Bus networks for digital data processing systems and modules usable therewith

A structure for supporting generally flat modules of the type containing electrical circuits for digital processing of data and having an elongated bus network connecting edge extending in a predetermined path, said structure including:

• a number of separate module receiving means each for receiving and retaining one of said modules with said path of said module edge intersecting first and second spaced, generally parallel areas of said module supporting structure;
• said first and second generally parallel areas extending in a preselected direction;
• a first bus network at said first area of said module supporting structure and containing several process active, individual first electrical conductors extending generally parallel to said preselected direction whereby said first electrical conductors are electrically connectable to the portion of said module edge which intersects said first area of said structure;
• means on said structure for interrupting said first electrical conductors at said module receiving means;
• means for allowing selected ones of said first conductors at a given module receiving means, as a controlled group, to be electrically interconnected by insertion of a special module having a preselected interconnection feature according to said selected ones of said first conductors into said given receiving means;
• and, including means for mounting a second bus network at said second area of said module supporting structure and containing several individual second electrical conductors extending generally parallel to said preselected direction and continuous through each of said receiving means at said second area whereby said second electrical conductors are electrically connectable to the portion of said module edge which intersects said second area of said structure.