Push-Button Latch Mechanism for Hot-Swappable Electronic Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch mechanisms for securing expansion cards in computer systems occupy valuable space without enhancing capacity or performance, and require shutdown for installation or removal.
Innovation Solution
A latch mechanism comprising a frame with a spring latch and ejection lever, actuated by a push button, which allows for secure installation and easy ejection of electronic modules without moving parts on the module, utilizing a spring latch and ejection lever mechanism that minimizes space usage and allows for hot swapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional latch mechanisms are used to secure expansion cards, then the cards can be secured during operation, but valuable space is occupied without adding capacity or performance
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is merged with the frame structure itself. The latch arm is formed as an integrated component of the frame, eliminating the need for separate latch mechanisms that would occupy additional space. The frame's structural elements are combined with the securing function, so the same space serves both structural support and card retention purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, defines the bay geometry, and incorporates the latch mechanism for card retention. The actuator also serves dual purposes by both releasing the latch and potentially ejecting the card. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated space for separate securing components.
2Productivity
If expansion cards are made hot swappable for continuous operation, then system uptime is improved, but the latch mechanism becomes more complex to enable secure installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a latch arm with engagement feature, a separate actuator mechanism, and a spring biasing system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall operation - the actuator only needs to move linearly to release the latch, while the latch arm handles the engagement and ejection functions separately.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring the card to have moving parts for release, the invention inverts the approach by placing all moving parts on the frame side. The card remains passive with fixed connectors, while the frame contains the actuator and latch arm that perform all active operations. This inversion simplifies the card design and makes hot-swapping easier.
3Area of stationary object
If latch mechanisms are integrated into the frame to minimize space, then space efficiency is improved, but the mechanism must be compact which may limit ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is positioned to operate in a dimension perpendicular to the card insertion/removal direction. The actuator moves linearly along the frame's length, while the latch arm pivots in a different plane. This dimensional separation allows the actuator to be accessible from the front of the bay without interfering with the compact lateral arrangement of the latch components.
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
Enables secure and efficient installation and removal of electronic modules without occupying additional space, allowing for continuous system operation and reducing physical constraints on module design.
Implementation Method 1
A spring latch is secured to the frame and biased to extend a latch key into the bay to engage and latch the electronic module
Implementation Method 2
an ejection lever includes a first end outside of the bay, a second end inside the bay, and a middle portion between the first and second ends that is pivotally secured to one side of the bay
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a frame forming a bay for receiving an electronic module having a blind mate connector for coupling with a chassis connector. An actuator is slidably secured to the frame and forms a push button, an intermediate actuation member, and a distal actuation member. A spring latch is biased to latch the module in place. An ejection lever is pivotally secured to one side of the bay, and has a first end aligned with the distal actuation member and a second end disposed to engage the module. Pushing the push button causes the intermediate actuation member to withdraw the spring latch from the bay and then causes the distal actuation member to pivot the ejection lever to unseat and eject the module.