Elastic Latch Mechanism for Tool-Free Server Module Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanisms for securing electrical components in servers are not stable and require tools for installation and removal, leading to accidental release and the need for additional fastening mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A server assembly with a structural case and pair of rail holders featuring latches made of elastic materials, where the finger and hook ends move relative to a bridge portion in response to pressure, allowing secure installation and tool-free removal of electrical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw fastening mechanism is used to secure the module, then the module stability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because tools are required for installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage with the module when inserted into the rail holder, securing it without requiring external fastening tools. The elastic material enables the latch to self-adjust and maintain secure engagement through its inherent elasticity, eliminating the need for screw fastening while maintaining module stability.
2Ease of operation
If a latch made of elastic material is used, then the ease of operation is improved for tool-free removal, but the stability may worsen if the elastic material deforms under impact
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is designed with specific elastic material properties and geometric parameters that allow it to flexibly deform under normal operation for easy removal, while maintaining sufficient rigidity to withstand impact forces. The elasticity parameter is optimized to provide both ease of operation and adequate stability under various loading conditions.
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 assembly securely holds electrical components without additional fastening tools and allows for easy, tool-free removal, enhancing stability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
Each latch has a finger end that is coupled to a hook end via a bridge portion, the finger end and the hook end being inserted, respectively, into the first hole and the second hole of the respective one of the pair of rail holder. The finger end and the hook end independently and flexibly move relative to the bridge portion in response to applied pressure.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for securing an electrical component to a server is disclosed. The assembly includes a structural case configured to receive and secure in place an electrical component for the server; a pair of rail holders mounted to the structural case, each rail holder of the pair of rail holders having a plurality of mounting holes that includes a first hole and a second hole; and a pair of latches, each latch of the pair of latches being movably mounted to a respective one of the pair of rail holders, each latch having a finger end that is coupled to a hook end via a bridge portion. The finger end and the hook end are inserted, respectively, into the first hole and the second hole of the respective one of the pair of rail holder, and independently and flexibly move relative to the bridge portion in response to applied pressure.