Expansion Card Fixture With Tool-Free Quick-Release Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for fixing expansion cards, such as PCIe cards, on servers require tools for installation and disassembly, which is time-consuming and inconvenient for both consumers and maintenance personnel.
Innovation Solution
A fixture comprising a holder, a bracket, and quick release structures that allow for tool-free installation and disassembly of expansion cards by using snap-fit attachments and connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screws are used to fix PCIe cards, then the connection is reliable and stable, but the installation and disassembly process requires tools and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture is divided into a holder portion that remains fixed on the server and a bracket portion that can be quickly attached and detached with the PCIe card. This segmentation allows the card to be removed without affecting the fixed structure, enabling tool-free quick replacement while maintaining stable connections through the holder's screw-fixing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to be easily attached and detached from the holder. The bracket can be quickly snapped into place during installation and just as quickly removed during disassembly, providing the flexibility needed for rapid maintenance while the holder maintains stable fixed connections.
2Strength
If traditional screw-fixing methods are used, then the PCIe card is securely fixed, but the process requires specialized tools and is inconvenient for maintenance personnel
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the fixing system into a permanent holder and a removable bracket, the solution maintains strong fixing through the holder's screw mechanism while the bracket provides tool-free attachment and detachment, greatly improving operational ease for maintenance personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket acts as an intermediary between the PCIe card and the holder. It provides a convenient interface for quick attachment and detachment without requiring tools, while the holder ensures strong fixed connections. The intermediary bracket bridges the gap between strong fixing and easy operation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If screws are used to lock PCIe cards, then the connection is stable, but the disassembly and re-assembly process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design separates the stable fixed connection function (holder with screws) from the quick attachment/detachment function (bracket). This allows maintenance personnel to quickly remove and reinstall cards by simply detaching and reattaching the bracket, dramatically improving maintenance efficiency while the holder ensures connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic bracket design enables rapid attachment and detachment operations without tools, transforming a previously complex multi-step screw operation into a simple snap-fit process. This dynamic element significantly boosts productivity during maintenance while the static holder maintains stable connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixture and electronic equipment for rapid assembly and disassembly of expansion cards. The fixture comprises a holder, a bracket, a first connector, and a second connector. The holder is configured to fix the expansion card. The first connector is positioned on the holder. A first slot is defined on the bracket. The first connector enters the first slot. Two walls of the first slot are stopped on opposite sides of the first connector along the second direction. The bracket supports the holder along the third direction. The second connector is positioned on the holder. A socket is defined on the bracket. The second connector is insertable into the socket to limit the holder from moving relative to the bracket along the first direction. The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.