Multi-Location Latch Mechanism Single Actuation

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional locking mechanisms for electronic component modules require multiple separate engagements, increasing installation time and complexity, and potentially leading to unsecured modules during packaging and shipping.

Innovation Solution

A latch mechanism with rotatable lever arms and pawls that secure a module at multiple locations with a single mechanism, providing an interference fit with the chassis when latched, reducing installation time and preventing inadvertent removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple separate locking mechanisms are used to secure each corner of a module, then the module can be locked at multiple locations, but the installation time increases and the installation process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule securityVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple locking mechanisms into a single integrated latch mechanism that can secure multiple corners of a module simultaneously. The latch mechanism includes a body with multiple latch arms that can engage with corresponding tabs on the module, allowing one installation action to secure the module at multiple locations rather than requiring separate operations for each corner.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions: it can secure modules of different sizes (full-height and low-profile), accommodate different module types (blowers, power supplies), and provide both retention and ejection prevention capabilities through its multi-arm design and interference fit features.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple separate locking mechanisms are used to secure each corner of a module, then the module can be locked at multiple locations, but the installation process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule securityVSAvoidinstallation process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple locking mechanisms into a single integrated latch mechanism that can secure multiple corners of a module simultaneously. The latch mechanism includes a body with multiple latch arms that can engage with corresponding tabs on the module, allowing one installation action to secure the module at multiple locations rather than requiring separate operations for each corner.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If a single latch mechanism is used to secure multiple locations, then the installation time is reduced, but the mechanism complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidlatch mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism is segmented into multiple independent latch arms that can be actuated simultaneously through a single input force. Each latch arm is a separate component that engages with its corresponding module tab, allowing the mechanism to maintain simplicity at the component level while achieving multi-point securing functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS7438571B1Multiple location latch mechanism with single actuation

Publication Date: 2008.10.21 LENOVO INT LTD

AI summary

A latch mechanism for securing a module in an electronic component chassis includes at least one lever arm attached to the module and rotable between a latched and unlatched position, at least a portion of the lever arm having an interference fit with the chassis when the lever arm is in the latched position. The latch mechanism further includes at least one pawl rotably attached to the module such that when the lever arm is moved to the latched position, the lever arm rotates the pawl into a latched position wherein the pawl has an interference fit with the chassis.