Removable Module Alignment Mechanism for Orientation-Safe Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in electronic device manufacturing is the uncertainty in module orientation during assembly, leading to potential incorrect electrical connections and resulting manufacturing delays and inefficiencies due to multiple possible insertion orientations of modules into the chassis.
Innovation Solution
An alignment mechanism featuring a deformable arch-shaped body portion that compresses differently based on the module's orientation, allowing correct insertion while preventing incorrect orientations by using a mechanical stop with elastic material to prevent full insertion when misaligned.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If modules can be inserted in multiple orientations due to layout and space limitations, then the chassis design is more flexible and space-efficient, but uncertainty arises about correct assembly and manufacturing delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment mechanism employs an asymmetric arch-shaped body portion with a specific geometric profile that is compatible only with the module inserted in the correct orientation. The arch's cross-sectional shape and dimensions are designed to match the module's profile in the proper orientation, creating a natural fit that prevents incorrect insertions while maintaining flexible space utilization in the chassis.
2Reliability
If a rigid alignment mechanism is used to prevent incorrect insertion, then assembly correctness is ensured, but the mechanism cannot accommodate modules inserted in incorrect orientations during the insertion process
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment mechanism utilizes a deformable arch-shaped body portion that can dynamically change its shape during the insertion process. When a module is inserted, the arch compresses along its longitudinal axis, allowing the module to pass through. Once insertion is complete, the arch returns to its original shape, preventing future removal or incorrect reinsertion. This dynamic behavior enables both ease of operation and reliable orientation control.
Solution Approach 2:
The arch-shaped body portion changes its physical parameters (shape and dimensions) in response to applied force during insertion. The material's elastic properties allow the arch to transition from a compressed state during insertion to an uncompressed state for prevention, with the degree of compression depending on the insertion force applied. This parameter change enables the mechanism to accommodate correct insertions while blocking incorrect ones.
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
Ensures modules are inserted in the correct orientation, ensuring proper electrical connections and reducing manufacturing delays by preventing incorrect insertions through the use of a deformable material that compresses and moves to allow or block insertion based on orientation.
Implementation Method 1
The body portion is made from a deformable material. The body portion is configured to compress along the second axis toward the first end and the second end in response to contact between the body portion and a first portion of the module.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a chassis housing one or more electronic components, a module configured to be inserted into a channel defined by the chassis, and an alignment mechanism disposed in the channel. The alignment mechanism has a body portion that defines an aperture. When the module is initially inserted into the channel in a first orientation, a first portion of the module passes over the aperture and compresses the body portion of the alignment mechanism along a first axis, to allow the module to be fully inserted into the channel. When the module is initially inserted into the channel in a second orientation, a second portion of the module passes through the aperture and does not compress the body portion of the alignment mechanism along the first axis, to prevent the module from being fully inserted into the channel.