Pivoting Arm Cord Retainer for Rackmount Server Power Cords
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rackmount servers often experience accidental disconnection of power cords and other cables due to their dense configuration, which can negatively affect server systems and data integrity.
Innovation Solution
A cord retaining apparatus with a receptacle and a movable arm that extends perpendicularly to block the cord head, preventing accidental removal, is mounted near the receptacle to secure power cords in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If rackmount servers are arranged in a dense vertical configuration, then space efficiency is improved, but the risk of accidental cord disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer arm is positioned in advance to block the cord head before any accidental disconnection can occur. The arm is pre-configured in a blocking position that prevents the cord from being pulled out, only allowing insertion when deliberately moved aside.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer arm acts as an intermediary component between the cord head and the external environment. It mediates the interaction by providing a physical barrier that prevents accidental disconnection while allowing controlled insertion and removal.
2Reliability
If a movable blocking arm is added to prevent cord removal, then cord connection stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer arm transitions from a static to a dynamic component, allowing it to move between a blocking position (for security) and an aside position (for insertion/removal). This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt between security and accessibility states.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer mechanism is segmented into simple, discrete components: a mounting bracket and a separate movable arm. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while keeping the overall structure simple and easy to manufacture.
3Reliability
If the blocking arm is positioned to prevent cord removal, then cord connection stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The movable arm allows the system to dynamically switch between security mode (blocking position) and operation mode (aside position). During insertion/removal, the arm is temporarily moved aside to clear the path, then returns to blocking position to secure the cord.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm is designed to be easily movable out of the way before cord insertion, performing the necessary action of clearing the path in advance. After insertion, it automatically or manually returns to the blocking position to secure the cord.
Data Source
AI summary
A cord retaining apparatus includes a receptacle for receiving a head of a cord. A brack is mounted near the receptacle including an upper stop. An arm is pivotally attached to the bracket. A first length of the arm extends distal from the receptacle and a second length of the arm is substantially perpendicular to the first length. The arm is movable into and out of a position in which the second length is behind the head of the cord preventing removal of the cord. The upper stop prevents the arm from moving into a position where the arm does not naturally fall into the position behind the head of the cord.