Fan Module Pivoting Lever Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fan modules for computing devices are either bulky and unwieldy, making them impractical for efficient space use, as they struggle to balance secure locking with easy unlockability for repair or replacement.
Innovation Solution
A fan module design featuring a housing with a locking body and a lever that moves between locked and unlocked positions, utilizing a curved tip to pivot and raise an outwardly-extending lip of the locking body, allowing for secure locking and easy unlocking without occupying excessive space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bulky locking components are used to secure the fan module to the chassis, then the locking reliability is improved, but the space utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking body is nested within the housing structure, with the lever mechanism integrated into the same assembly. The locking body can be positioned within the housing when not in use, and the lever pivots within the housing to actuate the locking body. This nesting approach allows the locking mechanism to occupy minimal space while maintaining secure locking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking body is designed to be movable between a retracted position and an extended locking position, actuated by the pivoting lever. The dynamic design allows the locking mechanism to transition between locked and unlocked states without requiring permanent occupation of large space. The spring-loaded return mechanism enables automatic retraction of the locking body after engagement.
2Volume of moving object
If simple locking mechanisms are used to minimize space, then the space utilization is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lever features a curved tip that engages with the locking body. The curved geometry provides mechanical advantage during the pivoting motion, allowing the user to easily actuate the locking mechanism with minimal force. The curved path of the lever tip ensures smooth engagement and disengagement of the locking body throughout its travel range.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the lever for actuation, the locking body for engagement, and the spring for return. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall compactness. The lever can be positioned outside the housing for easy access, while the locking body operates within the housing.
3Reliability
If secure locking is achieved through extended locking body, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking body combines multiple functions in a single component: it serves as both the locking element that engages with the chassis and the lever arm that transmits force from the pivot to the engagement point. The integrated spring is embedded within the locking body structure, eliminating the need for separate spring housings or mounting features. This merging reduces the number of parts and simplifies the overall mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking body serves multiple functions: it provides the locking engagement surface, acts as a lever arm for force transmission, contains the spring mechanism, and provides structural support for the housing. The lever simultaneously provides the user interface for operation and the mechanical advantage through its curved geometry. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A
AI summary
A fan module containing a fan is used to cool a computing device or system. The fan module is mounted within a chassis, and contains a housing, a locking body, and lever. The housing of the fan module contains a housing, a locking body, and lever. The housing of the fan module defines a hollow interior that houses the fan. The locking body is coupled to the housing and is moveable between a locked position. When in the locked position, the locking body extends through a locking aperture in the floor of the chassis. When in the unlocked position, the locking body rises above the locking aperture in the floor of the chassis. Moving the lever from the first position to the second position causes the locking body to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.