Movable Handle Latch for Server Rack Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing latch mechanisms for server racks often obstruct airflow and limit the effective height for connectors and fans due to their placement along the top, making it difficult to access and install/remove modules, especially when obstructions like network cables are present.

Innovation Solution

A latch with a movable handle assembly that includes a main frame, a handle frame, and a handle, where the handle frame and handle are movable between upper and lower positions, allowing for improved accessibility and airflow by moving the handle away from the module's rear, thus not impeding airflow or the height for connectors and fans.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the latch mechanism is placed along the top of the module, then the module can be secured in the server rack, but the latch obstructs airflow and limits the effective height for connectors and fans

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule securingVSAvoidairflow obstruction

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism is repositioned from a horizontal orientation along the top edge to a vertical orientation along the side edge of the module. This dimensional change moves the latch away from the rear of the module, eliminating interference with airflow patterns and providing adequate clearance for rear-mounted components while maintaining the module securing function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If the latch mechanism is placed along the top of the module, then the module can be secured in the server rack, but the handle is difficult to access and operate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule securingVSAvoidhandle accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is repositioned from the top edge to the side edge of the module, creating vertical clearance that improves accessibility. The handle now extends into the server rack interior space, allowing operators to easily grasp and manipulate it without obstruction from network cables or other components that would block access to a top-mounted handle

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The handle is designed with movable components including a slide pin that can shift between engaged and disengaged positions, and a release button that enables easy manipulation. The handle frame can move vertically relative to the main frame, providing dynamic adjustment that facilitates easy operation while maintaining secure engagement when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the latch mechanism is placed along the top of the module, then the module can be secured in the server rack, but network cables and other obstructions make it difficult to access and operate the handle

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule securingVSAvoidhandle accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11758674B2Latch with movable handle for electronic equipment

Publication Date: 2023.09.12 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

An information handling system includes a module configured to be installed into a server rack and a handle assembly. The handle assembly includes a main frame that is rigidly affixed to the module, a handle frame that is movably affixed to the main frame, and a handle that is rigidly affixed to the handle frame. The handle frame and the handle are movable with respect to the main frame between a first, upper position, and a second, lower position.