Latch Offset Pivot Positive Locking Torque Memory Module Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional latches in memory module sockets experience 'self-opening' due to negative torque, leading to unseating under loading conditions such as vibration and shock, as they fail to provide sufficient resistance against unseating forces.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a latch and socket assembly that generates a positive locking torque, utilizing a pivot mechanism with an offset latch pivot point relative to the latch contact region, to resist unseating forces and maintain the memory module securely in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional latches are used with friction-based equilibrium, then the latch structure is simple, but the latch opens outward under unseating forces leading to memory module unseating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional latch torque direction by repositioning the pivot point. Instead of negative torque that causes self-opening, the offset pivot point creates positive torque that generates self-latching force, making the latch close tighter under load rather than open.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameter of the latch by offsetting the pivot point from the contact region. This parameter change transforms the torque characteristic from negative to positive, fundamentally altering the latch behavior under unseating forces.
2Reliability
If friction-based equilibrium is used to hold the latch, then the latch mechanism is simple, but the equilibrium is easily lost under vibration and shock loading conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a counter-torque mechanism where the offset pivot point creates a positive torque that acts as a counterweight to the unseating force. This positive torque increases with applied load, actively counteracting vibration and shock forces that would otherwise cause unseating.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch design incorporates preliminary anti-action by pre-positioning the pivot point to generate positive torque before unseating forces are applied. This creates a proactive locking mechanism that resists unseating forces rather than reactively responding to them.
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 design enhances the retention of memory modules during transportation and operation by increasing the latching torque in response to unseating forces, minimizing the risk of unseating failures and shifting the point of failure from friction-based equilibrium to material strength, thus ensuring secure retention.
Implementation Method 1
The latch and socket assembly cooperate to produce a positive locking torque that may be applied from the latch onto the memory module, to resist unseating forces such as shock and vibe loading conditions
Implementation Method 2
The system may enable a latch to provide positive torque, providing self-latch functionality under a load that would otherwise unseat the memory module
Data Source
AI summary
A socket is to receive a memory module usable in a computing system. A latch is to retain the memory module seated in the socket. The latch is to generate a positive locking latch retention force to prevent removal of the memory module while the latch is in a latched position.