Memory Connector Latch Assist Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing memory module connectors lack an efficient mechanism for secure and easy insertion and removal of memory modules, often requiring manual operation or specialized tools, which can lead to misalignment and increased friction.

Innovation Solution

A dynamically-assisted latch mechanism with a pivotally coupled lever and a leaf spring-like latch assist member that automatically engages and positions the latch upon initial insertion of the memory module, allowing for easy and secure connection and disconnection by pivoting the lever.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a manual latch mechanism is used to secure memory modules, then the memory module can be firmly secured, but the operation becomes complex and may require specialized tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure engagementVSAvoidoperation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The latch assist member is designed to automatically pivot the latch into engagement with the memory module during insertion, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The lower arm engages the memory module body while the upper arm pivots the latch, creating a self-service mechanism that secures the module without requiring user action beyond initial insertion

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The latch assist member performs the preliminary action of positioning and engaging the latch with the memory module during the insertion process itself. By incorporating the latch assistance function into the insertion mechanism, the system prepares and secures the connection before the user completes the insertion, ensuring reliable engagement without subsequent manual steps

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If a simple latch mechanism is used, then the operation is easy, but misalignment and friction increase during insertion

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperation simplicityVSAvoidconnection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The latch assist member acts as an intermediary between the memory module and the latch mechanism. It mediates the interaction by engaging the memory module body with its lower arm and transferring this engagement to pivot the latch into proper alignment, ensuring both ease of operation and connection reliability through this intermediate component

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces a purely manual mechanical latch operation with an automated mechanical assistance system. The latch assist member uses the insertion motion itself to drive the latch engagement, substituting the need for complex manual manipulation with a guided mechanical assistance mechanism that reduces friction and prevents misalignment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If specialized tools are used for memory module insertion and removal, then secure engagement is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure engagementVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The latch assist member serves multiple functions within a single integrated component: it guides the memory module during insertion, engages the module body, pivots the latch into engagement, and maintains secure connection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized external tools while achieving reliable engagement through a universal mechanism built into the connector itself

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Facilitates effortless insertion and removal of memory modules by reducing friction and preventing misalignment, ensuring reliable electronic communication and maximizing mechanical advantage for secure seating.

Implementation Method 1

An upper arm of the latch assist member pivots the latch into engagement with the memory module in response to the engagement of the lower arm by the memory module

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Implementation Method 2

A latch assist member is pivotably coupled to the connector body... A dynamically-assisted latch facilitates inserting and connecting a memory module

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8636528B2Memory module connector with latch assist

Publication Date: 2014.01.28 LENOVO GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES SWITZERLAND INTERNATIONAL GMBH

AI summary

A memory module connector includes a dynamically-assisted latch that facilitates connecting and releasing a memory module. The latch includes a lever pivotably coupled to the connector for urging the memory module into and out of a fully seated position within the connector. The lever provides a mechanical advantage for lowering and raising the memory module. A latch assist member urges the latch into engagement with the memory module in response to an insertion of the memory module, and dynamically positions the lever in response to movement of the memory module within the connector.