Latch Mechanism With Lockout Member For Secure Module Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular computing systems face challenges in securely retaining modules within enclosures, leading to risks of accidental dislodgment and potential system errors due to loss of contact, which can result in data corruption and damage.
Innovation Solution
A latch mechanism with two configurations (open and latched) and a lockout member that provides mechanical advantage and ensures secure engagement and disengagement of modules, preventing premature latching until proper alignment is achieved.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If modules are made separable for easier installation and upgrading, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to greater risk of accidental dislodgment
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is divided into separate components: a latch assembly on the module and corresponding receivers on the enclosure. This segmentation allows the module to be easily inserted and removed while maintaining secure retention when installed, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly includes a lockout member that prevents premature latching until proper alignment is achieved. This preliminary action ensures that modules are securely retained during normal operation while maintaining ease of installation by guiding proper alignment before engagement.
2Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to secure modules, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is designed to be substantially self-contained with integrated components including the latch member, lockout member, and biasing mechanism. This self-service design provides reliable module retention without requiring complex external control systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Manufacturing precision
If a lockout member is added to prevent premature latching, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lockout member acts as an intermediary between the latch member and the anchoring feature. It mediates the engagement process by preventing premature latching until proper alignment is achieved, thereby ensuring manufacturing precision without significantly increasing device complexity through its integration into the existing latch structure.
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 latch mechanism effectively secures and releases modules, maintaining contact and preventing accidental dislodgment, thus ensuring system stability and reliability by providing a mechanical advantage and ensuring proper alignment before latching.
Implementation Method 1
The latch may be configured to provide a mechanical advantage where the force on the anchor point is greater than the input force.
Data Source
AI summary
Examples described herein relate to a latch for releasably coupling objects. In some such examples, the latch includes a receiver, a torque member, and a handle. The receiver includes a lobe to releasably engage an anchor point within a recess of the receiver. The torque member is rotatably coupled to the receiver to rotate the receiver. The handle includes a torque portion rotatably coupled to the torque member to rotate the torque member and includes a lever extending from the torque portion.