Optical Disk Drive Locking Module for Universal Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current notebook computer optical disk drive (ODD) designs require multiple button molds and configurations, leading to increased costs and assembly complexities due to non-interchangeable button designs, resulting in issues like uneven assembly gaps, unsmooth sliding, and noise.
Innovation Solution
A locking module with a buckling member and handle part is integrated into the ODD's shell, allowing for detachable holding and removal of the ODD within a support frame, eliminating the need for additional buttons and molds by using a structural interference mechanism that can be universally applied across different electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple button molds and configurations are added on the ODD shell for unlocking and ejecting, then the ODD can be held and removed from the support frame, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase due to non-interchangeable button designs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the unlocking and ejecting functions into a single integrated locking module. The buckling member combines both the locking mechanism (for holding the ODD in the support frame) and the ejecting mechanism (for removing the ODD) into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate buttons and molds for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking module is designed as a universal component that can be applied to different ODD models and electronic devices. The standardized design allows the same locking module to be used across various configurations, making buttons interchangeable and reducing the need for device-specific custom buttons.
2Adaptability or versatility
If device-specific button designs are used for different ODD configurations, then each ODD can be customized for its specific electronic device, but the mold development cost and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking module employs a universal design that can be adapted to different electronic devices without requiring custom mold development for each device. The standardized interface and dimensions allow the same locking module to fit various ODD configurations, significantly reducing mold development time and assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking module is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and then assembled to different ODD models. This segmentation allows for standardized mass production of the locking module while maintaining adaptability to different device configurations.
3Ease of operation
If traditional button mechanisms are used on the ODD shell, then unlocking and ejecting functions can be achieved, but assembly gaps become uneven and sliding becomes unsmooth
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the unlocking and ejecting functions into a single locking module, the patent eliminates the need for multiple separate buttons that require precise alignment. The integrated design ensures uniform assembly gaps and smooth sliding operation through a unified structural approach.
4Reliability
If additional buttons and locking mechanisms are added to the ODD, then the ODD can be securely held and removed, but noise and operational issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated locking module combines multiple functions into a single smooth-operating mechanism, eliminating the noise and operational issues associated with multiple separate buttons and locking mechanisms. The unified structure reduces friction and improves sliding smoothness.
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
This solution simplifies the design and assembly of ODDs by enabling universal compatibility, reducing manufacturing costs and assembly time, while preventing issues like uneven gaps and noise, and allowing for easy unlocking and removal of the ODD without additional buttons.
Implementation Method 1
The buckling member is adapted to generate a structural interference with the support frame to detachably hold the replaceable module in the support frame
Implementation Method 2
The handle part is adapted to move along the removing direction and drive the buckling member to pivot relative to the body to release the structural interference between the buckling member and the support frame
Data Source
AI summary
An optical disk drive (ODD) including a shell and a locking module is provided. The shell includes a main body portion and a side portion, and the side portion is connected to the main body portion. A concave space is formed between a side surface of the main body portion and a top surface of the side portion. The locking module is disposed inside the concave space. The ODD is detachably held in a support frame of an electronic device through the locking module. In addition, a locking module is also provided.