Compact Expansion Card Fixing Assembly With Automatic Buckle Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing methods for M.2 expansion cards on motherboards are complicated, costly, and space-consuming, necessitating a more efficient and space-saving installation solution.
Innovation Solution
A fixing assembly with a buckle structure featuring a pressing part, buckle part, elastic member, and base that allows for automatic locking and easy release of expansion cards, eliminating the need for manual screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixing methods (screws, clips) are used for M.2 expansion cards, then the expansion card can be securely fixed, but the fixing mechanism becomes complicated and occupies significant space on the motherboard
Solution Approach 1:
The buckle structure utilizes elastic deformation of the buckle part itself to achieve automatic locking and fixing functions. When the expansion card is inserted, the buckle part elastically deforms to clamp the card, and when the pressing part is actuated, the elastic member releases the buckles to release the card, eliminating the need for separate fixing mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing assembly integrates multiple functions into a single compact structure: the buckle structure serves both as the fixing mechanism and the release mechanism, the elastic member provides both locking force and release capability, and the pressing part combines both the release actuator and the ejection mechanism, significantly reducing overall device complexity
2Reliability
If traditional fixing methods are used for M.2 expansion cards, then the expansion card can be securely fixed, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and requires manual operations
Solution Approach 1:
The buckle structure is pre-configured in a clamped state through elastic deformation, ready to immediately secure the expansion card upon insertion. The elastic member is pre-loaded to provide automatic locking without requiring manual intervention during the fixing process
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic locking through the elastic deformation of the buckle part when the expansion card is inserted, and automatic release when the pressing part is actuated, eliminating the need for manual screw tightening or clip installation throughout the process
3Area of stationary object
If more components are integrated under the motherboard to save space, then space utilization improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing assembly is designed as a multi-functional unit that can accommodate different expansion card types and configurations while maintaining a compact form factor. The buckle structure and elastic member work together to provide both fixing and release functions, reducing the need for additional components
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing part is positioned to overlap with the buckle structure in the vertical direction, and the elastic member is nested within the buckle structure, allowing multiple components to occupy minimal horizontal space while maintaining full functionality
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
Facilitates fast and convenient installation and removal of expansion cards with automatic locking, while also saving space by integrating a connection column for a heat sink.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member (123) connected to another end of the buckle part (122) and extending toward the circuit board (10)
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing assembly is suitable for being arranged on a circuit board and configured to fix an expansion card. The fixing assembly includes a body and a buckle structure. The buckle structure includes a pressing part, a buckle part, an elastic member, and a base. The pressing part is away from the circuit board. An end of the buckle part is connected to the pressing part and has an inclined surface and a blocking surface connected to each other. The blocking surface has a gap with the top surface. The elastic member is connected to another end of the buckle part. When a first end of the expansion card is connected to the connector, a second end of the expansion card slides along the inclined surface to the top surface and is fixed in the gap by being abutted by the blocking surface.