Electronic Module Latch Mechanism for Easy Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
The small form factor of electronic modules, such as SFP, X-SFP, and QSFP, makes them difficult to handle and remove from a printed circuit board due to limited space for finger operation, especially when other components are surrounding the module.
Innovation Solution
An electronic module with an improved latch mechanism featuring a slider member with arm portions and a gasket with curved portions that allow for easy separation from a complementary connector by moving the slider along a front-to-rear direction, raising the curved portions to facilitate removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the module form factor is reduced to save space on the printed circuit board, then the area occupied by the module decreases, but the ease of operation for removing the module deteriorates due to limited space for finger operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pull tab that extends perpendicular to the plane of the module housing, utilizing the vertical dimension (Z-axis) to provide finger engagement. This allows operators to grasp and remove the module from above without requiring lateral space, effectively resolving the contradiction between compact footprint and ease of removal by operating in a different spatial dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The pull tab acts as an intermediary element between the operator's finger and the module body. Instead of directly grasping the compact module housing, the operator interacts with the extended pull tab, which transmits the removal force to the module. This intermediary structure enables easy removal despite the module's small form factor.
2Productivity
If the module form factor is reduced to support more modules on the printed circuit board, then the quantity of modules that can be coupled increases, but the ease of operation for replacing failed modules deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By extending the pull tab in the vertical dimension, the patent enables operators to access and remove modules from above the board surface. This dimensional approach allows for easy module replacement even when modules are densely packed, maintaining high productivity while preserving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The pull tab serves as a mediator that bridges the gap between the operator and the densely packed module. It provides a convenient grip point that extends beyond the module's compact boundaries, enabling efficient module replacement without requiring excessive lateral space for finger manipulation.
3Ease of operation
If a traditional latch mechanism with sliders and bails is used to enable module removal, then the ease of operation for removal improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of the latch mechanism (enabling module removal) and separates it from the complex slider-bail assembly. By removing the intermediate slider and bail components and directly engaging the housing with the receptacle, the design achieves easy removal functionality with significantly reduced structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex mechanical latch that actively locks and unlocks, the patent inverts the approach by using a simple snap-fit engagement where the housing directly interfaces with the receptacle. The removal function is achieved through direct manipulation of the housing itself rather than through a multi-component latch mechanism, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic module (100) for mating with a complementary connector, comprises: a housing defining a recess area and a printed circuit board (3) disposed in the housing. A slider member is (61) assembled to an exterior surface of the housing and defining a pair of arm portions (612) formed on a front end thereof. And a gasket (5) is assembled to the recess area and defining a pair of curved portions (543) located above two free ends of the pair of arm portions. Whereby movement of the slider by a user along a front to rear direction, the two free ends of the pair of arm portions respectively raise up the pair of curved portions.