Tool-free hanging ear installation system for cabinet equipment

Abstract

A lock head for use with a mounting rack ear system is disclosed. The lock head can include a rigid body, a plurality of faces, and a cam-following edge. The rigid body can define a longitudinal axis. The rigid body can include a first end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a second end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The plurality of faces can be disposed about the longitudinal axis. The cam-following edge can extend from the first end to the second end at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis. At least two faces of the plurality of faces can coincide along the cam-following edge. The cam-following edge can be configured to rotate the lock head in response to a force applied to the rigid body as the cam-following edge engages a corresponding cam surface defined by an aperture of a rigid frame.

Description

TITLETOOL-FREE HANGING EAR INSTALLATION SYSTEM FOR CABINET EQUIPMENTTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to apparatuses, systems, and methods for a tool-free hanging ear installation system for cabinet equipment.BACKGROUND

[0002] In various applications, cabinets are often employed to store equipment, such as hardware, or the like. In such applications, the cabinets can include a number of racks, or shelving units, to maximize space and the storage of hardware, or the like. In order to mount a number of racks, or shelving units, within a cabinet, hanging ear systems are often employed. A hanging ear system can be attached to an end of rail (e.g., a rail for use with a horizontal or vertical rack, shelving unit, or the like), or, alternatively, the hanging ear system can be attached directly to a piece of hardware, or the like, for mounting purposes. In any event, the hanging ear system can be received by a rigid frame to mount the hanging ear system, and thus the rack, the shelving unit, the piece of hardware, or the like for which the hanging ear system is attached, within the cabinet.

[0003] Current designs rely on the use of tools to install a hanging ear system. In other words, current designs can require a user to use tools such as a wrench, a screwdriver, or the like to install a hanging ear system, and thus the rack, the shelving unit, the piece of hardware, or the like for which the hanging ear system is attached, onto a rigid frame. It has been realized that the use of tools can be inefficient and lead to increased time and labor costs associated with installation. Additionally, it has been realized that increased stability, increased versatility, and space optimization of hanging ear systems may be beneficial.

[0004] Accordingly, through diligent research, the inventors of the present disclosure have realized that it may be beneficial to develop a new tool-free hanging ear installation system for cabinet equipment.SUMMARY

[0005] The following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of innovative features unique to the aspects disclosed herein and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the various aspects can be gained by taking the entire specification, claims, and abstract as a whole.

[0006] A lock head for use with a mounting rack ear system. The lock head may includea rigid body defining a longitudinal axis, the rigid body including a first end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a second end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The lock head may include a plurality of faces disposed about the longitudinal axis. The lock head may include a cam-following edge extending from the first end to the second end at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis, where at least two faces of the plurality of faces coincide along the cam-following edge, and where the cam-following edge is configured to rotate the rigid body in response to a force applied to the rigid body as the cam-following edge engages a corresponding cam surface defined by an aperture of a rigid frame. The lock head may include each of these features alone or in combination.

[0007] The lock head may include a shaft extending from the second end, where the shaft may include an opening configured to receive a fastener. The opening is a tapped hole, and where the fastener is a machine screw. The lock head may include each of these features alone or in combination.

[0008] The lock head may include a shaft extending from the second end, where the shaft may include a first slot configured to receive a ring and a second slot configured to receive a coil spring. The first slot extends about the longitudinal axis, and where the second slot extends along the longitudinal axis. The lock head may include each of these features alone or in combination.

[0009] The second end defines a perimeter sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the rigid body into the aperture, and where a misalignment between the perimeter and the aperture develops after insertion of the rigid body into the aperture to lock the rigid body to the rigid frame. The lock head may include a nub extending from the second end, where the nub is sized and configured to be received in a slot to restrict rotation of the lock head between a first position and a second position during insertion of the rigid body into the aperture. The rigid body is at least one of a twisted rigid cuboid or a twisted rigid frustum. Each face of the plurality of faces is a curved face. The lock head may include each of these features alone or in combination.

[0010] A mounting rack ear system to be mounted to a rigid frame. The mounting rack ear system may include a lock head. The lock head may include a first rigid body defining a longitudinal axis, the first rigid body including a first end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a second end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The lock head may include a plurality of faces disposed about the longitudinal axis. The lock head may include a cam-following edge extending from the first end to the second end at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis, where at least two faces of the plurality of faces coincide along the cam-following edge, and where the cam-following edge is configured to rotate the lock head in response to a force applied to the first rigid body as the cam-following edge engages a corresponding cam surface defined by an aperture of a rigid frame. The lock head may include a shaft extending from the second end, the shaft including a slot. The mounting ear rack system may include a hanging ear body. The hanging ear body may include a second rigid body including a third end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a fourth end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The hanging ear body may include a through hole extending from the third end to the fourth end, the through hole sized and configured to slidably receive the shaft. The mounting ear rack system may include a ring sized and configured to be received by the slot of the shaft to couple the lock head to the hanging ear body. The mounting ear rack system may include each of these features alone or in combination.

[0011] The second end of the lock head defines a perimeter sized and may be configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the first rigid body into the aperture, and where a misalignment between the perimeter and the aperture develops after insertion of the first rigid body into the aperture to lock the mounting rack ear system to the rigid frame. The slot is a first slot. The shaft may include a second slot. The mounting rack ear system may include a coil spring configured to be received in the second slot. The coil spring may be configured to reset an orientation of the perimeter of the second end of the lock head after insertion of the first rigid body into the aperture to create the misalignment. The first slot extends about the longitudinal axis, and where the second slot extends along the longitudinal axis. The mounting ear rack system may include each of these features alone or in combination.

[0012] The mounting rack ear system may include an anti-backlash spring positioned between the lock head and the second rigid body. The anti-backlash spring may be configured to prevent movement of the mounting rack ear system when mounted to the rigid frame. The mounting rack ear system may include at least one protrusion extending from the second rigid body in a same direction as the first rigid body, the at least one protrusion sized and configured to be received by at least one additional aperture of the rigid frame to support the mounting rack ear system when mounted to the rigid frame. The mounting rack ear system may include a nub extending from the second end of the lock head, the nub sized and configured to be received in a slot defined by the second rigid body to restrict rotation of the lock head between a first position and a second position during insertion of the first rigid body into the aperture. Each face of the plurality of faces is a curved face. The first rigidbody is at least one of a twisted rigid cuboid or a twisted rigid frustum. The second rigid body is a rectangular rigid cuboid. The mounting ear rack system may include each of these features alone or in combination.

[0013] A method of attaching a mounting rack ear system to a rigid frame. The method may include aligning a mounting rack ear system with a rigid frame based on an alignment between a lock head of the mounting rack ear system and an aperture defined by the rigid frame. The method may include applying a force substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis defined by the lock head to attach the mounting rack ear system to the rigid frame based on complete insertion of the lock head into the aperture and a misalignment between a perimeter of the lock head and the aperture. The method may include each of these features alone or in combination.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] In the description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are set forth, such as particular aspects, procedures, techniques, etc. to provide a thorough understanding of the present technology. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present technology may be practiced in other aspects that depart from these specific details.

[0015] The accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate aspects of concepts that include the claimed disclosure and explain various principles and advantages of those aspects.

[0016] The apparatuses, systems, and methods disclosed herein have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the various aspects of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

[0017] FIGS. 1A-D illustrate a lock head for use with a mounting rack ear system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of a mounting rack ear system to be mounted to a rigid frame, including the lock head (FIGS. 1A-D), according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIGS. 3A-D illustrate an assembled view of the mounting rack ear system (FIG.2) to be mounted to a rigid frame, including the lock head (FIGS. 1A-D), according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIGS. 4A-C illustrate a process of attaching the mounting rack ear system (FIGS.2, 3A-D) to a rigid frame from a first viewpoint, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIGS. 5A-C illustrate the process (FIGS. 4A-C) of attaching the mounting rack ear system (FIGS. 2, 3A-D) to a rigid frame from a second viewpoint, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIGS. 6A-D illustrate a lock head for use with a mounting rack ear system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIGS. 7A-D illustrate a mounting rack ear system to be mounted to a rigid frame, including the lock head (FIGS. 6A-D), according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIGS. 8A-B illustrate a retaining ring for use with the lock head (FIGS. 6A-D) and the mounting rack ear system (FIGS. 7A-D), according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIGS. 9A-B illustrate a coil spring for use with the lock head (FIGS. 6A-D) and the mounting rack ear system (FIGS. 7A-D), according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 10 illustrates a mounting rack for use with a mounting rack ear system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0027] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a method of attaching a mounting rack ear system to a rigid frame, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure.DESCRIPTION

[0028] The present disclosure may provide example apparatuses, systems, and methods for a tool-free hanging ear installation system for cabinet equipment. Although reference may be made to cabinet equipment, or the like, such aspects of the present disclosure are not so limited. That is, the apparatuses, systems, and methods disclosed herein may be utilized for any suitable purpose.

[0029] Now, with respect to the figures, FIGS. 1A-D illustrate a lock head 100 for use with a mounting rack ear system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. The lock head 100 can include a rigid body 102. The rigid body 102 can define a longitudinal axis 104. The rigid body 102 can include a first end 106 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 104 and a second end 108 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 104. The lock head 100 can further include a plurality of faces 110 disposed about the longitudinal axis 104. The lock head 100 can even further include a cam-following edge 112 extending from the first end 106 to the second end 108 at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 104. At least two faces of the plurality of faces 110 can coincide along the cam-following edge 112. The cam-following edge 112 can be configured to rotate the lock head 100 in response to a force applied to the rigid body 102 as the cam-following edge 112 engages a corresponding cam surface defined by an aperture of a rigid frame.

[0030] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, a force can be applied substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 104 by a user to insert the rigid body 102 into the aperture defined by the rigid frame. As a result of the geometry of the lock head 100 and, specifically, the plurality of faces 110 and the cam-following edge 112, the force applied to the rigid body 102 as the cam-following edge 112 engages the corresponding cam surface can be a tangential force. However, it shall be appreciated that different geometries of the lock head 100 and, specifically, the plurality of faces 110 and the cam-following edge 112, can result in a different force applied to the rigid body 102 as the cam-following edge 112 engages the corresponding cam surface.

[0031] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second end 108 can define a perimeter 114 sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the rigid body 102 into the aperture. A misalignment between the perimeter 114 and the aperture can develop after insertion of the rigid body 102 in the aperture to lock the rigid body 102 to the rigid frame. As shown in FIGS. 1 B, D, the perimeter 114 of the second end 108 can be greater than a perimeter defined by the first end 106. Alternatively, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the perimeter 114 of the second end 108 can be equal to a perimeter defined by the first end 106.

[0032] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the lock head 100 can further include a nub 116 extending from the second end 108. The nub 116 can be sized and configured to be received in a slot to restrict rotation of the lock head 100 between a first position and a second position during insertion of the rigid body 102 into the aperture. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by ±45°. In other words, a rotation of the lock head 100±45° from the first position can result in the lock head 100 being positioned in the second position. Alternatively, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by less than ±45°, or the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by more than ±45°.

[0033] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIGS. 1C-D, the lock head 100 can include more than one nub 116. In one aspect, the nubs 116 can be positioned opposite of one another relative to a central point of the lock head 100. In another aspects, the nubs 116 can be positioned in any manner with respect to a central point of the lock head 100.

[0034] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the lock head 100 can further include a shaft 118 extending from the second end 108. The shaft 118 can include an opening 120 configured to receive a fastener. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the shaft 118 can include a cylindrical shape. However, the shaft 118 is not so limited to a cylindrical shape.

[0035] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second end 108 can include the opening 120 configured to receive a fastener. In other words, the second end 108 may not include the shaft 118 extending therefrom and, instead, can include the opening 120 (e.g., a cavity) rather than the opening 120 being defined in the shaft 118.

[0036] In various aspects of the present disclosure, the opening 120 can be a tapped hole and the fastener can be a machine screw, such as a metric screw with a diameter of 4mm (e.g., an M4 screw). It shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the opening 120 can be any opening, or hole, configured to receive a fastener. For example, the opening 120 can be a counter-bore hole, a counter-sink hole, or the like. Similarly, it shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the fastener can be any screw, bolt, or similar fastener configured to be received by an opening, such as the opening 120, for example.

[0037] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the rigid body 102 can be a twisted rigid cuboid. Alternatively, the rigid body 102 can be a twisted rigid frustum. It shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the rigid body 102 can include any shape so long as a perimeter, such as the perimeter 114 of the second end 108, can be sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the rigid body 102 into the aperture. Furthermore, the rigid body 102 can include any shape so long as a misalignment between a perimeter, such as theperimeter 114 of the second end 108, can develop after insertion of the rigid body 102 into the aperture to lock the rigid body 102 to the rigid frame.

[0038] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, each face of the plurality of faces 110 of the lock head 100 can be a curved face. In other words, each face of the plurality of faces 110 can be curved with respect to any axis. For example, each face of the plurality of faces 110 can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 104. Additionally, each face of the plurality of faces 110 can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, fashion about the longitudinal axis 104. That is, each face of the plurality of faces 110 can curve, or rotate, around the longitudinal axis 104. As shown in FIGS. 1A-C, each face of the plurality of faces 110 can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 104, and each face of the plurality of faces 110 can be further curved at a linear, or non-linear, fashion about the longitudinal axis 104.

[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of a mounting rack ear system 200 to be mounted to a rigid frame, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. The mounting rack ear system 200 can include the lock head 100 of FIGS. 1A-D. For example, the lock head 100 can include a first rigid body 102, which can be identical to the rigid body 102 of FIGS 1A-D. The first rigid body 102 can define a longitudinal axis 104. Although not identified in FIG. 2, the first rigid body 102 can include a first end 106 (FIGS. 1A-C) substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 104 and a second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 104. The lock head 100 can further include a plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) disposed about the longitudinal axis 104. The lock head 100 can even further include a cam-following edge 112 (FIGS. 1A-C) extending from the first end 106 (FIGS. 1A-C) to the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 104. At least two faces of the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) can coincide along the cam-following edge 112 (FIGS. 1A-C). The cam-following edge 112 (FIGS. 1A-C) can be configured to rotate the lock head 100 in response to a force applied to the first rigid body 102 as the cam-following edge 112 (FIGS. 1A-C) engages a corresponding cam surface defined by an aperture of a rigid frame. The lock head 100 can even further include a shaft 118 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) extending from the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D). The shaft 118 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) can include an opening 120 (FIG. 1D).

[0040] The mounting rack ear system 200 can further include a hanging ear body 202. The hanging ear body 202 can include a second rigid body 204. The second rigid body 204 can include a third end 206 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 104 and a fourth end 208 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 104. The hanging ear body 202 can further include a through hole 210 extending from the third end 206 to the fourth end 208.The through hole 210 can be sized and configured to slidably receive the shaft 118 (FIGS. 1A, C-D).

[0041] The mounting rack ear system 200 can even further include a fastener 212. The fastener 212 can be sized and configured to be received by the opening 120 (FIG. 1 D) of the shaft 118 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) to couple the lock head 100 to the hanging ear body 202.

[0042] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, a force can be applied substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 104 by a user to insert the first rigid body 102 into the aperture defined by the rigid frame. As a result of the geometry of the lock head 100 and, specifically, the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) and the cam-following edge 112 (FIGS. 1A-C), the force applied to the first rigid body 102 as the cam-following edge 112 (FIGS. 1A-C) engages the corresponding cam surface can be a tangential force. However, it shall be appreciated that different geometries of the lock head 100 and, specifically, the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) and the cam-following edge 112 (FIGS. 1A-C), can result in a different force applied to the first rigid body 102 as the cam-following edge 112 (FIGS. 1A-C) engages the corresponding cam surface.

[0043] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the mounting rack ear system 200 can further include an anti-backlash spring 214. The anti-backlash spring 214 can be configured to prevent, or minimize, movement of the mounting rack ear system 200 when mounted to the rigid frame. As a result of the anti-backlash spring 214, a secure attachment of the mounting rack ear system 200 to the rigid frame is ensured. Although the anti-backlash spring 214 includes a unique shape as shown in FIGS. 2, 3A-C, it shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the antibacklash spring 214 can include any shape so long as the anti-backlash spring 214 prevents, or minimizes, movement of the mounting rack ear system 200 when mounted to the rigid frame. Furthermore, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the anti-backlash spring 214 can include tabs sized and configured to be received in a slot defined by second rigid body 204 such that the anti-backlash spring 214 can deform, as necessary, during insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture defined by the rigid frame.

[0044] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the mounting rack ear system 200 can further include at least one protrusion 216 extending from the second rigid body 204 in a same direction as the first rigid body 102. The at least one protrusion 216 can be sized and configured to be received by at least one additional aperture of the rigid frame to support the mounting rack ear system 200 when mounted to the rigid frame. Afterinsertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture of the rigid frame and insertion of the at least one protrusion 216 into the at least one additional aperture of the rigid frame, the first rigid body 102 and the at least one protrusion 216, collectively, provide additional support to bear a weight associated with a rack, a shelving unit, a piece of equipment, or the like, for which the mounting rack ear system 200 is attached.

[0045] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and with continued reference to FIG. 2, the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) of the lock head 100 can define a perimeter 114 (FIG. 1 D) sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture. A misalignment between the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1 D) and the aperture can develop after insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture to lock the mounting rack ear system 200 to the rigid frame. As shown in FIGS. 1B and 3B, the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1 D) of the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) can be greater than a perimeter defined by the first end 106 (FIGS. 1A-C). Alternatively, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1 D) of the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) can be equal to a perimeter defined by the first end 106 (FIGS. 1A-C).

[0046] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the mounting rack ear system 200 can further include a reset plate 218 positioned between the second rigid body 204 and the fastener 212. The mounting rack ear system 200 can even further include a reset spring 220 coupled to the second rigid body 204 and the reset plate 218. The reset spring 220 can be configured to reset an orientation of the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1 D) of the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) of the lock head 100 after insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture to create the misalignment.

[0047] The reset plate 218 can be positioned between the second rigid body 204 and the fastener 212 and the fastener 212 can be received by the opening 120 (FIG. 1 D) of the shaft 118 (FIGS. 1A, C-D). Accordingly, a rotation of the lock head 100 during insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture defined by the rigid frame can cause the reset plate 218 to rotate accordingly. As a result of the rotation of the reset plate 218 during insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture defined by the rigid frame, the reset spring 220 can experience a tensile load. After the first rigid body 102 is inserted into the aperture defined by the rigid frame, the reset spring 220 can automatically reset to its original form, thereby rotating the lock head 100 to its original form, where a misalignment between the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1 D) of the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) of the first rigid body 102 and the aperture defined by the rigid frame can develop to lock the mounting rack ear system 200 to the rigid frame.

[0048] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the opening 120 (FIG. 1 D) can be a tapped hole and the fastener 212 can be a machine screw, such as a metric screw with a diameter of 4mm (e.g., an M4 screw). It shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the opening 120 (FIG. 1 D) can be any opening, or hole, configured to receive a fastener. For example, the opening 120 (FIG. 1 D) can be a counter-bore hole, a counter-sink hole, or the like. Similarly, it shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the fastener 212 can be any screw, bolt, or similar fastener configured to be received by an opening, such as the opening 120 (FIG. 1 D), for example.

[0049] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the mounting rack ear system 200 can further include a nub 116 (FIGS. 1C-D) extending from the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) of the lock head 100. The nub 116 (FIGS. 1C-D) can be sized and configured to be received in a slot 222 defined by the second rigid body 204 to restrict rotation of the lock head 100 between a first position and a second position during insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by ±45°. In other words, a rotation of the lock head 100 ±45° from the first position can result in the lock head 100 being positioned in the second position. Alternatively, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by less than ±45°, or the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by more than ±45°.

[0050] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIGS. 1C-D, the lock head 100 can include more than one nub 116 (FIGS. 1C-D). In one aspect, the nubs 116 (FIGS. 1C-D) can be positioned on either side of the shaft 118 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) and the opening 120 (FIG. 1 D). In another aspects, the nubs 116 (FIGS. 1C-D) can be positioned in any manner with respect to the shaft 118 (FIGS. 1A, C-D) and the opening 120 (FIG. 1 D).

[0051] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and with continued reference to FIG. 2, each face of the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) of the lock head 100 can be a curved face. In other words, each face of the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) can be curved with respect to any axis. For example, each face of the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 104. Additionally, each face of the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, fashion about the longitudinal axis 104. That is, each face of the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) can curve, or rotate, around the longitudinalaxis 104. As shown in FIGS. 1A-C, each face of the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 104, and each face of the plurality of faces 110 (FIGS. 1A-C) can be further curved at a linear, or nonlinear, fashion about the longitudinal axis 104.

[0052] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the first rigid body 102 can be a twisted rigid cuboid. Alternatively, the first rigid body 102 can be a twisted rigid frustum. It shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the first rigid body 102 can include any shape so long as a perimeter, such as the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1 D) of the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D), can be sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture. Furthermore, the first rigid body 102 can include any shape so long as a misalignment between a perimeter, such as the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1 D) of the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D), can develop after insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture to lock the first rigid body 102 to the rigid frame.

[0053] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second rigid body 204 can be a rectangular rigid cuboid. It shall be appreciated, however, that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second rigid body 204 can include any shape so long as the second rigid body 204 can form part of the mounting rack ear system 200 to be mounted to the rigid frame.

[0054] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and with continued reference to FIG. 2, the second rigid body 204 can include a first cavity 224 (FIG. 3D) for which the fastener 212, the reset plate 218, and the reset spring 220 are positioned. In such an aspect, the hanging ear body 202 can further include a second cavity 226 (FIG. 3D) configured to receive a back cover 228. The back cover 228 positioned in the second cavity 226 (FIG. 3D) can protect the fastener 212, the reset plate 218, and the reset spring 220. As a result, overall stability and durability of the mounting rack ear system 200 can be improved. In such an aspect, the hanging ear body 202 can even further include a cover screw 230, such as a metric screw with a diameter of 1.6mm (e.g., an M1.6 screw), that can be configured to be received in a cover screw opening 232. As a result, the back cover 228 can be fixedly coupled to the second rigid body 204 to ensure the fastener 212, the reset plate 218, and the reset spring 220 are protected during installation and use of the mounting rack ear system 200.

[0055] FIGS. 3A-D illustrate an assembled view of the mounting rack ear system 200 to be mounted to a rigid frame, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Asshown in FIGS. 3A-C, the anti-backlash spring 214 can include a unique shape. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 3A-C, the anti-backlash spring 214 can include tabs sized and configured to be received in a slot defined by second rigid body 204 such that the antibacklash spring 214 can deform, as necessary, during insertion of the first rigid body 102 into the aperture defined by the rigid frame.

[0056] Now, with specific reference to FIG. 3D, a fourth end 208 of the second rigid body 204 is illustrated, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown, reset plate 218 is aligned with the through hole 210 (FIG. 2) and thus the opening 120 such that a fastener, such as the fastener 212 (FIG. 2) can be received by the opening 120. The second rigid body 204 and, specifically, the first cavity 224 can include a protrusion 234, and the reset plate 218 can include a tab 236. Altogether, the protrusion 234 and the tab 236 are used to couple the reset spring 220 to the second rigid body 204 and the reset plate 218.

[0057] Again, since the reset plate 218 can be positioned between the second rigid body 204 and the fastener 212 (FIG. 2), and since the fastener 212 (FIG. 2) can be received by the opening 120 of the shaft 118 (FIGS. 1A, C-D), a rotation of the lock head 100 (FIGS. 1A- D, 2, 3A) during insertion of the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) into the aperture defined by the rigid frame can cause the reset plate 218 to rotate accordingly. As a result of the rotation of the reset plate 218 during insertion of the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) into the aperture defined by the rigid frame, the reset spring 220 can experience a tensile load. After complete insertion of the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) into the aperture defined by the rigid frame, the reset spring 220 can automatically reset to its original form, thereby rotating the lock head 100 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) to its original form, where a misalignment between the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1 D) of the second end 108 (FIGS. 1A, C-D, 3C) of the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) and the aperture defined by the rigid frame can develop to lock the mounting rack ear system 200 to the rigid frame.

[0058] FIGS. 4A-C illustrate a process of attaching the mounting rack ear system 200 to a rigid frame 402 from a first viewpoint, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 4A illustrates the mounting rack ear system 200 before installation with a rigid frame 402. As shown, the protrusions 216 can be aligned with apertures 402a, 402b, and the first rigid body 102 can be aligned with aperture 402c. FIG. 4B illustrates the mounting rack ear system 200 in the process of being installed with the rigid frame 402. As shown, the protrusions 216 are aligned with, and inserted into, the apertures 402a, 402b. As shown, the first rigid body 102 is aligned with, and inserted into, the aperture 402c. As a result of the geometry of the first rigid body 102, the cam-following edge 112 (FIGS. 1A-C, 3B-C) engages the corresponding cam surface of the aperture 402c of the rigid frame 402.As a result, the first rigid body 102 experiences a force, such as a tangential force, for example, and rotates accordingly to be received by the aperture 402c. FIG. 40 illustrates the mounting rack ear system 200 after being installed with the rigid frame 402. As shown, the protrusions 216 are aligned with, and inserted through, the apertures 402a, 402b. As shown, the first rigid body 102 is aligned with, and inserted through, the aperture 402c. As a result of the first rigid body 102 being completely inserted through the aperture 402c defined by the rigid frame 402, a misalignment between the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1D) of the first rigid body 102 and the aperture 402c can develop to lock the first rigid body 102 to the rigid frame 402.

[0059] FIGS. 5A-C illustrate the process of attaching the mounting rack ear system 200 to a rigid frame 402 from a second viewpoint, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 5A illustrates the mounting rack ear system 200 before installation with a rigid frame 402. As shown, the fastener 212 and, specifically, the reset plate 218 (FIGS. 2, 3D) and the reset spring 220 can be in a first position corresponding to the lock head 100 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A, C) before the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) is inserted into the aperture 402c (FIG. 4A) of the rigid frame 402. FIG. 5B illustrates the mounting rack ear system 200 in the process of being installed with the rigid frame 402. As shown, the faster 212 and, specifically, the reset plate 218 (FIGS. 2, 3D) and the reset spring 220 can be in a second position (e.g., rotated counterclockwise from the first position to the second position from the viewpoint of FIG. 5B) corresponding to the lock head 100 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A, C) during insertion of the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) into the aperture 402c (FIG. 4A) of the rigid frame 402. FIG. 5C illustrates the mounting rack ear system 200 after being installed with the rigid frame 402. As shown, the fastener 212 and, specifically, the reset plate 218 (FIGS. 2, 3D) and the reset spring 220 can be in the first position (e.g., rotated clockwise from the second position to the first position from the viewpoint of FIG. 5C) corresponding to the lock head 100 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A, C) after insertion of the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) into the aperture 402c (FIG. 4A) of the rigid frame 402. As a result of the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) being completely inserted through the aperture 402c (FIG. 4A) defined by the rigid frame 402, a misalignment between the perimeter 114 (FIG. 1D) of the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) and the aperture 402c (FIG. 4A) can develop to lock the first rigid body 102 (FIGS. 1A-D, 2, 3A) to the rigid frame 402.

[0060] FIGS. 6A-D illustrate a lock head 600 for use with a mounting rack ear system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. The lock head 600 can include a rigid body 602. The rigid body 602 can define a longitudinal axis 604. The rigid body 602 can include a first end 606 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 604 and a second end608 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 604. The lock head 600 can further include a plurality of faces 610 disposed about the longitudinal axis 604. The lock head 600 can even further include a cam-following edge 612 extending from the first end 606 to the second end 608 at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 604. At least two faces of the plurality of faces 610 can coincide along the cam-following edge 612. The camfollowing edge 612 can be configured to rotate the lock head 600 in response to a force applied to the rigid body 602 as the cam-following edge 612 engages a corresponding cam surface defined by an aperture of a rigid frame.

[0061] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, a force can be applied substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 604 by a user to insert the rigid body 602 into the aperture defined by the rigid frame. As a result of the geometry of the lock head 600 and, specifically, the plurality of faces 610 and the cam-following edge 612, the force applied to the rigid body 602 as the cam-following edge 612 engages the corresponding cam surface can be a tangential force. However, it shall be appreciated that different geometries of the lock head 600 and, specifically, the plurality of faces 610 and the cam-following edge 612, can result in a different force applied to the rigid body 602 as the cam-following edge 612 engages the corresponding cam surface.

[0062] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second end 608 can define a perimeter 614 sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the rigid body 602 into the aperture. A misalignment between the perimeter 614 and the aperture can develop after insertion of the rigid body 602 in the aperture to lock the rigid body 602 to the rigid frame. As shown in FIGS. 6B, D, the perimeter 614 of the second end 608 can be greater than a perimeter defined by the first end 606. Alternatively, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the perimeter 614 of the second end 608 can be equal to a perimeter defined by the first end 606.

[0063] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the lock head 600 can further include a nub 616 extending from the second end 608. The nub 616 can be sized and configured to be received in a slot to restrict rotation of the lock head 600 between a first position and a second position during insertion of the rigid body 602 into the aperture. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by ±45°. In other words, a rotation of the lock head 600 ±45° from the first position can result in the lock head 600 being positioned in the second position. Alternatively, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by less than ±45°, or the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by more than ±45°.

[0064] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIGS. 6C-D, the lock head 600 can include more than one nub 616. In one aspect, the nubs 616 can be positioned opposite of one another relative to a central point of the lock head 600. In another aspects, the nubs 616 can be positioned in any manner with respect to a central point of the lock head 600.

[0065] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the lock head 600 can further include a shaft 618 extending from the second end 608. The shaft 618 can include a first slot 622 extending about the longitudinal axis 604. The shaft 618 can further include a second slot 624 extending longitudinally along the longitudinal axis 604. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the shaft 618 can include a cylindrical shape. However, the shaft 618 is not so limited to a cylindrical shape.

[0066] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the rigid body 602 can be a twisted rigid cuboid. Alternatively, the rigid body 602 can be a twisted rigid frustum. It shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the rigid body 602 can include any shape so long as a perimeter, such as the perimeter 614 of the second end 608, can be sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the rigid body 602 into the aperture. Furthermore, the rigid body 602 can include any shape so long as a misalignment between a perimeter, such as the perimeter 614 of the second end 608, can develop after insertion of the rigid body 602 into the aperture to lock the rigid body 602 to the rigid frame.

[0067] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, each face of the plurality of faces 610 of the lock head 600 can be a curved face. In other words, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be curved with respect to any axis. For example, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 604. Additionally, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, fashion about the longitudinal axis 604. That is, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can curve, or rotate, around the longitudinal axis 604. As shown in FIGS. 6A-C, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 604, and each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be further curved at a linear, or non-linear, fashion about the longitudinal axis 604.

[0068] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the lock head 600 can further include a knob 620 extending from the rigid body 602 and, specifically, the first end 606. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIGS. 6A- C, the knob 620 can be a cylindrical shape. However, the knob 620 is not so limited to acylindrical shape. That is, the knob 620 can be a cuboid shape, for example, among others. In some aspects, the knob 620 can be a knurled knob. However, in other aspects, the knob 620 may not be a knurled knob. In all aspects, the knob 620 can be grasped and twisted by a user to rotate the lock head 600, which can be beneficial to unlock a mounting rack ear system and, specifically, the lock head 600 after having been mounted to a rigid frame.

[0069] FIGS. 7A-D illustrate a mounting rack ear system 700 to be mounted to a rigid frame, including the lock head 600, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. The mounting rack ear system 700 can include the lock head 600 of FIGS. 6A-D. For example, the lock head 600 can include a first rigid body 602, which can be identical to the rigid body 602 of FIGS 6A-D. The first rigid body 602 can define a longitudinal axis 604. The first rigid body 602 can include a first end 606 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 604 and a second end 608 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 604. The lock head 600 can further include a plurality of faces 610 disposed about the longitudinal axis 604. The lock head 600 can even further include a cam-following edge 612 extending from the first end 606 to the second end 608 at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 604. At least two faces of the plurality of faces 610 can coincide along the cam-following edge 612. The cam-following edge 612 can be configured to rotate the lock head 600 in response to a force applied to the first rigid body 602 as the cam-following edge 612 engages a corresponding cam surface defined by an aperture of a rigid frame. The lock head 600 can even further include a shaft 618 extending from the second end 608. The shaft 618 can include a first slot 622 (FIGS. 6A, C) extending about the longitudinal axis 604. The shaft 618 can further include a second slot 624 extending longitudinally along the longitudinal axis 604. The lock head 600 can further include a knob 620 extending from the first rigid body 602 and, specifically, the first end 606.

[0070] The mounting rack ear system 700 can further include a hanging ear body 702. The hanging ear body 702 can include a second rigid body 704. The second rigid body 704 can include a third end 706 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 604 and a fourth end 708 substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 604. The hanging ear body 702 can further include a through hole extending from the third end 706 to the fourth end 708. The through hole can be sized and configured to slidably receive the shaft 618.

[0071] The mounting rack ear system 700 and, specifically, the second rigid body 704 can even further include a cavity 718a with at least one elongate cavity 718b, 718c connected thereto. When the shaft 618 of the lock head 600 is slidably received by the through hole, a retaining ring 720 can be positioned within the first slot 620 to retain the lock head 600 and, thus, the first rigid body 602 to the hanging ear body 702 and, thus, thesecond rigid body 704. The retraining ring 720 is described in detail with reference to FIGS.8A-B.

[0072] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, a force can be applied substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 604 by a user to insert the first rigid body 602 into the aperture defined by the rigid frame. As a result of the geometry of the lock head 600 and, specifically, the plurality of faces 610 and the cam-following edge 612, the force applied to the first rigid body 602 as the cam-following edge 612 engages the corresponding cam surface can be a tangential force. However, it shall be appreciated that different geometries of the lock head 600 and, specifically, the plurality of faces 610 and the cam-following edge 612, can result in a different force applied to the first rigid body 602 as the cam-following edge 612 engages the corresponding cam surface.

[0073] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the mounting rack ear system 700 can further include an anti-backlash spring 714. The anti-backlash spring 714 can be configured to prevent, or minimize, movement of the mounting rack ear system 700 when mounted to the rigid frame. As a result of the anti-backlash spring 714, a secure attachment of the mounting rack ear system 700 to the rigid frame is ensured. Although the anti-backlash spring 714 includes a unique shape as shown in FIGS. 7A-C, it shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the antibacklash spring 714 can include any shape so long as the anti-backlash spring 714 prevents, or minimizes, movement of the mounting rack ear system 700 when mounted to the rigid frame. Furthermore, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the anti-backlash spring 714 can include tabs sized and configured to be received in a slot defined by second rigid body 704 such that the anti-backlash spring 714 can deform, as necessary, during insertion of the first rigid body 602 into the aperture defined by the rigid frame.

[0074] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the mounting rack ear system 700 can further include at least one protrusion 716 extending from the second rigid body 704 in a same direction as the first rigid body 602. The at least one protrusion 716 can be sized and configured to be received by at least one additional aperture of the rigid frame to support the mounting rack ear system 700 when mounted to the rigid frame. After insertion of the first rigid body 602 into the aperture of the rigid frame and insertion of the at least one protrusion 716 into the at least one additional aperture of the rigid frame, the first rigid body 602 and the at least one protrusion 716, collectively, provide additional support to bear a weight associated with a rack, a shelving unit, a piece of equipment, or the like, for which the mounting rack ear system 700 is attached.

[0075] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and with continued reference to FIGS. 7A-D, the second end 608 of the lock head 600 can define a perimeter 614 (FIG. 6D) sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the first rigid body 602 into the aperture. A misalignment between the perimeter 614 (FIG. 6D) and the aperture can develop after insertion of the first rigid body 602 into the aperture to lock the mounting rack ear system 700 to the rigid frame. As shown in FIGS. 6B and 7B, the perimeter 614 (FIG. 6D) of the second end 608 can be greater than a perimeter defined by the first end 606. Alternatively, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the perimeter 614 (FIG. 1 D) of the second end 608 can be equal to a perimeter defined by the first end 606.

[0076] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the mounting rack ear system 700 can further include a coil spring 722a, which can include a first end 722b. The coil spring 722a can be positioned within the cavity 718a, and the first end 722b can be positioned within the at least one elongate cavity 718b, 718c. The coil spring 722a can be configured to reset an orientation of the perimeter 614 (FIG. 6D) of the second end 608 of the lock head 600 after insertion of the first rigid body 602 into the aperture to create the misalignment. The coil spring 722a is described in detail with reference to FIGS. 9A-B.

[0077] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the mounting rack ear system 700 can further include a nub 616 (FIGS. 6C-D) extending from the second end 608 of the lock head 600. The nub 616 (FIGS. 6C-D) can be sized and configured to be received in a slot defined by the second rigid body 704 to restrict rotation of the lock head 600 between a first position and a second position during insertion of the first rigid body 602 into the aperture. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the slot defined by the second rigid body 704 can be identical to the slot 222 (FIG. 2) defined by the second rigid body 204. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by ±45°. In other words, a rotation of the lock head 600 ±45° from the first position can result in the lock head 600 being positioned in the second position. Alternatively, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by less than ±45°, or the second position may be rotatably offset from the first position by more than ±45°

[0078] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and as shown in FIGS. 6C-D, the lock head 600 can include more than one nub 616 (FIGS. 6C-D). In one aspect, the nubs 616 can be positioned opposite of one another relative to a central point, such as the shaft 618, of the lock head 600. In another aspects, the nubs 616 can be positioned inany manner with respect to a central point, such as the shaft 618, of the lock head 600.

[0079] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and with continued reference to FIGS. 7A-D, each face of the plurality of faces 610 of the lock head 600 can be a curved face. In other words, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be curved with respect to any axis. For example, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 604. Additionally, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, fashion about the longitudinal axis 604. That is, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can curve, or rotate, around the longitudinal axis 604. As shown in FIGS. 6A-C, each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be curved at a linear, or non-linear, non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis 604, and each face of the plurality of faces 610 can be further curved at a linear, or nonlinear, fashion about the longitudinal axis 604.

[0080] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the first rigid body 602 can be a twisted rigid cuboid. Alternatively, the first rigid body 602 can be a twisted rigid frustum. It shall be appreciated that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the first rigid body 602 can include any shape so long as a perimeter, such as the perimeter 614 (FIG. 6D) of the second end 608, can be sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the first rigid body 602 into the aperture. Furthermore, the first rigid body 602 can include any shape so long as a misalignment between a perimeter, such as the perimeter 614 (FIG. 6D) of the second end 608, can develop after insertion of the first rigid body 602 into the aperture to lock the first rigid body 602 to the rigid frame.

[0081] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second rigid body 704 can be a rectangular rigid cuboid. It shall be appreciated, however, that, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the second rigid body 704 can include any shape so long as the second rigid body 704 can form part of the mounting rack ear system 700 to be mounted to the rigid frame.

[0082] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and with continued reference to FIGS. 7A-D, the mounting rack ear system 700 and, specifically, the fourth end 708 of the second rigid body 704 can include openings 724, which can be configured to receive at least one screw, such as a metric screw, to position and retain a cover to the fourth end 708 to cover the cavity 718a and the at least one elongate cavity 718b, 718c. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one screw (e.g., the metric screw) can include a diameter of 1.6mm (e.g., an M1.6 screw).

[0083] FIGS. 8A-B illustrate the retaining ring 720 for use with the lock head 600 and the mounting rack ear system 700 (FIGS. 7A-D), according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 8A, the retaining ring 720 can include an open end 721 and end portions 723 positioned on either side of the open end 721. As shown in FIG. 8B, the lock head 600 and the retaining ring 720 are coupled together. Specifically, the retaining ring 720 is received within the first slot 622 (FIGS. 6A, C) of the shaft 618.

[0084] As a result of the lock head 600 and, specifically, the shaft 618 being received within the hanging ear body 702, the lock head 600 can be retained to the hanging ear body 702 by the retaining ring 720 being received within the first slot 622 (FIGS. 6A, C) of the shaft 618. The inner diameter of the retaining ring 720 can be substantially similar to the outer diameter of the first slot 622 (FIGS. 6A, C) of the shaft 618 such that the retaining ring 720 can be received within the first slot 622 (FIGS. 6A, C). Additionally, the inner diameter of the retaining ring 720 can be substantially smaller than the outer diameter of the shaft 618 such that the retaining ring 720 cannot slide out of position once received within the first slot 622 (FIGS. 6A, C).

[0085] The end portions 723 can include an elastic characteristic such that the end portions 723 can be spread apart in order to receive the shaft 618 and, thus, allow the retaining ring 720 to be received within the first slot 622 (FIGS. 6A, C) of the shaft 618.

[0086] FIGS. 9A-B illustrate the coil spring 722a for use with the lock head 600 and the mounting rack ear system 700 (FIGS. 7A-D), according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 9A, the coil spring 722a can include a first end 722b and a second end 722c, which are substantially parallel to one another. Furthermore, it shall be appreciated that the number of turns of the coil spring 722a are not so limited to the number of turns shown in any of the figures. As shown in FIG. 9B, the coil spring 722a and the lock head 600 are coupled together. Specifically, the second end 722c can be received within the second slot 624 (FIGS. 6A, C-D) of the shaft 618.

[0087] As a result of the coil spring 722a and the lock head 600 being coupled together, a rotation of the lock head 600 causes a rotation of the coil spring 722a. This is applicable as the first rigid body 602 enters the aperture defined by the rigid frame, thus causing rotation of the lock head 600. Since the first end 722b of the coil spring 722a can be positioned within an elongate cavity 718b, the first end 722b is unable to rotate. As a result, the coil spring 722a experiences a torsional load during rotation. Once the lock head 600 and the first rigid body 602 completely pass through the aperture defined by the rigid frame, the coil spring 722a, and thus the lock head 600 and the first rigid body 602, can reset to its originalposition due to its elasticity.

[0088] FIG. 10 illustrates a mounting rack assembly 1000, including the mounting rack ear system 700, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. It shall be appreciated that the mounting rack assembly 1000 is merely an example application for the mounting rack ear assembly 700, and that other example applications will be readily apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art. The mounting rack assembly 1000 can include a mounting rack 1002, which can include a plurality of slots 1004 configured to receive fasteners, cables, or the like to mount equipment. The mounting rack assembly 1000 can further include sliding tracks 1006, which can be configured to receive the mounting rack 1002 and allow the mounting rack 1002 to slide along the sliding tracks 1006. Even further, the mounting rack assembly 1000 can include the mounting rack ear assembly 700 on at least one end of each sliding track 1006. As a result of the inclusion of the mounting rack ear assembly 700 on at least one end of each sliding track 1006, the mounting rack assembly 1000 can be easily mounted to any rigid frame to easily mount equipment, or the like, to a rigid frame without the necessary use of any tools. Similarly, the inclusion of the mounting rack ear assembly 700 on each end of each sliding track 1006 can allow for easy removal of the mounting rack assembly 1000. That is, a user can easily unlock and unmount the mounting rack assembly 1000 from any rigid frame by rotating the lock head 600 (FIGS. 6A- D, 7A, C, 8A-B, 9A-B) such that a perimeter, such as perimeter 614 (FIG. 6D) of the lock head 600 (FIGS. 6A-D, 7A, C, 8A-B, 9A-B), aligns with the aperture of the rigid frame for easy removal of the mounting rack ear assembly 700 from the aperture of the rigid frame.

[0089] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a method 1100 of attaching a mounting rack ear system to a rigid frame, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. The method 1100 can include aligning 1102 a mounting rack ear system with a rigid frame based on an alignment between a lock head of the mounting rack ear system and an aperture defined by the rigid frame. The method 1100 can further include applying 1104 a force substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis defined by the lock head to attach the mounting rack ear system to the rigid frame based on complete insertion of the lock head into the aperture and a misalignment between a perimeter of the lock head and the aperture.

[0090] It shall be appreciated that the mounting rack ear assemblies described herein can be mounted to any rack, shelving unit, piece of equipment, or the like, using a variety of methods. For example, the mounting rack ear assemblies described herein can be mounted to external systems (e.g., racks, shelving units, pieces of equipment, or the like) via screws, nuts, bolts, nails, hook-and-loop fasteners, tape, glue, or any other fastener that can mount the mounting rack ear assemblies described herein to any necessary external system. Theexample connection methods described herein are not so limiting.

[0091] This written description uses examples to disclose and to enable a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art to make and practice the subject matter disclosed herein, including making and using any apparatuses or systems and performing any incorporated methods. Aspects from the various embodiments described, as well as other known equivalents for each such aspects, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in the art to construct additional embodiments and techniques in accordance with principles of this application.

[0092] As used herein, the term substantially includes ±5° deviations from any referenced axis. For example, an end is considered to be substantially orthogonal to a referenced axis when such end is within a ±5° deviation. In another example, a force is considered to be substantially parallel to a referenced axis when such force is within a ±5° deviation.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A lock head for use with a mounting rack ear system, the lock head comprising: a rigid body defining a longitudinal axis, the rigid body comprising a first end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a second end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis; a plurality of faces disposed about the longitudinal axis; and a cam-following edge extending from the first end to the second end at a non-zero angle relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein at least two faces of the plurality of faces coincide along the cam-following edge, and wherein the cam-following edge is configured to rotate the rigid body in response to a force applied to the rigid body as the cam-following edge engages a corresponding cam surface defined by an aperture of a rigid frame.

2. The lock head of Claim 1 , wherein the second end defines a perimeter sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the rigid body into the aperture, and wherein a misalignment between the perimeter and the aperture develops after insertion of the rigid body into the aperture to lock the rigid body to the rigid frame.

3. The lock head of Claim 1 , further comprising a nub extending from the second end, wherein the nub is sized and configured to be received in a slot to restrict rotation of the lock head between a first position and a second position during insertion of the rigid body into the aperture.

4. The lock head of Claim 1 , further comprising a shaft extending from the second end, wherein the shaft comprises an opening configured to receive a fastener.

5. The lock head of Claim 4, wherein the opening is a tapped hole, and wherein the fastener is a machine screw.

6. The lock head of Claim 1 , further comprising a shaft extending from the second end, wherein the shaft comprises a first slot configured to receive a ring and a second slot configured to receive a coil spring.

7. The lock head of Claim 6, wherein the first slot extends about the longitudinal axis, and wherein the second slot extends along the longitudinal axis.

8. The lock head of Claim 1 , wherein the rigid body is at least one of a twisted rigid cuboid or a twisted rigid frustum.

9. The lock head of Claim 1 , wherein each face of the plurality of faces is a curved face.

10. A mounting rack ear system to be mounted to a rigid frame, the mounting rack ear system comprising: a lock head, comprising: a first rigid body defining a longitudinal axis, the first rigid body comprising a first end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a second end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis; a plurality of faces disposed about the longitudinal axis; a cam-following edge extending from the first end to the second end at a nonzero angle relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein at least two faces of the plurality of faces coincide along the cam-following edge, and wherein the cam-following edge is configured to rotate the lock head in response to a force applied to the first rigid body as the cam-following edge engages a corresponding cam surface defined by an aperture of a rigid frame; and a shaft extending from the second end, the shaft comprising a slot; and a hanging ear body, comprising: a second rigid body comprising a third end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a fourth end substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis; and a through hole extending from the third end to the fourth end, the through hole sized and configured to slidably receive the shaft; and a ring sized and configured to be received by the slot of the shaft to couple the lock head to the hanging ear body.

11. The mounting rack ear system of Claim 10, further comprising an anti-backlash spring positioned between the lock head and the second rigid body, the anti-backlash spring configured to prevent movement of the mounting rack ear system when mounted to the rigid frame.

12. The mounting rack ear system of Claim 10, further comprising at least one protrusion extending from the second rigid body in a same direction as the first rigid body, the at least one protrusion sized and configured to be received by at least one additional aperture of the rigid frame to support the mounting rack ear system when mounted to the rigid frame.

13. The mounting rack ear system of Claim 10, wherein the second end of the lock head defines a perimeter sized and configured to be received within the aperture of the rigid frame during insertion of the first rigid body into the aperture, and wherein a misalignment between the perimeter and the aperture develops after insertion of the first rigid body into the aperture to lock the mounting rack ear system to the rigid frame.

14. The mounting rack ear system of Claim 13, wherein the slot is a first slot, wherein the shaft further comprises a second slot, and wherein the mounting rack ear system further comprises a coil spring configured to be received in the second slot, the coil spring configured to reset an orientation of the perimeter of the second end of the lock head after insertion of the first rigid body into the aperture to create the misalignment.

15. The mounting rack ear system of Claim 14, wherein the first slot extends about the longitudinal axis, and wherein the second slot extends along the longitudinal axis.

16. The mounting rack ear system of Claim 10, further comprising a nub extending from the second end of the lock head, the nub sized and configured to be received in a slot defined by the second rigid body to restrict rotation of the lock head between a first position and a second position during insertion of the first rigid body into the aperture.

17. The mounting rack ear system of Claim 10, wherein each face of the plurality of faces is a curved face.

18. The mounting rack ear system of Claim 10, wherein the first rigid body is at least one of a twisted rigid cuboid or a twisted rigid frustum.

19. The mounting rack ear system of Claim 10, wherein the second rigid body is a rectangular rigid cuboid.

20. A method of attaching a mounting rack ear system to a rigid frame, the method comprising: aligning a mounting rack ear system with a rigid frame based on an alignment between a lock head of the mounting rack ear system and an aperture defined by the rigid frame; and applying a force substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis defined by the lock head to attach the mounting rack ear system to the rigid frame based on complete insertion of thelock head into the aperture and a misalignment between a perimeter of the lock head and the aperture.

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