Expansion Card Slot Linkage Lock for Easy Secure Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circuit board designs face challenges in quickly and conveniently configuring and removing expansion cards due to inefficient locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A circuit board device with a rotatable linkage structure that includes a connecting rod, pressing part, and fixing part, featuring a hook and elastic arm, allows for secure fixation and easy removal of expansion cards by rotating around an axis, utilizing a torsional spring for ease of operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional locking mechanism is used to fix the expansion card, then the expansion card is securely fixed, but the operation becomes complex and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic linkage structure that rotates around an axis to transition between locked and unlocked states. The connecting rod, pressing part, and fixing part work together through rotational motion to achieve secure fixation during insertion while enabling easy removal through simple pressing actions, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arm in the fixing part automatically deforms and returns to provide self-locking functionality. When the expansion card is inserted, the linkage structure rotates to engage the hook and elastic arm, creating automatic fixation without requiring additional locking actions. For removal, simply pressing the pressing part triggers the reverse rotation and automatic release, making the system self-serving and operationally simple.
2Ease of operation
If a simple locking mechanism is used, then the operation is convenient, but the fixation becomes insecure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional parts: the connecting rod for motion transmission, the pressing part for user interaction, and the fixing part with hook and elastic arm for secure engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, achieving both operational simplicity and fixation security.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage structure utilizes rotational movement around an axis, creating a arc-shaped engagement path between the hook and the expansion card's locking part. This curved motion path ensures smooth engagement and disengagement while maintaining secure fixation during the locked state, balancing simplicity and reliability.
3Reliability
If multiple pressing actions are required to fix the expansion card, then the fixation is secure, but the operation becomes tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage structure is pre-configured in a rotated position during insertion that automatically engages the hook and elastic arm with the expansion card's locking part. This preliminary positioning ensures that a single insertion action is sufficient to achieve secure fixation, eliminating the need for multiple pressing actions and reducing the time required for the operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arm maintains continuous contact with the locking part throughout the engagement process, providing ongoing securing force without requiring intermittent pressing actions. This continuous action ensures secure fixation while minimizing the time and effort needed from the user.
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 design enables secure and convenient fixation and removal of expansion cards, reducing the need for constant pressing and minimizing component complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic arm deforms, so that the fixing member gives way
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit board device is adapted for inserting an expansion card with an electrical end and a locking part. The circuit board device includes a circuit board body, a slot, and a linkage structure located beside the slot. The linkage structure includes a connecting rod with a first end, a second, and an axis, a pressing part, and a fixing part. The pressing part is connected to the first end and deviates from the axis. The fixing part is located at the second end and has a hook, an elastic arm close to the slot and the hook, and a fixing member. The hook deviates from the axis and has a first slope facing away from the circuit board body. The fixing member extends from the spring arm towards the slot and includes a second slope facing away from the circuit board body and a third slope facing the hook.