Tool-less M.2 Fastening System with Interlocking Hooks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current M.2 double-sided mount designs for computer expansion cards require tools for securing M.2 modules to a printed circuit board, increasing complexity, time, and risk of damage, while also occupying unnecessary space.
Innovation Solution
An M.2 fastening system featuring a riser card with adjustable positions and tool-less fasteners, where hooks from each fastener are pressed-fit over the top surface of the other to secure the M.2 module without the need for tools, utilizing a press-fit or nut connection for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If current M.2 double-sided mount designs are used, then space efficiency on the main PCB is improved, but device complexity increases due to tool requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is designed to be self-servicing through the interlocking hook mechanism. The hooks on opposite sides automatically engage with each other when the fasteners are installed, eliminating the need for external tools. The system secures itself through the mutual engagement of hooks from first and second fasteners, making the mounting process tool-free while maintaining double-sided space efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate first and second fasteners, each with its own hook mechanism. This segmentation allows each fastener to be independently installed and positioned, then interconnected through their hooks. The modular design enables tool-less assembly while achieving the space-efficient double-sided mounting configuration
2Strength
If tools are used for securing M.2 modules, then mounting strength is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hooks are pre-formed as integral parts of the fasteners during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of the hook structures allows them to be quickly engaged and interlocked during installation without requiring tools or complex assembly steps. The pre-formed hooks enable rapid tool-less mounting while maintaining secure attachment strength
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking hook mechanism performs the fastening action automatically when the fasteners are positioned. The hooks engage with each other and secure the M.2 module through their own structural design, eliminating the need for external tools. This self-service mechanism significantly reduces mounting time while ensuring reliable attachment strength
3Reliability
If tools are required for mounting, then secure attachment is achieved, but risk of damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hook-based fastening system attaches and secures components through its own structural mechanism without requiring external tools. The hooks engage with corresponding features on the PCB and each other, creating a reliable attachment that eliminates the risk of tool-induced damage to the PCB or components while maintaining secure mounting
4Reliability
If traditional fastening methods are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system operates autonomously through the interlocking hook mechanism. Installation simply requires positioning the fasteners, after which the hooks automatically engage and secure the M.2 module. This self-service design dramatically improves ease of operation by eliminating tool requirements and complex assembly steps while maintaining secure mounting through the interlocked hook structure
Data Source
AI summary
An M.2 fastening system has an M.2 riser card with two module-receiving sides and a plurality of adjustment positions. The M.2 fastening system further has a pair of M.2 fasteners mounted respectively on the module-receiving sides. Each M.2 fastener has a main body defined by a top surface and a bottom surface; a module attachment extending from the top surface; and a hook extending from the bottom surface along a lateral side of the main body. The hook of one of the M.2 fasteners is received through an attachment aperture of an adjustment position. The hook is pressed-fit over the top surface of the main body of another M.2 fastener. The hook secures the M.2 riser card between the pair of M.2 fasteners in a tool-less manner.