Flexible Fixing Frame for Tool-Free Hard Disk Assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The traditional method of assembling hard disks into desktop computer cases using screws is cumbersome and time-consuming, requiring tools for repair or replacement, which complicates the assembly process and increases production time.

Innovation Solution

A hard disk assembly device featuring a flexible fixing frame and a fixing bracket with positioning portions and fastening mechanisms that allow for tool-free disassembly and assembly, enabling quick and convenient installation, repair, and replacement of hard disks without the need for screws.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If screws are used to fix the hard disk to the case, then the hard disk is securely fixed, but the assembly process becomes complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing reliabilityVSAvoidassembly efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism is divided into multiple positioning portions (first positioning portion on hard disk, second positioning portion on bracket, third positioning portion on fixing frame) that work together to achieve secure fixation without screws. Each positioning portion engages with its counterpart to provide stable mounting while enabling quick release.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing frame is designed to be flexible rather than rigid, allowing it to deform elastically during assembly and disassembly. This dynamic characteristic enables the fixing frame to automatically engage with positioning portions and later release easily by pulling the draw tape, transforming a static screw-fixed system into a dynamic snap-fit system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If screws are used to fix the hard disk, then secure fixation is achieved, but tool-free disassembly becomes impossible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing reliabilityVSAvoiddisassembly convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing frame incorporates a draw tape that enables the user to easily pull and release the fixing frame from the bracket without requiring any tools. The elastic deformation of the fixing frame during this process allows automatic disengagement of the positioning portions, making the disassembly process simple and tool-free while maintaining secure fixation during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If a flexible fixing frame is used, then easy disassembly is enabled, but the fixing strength may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisassembly convenienceVSAvoidfixing strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing frame utilizes elastic curvature and deformation characteristics to achieve both strong fixation and easy release. The frame's curved elastic structure allows it to flex during assembly to engage positioning portions securely, then flex again during disassembly to release them, maintaining fixing strength while enabling ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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 solution significantly reduces assembly time, enhances convenience in repairing and replacing hard disks, and eliminates the requirement for disassembly tools, thereby improving the overall efficiency and productivity of the assembly process.

Implementation Method 1

the flexible fixing frame may be a plastic material, and the flexible fixing frame may be capable of generating elastic deformation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3591501B1Hard disk assembly device
Publication Date: 2021.10.27 MINGSHUO COMP (SUZHOU) CO LTD
  • EP3591501B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3591501B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3591501B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a hard disk assembly device for assembling a hard disk into a case. Two opposite sides of the hard disk respectively have at least one first positioning portion and at least one second positioning portion. The hard disk assembly device includes a flexible fixing frame and a fixing bracket. One side of the flexible fixing frame includes at least one third positioning portion and at least one first guiding portion, and the other side of the flexible fixing frame includes at least one fourth positioning portion, a draw tape, and two fastening portions. The two fastening portions are respectively correspondingly connected with two ends of the draw tape. The hard disk is fixed in the flexible fixing frame. The flexible fixing frame is fixed to the fixing bracket.