Hard Disk Locking Apparatus With Pivoting Handle

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for securing hard disks in electronic equipment are inconvenient and time-consuming, requiring the removal of fasteners for replacement or repair.

Innovation Solution

A locking apparatus comprising a handle, base, slide block, bolts, and resilient elements that securely locks a hard disk in place using a sliding mechanism and pivoting handle for easy engagement and disengagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional fasteners are used to secure hard disks, then the hard disk can be securely fixed, but the replacement and repair process becomes time-consuming and inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of hard disk replacementVSAvoidtime required for hard disk replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The locking apparatus transitions from a static fastening system to a dynamic locking system. The handle can be rotated between a locked position (where the locking protrusion engages the locking recess) and an unlocked position, allowing quick engagement and disengagement of the hard disk without removing traditional fasteners.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking apparatus is divided into separate functional components: a handle with locking protrusion, a base with locking recess, and a slide block with guiding protrusion. This segmentation allows the locking mechanism to be independently operated without affecting the entire hard disk assembly, enabling quick lock and unlock operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If a locking mechanism is added to secure the hard disk, then the security and stability are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of hard disk fixationVSAvoidcomplexity of locking apparatus
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the rotation of the handle. When the handle is rotated, the locking protrusion automatically engages with the locking recess, and the resilient element automatically provides the locking force. This self-service design eliminates the need for additional actuators or complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient element acts as an intermediary between the handle and the locking recess. It stores mechanical energy when compressed during handle rotation and automatically engages the locking protrusion with the locking recess, providing reliable locking action without requiring direct mechanical connection or complex positioning mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Strength

If multiple fasteners are used to secure the hard disk, then the fixation strength is improved, but the ease of maintenance and replacement deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixation strength of hard diskVSAvoidease of hard disk maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The locking apparatus merges the functions of multiple fasteners into a single integrated locking mechanism. The handle, base, slide block, and resilient element work together as one unit to provide the fixation strength that would otherwise require multiple separate fasteners, while maintaining ease of operation through a single rotational action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking apparatus serves multiple functions: it provides secure fixation, enables quick locking and unlocking, and allows for easy maintenance and replacement. The same locking mechanism can be operated by different users without requiring specialized tools or knowledge, making it universally applicable to various hard disk sizes and configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Facilitates quick and efficient locking and unlocking of hard disks, reducing the time and effort required for maintenance or replacement tasks.

Implementation Method 1

a pair of resilient elements 16

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8424931B2Locking apparatus for locking hard disk to electronic device
Publication Date: 2013.04.23 CLOUD NETWORK TECH SINGAPORE PTE LTD
  • US8424931B2 patent drawing
  • US8424931B2 patent drawing
  • US8424931B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A locking apparatus uses a handle pivotally connected to a base to control the movement of a slide block slidablely accommodated in a base. The slide block includes a locking tongue. The locking tongue protrudes out of the base or retracts back into the base according to the movement of the slide block. Thus, the locking apparatus can lock the hard disk when the locking tongue protrudes out of the base and unlock the hard disk when the locking tongue retracts back into the base.