIG. 10) are formed from adjacent flanges 514, 520 and 516, 522, and the opposing surfaces 408, 410 are web 512. , 518 formed from.

Figure 14 shows the first and second limiting flanges 514, 516 and 520, 522 to ensure the positioning of the clam shell portions 500, 506 for mounting while maintaining only the thickness of the two materials throughout. FIG. 5 is an end view of enclosure 400 showing a preferred method of varying the length of corrugated panels 502, 504 and 508, 510. For example, the corrugated panel 504 includes a relatively long flange 530 that slides and meshes with the relatively long flange 534 of the corrugated panel 510 while adjacently engaging with the relatively short flange 532 of the corrugated panel 508. Fasteners such as mechanical, thermal, or adhesive fasteners (not shown) can be attached to this overlap of flanges 530, 534 and the adjacent engagement of flanges 530, 534 with excellent compression. Lateral strength provides a secure mating seam. Also, as shown in FIG. 13, the longitudinal lengths of the first and second corrugated panels 502, 504 and 508, 510 are for attaching the enclosure 400 to the cabinet 200 (FIG. 4) by attaching the flange member 540. Can be changed to.

FIG. 15 shows an exploded view of part 506 of enclosure 400. The following description is limited to part 506, but it will be understood that the other part 500 is assembled in a similar structure and manner. The first corrugated panel 508 includes a reinforced panel structure with a plurality of embossed surfaces (bosses) 542 and a plurality of flat surfaces 540 separating the openings 544. Similarly, the second corrugated panel 510 includes a reinforced panel structure with a plurality of bosses 548 and a plurality of flat surfaces 546 separating the openings 550.

FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 13 of the first panel 508 as well, due to the opening 544 of the panel 508 which engages and accepts the boss 548 of the second panel 510. The opening 550 of the second panel 510 that engages and accepts the boss 542 shows how to stack the panels 508, 510 so that the flat surfaces 540, 546 are in corresponding contact. In the embodiment, the bosses 542 and 548 are arranged to face each other so as to correspond to the openings 550 and 544, respectively. The bosses 544 and 550 are arranged alternately to evenly distribute the load to the panels 508 and 510. It should be noted that in a stacked configuration, the panels 508, 510 work together to form a nearly seamless sheet.

The bosses 542, 548 and their respective 550, 544 can span the width of the web 518 for maximum strength. Alternatively, by dividing the bosses 542, 548 and the respective openings 550, 544 into segments as shown at one end of web 518 in FIG. 15, an additional flat surface 554 is provided between the segments, eg, a configuration. The element can be provided with a suitable mounting surface.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged detailed view of a part of FIG. In general, embodiments of the present invention have a first waveform panel 508 with a first thickness of 558 limiting a first waveform height of 560 and a second thickness of 562 that limits a second waveform height of 564. Consider a synthetic corrugated panel structure that includes one joined to the second corrugated panel 510. Thicknesses 558 and 562 may be the same or different, and waveform heights 560 and 564 may be the same or different, depending on the required strength and size of enclosure 400 (Figure 14) required. Good. Panels 508, 510 can be joined in any of a number of suitable ways, including but not limited to mechanical, thermal, and sticky tightening methods. This configuration provides optimum structural integrity in the smallest size package, and in particular the synthetic waveform panel limits the cross-sectional thickness 570, which is preferably smaller than the sum of the first and second waveform heights 560,564.

An embodiment of the present invention is a method of producing a synthetic waveform panel, wherein a first panel including a first waveform and a first opening is provided, and a second waveform and a second opening are included. Consider a synthetic waveform panel production method including providing two panels, arranging the first waveform in the second opening, and stacking the panels by arranging the second waveform in the first opening. The stacking step involves arranging the waveforms in opposite directions.

Figure 18 shows the steps for the "T calculation" method 600, which models the thickness 570 ("T") as a function of the selected first and second material thicknesses and the first and second waveform heights. It is a flowchart which shows. The thickness 570 can be used in conjunction with conventional girder deflection and shear stress analysis to optimize the design.

Method 600 is started in step 602 with first and second waveform heights 560, 564 (H.₁, H₂) And first and second material thickness (t₁, t₂") Is selected. These values can be selected within a predetermined range, and the method 600 can be repeated to determine the optimum value for T.

In the determination block 604, it is determined whether the second material thickness 562 is smaller than the first waveform height 560 minus the first material thickness 558. If yes, control goes to judgment block 606, otherwise control goes to judgment block 608. In the determination block 606, it is determined whether the first material thickness 558 is smaller than the second waveform height 564 minus the second material thickness 562. If yes, in block 610 the synthetic corrugated panel thickness is the first corrugated height 560 minus the first material thickness 558 and the second corrugated height 564 minus the second material thickness 562. It is modeled as the sum of the waveform. Otherwise, at block 612 the composite waveform panel thickness is modeled as the first waveform height 560.

In the determination block 608, it is determined whether the first material thickness 558 is smaller than the second waveform height 564 minus the second material thickness 562. If yes, in block 614 the composite waveform panel thickness is modeled as a second waveform height 564. Otherwise, in block 616 the synthetic corrugated panel thickness is modeled as the sum of the material thicknesses 558, 562.

To summarize the shelves as a whole, the embodiments of the present invention consider enclosures (eg, 400) that limit aisles (eg, 402). The front end divider (eg, 416) limits the cavity (eg, 207, 420) for passing electrical components (eg, 204, 421) through the front end opening (eg, 412) of the aisle. The trailing partition (eg, 422) limits the cavity (eg, 424, 426, 428) for passing electrical components (eg, 425, 427, 429) through the trailing opening (eg, 414) of the aisle. The backplane support (eg, 430) is adapted to support the backplane (eg, 432) between the front and rear dividers in the middle of the aisle. Preferably, for electrical shielding purposes, the enclosure comprises two pairs of opposing surfaces (eg, 404, 406, and 408, 410) joined to limit the tubular closed passage.

An embodiment of the present invention considers a method for electrically connecting components.

A number of features and advantages of the various embodiments of the present invention have been described with details of the structure and function of the various embodiments of the invention, but this detailed description is for illustration purposes only. It will be understood that may make changes. In particular, changes may be made to the structure and component configuration within the principles of the invention, to the fullest extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the claims. For example, certain elements may be modified according to the particular configuration of the partition limiting the cavity of the shelf without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

<figref num="1">It is an isometric view of the array storage system constructed according to the solution of the related technology.</figref><figref num="2">It is an isometric view of a data storage device.</figref><figref num="3">FIG. 3 is an isometric view of an array storage system constructed according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="4">It is a disassembled assembly isometric view of the part of the array storage system of FIG.</figref><figref num="5">It is a disassembled assembly isometric view of the carrier part of FIG.</figref><figref num="6">FIG. 5 is an exploded isometric view of a carrier assembled according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="7">It is a partial cross-sectional view of the carrier of FIG.</figref><figref num="8">FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of a carrier assembled according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="9">It is a flow chart of the method of making the data storage device of the number and size selected according to the Example of this invention into a multi-disk array as a component.</figref><figref num="10">It is a front isometric view of the shelf of FIG.</figref><figref num="11">It is a rear isometric view of the shelf of FIG.</figref><figref num="12">FIG. 5 is an exploded isometric view of the shelves of FIGS. 10 and 11 assembled according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="13">It is a disassembled assembly isometric view of the enclosure of FIG.</figref><figref num="14">It is an elevation view of the enclosure of FIG.</figref><figref num="15">It is a disassembled assembly isometric view of a part of the enclosure of FIG.</figref><figref num="16">It is a partial cross-sectional view seen as a whole along the cross-sectional line 16-16 of FIG.</figref><figref num="17">It is a partial cross-sectional view seen as a whole along the cross-sectional line 16-16 of FIG.</figref><figref num="18">It is a flowchart of the method of modeling a synthetic waveform panel according to the Example of this invention.</figref>

Code description

100 Array storage system 200 Array storage system 201 Multi-disc array 206 Shelf 402 Aisle 412 Front end opening 414 Rear end opening 416 Front end partition 422 Rear end partition 430 Backplane support 432 Backplane