M.2 Memory Device Guide Rail and Spring Fixation for Tool-Free Insertion

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing M.2 interface connection systems face limitations in selectivity and convenience due to fixed screw-based installation methods, which restrict the insertion of M.2 interface cards of varying lengths and require manual tools for assembly and disassembly.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution incorporates a guide groove and guide rail embedded structure between the M.2 interface memory device and connection seat, allowing for horizontal insertion and fixation of M.2 interface cards of different lengths, eliminating the upturned issue and enabling easy selection and operation through a card ejecting mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a screw fixed member is used to fix the M.2 interface card through the notch and hole, then the card can be securely fixed on the circuit board, but the operation becomes inconvenient as it requires a screwdriver for installation and disassembly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the screw-based mechanical fastening system with a spring-based elastic fixing mechanism. The spring fixed member automatically engages with the card's positioning structure through elastic force, eliminating the need for screwdrivers while maintaining secure fixation. This substitution transforms a tool-dependent mechanical system into a tool-free elastic system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring fixed member is designed to automatically engage and secure the M.2 interface card without requiring external tools or manual intervention beyond simple insertion. The elastic force of the spring provides self-locking functionality, allowing the card to be fixed and removed through simple push operations rather than requiring screwdriver operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Device complexity

If the hole is disposed on a fixed position on the circuit board, then the structure is simplified, but the selectivity of M.2 interface card specifications is limited because the card length must match the fixed distance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidcard specification selectivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a movable spring fixed member that can adjust its position along the circuit board. This dynamic positioning capability allows the fixing mechanism to accommodate different card lengths (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110 specifications) while maintaining a simple overall structure. The spring's elastic nature enables it to adapt to varying distances from the slot to the card's rear end.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing mechanism is segmented into a movable spring component and a stationary mounting structure. This segmentation allows the spring to independently adjust its position to match different card lengths, providing versatility without requiring multiple fixed holes or complex positioning systems on the circuit board.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If the M.2 interface card is inserted horizontally into the slot, then the connection is simplified, but the rear end of the card may upturn due to the elasticity force of the metal spring

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection structureVSAvoidcard positioning stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a bridge-like connecting structure that serves as an intermediary between the spring fixed member and the card's rear end. This connecting structure transmits the spring's elastic force to the card, preventing upturn while maintaining the horizontal insertion configuration. The connector acts as a force transmission medium that stabilizes the card without adding complex positioning mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Reliability

If a metal spring is used to provide elasticity force for fixing the card, then the card can be secured in the slot, but the upturned situation occurs on the rear end of the card

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing reliabilityVSAvoidcard rear end orientation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The bridge-like connecting structure acts as an intermediary that distributes the spring's elastic force along the card's rear end. This prevents concentration of force at a single point that would cause upturn, while maintaining secure fixation. The connector transforms the spring's vertical elastic force into a distributed stabilizing force along the card's length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9761996B2M.2 interface memory device and M.2 interface connection seat insertedly provided thereof
Publication Date: 2017.09.12 INNODISK CORP
  • US9761996B2 patent drawing
  • US9761996B2 patent drawing
  • US9761996B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention provides a M.2 interface memory device and a M.2 interface connection seat insertedly provided thereof. The M.2 interface memory device comprises a M.2 interface card and a housing provided with at least one guide groove. The M.2 interface connection seat is disposed on a circuit board, and comprises two arms and a base comprising a M.2 interface slot. At least one arm is provided with a guide rail. An opening direction of the M.2 interface slot is horizontal to a surface of the circuit board. When the M.2 interface card is inserted into the M.2 interface slot in a horizontal direction, the M.2 interface memory device will be fixed within the M.2 interface connection seat by embedding between the guide groove and the guide rail. Thus, M.2 interface memory devices of a variety of specification lengths are able to be inserted into the M.2 interface connection seat.