Pivot Latch for Compute Node Secure Containment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latches for securing compute nodes in component storage racks do not effectively manage the secure containment and fluidic coupling of coolant systems, particularly when multiple nodes are interfaced with a chassis, leading to potential dislodgement and inefficient connector engagement.
Innovation Solution
A latch design featuring a frame with a pivotally secured handle and pawl, allowing for leveraged engagement and disengagement of connectors within a chassis bay, utilizing a spring element for biasing the pawl to ensure secure positioning and easy removal of compute nodes, with a mechanism that prevents lateral space consumption during insertion and dislodgement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latch is designed to securely contain compute nodes in a chassis bay, then the compute node remains stable and connected, but the latch mechanism increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism employs dynamic elements including a pivotable handle that rotates between locked and unlocked positions, and a spring-loaded pawl that automatically engages and disengages from the compute node's ear. This dynamic design allows a relatively simple structure to achieve reliable secure containment through motion-based locking rather than complex multi-component assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded pawl provides self-service functionality by automatically engaging with the compute node's ear when the handle is released, and self-disengaging when the handle is actuated. This eliminates the need for additional actuators or complex control mechanisms, maintaining simplicity while ensuring reliable locking and unlocking operations.
2Ease of operation
If the latch uses a pawl and handle mechanism for engagement and disengagement, then ease of operation is improved, but the lateral space required for the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism transitions from lateral movement to rotational movement. The handle pivots on an axis perpendicular to the insertion direction, allowing the user to engage and disengage the compute node by rotating the handle rather than moving it laterally. This dimensional change enables ease of operation while minimizing the lateral footprint within the chassis bay.
Solution Approach 2:
The pawl is positioned within the frame structure of the latch, nesting the actuating components within the existing spatial envelope. The handle pivots within the confines of the frame, and the spring mechanism is contained within the latch assembly, minimizing the lateral space required while maintaining full operational capability.
3Reliability
If the latch key engages with the slot in the chassis wall to prevent dislodgement, then reliability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch key is designed with a tapered or angled engagement surface that changes the interaction parameters between the key and slot. As the handle is actuated, the latch key progressively engages with the slot rather than requiring precise single-point alignment. This parameter change from point-contact to progressive-contact reduces manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining reliable prevention of compute node dislodgement.
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
Facilitates secure and efficient insertion and removal of compute nodes within the chassis bay, ensuring proper fluidic and electronic connector engagement without consuming additional lateral space, while maintaining secure containment and easy operation.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a spring element for biasing the pawl to ensure secure positioning
Implementation Method 2
A latch design featuring a frame with a pivotally secured handle and pawl, allowing for leveraged engagement and disengagement of connectors
Data Source
AI summary
A latch selectively secures a compute node enclosure into a chassis bay. The latch comprises a frame securable to a proximal end of the compute node enclosure. A handle is pivotally secured to the frame intermediate a proximal end of the handle and a distal end of the handle so that the handle can be pivoted between a closed position and an open position. A proximal end of a pawl is pivotally coupled at to the distal end of the handle, wherein the pawl includes a landing at a distal end of the pawl and a latch key intermediate proximal and distal ends of the pawl. Movement of the handle positions the pawl into engagement with a slot in chassis bay to assist installation and removal of the compute node enclosure.