Lever-Based Screwless Locating Device for Server Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage medium machines in server chassis require complex and time-consuming screw locking mechanisms for assembly and disassembly, leading to increased downtime and difficulty in repair or replacement, especially in densely packed environments like data centers.
Innovation Solution
A locating device with a casing, fitting member, and operating device set that uses a lever and sliding rod to lock the fitting member to the casing without screws, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly by moving the pivot connection portion along a sliding slot, ensuring secure engagement and preventing horizontal or vertical disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screw locking mechanism is used to fasten storage medium machines in chassis, then connection strength is improved, but assembly time and disassembly time are significantly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fastening function from traditional screw locking and relocates it to a lever-based locking mechanism. The lever (31) with positioning protrusions (3131) engages with positioning slots (122) on the fitting member, eliminating the need for multiple screws while maintaining secure connection. This allows single-handed operation for both assembly and disassembly, dramatically reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic lever mechanism that can be easily biased between locked and unlocked positions. The lever (31) rotates about a pivot axis, allowing operators to quickly transition between assembly and disassembly states by simply applying force to the lever handle, rather than repeatedly inserting and removing screws.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple screws are used for locking, then connection stability is improved, but device complexity and number of components are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening functions into a single integrated lever mechanism. The lever (31) simultaneously performs positioning, locking, and securing functions that previously required multiple screws. The positioning protrusions (3131) on the lever engage with positioning slots (122) to provide stable connection, while the lever's design allows it to be manipulated as a single component rather than multiple separate screws.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical locking through positioning protrusions engaging with slots, maintains connection stability through the rigid lever structure, and enables easy operation through its pivot-based design. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple specialized fastening components.
3Strength
If screw locking is used in densely packed chassis, then secure fastening is achieved, but ease of operation is reduced due to limited space for tool insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The lever mechanism is designed to be self-contained and self-operating. The lever (31) with its extended handle allows operators to grasp and manipulate it directly without requiring external screwdrivers or specialized tools. The positioning protrusions (3131) automatically engage with the positioning slots (122) when the lever is biased, providing secure fastening through the operator's direct manipulation of the lever itself.
4Ease of manufacture
If force is applied to lock mismatched screws, then assembly is completed, but damage to screw holes and components occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The lever mechanism acts as an intermediary between the operator and the fitting member, providing a controlled locking action. The positioning protrusions (3131) on the lever engage with the positioning slots (122) in a guided manner, distributing forces evenly and preventing the kind of misaligned force application that causes damage when forcing mismatched screws into place.
Data Source
AI summary
A locating device includes casing including position-limiting member defining therein receiving space and two opposing receiving slots and mounting structure on two opposite side walls thereof, fitting member having recess, through hole cut through recess, axle structure provided in recess and positioning structure for positioning in mounting structure of casing, and operating device set including lever having pivot connection head inserted through through hole into receiving space, pivot connection portion located on pivot connection head and pivotally connected to axle structure and sliding slot located on pivot connection head and sliding rod movably mounted in sliding slot and having end portion located on each of two opposite ends thereof and disposed in receiving slot. Operating device set is movable relative to fitting member between an open position where the positioning structure is unlocked from mounting structure, and a close position where the positioning structure is locked to mounting structure.