Ejector assembly

Abstract

An apparatus for securing a board within a frame and a system using the apparatus are disclosed. The apparatus comprises at least one mounting bracket and at least one keeper having a slot, each configured to be mounted to the frame. The apparatus has a handle pivotable between a latched state and an unlatched state. Handle includes a distal end portion defining an opening, a proximal end portion having an engagement surface, a fastener received in the opening and defining a pivot axis, and a post configured travel along an inner surface of the slot. The apparatus has an actuator movable between an engaged position in which the handle is prevented from pivotable movement relative to the frame and a disengaged position in which the handle is not prevented from pivotable movement. The distal end portion rotates about the pivot axis when the actuator is in the disengaged position.

Description

[0001] EJECTOR ASSEMBLY

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0003] This application claims priority to United States Provisional Application No. 63 / 449,775, filed March 3, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

[0004] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention relates generally to securing a board within a case, and particularly, to an apparatus for securing printed circuit boards within server racks or cabinets.

[0006] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Generally, computing devices such as personal computers or servers include a number of printed circuit boards (PCBs) mounted in racks, trays, or rails within a larger, framed box. The PCBs are typically coupled to multiple electrical connections in order to receive power or transmit or receive electrical signals. Accordingly, the PCBs must be consistently and securely positioned within the computing device in order to maintain secure and reliable electrical connections.

[0008] Release mechanisms known as "ejectors" have been used to insert or eject PCBs into or out of a desired slot. Ejectors may attach to the front (or "faceplate") of the PCB, and employ a mechanical operation to reliably secure or release the PCB within the computing device's box. As computing devices continue to increase in popularity and use, the number and diversity of PCBs likewise is increasing. Accordingly, improved systems and devices are desired for inserting or ejecting PCBs.

[0009] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Aspects of the present invention are related to apparatus assemblies and systems for securing a board within a frame.

[0011] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus configured for securing a board to a frame is disclosed. The apparatus is configured for securing a board to a frame. The apparatus comprises at least one mounting bracket configured to be mounted to the frame; at least one keeper configured to be mounted to the frame, the at least one keeper defining a slot; a handle pivotable relative to the frame between a latched state in which the board is positionable to be secured to the frame and an unlatched state in which the board is permitted to be inserted into or removed from the frame. The handle has a distal end portion defining an opening, the distal end portion coupled to one or more of the at least one keeper and the mounting bracket, and a proximal end portion having an engagement surface. The apparatus includes a fastener received in the opening defined in the distal end portion of the handle, the fastener defining a pivot axis. A post is configured travel along an inner surface of the slot. An actuator is coupled to the at least one mounting bracket and operatively engaged with the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle. The actuator is movable between an engaged position in which the actuator contacts the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle and prevents pivoting of the handle relative to the frame and a disengaged position in which the actuator does not contact the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle or prevent pivoting of the handle relative to the frame. The distal end portion of the handle is configured to rotate about the pivot axis when the actuator is in the disengaged position.

[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a system comprising an apparatus is disclosed. The system includes a frame; a board configured to be secured to the frame; at least one mounting bracket mounted to the frame; at least one keeper mounted to the frame, the at least one keeper defining a slot; a handle pivotable relative to the frame between a latched state in which the board is secured to the frame and an unlatched state in which the board is permitted to be removed from or inserted into the frame. The handle has a distal end portion coupled to one or more of the at least one keeper and the mounting bracket, and a fastener received in the opening defined in the distal end portion of the handle, the fastener defining a pivot axis. The system comprises a post configured travel along an inner surface of the slot; and an actuator coupled to the at least one mounting bracket and operatively engaged with the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle. The actuator is movable between an engaged position in which the actuator contacts the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle and prevents pivoting of the handle relative to the frame and a disengaged position in which the actuator does not contact the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle or prevent pivoting of the handle relative to the frame. The distal end portion of the handle is configured to rotate about the pivot axis when the actuator is in the disengaged position

[0013] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The invention is best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. It is emphasized that, according to common practice, the various features of the drawings are not to scale. On the contrary, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. Included in the drawings are the following figures:

[0015] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a system for securing a board within a frame in accordance with aspects of the present invention; FIG. 2A depicts an exemplary apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 2B depicts a partially exploded view of the apparatus of FIG. 2A.

[0017] FIG. 20 depicts a top view of the apparatus of FIG. 2A;

[0018] FIG. 2D depicts a cross-section view of the apparatus of FIG. 2C, taken along line 2D-2D;

[0019] FIGS. 3A-3D depicts an exemplary handle of the apparatus of FIG. 2A;

[0020] FIGS. 4A-4B depicts an exemplary housing of the apparatus of FIG. 2A;

[0021] FIG. 4C depicts a cross-section view of the housing of FIG. 4B, taken along line 4C-4C;

[0022] FIG. 4D depicts a cross-section view of the housing of FIG. 4B, taken along line 4D-4D;

[0023] FIGS. 5A-5C depicts an exemplary actuator of the apparatus of FIG. 2A;

[0024] FIG. 5D depicts a cross-section view of the actuator of FIG. 50, taken along line 5D-5D;

[0025] FIGS. 6A-6B depicts an exemplary pivot pin of the apparatus of FIG. 2A;

[0026] FIG. 6C depicts a cross-section view of the actuator of FIG. 6B, taken along line 6C-6C;

[0027] FIGS. 7A-7C depicts an exemplary torsion spring of the apparatus of FIG. 2A;

[0028] FIG. 8A-8C depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 2A, showing the handle in a latched or retracted position;

[0029] FIG. 8D-8F depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 2A, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of 10°;

[0030] FIG. 8G-8H depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 2A, showing rotation of the distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of 60°;

[0031] FIGS. 8I-8J depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 2A, showing an unlatched state of the handle, when the distal end portion of the handle is rotated for an angular displacement of 125°;

[0032] FIGS. 9A-9D depict another exemplary apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

[0033] FIG. 10A depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 9A- 9D, showing the handle in a latched or retracted position; FIG. 10B depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 9A- 9D, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 19°;

[0034] FIG. IOC depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 9A- 9D, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 37°;

[0035] FIG. 10D depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 9A- 9D, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 54°;

[0036] FIG. 10E depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 9A- 9D, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 73°;

[0037] FIGS. 10F-10G depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 9A-9D, showing an unlatched state of the handle, when the distal end portion of the handle is rotated for an angular displacement of up to 115°;

[0038] FIG. 11 depicts another exemplary apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

[0039] FIG. 12A depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 11, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 19°;

[0040] FIG. 12B depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 11, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 37°;

[0041] FIG. 12C depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 11, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 54°;

[0042] FIG. 12D depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 11, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 73°;

[0043] FIGS. 12E-12F depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG.

[0044] 11, showing an unlatched state of the handle, when the distal end portion of the handle is rotated for an angular displacement of up to 115°;

[0045] FIG. 13 depicts another exemplary apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

[0046] FIGS. 14A-14B depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 13, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 19°; FIGS. 14C-14D depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 13, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 37°;

[0047] FIGS. 14E-14F depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG.

[0048] 13, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 54°;

[0049] FIGS. 14G-14H depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 13, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 73°; and

[0050] FIG. 14I-14J depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIG. 13, showing an unlatched state of the handle, when the distal end portion of the handle is rotated for an angular displacement of up to 115°;

[0051] FIGS. 15A-15B depict an exemplary operation of another exemplary apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present invention, showing the handle in a latched or retracted position;

[0052] FIGS. 15C-15D depict an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 15A-15B, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 19°;

[0053] FIGS. 15E-15F depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 15A-15B, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 37°;

[0054] FIG. 15G-15H depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 15A-15B, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 54°;

[0055] FIG. 15I-15J depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 15A-15B, showing rotation of a distal end portion of the handle for an angular displacement of up to 73°; and

[0056] FIG. 15K-15L depicts an exemplary operation of the apparatus of FIGS. 15A-15B, showing an unlatched state of the handle, when the distal end portion of the handle is rotated for an angular displacement of up to 115°.

[0057] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0058] The exemplary systems and assemblies disclosed herein are usable for securing a board within a frame. For example, the systems and assemblies may be used for inserting a board within a frame, and / or may be used for ejecting a board from a frame. As used herein, the term "board" is intended to encompass any card, sheet, or other flexible or rigid surface (whether planar or nonplanar) having any desired size or shape. Additionally, as used herein, the term "frame" is intended to encompass any slot, rack, tray, rail, or other structure into which a board may be secured or associated. The term "frame" may or may not encompass additional structural components associated with the slot, rack, tray, or rail in which the board is secured, including related chassis, housings, boxes, or other associated structural components.

[0059] The exemplary systems and assemblies disclosed herein may be particularly useful in conjunction with printed circuit boards (PCBs) (i.e., "boards"). The exemplary systems and assemblies may be designed for attachment to a faceplate of a PCB. Additionally, the exemplary systems and assemblies may be configured to attach to or otherwise operate with computing devices such as computer or server chassis in order to insert or eject PCBs. Suitable PCBs and computing devices usable in conjunction with the disclosed exemplary systems and assemblies include, by way of example, telecommunications equipment. Other suitable PCBs or computing devices will be known to one of ordinary skill in the art from the description herein. While the exemplary systems and assemblies disclosed herein are principally described with respect to PCBs, it will nonetheless be understood that the invention is not so limited.

[0060] Generally, the exemplary apparatus permits a component, such as a handle, to have a high stroke, but low handle rotation. Thus, the stoke (travel) is high with low handle rotation, which can be advantageous in terms of space constraints. In addition, the exemplary apparatus comprises a latch, a fastener, an inject or eject mechanism, or a combination thereof.

[0061] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a system 100 for securing a board, such as a PCB, within a frame using an apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present invention. An exemplary apparatus 200 is depicted in FIGS. 2A-2D. In one non-limiting example, apparatus 200 may be usable to insert into or eject from frame 102 a PCB of a computing device (e.g., server). There may be an apparatus 200 provided on each side of the board being removed from the frame 102. As an overview, apparatus 200 includes a housing 202, handle 204, and an actuator 206. Additional details of apparatus 200 are described below.

[0062] Housing 202 is configured to be mounted to the frame 102. Additionally or optionally, housing 202 is coupled to a board, such as a PCB. In an exemplary embodiment, housing 202 provides an attachment between frame 102 and the PCB to be secured by apparatus 200. Housing 202 may comprise one or a plurality of different components. In an exemplary embodiment, housing 202 is configured as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4A-4D to be coupled to a PCB, and / or the remaining components of apparatus 200, as will be described below. Further, housing 202 may have an elongated body with a distal end portion 202a defining an engagement surface configured to secure and / or interface with a distal end portion 204a of handle 204 (discussed below). Housing 202 also has a proximal end portion 202b having another engagement surface configured to secure and / or interface with a proximal end portion 204b of handle 204 and / or actuator 206 (discussed below). As best shown in FIG. 2B, the distal end portion 204a comprises parallel side walls 210 with a gap 214 therebetween. Each parallel side wall 210 defines a respective aperture 212a / 212b configured to be aligned, such that the respective apertures 212a / 212b and the gap 214 together define a passageway. The passageway is configured to receive a pin 208 configured to fixedly couple the housing 202 to one or more components of apparatus 200, such as handle 204. Still further, a biasing means such as a torsion spring member 216, may wrap around pin 208 and is disposed within gap 214. In an exemplary embodiment, torsion spring member 216 may bias the handle 204 toward an unlatched or open position. As illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7C, torsion spring member 216 has a pair of arms 218, one being provided at each end of the coiled body 220. One of the arms 218 presses against the housing 202 and the other arm 218 presses against the distal end portion 204a of handle 204.

[0063] Turning now to FIGS. 3A-3B, the handle 204 enables a user to actuate apparatus 200 to eject the board (e.g. PCB) from the frame 102 or insert the board into the frame 102. The handle 204 is pivotably coupled to the housing 202, such that the housing 202 is pivotable between a latched state (FIG. 8A-8C) and an unlatched state (FIG. 8I-8J). In the latched state, the PCB is positionable to be secured to the frame 102. Conversely, in the unlatched state, the PCB is permitted to be inserted into or removed from the frame 102. Handle 204 may comprise one or a plurality of different components. In an exemplary embodiment, handle 204 is configured as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2B to be coupled to a housing 202, and / or the remaining components of apparatus 200, as will be described below. Further, handle 204 may have a generally elongated body that corresponds to the geometry of the housing 202. In a non-limiting example, the handle 204 and the housing 202 comprise the same material (e.g. metal). Handle 204 includes the distal end portion 204a defining an opening 224. Handle 204 also has a proximal end portion 204b having an engagement surface 222 configured to operatively engage with actuator 206. FIG. 2B shows that opening 224 of the distal end portion 204a is configured to receive and is operatively engaged with a pivot pin 226. As shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, the pivot pin 226 is configured to rotate about a pivot axis or axis of rotation (FIG. 8A). The pivot pin 226 has a substantially smooth exterior surface, except for portion 228. Pivot pin 226 is configured to travel along an inner surface of the slot 104 (FIG. 1C). Apparatus 200 includes an actuator 206 coupled to the housing 202. In a non-limiting example, the actuator 206 comprises a plastic material. The actuator 206 is operatively engaged with the engagement surface 222 of the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204. The actuator 206 is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the actuator 206 contacts the engagement surface 222 of the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204. In this configuration, the handle 204 is prevented from pivotable movement relative to the housing 202. In the disengaged position, the actuator 206 does not contact the engagement surface 222 of the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204. In this configuration, the actuator 206 does not prevent the handle 204 from pivotable movement relative to the housing 202. Additionally or optionally, the distal end portion 202b of the handle 204 is configured to rotate about the pivot pin 226 when the actuator 206 is in the disengaged position.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, the actuator 206 comprises a planar top surface 228 and an engagement surface 230. The engagement surface 222 is configured to be operatively engaged with the proximal end portion 202b of housing 202 and the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204. Engagement surface 222 includes parallel side walls 232 with a gap 236 therebetween. Each parallel side wall 232 defines a respective aperture 234a / 234b configured to be aligned, such that the respective apertures 234a / 234b and the gap 236 together define a passageway. The passageway is configured to receive a pin 238 (FIG. 2B) configured to fixedly couple the actuator 206 to one or more components of apparatus 200, such as handle 204 and / or housing 202. Still further, a biasing means such as a spring member 240 (FIG. 2B), is configured to bias the actuator 206 toward the engaged position, in which the handle 204 is in the latched state.

[0065] The button 300 is movable to a depressed position for moving the actuator 206 to the disengaged position. In this configuration, the handle 204 is movable toward the unlatched state by depression of the button 300. The button 300 is oriented for movement along a depression axis (FIGS. 8D-8F). In particular, movement of the button 300 along the depression axis is configured to permit the engagement surface 222 of the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204 to operatively disengage from the actuator 206 or button 300, thereby allowing the distal end portion 204a of the handle 204 to rotate around the pivot pin 226. The proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204 and the actuator 206 is sized and positionable to be accessible by a user of apparatus 200 during operation of apparatus 200. Operation of the apparatus 200 is further discussed below, with reference to FIGS. 8A-8J. In the example shown in FIG. 8A-8C, the actuator 206 is in the engaged position, where the handle 204 is prevented from pivotable movement relative to the housing 202 or frame 102. Thus, when the actuator 206 is in the engaged position, the handle 204 is in the latched state. In operation, to move the handle 204 toward the unlatched state, the button 300 is moved along the depression axis (FIG. 8D). In so doing, engagement surface 222 of the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204 is operatively disengaged from the actuator 206 or button 300. Additionally or optionally, engagement surface 222 of the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204 is operatively disengaged from housing 202. In an exemplary embodiment, engagement surface 222 of the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204 comprises a first projection 250 and second projection 242 (FIG. 3D), both extending downwardly from an elongated body of handle 204. Accordingly, when the button 300 is moved along the depression axis, second projection 242 is operatively disengaged from the actuator 206 or button 300 and first projection 250 is operatively disengaged from housing 202.

[0066] Specifically, when button 300 is moved along the depression axis, the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204 is operatively disengaged from the actuator 206 and is rotated for an angular displacement of up to 10° (FIG. 8D). Simultaneously, when button 300 is moved along the depression axis and the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204 is operatively disengaged from the actuator 206, the distal end portion 202b of the handle 204 is configured to rotate about the pivot pin 226. Namely, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8j, as handle 204 pivots relative to housing 202 or frame 102, the distal end portion 204a of handle 204 and pivot pin 226 travel along the inner surface defined by the slot 104. As the handle 204 continues to pivot toward the unlatched state, such as when the distal end portion 204a of the handle 204 rotates around the pivot pin 226 for an angular displacement of up to 60° (FIGS. 8G-8H), the distal end portion 204a of handle 204 and pivot pin 226 travel along the inner surface defined by the slot 104 and along the exterior surface of the distal end portion 202a of housing 202. When the distal end portion 204a of the handle 204 rotates around the pivot pin 226 for an angular displacement of up to 125° (FIGS. 8I-8J ), the handle 204 is in the unlatched state and the handle 204 enables a user to actuate apparatus 200 to insert or eject the board from the frame 102. Notably, as the handle 204 is moved between the latched state and the unlatched state, the slot 104 defined in the frame 102 is shaped to prevent outward movement of the pivot pin 226 relative to the slot 104, such that pivot pin 226 is maintained in operative engagement with slot 104 during operation of apparatus 200. When the handle 204 is in the unlatched state, the actuator 206 is in the disengaged position and does not contact the engagement surface 222 of the proximal end portion 204b of the handle 204. A second embodiment of an apparatus, such as apparatus 1200, is illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9D, and operation thereof is discussed with reference to FIGS. 10A-10G, as described in further detail below. Apparatus 1200 is generally similar to apparatus 200 described above, but differs in some respects. As with apparatus 200, there may be an apparatus 1200 provided on each side of the board being inserted into and / or removed from the frame 1102 (FIG. 9A). As an overview, apparatus 1200 includes a handle 1204 and an actuator 1206. Additional details of apparatus 1200 are described below.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 9A, apparatus 1200 includes at least one mounting bracket 1400 configured to be mounted to the frame 1102, a board or component, and / or other components of apparatus 1200, as will be described below. As shown in FIG. 10, the at least one mounting bracket 1400 may have a body with irregular geometry. The illustrated irregular geometry of the at least one mounting bracket 1400 is not intended to be limiting and one skilled in the art would understand from the description herein that other geometries may correspond to the size and shape of the frame 1102, a board, and / or other components of apparatus 1200. A distal end portion 1402a of the at least one mounting bracket 1400 defines an engagement surface configured to secure and / or operatively engage with a distal end portion 1204a of handle 1204 (discussed below). The at least one mounting bracket 1400 also has a proximal end portion 1402b having another engagement surface configured to secure and / or operatively engage with a proximal end portion 1204b of handle 1204 and / or actuator 1206 (discussed below). The distal end portion 1402a comprises a planar surface 1410 defining an aperture 1412 configured to receive a fastening means (e.g. a screw 1414) for coupling the at least one mounting bracket 1400 to another component of apparatus 1200, such as handle 1204.

[0068] Additionally or optionally, as illustrated in FIG. 9C, apparatus 1200 includes at least one keeper 1500 configured to be mounted to the frame 1102, a board or component, and / or other components of apparatus 1200 by known fastening means (e.g. screw 1414), as will be described below. The at least one keeper 1500 may have a size and shape, which depends on the board, the frame 1102, and / or other components of apparatus 1200. The at least one keeper 1500 defines a slot 1504 configured to receive a post 1226 (discussed below). The slot 1504 has an inner surface along which the post 1226 travels as the handle 1204 moves between an unlatched state and a latched state (discussed below).

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9B, the handle 1204 enables a user to actuate apparatus 1200 to insert or eject the board from the frame 1102. The handle 1204 is also pivotable relative to the at least one mounting bracket 1400 between a latched state (FIG. 10A) and an unlatched state (FIG. 10F-10G). In the latched state, the board or component is secured to the frame 1102. Conversely, in the unlatched state, the board or component is permitted to be removed from or inserted into the frame 1102. Handle 1204 may comprise one or a plurality of different components. In an exemplary embodiment, handle 1204 is configured as shown in FIGS. 9B and 10A-10G to be fixedly coupled to the at least one keeper 1500, the at least one mounting bracket 1400, and / or the remaining components of apparatus 200. Further, handle 204 may have a generally curved body. In a non-limiting example, the handle 1204, the at least one keeper 1500, and the at least one mounting bracket 1400 comprise the same material (e.g. metal). Handle 1204 includes a distal end portion 1204a defining an opening 1224. Handle 1204 also has a proximal end portion 1204b having an engagement surface 1222 configured to operatively engage with actuator 1206. Disposed on the distal end portion 1204a is the post 1226 extending upwardly from a planar surface of the distal end portion 1204a of the handle 1204. As shown in FIGS. 10A-10G, the handle 1204 is configured to rotate about a pivot axis or axis of rotation (FIG. 10A) defined by screw 1414 and the post 1226 is configured to travel along an inner surface of the slot 1504 (FIG. 9C).

[0070] Turning now to FIG. 9D, apparatus 1200 includes an actuator 1206 coupled to the proximal end portion 1404b of the at least one mounting bracket 1400 and the proximal end portion 1204b of handle 1204. In a non-limiting example, the actuator 1206 comprises a plastic material. The actuator 1206 is operatively engaged with the engagement surface 1222 of the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204. In particular, the actuator 1206 is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the actuator 1206 contacts the engagement surface 1222 of the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204. In this configuration, the handle 1204 is prevented from pivotable movement relative to the at least one mounting bracket 1400. In the disengaged position, the actuator 1206 does not contact the engagement surface 1222 of the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204. In this configuration, the actuator 1206 does not prevent the handle 1204 from pivotable movement relative to the at least one mounting bracket 1400. Additionally or optionally, the distal end portion 1202b of the handle 1204 is configured to rotate about the pivot axis as post 1226 travels along the inner surface of slot 1504, when the actuator 206 is in the disengaged position.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the actuator 1206 comprises a rotating lever plunger 1300 having an engagement surface 1230. The engagement surface 1230 is configured to be operatively engaged with the proximal end portion 1402b of the at least one mounting bracket 1400 and the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204. Engagement surface 1230 includes a projection 1234 configured to be received by an aperture 1236 (FIG. 10E) defined by the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204.

[0072] Operation of the rotating lever plunger 1300 is described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,371,540, the contents of which is incorporated herein for all purposes. In particular, operation of the rotating lever plunger 1300 is configured to permit the engagement surface 1222 of the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204 to operatively disengage from the actuator 1206 or button 1300, thereby allowing the distal end portion 1204a of the handle 1204 to rotate around the pivot axis. The proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204 and the actuator 1206 is sized and positionable to be accessible by a user of apparatus 1200 during operation of apparatus 1200. Operation of the apparatus 1200 is further discussed below, with reference to FIGS. 14A-14F In the example shown in FIG. 10A, the actuator 1206 is in the engaged position, where the handle 1204 is prevented from pivotable movement relative to the frame 1102 and / or the at least one mounting bracket 1400. Thus, when the actuator 1206 is in the engaged position, the handle 1204 is in the latched state. In operation, the rotating lever plunger 1300 is configured to move the handle 1204 toward the unlatched state. In so doing, engagement surface 1222 of the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204 is operatively disengaged from the actuator 1206 or rotating lever plunger 1300. Additionally or optionally, engagement surface 1222 of the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204 is operatively disengaged from the at least one mounting bracket 1400. In an exemplary embodiment, engagement surface 1222 of the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204 comprises aperture 1236 configured to engage with projection 1234 of actuator 206 or rotating lever plunger 300. Accordingly, projection 1234 is operatively disengaged from the actuator 1206 or rotating lever plunger 1300. Specifically, in response to motion of the rotating lever plunger 1300, the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204 is operatively disengaged from the actuator 1206 and is rotated for an angular displacement of up to 19° (FIG. 10B). Simultaneously, when the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204 is operatively disengaged from the actuator 1206, the distal end portion 1202b of the handle 1204 is configured to rotate about the pivot axis.

[0073] Namely, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10G, as handle 1204 pivots relative to the at least one mounting bracket 1400, the post 1226 travels along the inner surface defined by the slot 1504. As the handle 1204 continues to pivot toward the unlatched state, such as when the distal end portion 1204a of the handle 204 rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 37° (FIG. 10C), up to 54° (FIG. 10D), and up to 73° (FIG. 10F), the post 1226 travels along the inner surface defined by the slot 1504. When the distal end portion 1204a of the handle 1204 rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115° (FIG. 10F-10G), the handle 1204 is in the unlatched state and the handle 1204 enables a user to actuate apparatus 1200 to insert or eject the board from the frame 1102. Notably, as the handle 1204 is moved between the latched state and the unlatched state and for an angular displacement of up to 73°, the slot 1504 is shaped to prevent outward movement of the post 1226 relative to the slot 1504, such that post 1226 is maintained within slot 1504 during operation of apparatus 1200. However, as shown in FIG. 10F-10G, when the handle 1204 is displaced for up to 115° and is in the unlatched state, post 1226 is removed from slot 1504. When the handle 204 is in the unlatched state, the actuator 1206 is in the disengaged position and does not contact the engagement surface 1222 of the proximal end portion 1204b of the handle 1204.

[0074] A third embodiment of an apparatus, such as apparatus 2200, is illustrated in FIG. 11 and operation thereof is discussed with reference to FIGS. 12A- 12F, as described in further detail below. As with apparatus 1200, there may be an apparatus 2200 provided on each side of the board being inserted into and / or removed from the frame 2102. Apparatus 2200 is generally similar to apparatus 1200 described above, but differs in some respects. For example, handle 2204 includes a distal end portion 2204a defining an engagement surface 2222 configured to operatively engage with actuator 2206. Handle 2204 also has a proximal end portion 2204b defining an opening 2224. Disposed on the proximal end portion 2204b is the post 2226. As shown in FIGS. 12A-12F, the handle 2204 is configured to rotate about a pivot axis or axis of rotation (FIG. 12A) defined by screw 2414 and the post 2226 is configured to travel along an inner surface of the slot 2504 (FIG. 11). Accordingly, the operation of apparatus 2200 is similar as to that of apparatus 1200, but is in the opposite configuration with respect to location of certain components between the respective proximal end portions 2204b / 2404b and distal end portions 2204a / 2404a of one or more components of apparatus 2200.

[0075] Namely, as shown in FIGS. 12A-12F, as handle 2204 pivots relative to the at least one mounting bracket 2400, the post 2226 travels along the inner surface defined by the slot 2504. As the handle 2204 continues to pivot toward the unlatched state, such as when the distal end portion 2204a of the handle 2204 rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 19° and / or 5 mm of travel (FIG. 12A), up to 37° and / or 10 mm of travel (FIG. 12B), up to 54° and / or 15 mm of travel (FIG. 12C), and up to 73° and / or 21.5 mm of travel (FIG. 12D), the post 2226 travels along the inner surface defined by the slot 2504. When the distal end portion 2204a of the handle 2204 rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115° and / or 35 mm of travel (FIG. 12F), the handle 2204 is in the unlatched state and the handle 2204 enables a user to actuate apparatus 2200 to insert or eject the board from the frame 2102. Notably, as the handle 2204 is moved between the latched state and the unlatched state and for an angular displacement of up to 73°, the slot 2504 is shaped to prevent outward movement of the post 2226 relative to the slot 2504, such that post 2226 is maintained within slot 2504 during operation of apparatus 2200. However, as shown in FIG. 12F, when the handle 2204 is displaced for up to 115° and is in the unlatched state, post 2226 is removed from slot 2504. When the handle 2204 is in the unlatched state, the actuator 2206 is in the disengaged position and does not contact the engagement surface 2222 of the proximal end portion 2204b of the handle 2204.

[0076] A fourth embodiment of an apparatus, such as apparatus 3200, is illustrated in FIG. 13 and operation thereof is discussed with reference to FIGS. 14A- 14J, as described in further detail below. As with apparatus 1200, there may be an apparatus 3200 provided on each side of the board being inserted into and / or removed from the frame 3102. Apparatus 3200 is generally similar to apparatus 1200 described above, but differs in some respects. For example, actuator 3206 is generally similar to that of actuator 1206, except that actuator 3206 comprises a captive screw. In this configuration, use of captive screw 3206 reduces costs and provides improvements in securing capture of the handle 3204 in the locked / latched position.

[0077] Namely, as shown in FIGS. 14A-14J, as handle 3204 pivots relative to the at least one mounting bracket 3400, the post 3226 travels along the inner surface defined by the slot 3504. As the handle 3204 continues to pivot toward the unlatched state, such as when the distal end portion 3204a of the handle 3204 rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 19° and / or 5 mm of travel (FIGS. 14A- 14B), up to 37° and / or 10 mm of travel (FIGS. 14C-14D), up to 54° and / or 15 mm of travel (FIGS. 14E-14F), and up to 73° and / or 21.5 mm of travel (FIGS. 14G-14H), the post 3226 travels along the inner surface defined by the slot 3504. When the distal end portion 3204a of the handle 3204 rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115° and / or 35 mm of travel (FIGS. 14I-14J), the handle 3204 is in the unlatched state and the handle 3204 enables a user to actuate apparatus 3200 to insert or eject the board from the frame 3102. Notably, as the handle 3204 is moved between the latched state and the unlatched state and for an angular displacement of up to 73°, the slot 3504 is shaped to prevent outward movement of the post 3226 relative to the slot 3504, such that post 3226 is maintained within slot 3504 during operation of apparatus 3200. However, as shown in FIGS. 14I-14J, when the handle 3204 is displaced for up to 115° and is in the unlatched state, post 3226 is removed from slot 3504. When the handle 3204 is in the unlatched state, the actuator 3206 is in the disengaged position and does not contact the engagement surface 3222 of the proximal end portion 3204b of the handle 3204. A fifth embodiment of an apparatus, such as apparatus 4200, is illustrated in 15A-15K and described in further detail below. As with apparatus 2200, there may be an apparatus 4200 provided on each side of the board being inserted into and / or removed from the frame 4102. Apparatus 4200 is generally similar to apparatus 2200 described above, but differs in some respects. For example, actuator 4206 is generally similar to that of actuator 2206, except that actuator4 comprises a captive screw. In this configuration, use of captive screw 4206 reduces costs and provides improvements in securing capture of the handle 4204 in the locked / latched position.

[0078] Namely, as shown in FIGS. 15A-15L, as handle 4204 pivots relative to the at least one mounting bracket 4400, the post 4226 travels along the inner surface defined by the slot 4504. FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate the handle 4204 in the latched state. As the handle 4204 continues to pivot toward the unlatched state, such as when the distal end portion 4204a of the handle 4204 rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 19° and / or 5 mm of travel (FIGS. 15C-15D), up to 37° and / or 10 mm of travel (FIGS. 15E-15F), up to 54° and / or 15 mm of travel (FIGS. 15G-15H), and up to 73° and / or 21.5 mm of travel (FIGS. 15I-15J), the post 3226 travels along the inner surface defined by the slot 4504. When the distal end portion 4204a of the handle 4204 rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115° and / or 35 mm of travel (FIGS. 15K-15L), the handle 4204 is in the unlatched state and the handle 4204 enables a user to actuate apparatus 4200 to insert or eject the board from the frame 4102. Notably, as the handle 4204 is moved between the latched state and the unlatched state and for an angular displacement of up to 73°, the slot 4504 is shaped to prevent outward movement of the post 4226 relative to the slot 4504, such that post 4226 is maintained within slot 4504 during operation of apparatus 4200. However, as shown in FIGS. 15K-15L, when the handle 4204 is displaced for up to 115° and is in the unlatched state, post 4226 is removed from slot 4504. When the handle 4204 is in the unlatched state, the actuator 4206 is in the disengaged position and does not contact the engagement surface 4222 of the proximal end portion 4204b of the handle 4204.

[0079] Additionally or optionally, in any of the embodiments described above, the distal end portion (2204b, 3204b, 4204b) of the handle (2204, 3204, 4204) comprises a detent (2800, 3800, 4800) configured to facilitate a self-rotating function for the handle (2204, 3204, 4204). In operation, when the detent (2800, 3800, 4800) comes in contact with a component of the system, such as the frame, the handle (2204, 3204, 4204) is urged toward the latched position / state.

[0080] This invention includes, but is not limited to, the following aspects:

[0081] 1. An apparatus configured for securing a board to a frame, the apparatus comprising : at least one mounting bracket configured to be mounted to the frame; at least one keeper configured to be mounted to the frame, the at least one keeper defining a slot; a handle pivotable relative to the frame between a latched state in which the board is positionable to be secured to the frame and an unlatched state in which the board is permitted to be inserted into or removed from the frame, the handle having : a distal end portion defining an opening, the distal end portion coupled to one or more of the at least one keeper and the mounting bracket, and a proximal end portion having an engagement surface; a fastener received in the opening defined in the distal end portion of the handle, the fastener defining a pivot axis; a post configured travel along an inner surface of the slot; and an actuator coupled to the at least one mounting bracket and operatively engaged with the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle, the actuator being movable between an engaged position in which the actuator contacts the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle and prevents pivoting of the handle relative to the frame and a disengaged position in which the actuator does not contact the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle or prevent pivoting of the handle relative to the frame; wherein the distal end portion of the handle is configured to rotate about the pivot axis when the actuator is in the disengaged position.

[0082] 2. The apparatus of aspect 1, the actuator comprising a button movable to a depressed position for moving the actuator to the disengaged position.

[0083] 3. The apparatus of aspect 2, wherein the handle is movable toward the unlatched state by depression of the button.

[0084] 4. The apparatus of aspect 3, the actuator further comprising a biasing means for biasing the actuator toward the engaged position in which the handle is in the latched state.

[0085] 5. The apparatus of aspect 3, wherein the button is oriented for movement along a depression axis. 6. The apparatus of aspect 5, wherein movement of the button along the depression axis is configured to permit the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle to operatively disengage from the button, thereby allowing the distal end portion of the handle to rotate around the pivot axis.

[0086] 7. The apparatus of aspect 6, wherein the distal end portion of the handle rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 19°, when the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle is operatively disengaged from the button.

[0087] 8. The apparatus of aspect 6, wherein when the distal end portion of the handle rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115°, a protrusion of the handle contacts a portion of the frame.

[0088] 9. The apparatus of aspect 6, wherein movement of the button along the depression axis is configured to automatically rotate the distal end portion of the handle around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115°.

[0089] 10. The apparatus of aspect 6, wherein when the distal end portion of the handle rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115°, the handle is in the unlatched state in which the board is permitted to be removed from the frame.

[0090] 11. The apparatus of aspect 1, wherein the slot is shaped to prevent outward movement of the post relative to the slot, when the handle is in the latched state.

[0091] 12. The apparatus of aspect 1, wherein the handle and the housing comprise a metal.

[0092] 13. The apparatus of aspect 12, wherein the actuator comprises a plastic material.

[0093] 14. The apparatus of aspect 1, wherein the actuator comprises a captive screw.

[0094] 15. The apparatus of aspect 1, wherein the apparatus comprises a latch, a fastener, and an inject or eject mechanism.

[0095] 16. A system comprising an apparatus, the system comprising : a frame; a board configured to be secured to the frame; at least one mounting bracket mounted to the frame; at least one keeper mounted to the frame, the at least one keeper defining a slot; a handle pivotable relative to the frame between a latched state in which the board is secured to the frame and an unlatched state in which the board is permitted to be removed from or inserted into the frame, the handle having: a distal end portion coupled to one or more of the at least one keeper and the mounting bracket, and a fastener received in the opening defined in the distal end portion of the handle, the fastener defining a pivot axis; a post configured travel along an inner surface of the slot; and an actuator coupled to the at least one mounting bracket and operatively engaged with the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle, the actuator being movable between an engaged position in which the actuator contacts the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle and prevents pivoting of the handle relative to the frame and a disengaged position in which the actuator does not contact the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle or prevent pivoting of the handle relative to the frame; wherein the distal end portion of the handle is configured to rotate about the pivot axis when the actuator is in the disengaged position.

[0096] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be understood that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Additionally, variations, changes and substitutions among the different embodiments discussed above fall within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the appended claims cover all such variations as fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

What is Claimed :

1. An apparatus configured for securing a board to a frame, the apparatus comprising : at least one mounting bracket configured to be mounted to the frame; at least one keeper configured to be mounted to the frame, the at least one keeper defining a slot; a handle pivotable relative to the frame between a latched state in which the board is positionable to be secured to the frame and an unlatched state in which the board is permitted to be inserted into or removed from the frame, the handle having : a distal end portion defining an opening, the distal end portion coupled to one or more of the at least one keeper and the mounting bracket, and a proximal end portion having an engagement surface; a fastener received in the opening defined in the distal end portion of the handle, the fastener defining a pivot axis; a post configured travel along an inner surface of the slot; and an actuator coupled to the at least one mounting bracket and operatively engaged with the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle, the actuator being movable between an engaged position in which the actuator contacts the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle and prevents pivoting of the handle relative to the frame and a disengaged position in which the actuator does not contact the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle or prevent pivoting of the handle relative to the frame; wherein the distal end portion of the handle is configured to rotate about the pivot axis when the actuator is in the disengaged position.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, the actuator comprising a button movable to a depressed position for moving the actuator to the disengaged position.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the handle is movable toward the unlatched state by depression of the button.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, the actuator further comprising a biasing means for biasing the actuator toward the engaged position in which the handle is in the latched state.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the button is oriented for movement along a depression axis.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein movement of the button along the depression axis is configured to permit the engagement surface of the proximal endportion of the handle to operatively disengage from the button, thereby allowing the distal end portion of the handle to rotate around the pivot axis.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the distal end portion of the handle rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 19°, when the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle is operatively disengaged from the button.

8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein when the distal end portion of the handle rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115°, a protrusion of the handle contacts a portion of the frame.

9. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein movement of the button along the depression axis is configured to automatically rotate the distal end portion of the handle around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115°.

10. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein when the distal end portion of the handle rotates around the pivot axis for an angular displacement of up to 115°, the handle is in the unlatched state in which the board is permitted to be removed from the frame.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the slot is shaped to prevent outward movement of the post relative to the slot, when the handle is in the latched state.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the handle and the housing comprise a metal.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the actuator comprises a plastic material.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a captive screw.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises a latch, a fastener, and an inject or eject mechanism.

16. A system comprising an apparatus, the system comprising : a frame; a board configured to be secured to the frame; at least one mounting bracket mounted to the frame; at least one keeper mounted to the frame, the at least one keeper defining a slot; a handle pivotable relative to the frame between a latched state in which the board is secured to the frame and an unlatched state in which the board is permitted to be removed from or inserted into the frame, the handle having:a distal end portion coupled to one or more of the at least one keeper and the mounting bracket, and a fastener received in the opening defined in the distal end portion of the handle, the fastener defining a pivot axis; a post configured travel along an inner surface of the slot; and an actuator coupled to the at least one mounting bracket and operatively engaged with the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle, the actuator being movable between an engaged position in which the actuator contacts the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle and prevents pivoting of the handle relative to the frame and a disengaged position in which the actuator does not contact the engagement surface of the proximal end portion of the handle or prevent pivoting of the handle relative to the frame; wherein the distal end portion of the handle is configured to rotate about the pivot axis when the actuator is in the disengaged position.

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