Carrier Light Pipe Brightness Control for Device Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems face inconsistent brightness of LEDs when inserting short devices due to lossy light pipes and additional interfaces, leading to a lower user experience.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a device carrier with a latch, interface, and light pipes that maintain consistent brightness by using a rib to separate light paths and minimize flux loss through tight air gaps, ensuring the same brightness for both short and long devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional light pipes and interfaces are used to accommodate short devices, then device compatibility is improved, but light flux loss increases causing inconsistent brightness
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipe system is segmented into multiple sections (first light pipe in the interface, second light pipe in the latch) to accommodate different device types. Each segment is optimized to minimize flux loss while maintaining adaptability to both short and long devices.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the light pipe system have different optical properties optimized for their specific function. The first light pipe in the interface is designed with specific optical characteristics to minimize loss when connecting short devices, while the second light pipe in the latch is optimized for the main light transmission path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If light pipes are extended to reach both short and long devices, then device compatibility is improved, but brightness consistency deteriorates due to increased light path length
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts the light path configuration based on device type. When a short device is inserted, the light path goes through both the first and second light pipes. When a long device is inserted, the extended device itself serves as the light path, eliminating the need for additional light pipes.
Solution Approach 2:
The first light pipe in the interface acts as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between the LED and the second light pipe in the latch for short devices. This intermediary structure ensures consistent light transmission regardless of device length.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interfaces and light pipes are added to support short devices, then device compatibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second light pipes are merged into a single integrated optical system within the interface and latch assembly. This unified structure reduces the number of separate components and simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the ability to support both short and long devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface and latch assembly with the integrated light pipe system serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for both short and long devices, guides light transmission for different device types, and maintains consistent brightness across all configurations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution ensures consistent LED brightness at the front of the latch for both short and long devices, enhancing user experience by eliminating inconsistencies caused by lossy light pipes and interfaces.
Implementation Method 1
The first light pipes may be located within the latch, and may provide light to the lights located on the front of the latch. The second light pipes may be located within the interface and the latch, and may provide the light to the first light pipes.
Data Source
AI summary
A device carrier for an information handling system includes a latch, an interface, lights located on a front of the latch, and first and second light pipes. The latch holds the device carrier within the information handling system. The first light pipes are located within the latch, and provide light to the lights located on the front of the latch. The second light pipes are located within the interface and the latch, and provide the light to the first light pipes. The location of the second light pipes enables the same brightness of the light provided to the lights when a long device is inserted within the device carrier as compared to when a short device is inserted within the device carrier.