Latch Assembly Ramp Mechanism for Component Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
The coupling and decoupling of components from component receiving modules in electronic devices often require significant separation force, which can damage the components, the module, or the device, and poses a risk to technicians due to the confined environment.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with a latch slide that transitions between latched and unlatched positions, featuring a latch ramp and release ramp to secure and release a pin, assisted by a biasing element, allowing for controlled engagement and disengagement of components with component receiving modules, reducing the force required for installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If significant separation force is applied to decouple components from component receiving modules, then the component can be removed from the module, but the component, module, or electronic device may be damaged or injury may occur to technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is divided into separate functional components: a latch body, a latch arm, and a release mechanism. This segmentation allows the decoupling force to be distributed across multiple elements rather than concentrated on a single point, reducing the risk of damage while maintaining effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The latch arm acts as an intermediary element between the component and the component receiving module. It provides a controlled interface for engagement and disengagement, allowing force to be applied through the latch mechanism rather than directly to the component or module, thereby preventing damage
2Ease of operation
If significant separation force is applied to decouple components, then the component can be removed from the module, but injury may occur to technicians in the confined environment
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly incorporates a release mechanism that allows the latch arm to be actuated with minimal force. The spring-loaded design enables the latch to automatically return to its engaged position, reducing the physical effort required by technicians and minimizing injury risk in confined spaces
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism transitions between static engaged and disengaged states through controlled movement. The spring-loaded latch arm provides dynamic response to applied force, allowing smooth transition rather than requiring sudden high-force applications that could injure technicians
3Force
If a latch mechanism is added to assist in installation and removal of components, then the force required for decoupling is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is integrated with the component receiving module structure, combining multiple functions into a unified design. The latch body and arm are configured to work together with the module's existing features, reducing overall complexity compared to adding a completely separate mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed as a removable and replaceable component that can be extracted from the assembly. This modular approach allows the latch to be serviced or replaced independently, simplifying maintenance while providing the force-reduction benefit during normal operation
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 assembly facilitates easier and safer installation and removal of components by distributing the force effectively, minimizing the risk of damage to components and devices while ensuring secure coupling and decoupling.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured to bias the latch slide in the latched position
Implementation Method 2
a latch ramp shaped to draw the pin into the receiving portion and a release ramp shaped to draw the pin away from the receiving portion
Data Source
AI summary
Latch mechanism having a latch slide having a receiving portion and configured to couple a component with a server chassis. A latch ramp disposed on the latch slide at a first end of the receiving portion, a release ramp disposed on the latch slide at a second end of the receiving portion, and a biasing element biasing the latch slide in a latched position. The latch ramp configured to draw the pin into the receiving portion and the release ramp configured to draw the pin away from the receiving portion. When the latch slide transitions to the latched position, the pin is received in the receiving portion and engages the latch ramp, thereby sliding the latch slide and compressing the biasing element. When the latch slide transitions to the unlatched position, the biasing member is compressed causing the pin to engage the release ramp and translate the component.