Latch Mechanism for Communication Module EMI Shielding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional latch mechanisms for communication modules in host devices are often complex and costly, lacking reliability and feedback mechanisms for secure engagement and disengagement.

Innovation Solution

A simplified latch mechanism using a driver and follower system with reduced parts, providing mechanical, visible, and audible feedback through a detent mechanism, which securely engages and disengages communication modules with a host device using inwardly biased leaf springs and EMI shielding improvements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional latch mechanisms are used, then communication modules can be secured, but the mechanism becomes complex and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure engagementVSAvoidlatch mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a driver element that rotates, a follower element that translates motion, and leaf springs that provide biasing force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A follower element acts as an intermediary between the rotating driver and the communication module. The follower converts rotational motion into linear motion, enabling secure engagement without requiring a complex direct connection between the driver and module

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If conventional latch mechanisms are used, then communication modules can be secured, but the cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure engagementVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism uses inexpensive components such as leaf springs and simple plastic or metal followers that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. These components provide reliable engagement at low cost, eliminating the need for expensive conventional latch mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple functions are combined into single components: the driver element both provides the securing force and indicates engagement status through its rotational position. The leaf springs simultaneously provide biasing force and return the mechanism to its initial state, reducing the need for additional components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If a simplified latch mechanism is used, then cost and complexity are reduced, but feedback mechanisms for secure engagement are lacking

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatch mechanism simplicityVSAvoidengagement feedback

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The driver element provides visual and tactile feedback through its rotational position. When the driver rotates to its engaged position, it indicates that the communication module is securely latched. This feedback mechanism is built into the simple structure without adding complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The driver element may incorporate visual indicators such as color changes or visible position markers that change state when engagement occurs, providing clear feedback to the user that the module is securely attached without requiring complex electronic feedback systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

4Reliability

If conventional latch mechanisms are used, then engagement is secured, but unintentional disconnections can occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveengagement securityVSAvoiddisconnection control

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism uses a dynamic rotational motion for engagement and disengagement. The driver must rotate in a specific direction to release the latch, preventing accidental disconnections while allowing intentional ones. This dynamic control mechanism is simpler than conventional static latch systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 offers a highly reliable and repeatable mechanism for securing communication modules, reducing unintentional disconnections, and enhancing electromagnetic interference shielding while being less expensive and simpler to assemble.

Implementation Method 1

inwardly biased leaf springs

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10802231B2Latch mechanism for communication module

Publication Date: 2020.10.13 II VI DELAWARE INC

AI summary

Some embodiments include a latch mechanism and an optoelectronic module that includes the latch mechanism. The latch mechanism may include a driver, a follower, a pivot member, and a cam member. The driver may be configured to rotate relative to a housing of the optoelectronic module about an axis of rotation between a latched position and an unlatched position. The follower may be configured to be move when the driver rotates between the latched and unlatched position. The follower may include at least one electromagnetic interference (EMI) window that is configured to engage with at least one EMI protrusion positioned on the housing and thereby maintain contact with a cage of a host device.