Data Access Device Fixing Structure with Cam Lever Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional fixing devices for data access devices, such as hard drives and disc drives, are inconvenient to assemble and disassemble due to the need for multiple screws or complex hot swapping devices, which require additional tools, result in time-consuming operations, and can lead to uneven force distribution and damage during removal.

Innovation Solution

A fixing structure incorporating a fixing tray with latches and elastic members, and a handle with cams, that allows for easy assembly and disassembly without supplemental tools, utilizing the principles of levers and cams to facilitate quick and balanced operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If screws are used to fix the data access device, then the device can be securely fixed, but additional tools are required and multiple screws are needed resulting in time-consuming operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing securityVSAvoidassembly and disassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism is segmented into a fixing tray with multiple fixing latches (at least one fixing latch) and elastic members, where each latch can independently engage with positioning holes on the data access device. This segmentation allows the device to be secured through multiple distributed attachment points rather than requiring multiple separate screws, reducing assembly time while maintaining fixing security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing mechanism employs elastic members that automatically engage with the fixing latches when the data access device is inserted, eliminating the need for additional tools or manual screw tightening. The elastic members provide self-latching functionality through their inherent elasticity, allowing the device to secure itself without external intervention, thus reducing assembly and disassembly time while maintaining reliable fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If hot swapping devices with rotating handles are used, then the data access device can be fixed, but the single-sided handling leads to uneven distribution of force and unsuccessful removals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing capabilityVSAvoidforce distribution
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing tray employs asymmetric positioning of multiple fixing latches and elastic members distributed across its structure, with at least one fixing latch positioned to engage with positioning holes on the data access device. This asymmetric distribution ensures that force is applied at multiple different locations during insertion and removal, preventing the uneven force distribution problem associated with single-sided handling and enabling successful removal without damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing mechanism transitions from single-sided linear force application to multi-dimensional force distribution by positioning fixing latches and elastic members at different locations on the fixing tray. This spatial distribution across multiple dimensions ensures balanced force application during insertion and removal operations, eliminating the uneven force distribution problem of conventional single-sided handles and improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If conventional fixing devices are used, then the data access device can be secured, but assembly and disassembly require significant time and effort

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice securityVSAvoidassembly efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism utilizes elastic members that automatically engage with fixing latches through their elastic deformation, creating a self-latching system that secures the data access device without requiring manual intervention or additional tools. During assembly, the elastic members naturally snap into the latched position, and during disassembly, they automatically release when the handle is operated, dramatically improving assembly efficiency while maintaining device security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing mechanism employs dynamic elastic members that can deform and adapt to the insertion and removal operations. The elastic members transition between compressed and relaxed states during assembly and disassembly, providing a dynamic response that speeds up the process compared to static screw fixtures. This dynamic behavior allows rapid engagement and disengagement while maintaining secure fixation during operation, thereby improving productivity.

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 significantly reduces the time and effort required for assembly and disassembly, enhances operational convenience, and prevents damage by ensuring balanced force distribution, allowing for efficient and tool-free installation and removal of data access devices.

Implementation Method 1

The fixing tray includes at least one fixing latch and at least one elastic member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

Two cams are extended from the hinge section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Implementation Method 3

The instant disclosure applies the law of lever and design of cams to easily assemble and disassemble devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLever: Lever

Data Source

PatentUS9058850B2Fixing structure of data access device and fixing case
Publication Date: 2015.06.16 LITE ON TECH CORP
  • US9058850B2 patent drawing
  • US9058850B2 patent drawing
  • US9058850B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The instant disclosure discloses a fixing structure of a data access device having a fixing tray and a handle. The fixing tray includes at least one fixing latch and at least one elastic member. One end of the fixing tray is a pivot and two hooks. The distance between the fixing latch and the pivot is shorter than that between the elastic member and the pivot. The other end of the fixing tray is an inserting section. One end of the handle is a hinge section, from which two cams are extended. The other end of the handle is an operational pull. The hinge section and the operational pull are connected by a connecting rod. The hinge section pivotally connects to the pivot. A fixing case with the fixing structure of a data access device is disclosed.