Removable Panel Ejection Mechanism for Computing Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computing device enclosures often require time and labor to remove and reattach removable panels, and current locking mechanisms can be cumbersome and time-consuming to engage or disengage.

Innovation Solution

The enclosure includes a mechanism with a release member that allows for easy ejection and reattachment of removable panels, and a panel lock for quick and secure locking and unlocking, using engagement slots and a slider mechanism to facilitate panel removal and reinstallation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional locking mechanisms are used to secure removable panels, then security and structural integrity are improved, but operation time and user effort increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel attachment securityVSAvoidpanel removal and reattachment time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The enclosure system performs the locking and unlocking actions automatically without requiring manual intervention. The controller detects when the panel is inserted and automatically engages the locking mechanism, and similarly automatically unlocks when removal is detected, making the system serve itself rather than requiring user operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional manual mechanical locking mechanisms (screws, clips, latches) with an automated system using sensors, controllers, and actuated locking elements that can be engaged and disengaged electronically or through automated mechanical means, eliminating the need for manual locking operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Strength

If manual fastening methods are used for removable panels, then structural support is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to time-consuming engagement and disengagement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenclosure structural supportVSAvoidpanel access ease

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism automatically engages with the panel during insertion without requiring user action, and automatically disengages during removal, making the strong structural connection easy to establish and break without manual fastening operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The locking elements are pre-positioned and ready to engage as the panel is inserted, so the structural connection is established automatically during the normal insertion motion, eliminating the need for separate fastening actions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10908656B2Computing devices

Publication Date: 2021.02.02 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP

AI summary

In an example, a device may comprise a panel, a slider to retain the panel to the device, an actuator engaged with the slider, and a release member engaged with the actuator. The actuator may move the slider to unlock the panel and release the panel so that the panel is removable from the device. The release member may cause the actuator to move the slider when the release member is moved to a second position from a first position.