Computer Casing Lock Plate with Retractable Burglar-Proof Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional computer casings with protruded ring structures for burglar-proofing are prone to deformation or damage during handling due to their small size and increased mobility, which compromises their security and durability.

Innovation Solution

A computer casing design featuring a housing with a movably disposed lock plate and an elastic element that can extend for burglar-proof positioning and retract for storage, using a retaining structure with sliding elements and blocking portions to maintain the lock plate in either position, preventing damage from impacts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a protruded ring structure is added on the casing for burglar-proofing, then the burglar-proof function is improved, but the structure becomes prone to deformation or damage during handling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveburglar-proof functionVSAvoidresistance to deformation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The lock plate is nested within the housing cavity rather than protruding outward. When retracted, it sits flush with or inside the housing surface, eliminating the vulnerability of protruding structures to impact damage while maintaining the ability to extend for locking functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The lock plate is designed to be movable between extended and retracted positions via elastic engagement. This dynamic capability allows the structure to adapt between providing external locking engagement and protecting itself from impact damage during handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If the lock plate is extended for burglar-proof positioning, then the security function is improved, but the lock plate becomes exposed to impacts during handling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity functionVSAvoidimpact damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The lock plate transitions between extended and retracted states based on operational needs. When not in use, it retracts to a protected position within the housing, minimizing exposure to harmful impacts while maintaining security readiness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic element pre-retains the lock plate in a retracted position within the housing, proactively protecting it from impact damage before handling occurs. The structure is designed to minimize exposed surfaces during non-operational states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the lock plate is made movable between extended and retracted positions, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition adjustment capabilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic element automatically retains the lock plate in either extended or retracted position without requiring additional actuators, motors, or control systems. The system self-regulates its position through elastic engagement with retaining elements, simplifying the overall mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic element acts as an intermediary between the lock plate and housing, providing the necessary retention force and positional control without requiring complex mechanical linkages or control systems. This mediator enables versatile positioning with minimal complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

The solution allows for secure burglar-proof functionality while preventing the lock plate from being deformed or damaged during handling by using an elastic element to retain the lock plate in either the extended or retracted position, enhancing both security and durability.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic element disposed on the lock plate and providing an elastic force to the retaining structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10884462B2Computer casing
Publication Date: 2021.01.05 WISTRON CORP
  • US10884462B2 patent drawing
  • US10884462B2 patent drawing
  • US10884462B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer casing includes a housing, a retaining structure, a lock plate, and an elastic element. The retaining structure is disposed in the housing. The lock plate is movably disposed on the retaining structure. The elastic element is disposed on the lock plate, and applies an elastic force to the retaining structure to retain the lock plate in a burglar-proof position or a storage position.