Elastomeric Mounting for Mass Storage Impact Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mass storage devices in portable computing devices are prone to failure or improper operation when subjected to impact forces due to limited space constraints, and existing mounting methods, such as snubbers, occupy excessive space and may amplify forces on the device.
Innovation Solution
A mounting arrangement using elastomeric materials for major surface and corner absorbers, which are configured to engage the mass storage device via adhesive or interference fit, distributing impact forces and reducing the overall size of the portable computing device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If snubbers (rubber bushings) are employed to mount mass storage devices, then impact forces are reduced, but the space occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is divided into multiple foam absorber elements positioned at different locations (corners and edges) of the mass storage device, with each segment providing localized impact protection while collectively reducing the need for excessive mounting space
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the mass storage device receive different levels of protection through strategically placed foam absorbers at corners and edges, providing enhanced protection where impact forces are most likely to occur while minimizing overall space consumption
2Volume of moving object
If space allocated to mass storage device is reduced, then portable computing device size is reduced, but impact resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Foam absorbers are pre-installed within the mounting structure of the portable computing device before the mass storage device is installed, creating a cushioning layer that is ready to absorb impact forces during drop events or accidental drops
Solution Approach 2:
The foam absorbers serve as an intermediary element between the mass storage device and the housing structure, absorbing impact forces and preventing direct transmission of shock to the mass storage device during drop events
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 elastomeric mounting arrangement effectively absorbs and distributes impact forces, reducing the likelihood of damage to the mass storage device while minimizing the device's size and maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting arrangement may include major surface absorbers and corner absorbers, which may be respectively formed from first and second elastomeric materials such as foam and rubber
Implementation Method 2
The elastomeric mounting arrangement effectively absorbs and distributes impact forces
Data Source
AI summary
Absorbers for a mass storage device are provided. The absorbers may be configured to protect the mass storage device from drop events and reduce the transmission of vibrations from and/or to the mass storage device. Additionally, the absorbers may occupy a smaller amount of space than traditional snubber mounting arrangements. The absorbers may include major surface absorbers formed from a first elastomeric material that engage major surfaces of the mass storage device. Corner absorbers formed from a second elastomeric material may engage the corners of the mass storage device and the side walls of a compartment in a case. The major surface absorbers and the corner absorbers may distribute and absorb load applied during a drop event. A related portable computing device and a related method are also provided.