Server slider

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a server slider, which may include: a first track; a second rail telescopically engaged with the first rail; and a latch assembly secured to the first end of the first rail. The latch assembly may include a latch movable between a first latched position and a second latched position; a biasing element that biases the latch toward the first latch position; and a handle pivotable between a first handle position and a second handle position to move the latch from the first latch position to the second latch position. In the first latched position, the latch extends to an opening on the second rail to prevent telescopic movement of the first rail in the first direction. Further, in the second latched position, the latch is disengaged from an opening on the second rail to allow telescopic movement of the first rail. The server slider enables the server chassis to slide between a retracted position and an extended position via the above telescopic movement.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference related applications

[0002] not applicable. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a server rack, and more particularly to a server sliding member. Background Art

[0004] A slide (e.g., a server rack slide) can allow a user to selectively access a server chassis in a server rack. The slide can support the server chassis and allow a user to extend the slide (e.g., the telescoping portion slides away from the server rack) to access the server chassis (e.g., for maintenance). In some examples, the slide can include a front latch that holds the server chassis within the server rack (e.g., in a retracted position). Thus, the user may need to actuate the front latch to extend the slide away from the server rack to access the server chassis. Utility Model Content

[0005] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a server slide. The server slide may include: a first track; a second track, the second track being telescopically engaged with the first track; and a latch assembly, the latch assembly being fixed to a first end of the first track. The latch assembly may include: a latch, the latch being movable between a first latch position and a second latch position; a biasing element, the biasing element biasing the latch toward the first latch position; and a handle, the handle being pivotable between the first handle position and the second handle position to move the latch from the first latch position to the second latch position. When the latch is in the first latch position and the handle is in the first handle position, the latch extends into an opening on the second track to prevent telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track in a first direction. In addition, when the latch is in the second latch position and the handle is in the second handle position, the latch disengages from the opening on the second track to allow telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track in a first direction.

[0006] In one example, the biasing element biases the latch into engagement with the second track in a biasing direction that is substantially perpendicular to the telescopic movement of the first track.

[0007] In one example, the first track includes a housing that at least partially encloses the latch and guides sliding movement of the latch relative to the first track between a first latched position and a second latched position.

[0008] In one example, the housing is secured to the first rail via a mounting bracket secured to and extending from a first end of the first rail body.

[0009] In one example, the handle includes a grip portion extending outside of the housing and a rod extending within the housing to translate the latch relative to the housing during pivotal movement of the handle.

[0010] In one example, the rod extends within the housing to contact the latch within a recess of the latch to achieve one or more of the following: translate the latch relative to the housing during pivotal movement of the handle; or prevent the latch from moving beyond a first latch position.

[0011] In one example, the handle is pivotally secured to the latch assembly via a fastener, wherein the fastener forms a pivot point about which the handle rotates.

[0012] In one example, the second track includes a body and a retaining plate, wherein the retaining plate is fixed to the body at a first end of the second track, the retaining plate including an upper surface defining a cutout; and when the handle is in the first handle position, the latch engages with the cutout to prevent telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track.

[0013] In one example, the first end of the latch includes a chamfered surface and a wall opposite the chamfered surface configured to contact a wall of the cutout to prevent telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track.

[0014] In one example, the upper surface of the retaining plate includes an inclined portion, wherein the inclined portion contacts a chamfered surface of the latch to guide the latch into the notch during telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track in the second direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, are used to explain the principles of the embodiments of the present disclosure:

[0016] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a server system including a server slide with a latch assembly according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An axonometric view of an exemplary configuration of one of the server slides.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An enlarged first side partial perspective view of a first end of a server slide.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 An enlarged second side partial perspective view of a first end of a server slide.

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A first side cross-sectional view of a retention plate of a server slide.

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A second side partial elevation view of a latch assembly of a server slide.

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A first side isometric cross-sectional view of a latch assembly of a server slide in a first position.

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A first side isometric cross-sectional view of a latch assembly of a server slide in a second position.

[0024] Fig. 9 Yes Figure 2 A first side partial isometric view of a server rack of a server slide with a latch assembly in Figure 7 first position.

[0025] Fig.10 Yes Figure 2 A first side partial isometric view of a server rack of a server slide with a latch assembly in Figure 8 's second position.

[0026] Fig.11 Yes Figure 2 A first side partial isometric view of a server rack with a server slide in an extended position.

[0027] Fig.12 Yes Figure 6 The latch assembly Figure 1 A first side isometric view of another exemplary configuration of one of the server slides.

[0028] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 An enlarged first side partial isometric view of a first end of a server slide. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The following discussion is presented to enable those skilled in the art to implement and use the embodiments of the present disclosure. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art given the benefit of the present disclosure, and the principles herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but should conform to the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0030] The following detailed description will be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same elements in different drawings have the same reference numerals. These drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, they describe selected embodiments, and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0031] Before explaining any embodiment of the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details of the structure and arrangement of the components described in the following description or shown in the following figures when applied. The present disclosure can adopt other embodiments and be implemented or executed in various ways. Similarly, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered as limiting. For example, the use of "including", "comprising" or "having" and their variations herein is meant to cover the matters listed thereafter and their equivalents and other matters. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mount", "connect", "support" and "couple" and their variations are used broadly and cover direct and indirect mounting, connection, support and connection. In addition, "connect" and "couple" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0032] In some examples, a server slide can support one or more server chassis within a server rack to allow access to the servers (e.g., within the server chassis). For example, the server slide can allow a user to access the server for installation, maintenance, or replacement. In some examples, the server slide can include a latch assembly (e.g., a front latch assembly) to prevent accidental telescopic movement (e.g., expansion / contraction) of the server slide, which may correspond to unwanted movement of the server chassis.

[0033] In some examples, the server slide may include a first track nested within a second track. In some examples, the first track is configured to telescope within the second track to expand or contract the overall length of the server slide. In some examples, the latch assembly is configured to prevent accidental removal or telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track. For example, the latch assembly may be configured to selectively engage or disengage with a portion of the second track to prevent movement of the first track relative to the second track.

[0034] In some examples, the latch assembly may include a housing that retains the latch. The latch assembly may be movable between a first position (e.g., an engaged position) and a second position (e.g., a disengaged position) via actuation of a handle pivotally attached to the latch assembly. In some examples, in the first position, the latch may engage a retaining plate mounted to the second track. For example, the latch may extend into a cutout in the retaining plate so as to prohibit movement of the first track relative to the second track. However, in the second position, the latch may disengage from the retaining plate so as to allow movement of the first track relative to the second track.

[0035] In some examples, the handle may include a rod configured to engage a portion of the latch by rotation of the handle. Thus, as the operator rotates the handle from the first position to the second position, the rod may apply a force to the latch to move the latch from the first position to the second position. In some examples, the latch may be biased toward the first position via one or more biasing elements so that rotation of the handle overcomes the biasing force of the biasing element to move the latch to the second position. Accordingly, if the operator were to release the handle at the second position, the handle may automatically return to the first position (e.g., via a force from the latch as the latch automatically returns to the first position due to the biasing force of the one or more biasing elements).

[0036] In some examples, when the first track is retracted into the second track, the operator can grasp the handle and rotate the handle about 20-100 degrees (including the end points) about the corresponding pivot point. This rotation of the handle can cause the rod to engage the latch and move the latch from the first (engaged) position to the second (disengaged) position against the biasing force of one or more biasing elements. Therefore, once the operator has rotated the handle to the second position, the latch may no longer prevent relative movement of the first track and the second track, and the operator can pull the handle to extend the first track from the second track, thereby extending the server chassis from the server rack.

[0037] In some examples, to return the server chassis to the server rack, the operator can release the handle, which can automatically return to the first position (e.g., driven by one or more biasing elements). Accordingly, the latch can automatically return to the first (engaged) position. The operator can then push the server chassis into the server rack (e.g., retracting the first track into the second track). In some examples, when the latch contacts the retaining plate, the latch can automatically move (e.g., corresponding to the one or more biasing elements being compressed) until the latch locks into the cutout of the retaining plate (e.g., in the first (engaged) position). Thus, the server chassis can be retained in the server rack.

[0038] Figure 1An example of a server system 100 is shown, which includes a server chassis 115 secured within a server rack 105. In some examples, the server chassis 115 can be in a first position 140 (e.g., a retracted position) and a second position 145 (e.g., an extended position, such as Figure 1 In some examples, in the first position 140, the edge 150 of the server chassis 115 is substantially flush with the edge 135 of the server rack 105. Accordingly, in the second position 145, the edge 150 of the server chassis 115 can extend beyond the edge 135 of the server rack 105 (e.g., in the direction indicated by arrow 130).

[0039] In some examples, to allow for slidable movement of the server chassis 115, the server system 100 may include one or more server slides 120. The server slides 120 may be secured between one or more supports of the server rack 105 and the server chassis 115 to slidably secure the server chassis 115 to the server rack 105. For example, the server slides 120 may facilitate slidable movement of the server chassis 115 between a first position 140 and a second position 145 (e.g., as indicated by arrow 130) via telescoping movement of the server slides 120.

[0040] In some examples, the server slide 120 may include one or more nested sliding rails to allow the server slide 120 to extend. For example, the server slide 120 may include a first rail nested within and slidable relative to a second rail. In some examples, the first rail is configured to telescope within the second rail to expand or contract the overall length of the server slide 120, which in turn may enable the server chassis 115 to move between the first position 140 and the second position 145.

[0041] In some examples, the server slide 120 can include a latch assembly 125 (e.g., a front latch assembly) that is adjacent to an edge 150 of the server chassis 115. The latch assembly 125 can help prevent accidental removal or telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track (e.g., corresponding to movement of the server chassis 115). In a specific example, the latch assembly 125 can automatically lock the first track to the second track to limit relative movement between the first track and the second track (e.g., when the server chassis 115 is in the first position 140). Accordingly, an operator can selectively unlock the relative movement between the first track and the second track via the latch assembly 125 (e.g., to allow movement of the server chassis 115 from the first position 140 to the second position 145, as shown by arrow 130).

[0042] Additionally, when in the second position 145, the latch assembly 125 can allow movement of the server chassis 115 from the second position 145 to the first position 140 (eg, as indicated by arrow 155). In some cases, the latch assembly 125 can also automatically lock when reaching the first position 140.

[0043] In some examples, the server chassis 115 may include a set of multiple server slides 120 (e.g., one server slide 120 on each of two opposing lateral sides of the server chassis). However, in some examples, only one of the set of server slides 120 may include a latch assembly 125. In other examples, multiple of the server slides 120 may include a latch assembly 125.

[0044] Figure 2-4 Some examples of server slides 120 including latch assemblies 125 are shown. As previously mentioned, the server slide 120 can include a first track 205 (e.g., an inner track) and a second track 210 (e.g., a fixed outer track). In some examples, the server slide 120 can also include a third track 305 (e.g., an intermediate track), which can be disposed between the first track 205 and the second track 210. In some examples, the first track 205 can be nested within the third track 305, which in turn can be nested within the second track 210. Thus, the first track 205 and the third track 305 can telescopically move relative to the second track 210 and can telescopically move relative to each other.

[0045] In some examples, the second rail 210 can be fixedly coupled to the support 110 so that the second rail 210 is not movable, but is instead fixed in place. For example, the second rail 210 can be fixedly coupled to the support 110 via one or more pins 405, which can extend from the second rail 210 into the support 110. In other examples, the second rail 210 can include one or more mounting brackets to secure the server slide 120 to the support 110.

[0046] The server slide 120 may include a first end 220 and a second end 225, wherein the first rail 205 and the third rail 305 can be extended from the first end 220 to extend the overall length of the server slide 120. As also discussed above, this extension movement can correspond to the movement of the server chassis 115 to the second position 145. Accordingly, the first rail 205 and the third rail 305 can be retracted relative to the first end 220 to shorten the overall length of the server slide 120, which corresponds to the movement of the server chassis 115 to the first position 140. In other words, the telescoping movement between the first rail 205, the second rail 210, and the third rail 305 allows the server slide 120 to extend or retract as indicated by arrow 215 to move the server chassis 115 between the first position 140 and the second position 145.

[0047] In some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, in particular, the latch assembly 125 can be fixed to the first end 220 of the server via a mounting bracket 310 extending from the first end of the first rail 205. In a specific example, the latch assembly 125 can be arranged between the mounting bracket 310 and the second rail 210. In addition, the first end of the second rail 210 can include a retaining plate 315, which is configured to be in a retracted position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ) when the slide 120 is in a retracted position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ). Figure 2 ) to receive and hold a portion of the latch assembly 125 to prevent accidental telescopic movement of the server slide 120.

[0048] Now go to Figure 5 , an example of a retaining plate 315 is shown. The retaining plate 315 may include a body 505 defining one or more openings 510 configured to receive a pin 405 for securing the second rail 210 to the support 110. In addition, the body 505 may define one or more holes 515 configured to receive one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, rivets, or any other known fasteners) to secure the retaining plate 315 to the second rail 210. In some examples, the retaining plate 315 may define a surface profile that is substantially similar to the surface profile of the second rail 210 (i.e., configured to be positioned in a partially flush or nested arrangement with the second rail 210).

[0049] The retaining plate 315 may include an upper surface 520 including a cutout 525. The cutout 525 may be configured to receive and retain a portion of the latch assembly 125 to lock the first track 205 to the second track 210. In some examples, the cutout 525 may be defined by one or more side walls 530. Additionally, the upper surface 520 of the retaining plate 315 may include an inclined surface 535 configured to interact with a portion of the latch assembly 125 to guide the latch assembly 125 into the cutout 525 for retaining the latch assembly in the cutout.

[0050] Figure 6 An example of a latch assembly 125 being used to secure the first track 205 against movement relative to the second track 210 is shown. The latch assembly 125 may include a housing 605 that is secured to the mounting bracket 310 via one or more fasteners (screws, bolts, rivets, or any other known fasteners). In some examples, the handle 610 may be pivotally connected to the housing 605 at a pivot point 615 (e.g., a fastener) to allow pivotal (e.g., rotational) movement of the handle 610 (e.g., as indicated by arrow 625). In a particular example, the handle 610 may include a series of ridges 620 along an outer surface of the handle 610 to provide an increased gripping surface along a gripping portion of the handle (e.g., to assist an operator in gripping the handle 610). In addition, the handle 610 may include a groove 645 (e.g., a semicircular groove) to assist an operator in gripping the handle 610 when rotating or pulling the handle 610.

[0051] In the illustrated construction, the latch 630 extends from the upper surface 650 of the housing 605. The latch 630 can be configured to engage the retaining plate 315 to retain the first track 205 relative to the second track 210 (e.g., telescope within the second track). In some examples, the latch 630 can be biased to a first position 655 (e.g., an engaged position, as shown) to retain the first track 205 within the second track 210. However, the latch 630 can be actuated to a second position 835 (a disengaged position, e.g., see Figure 8 ) to release the first track 205 and move relative to the second track 210.

[0052] Still reference Figure 6 , the latch 630 may include a chamfered surface 635 on one side, which may be configured to interact with the inclined surface 535 of the retaining plate 315 to automatically actuate the latch 630 into the second position 835 without rotating the handle 610. For example, the chamfered surface 635 and the inclined surface 535 may automatically engage when the first track 205 is moved from the extended position (corresponding to the second position 145) to the retracted position (corresponding to the first position 140). On the other side of the latch 630 relative to the chamfered surface 635, the latch 630 may include a wall 640 (e.g., a vertical wall) relative to the extension direction of the first track 205. Figure 7 As shown, for example, the wall 640 can be configured to interact with the sidewall 530 of the cutout 525 to prevent movement of the first track 205 relative to the second track 210 when the first track 205 is in the retracted position.

[0053] Figure 7An example of the latch assembly 125 is shown with the handle 610 in the first position 700 and the first track 205 in the retracted position. With the handle 610 in the first position 700, the first end 705 of the latch 630 may protrude through the opening 730 in the housing 605 into the cutout 525 of the retaining plate 315, which locks the first track 205 to the second track 210 and prevents telescopic movement of the first track 205. For example, if an attempt is made to move the first track 205 in the direction indicated by arrow 750, the wall 640 of the latch 630 may abut the side wall 530 of the cutout 525 to prevent the first track 205 from moving.

[0054] In some examples, the latch 630 can be biased to the first position 655 via one or more biasing elements 715 (e.g., springs) disposed within the housing 605 between the second end 755 of the latch 630 and the base 720 of the housing 605. In one particular example, the biasing elements 715 can each circumferentially surround the base 710 extending away from the second end 755 of the latch 630. Thus, due to the biasing elements 715, the latch 630 can remain in the first position 655 to engage the notch 525 and prevent the first track 205 from moving unless a force is applied to the latch 630 to overcome the biasing force of the biasing elements 715.

[0055] In some examples, in the first position 700, the rod 725 of the handle 610 can be disposed in the recess 745 of the latch 630. For example, the rod 725 can extend substantially parallel to the upper surface 520 of the retaining plate 315. In some examples, the recess 745 can correspond to the L-shaped profile of the latch 630.

[0056] exist Figure 7 In the illustrated arrangement, the rod 725 does not apply a retraction force to the latch 630, and thus the latch 630 may be retained in the first position 655 (e.g., by the biasing element 715). Additionally, in the first position 700, the nose 760 of the handle 610 may contact the outer surface 740 of the housing 605. However, in the first position 700, the limit portion 735 of the handle 610 may not contact the outer surface 740 of the housing 605.

[0057] In some examples, rod 725 can provide a stop that resists movement of latch 630 beyond a desired latch position. Figure 7 As shown, the rod 725 of the latch handle 610 extends into the recess 745 between the latch 630 and the housing 605 relative to the biasing direction of the biasing element 715. Thus, for example, the rod 725 can prevent the first end 705 of the latch 630 from over-extending through the opening 730 and the cutout 525.

[0058] Figure 8An example of the latch assembly 125 is shown with the handle 610 in the second position 800 and the first track 205 in the retracted position. With the handle 610 in the second position 800, the first end 705 of the latch 630 can be pushed away from the cutout 525 and below the upper surface 520 of the retaining plate 315, so that the first track 205 can move relative to the second rail 210 (e.g., as indicated by arrow 830).

[0059] In some examples, to move the handle 610 from the first position 700 to the second position 800, the operator may rotate the handle 610 about the pivot point 615 as indicated by arrow 805, so that the rod 725 contacts the wall 820 of the recess 745. As a result, the rod 725 applies a force to the latch 630 in the direction indicated by arrow 825, which overcomes the biasing force of the biasing element 715 (e.g., compresses the biasing element 715) and the first end 705 of the latch 630 moves downward to the second position 835 as indicated by arrow 825. Therefore, in the second position 835, the first end 705 is out of contact with the retaining plate 315, and the first track 205 can move in the direction indicated by arrow 830.

[0060] In some examples, in order to keep the handle 610 in the second position and thus the latch 630 in the second position, the operator may need to manually maintain the handle 610 in the second position (e.g., by applying a force). For example, if the operator were to release the handle 610 in the second position 800, the biasing element 715 would apply a force to the rod 725 to automatically return both the handle 610 and the latch 630 to the respective first positions 700, 655.

[0061] In some examples, to reach the second position 800, the operator may rotate the handle 610 until the limit portion 735 contacts the outer surface 740 of the housing 605. At this point, the first end 705 may be recessed (e.g., completely recessed) into the housing 605, thereby avoiding contact obstruction with the retaining plate 315. In a specific example, to reach the second position 800, the operator may rotate the handle approximately 20-100 degrees (including the end points).

[0062] In some examples, the rod 725 may have a specific geometric shape to provide improved efficiency and maneuverability. For example, as shown, the rod 725 generally extends linearly away from the pivot point (in the radial direction). Similarly, the rod 725 can be substantially perpendicular to the elongated direction of the grip portion of the handle 610. For example, these arrangements can provide an optimal balance between ease of operation and a small total footprint (e.g., spatial envelope). In addition, as shown in the figure, Figure 8 As shown, the end of the rod 725 can be rounded (eg, having at least one rounded corner) to provide smooth movement of the rod 725 along the wall 820 of the recess 745 .

[0063] Figure 9-11 The diagram shows a method for using the above Figure 2-8 1 and 125 to move the server chassis 115 between the first position 140 and the second position 145. Fig. 9 As shown, at stage 900, the server chassis 115 may be in a first position 140 (eg, a retracted position, such as Figure 1 ), and the operator may desire to move the server chassis 115 to a second position 145 (e.g., an extended position for maintenance, replacement, etc., such as Figure 1 While the server chassis 115 is in the first position 140 , the latch assembly 125 can be in the first position 655 to prevent movement of the first rail 205 relative to the second rail 210 via contact between the latch 630 and the cutout 525 of the retention plate 315 .

[0064] At stage 1000, if Fig.10 As shown, to release the first rail 205 from the second rail 210, the operator may grasp the handle 610 and rotate the handle 610 from the first position 700 to the second position 800. For example, the operator may rotate the handle 610 as indicated by arrow 1005. Once the operator has appropriately (e.g., fully) rotated the handle 610, the rod 725 of the handle 610 may exert a force on the latch 630 to retain the latch in the second position 835 (e.g., which may be evidenced by tactile feedback of the limit portion 735 contacting the outer surface 740 of the housing 605). In other words, the rotation of the handle 610 may compress the biasing element 715 and cause the latch 630 to move downward and out of contact with the retaining plate 315 (see also FIG. 315 ). Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0065] At stage 1100, once the latch 630 is in the second position 835, the operator may apply force to the handle 610 in the direction indicated by arrow 1105. With the latch 630 out of contact with the retaining plate 315, the operator may then move (pull) the server chassis 115 from the first position 140 to the second position 145 and out of the server rack 105.

[0066] In some examples, once the operator has moved the server chassis 115 to the second position 145, the operator can release the handle 610. Once the operator releases the handle 610, the biasing element 715 can automatically return the latch 630 to the first position 655. Thus, the handle 610 can automatically return to the first position 700. At this point, even with the handle 610 and the latch 630 in the respective first positions 700, 655, the operator can be able to return the server chassis 115 to the first position 140 without actuating the handle 610.

[0067] For example, the operator may apply a force (e.g., a pushing force) in the direction indicated by arrow 1110 to retract the first track 205 into the second track 210. In some examples, as the first track 205 is retracted into the second track 210, the chamfered surface 635 of the latch 630 contacts the inclined surface 535 of the retaining plate 315, which applies a downward force (or other retraction force) on the latch 630 and compresses the biasing element 715. As a result, the first track 205IS is able to slide within the second track 210 without actuating the handle 610. In addition, once the latch 630 reaches the cutout 525, the biasing element 715 may bias the latch 630 upward (or otherwise) within the cutout 525 (e.g., into the first position), automatically securing the first track 205 relative to the second track 210.

[0068] Fig.12 and Fig.13 The diagram shows Figure 1 1000 (e.g., as an alternative configuration of the server slide 120). As will be appreciated, the server slide 1200 shares many components that are shared and operate in a similar manner to the previously shown and described examples. For the sake of brevity, these common features are similarly numbered in sequence 1000 and are not described in detail below. Instead, unless otherwise noted, the previous discussion of features having similar names or numbers also applies to the exemplary configuration of the server slide 1200.

[0069] In some examples, the server slide 1200 includes a first rail 1205 and a second rail 1210, wherein the latch assembly 125 is disposed at the first end 220 of the first rail 1205. However, the server slide 1200 may have an overall smaller profile 1215 (e.g., a smaller height in size) than the previously described server slide 120. For example, the server slide 120 may have a 2U form factor, while the server slide 1200 may have a 1U form factor. As a result, the retention plate 1315 may be smaller in size than the previously described retention plate 315, while functioning similarly to the retention plate 315. In addition, rather than using the mounting bracket 310 to secure the latch assembly 125 to the first rail 1205, the latch assembly 125 may instead be mounted directly to the first end 220 of the first rail 1205. In another example, the retention plate 1315 may include dual (e.g., two) cutouts 525 on opposing sides of the retention plate 1315. The cutouts 525 may be symmetrical and positioned so that the second rail 1210 may be used on either side (eg, left or right) of the server rack.

[0070] In some implementations, methods embodying aspects of the present disclosure may be used to utilize, manufacture, or install the devices or systems disclosed herein. Accordingly, any description herein of any particular feature, performance, or intended purpose of a device or system is generally intended to include the following disclosures: a method of using such a device for its intended purpose; a method of otherwise implementing such performance; a method of manufacturing related components of such a device or system (or the device or system as a whole); and a method of installing the disclosed (or otherwise known) components to support such purposes or performances. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated or limited, any method of manufacturing or using a particular device or system (including methods for installing a device or system) discussed herein is intended to inherently include the disclosure of the utilized features and implemented performance of such a device or system as an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] In one example, the present disclosure provides a method for operating a server slide. The method may include: rotating a handle of a latch assembly from a first position to a second position, wherein the latch assembly prevents a first track from telescopically moving relative to a second track in a first direction, and wherein the latch assembly allows a first track from telescopically moving relative to the second track in the first direction; and pulling the handle of the latch assembly to move the server slide from a retracted position to an extended position.

[0072] In addition, unless otherwise limited or qualified, "or" refers to a non-exclusive list of components or operations that can be presented in various combinations, rather than being an exclusive list of components that are presented as alternatives to each other. For example, a list of "A, B, or C" refers to: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B, and C. Accordingly, the term "or" as used herein is intended to refer to exclusive alternatives only when preceded by an exclusive term (e.g., "any of...", "one of...", "only one of...", or "exactly one of..."). For example, a list of "one of A, B, or C" refers to the following options: A, but not B and C; B, but not A and C; and C, but not A and B. A list preceded by "one or more" (and variations thereof) and including "or" to list elements individually refers to the following options: one or more of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases "one or more of A, B, or C" and "at least one of A, B, or C" refer to the following options: one or more A; one or more B; one or more C; one or more A and one or more B; one or more B and one or more C; one or more A and one or more C; and one or more A, one or more B, and one or more C. Similarly, a list of "multiple of" (and variations thereof) preceded by and including "or" to individually list elements refers to the following options: multiple instances of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases "multiple of A, B, or C" and "two or more of A, B, or C" refer to the following options: A and B; B and C; A and C; and A, B, and C.

[0073] As used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, directional terms are used to facilitate reference when discussing a particular figure or example. For example, references to a downward (or other) direction or a top (or other) position may be used to discuss various aspects of a particular example or figure, but similar orientations or geometries are not necessarily required in all installations or configurations.

[0074] Also as used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, "substantially parallel" means directions within ±12 degrees (eg, within ±6 degrees) of a reference direction, inclusive.

[0075] Also as used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, "substantially perpendicular" means a direction within ±12 degrees (eg, within ±6 degrees) (including endpoints) perpendicular to a reference direction.

[0076] Also as used herein, unless otherwise qualified or limited, "integral" and its derivatives (e.g., "integrally") describe an element that is manufactured as a single device without the need for fasteners, adhesives, or the like to secure the separate components together. For example, an element that is stamped, cast, or otherwise molded as a one-piece component from a single piece of sheet metal or using a single mold without the need for rivets, screws, or adhesives to hold the separately formed components together is an integral (and integrally formed) element. In contrast, an element formed from multiple components that are initially formed separately and then later connected together is not an integral (and integrally formed) element.

[0077] Also as used herein, unless otherwise qualified or limited, the terms "approximately" and "approximately" as used herein relative to a reference value refer to a variation of ±15% or less of the reference value, including the endpoints of the range. Similarly, the term "substantially equal to" (and similar terms) relative to a reference value as used herein refers to a variation of less than ±10% of the reference value, including the endpoints. In specified cases, "substantially" can specifically indicate a variation in one numerical direction relative to a reference value. For example, "substantially less than" (and similar terms) compared to a reference value means a value that is reduced by 10% or more from the reference value, while "substantially greater than" (and similar terms) compared to a reference value means a value that is increased by 10% or more from the reference value.

[0078] Also as used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, "substantially the same" refers to two or more components or systems manufactured or used according to the same process and specification with variations between the components or systems within the limits of acceptable tolerances for the relevant process and specification. For example, two components may be considered substantially the same if they are manufactured with the same materials, according to the same standardized manufacturing steps, and within the same acceptable dimensional tolerances (e.g., as specified by a particular process or product).

[0079] Unless otherwise expressly indicated, ordinal numbers used herein are generally convenient for reference based on the order in which particular components are present in the relevant portions of the present disclosure. In this regard, for example, designations such as "first," "second," etc. generally indicate only the order of components so labeled introduced for discussion, and generally do not specify or require a particular spatial, functional, temporal, or structural primacy or order.

[0080] The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable those skilled in the art to implement or use the present disclosure. Given the benefit of the present disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications to these embodiments will be apparent, and the principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but to the maximum extent consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A server slide, comprising: Track 1; a second track telescopically engaged with the first track; and A latch assembly, the latch assembly being fixed to the first end of the first track, the latch assembly comprising: a latch movable between a first latched position and a second latched position; a biasing element that biases the latch toward a first latched position; and a handle pivotable between a first handle position and a second handle position to move the latch from the first latched position to the second latched position; When the latch is in the first latch position and the handle is in the first handle position, the latch extends into the opening in the second track to prevent telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track in a first direction, and When the latch is in the second latch position and the handle is in the second handle position, the latch is disengaged from the opening on the second track to allow telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track in the first direction.

2. The server slide according to claim 1, wherein: The biasing element biases the latch into engagement with the second track in a biasing direction that is substantially perpendicular to the telescopic movement of the first track.

3. The server slide according to claim 1, wherein: The first track includes a housing that at least partially encloses the latch and guides sliding movement of the latch relative to the first track between a first latched position and a second latched position.

4. The server slide according to claim 3, wherein: The housing is secured to the first rail via a mounting bracket secured to and extending from a first end of the first rail body.

5. The server slide according to claim 3, wherein: The handle comprises: a grip portion extending outside the housing; and A rod extends within the housing to translate the latch relative to the housing during pivotal movement of the handle.

6. The server slide according to claim 5, wherein: The rod extends within the housing to contact the latch within a recess of the latch to achieve one or more of the following: translating the latch relative to the housing during pivotal movement of the handle; or The latch is prevented from moving beyond the first latch position.

7. The server slide of claim 1, wherein: The handle is pivotally secured to the latch assembly via a fastener, wherein the fastener forms a pivot point about which the handle rotates.

8. The server slide of claim 1, wherein: the second track includes a body and a retaining plate secured to the body at a first end of the second track, the retaining plate including an upper surface defining a cutout; and When the handle is in the first handle position, the latch engages the notch to prevent telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track.

9. The server slide according to claim 8, wherein: The first end of the latch includes a chamfered surface and a wall opposite the chamfered surface configured to contact a wall of the cutout to prevent telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track.

10. The server slide of claim 9, wherein: The upper surface of the retaining plate includes an inclined portion, wherein the inclined portion contacts a chamfered surface of the latch to guide the latch into the notch during telescopic movement of the first track relative to the second track in the second direction.

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