Fan Board Sled Assembly with Trigger Latch for Tool-less Chassis Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing process of servicing fan boards in computer chassis is inefficient and time-consuming, requiring the removal of the chassis housing to access fan boards and related components.
Innovation Solution
A fan cage module with a trigger-style latch assembly that allows for secure attachment and detachment of fan bodies to a computer chassis without removing the chassis housing, utilizing a spring-operated latch mechanism for easy insertion and extraction of the fan board sled assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the chassis housing is removed to access the fan board, then the fan board can be serviced, but the servicing process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fan board assembly is segmented from the chassis housing through a removable fan cage module design. The fan cage module can be independently accessed and serviced without removing the entire chassis housing, allowing technicians to service fan boards quickly by simply removing the front panel or accessing through openings in the chassis cover.
Solution Approach 2:
The fan board is extracted from the traditional fixed installation within the chassis housing and placed in a removable fan cage module. This extraction allows the fan board to be accessed, removed, and replaced without disturbing the main chassis housing structure, significantly reducing servicing time.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the fan board is fixed within the chassis housing, then it is stable, but it cannot be easily accessed for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The fan board installation transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic state with multiple access levels. The fan cage module can be quickly removed from the chassis, and the fan board itself can be independently removed from the fan cage module using the trigger-style latch assembly, providing both stability during operation and ease of maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into three separable components: chassis housing, fan cage module, and fan board. This segmentation allows each component to maintain its stability while enabling hierarchical disassembly for maintenance, where the fan board can be serviced independently without affecting the chassis housing.
3Strength
If a traditional latch mechanism is used, then the fan cage module is securely attached, but tool removal is required for detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger-style latch assembly enables self-service detachment operation. The release button allows the user to easily disengage the latch mechanism with a simple pressing motion, eliminating the need for tools. The spring-loaded design automatically resets the latch when released, providing both strong attachment and easy detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional multi-step mechanical latch mechanism is replaced with a spring-loaded trigger-style latch assembly. This simplified mechanical system uses spring force to automatically engage and hold the latch, while a single button press on the trigger releases it, replacing complex manual operation with an intuitive self-service mechanism.
4Reliability
If the fan board is permanently installed in the chassis, then it is secure, but replacement and servicing require chassis housing removal
Solution Approach 1:
The installation is segmented into a permanently fixed fan cage module within the chassis housing and a separately removable fan board. The fan cage module remains securely installed in the chassis, maintaining structural integrity and reliability, while the fan board can be independently removed and replaced through the front access opening, dramatically improving servicing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The fan board is extracted from the permanent fixed installation and placed in a removable configuration within the fan cage module. This extraction allows the fan board to be quickly replaced for maintenance or upgrades without disturbing the chassis housing or the fan cage module installation, maintaining security while boosting productivity.
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
This solution enhances the efficiency of servicing fan boards by allowing for quick and tool-less access and replacement of fan boards within the computer chassis, reducing the need for chassis removal and facilitating easier maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The latch assembly is spring operated such that the latch is advanced through the aperture to engage the computer chassis upon insertion of the fan cage module into the computer chassis. Extension of the spring by moving a trigger of the latch assembly causes the latch to disengage from the computer chassis.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are directed to a fan board sled assembly comprising a fan circuit board including a first end and an opposing second end, a fan cage module including a front section for receiving and removably securing the first end of the fan circuit board to the fan cage module, and a guide bracket including a base section for receiving and removably securing the second end of the fan circuit board to the guide bracket. The fan cage module further includes a back section for receiving one or more fan bodies. The combined fan circuit board, fan cage module and guide bracket are a single integrated unit insertable and extractable from a chassis opening of a computer chassis.