Resilient Latching Mechanism for Quick Heat Dissipation Assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices with liquid cooling apparatuses are difficult and time-consuming to disassemble when module replacement is necessary, due to the complex mounting process using screws.

Innovation Solution

A heat dissipation apparatus with a resilient latching member and a design that includes latching holes and slots in the chassis, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly by sliding latching blocks into position and then disengaging them for separation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If modules are mounted using screws, then the mounting is secure and reliable, but the disassembly process becomes time-consuming and difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoiddisassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is divided into separate components: a resilient latching member with latching blocks on the module, and corresponding latching holes in the chassis. This segmentation allows the module to be quickly engaged and disengaged without requiring complete disassembly of fastening elements, resolving the contradiction between secure mounting and easy disassembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient latching member incorporates elasticity to provide dynamic engagement. The latching blocks can elastically deform to engage with or disengage from the latching holes smoothly, enabling both secure mounting during operation and quick release when needed, thus balancing reliability with ease of maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If complex screw mounting is used, then the module is firmly fixed, but the ease of operation for assembly and disassembly deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule fixationVSAvoidassembly and disassembly convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The resilient latching member automatically engages with the latching holes when the module is inserted into the chassis, providing self-fixing functionality. This eliminates the need for manual screw tightening operations while maintaining firm fixation, significantly improving ease of operation without compromising stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The latching blocks serve as intermediary elements between the module and chassis. These blocks translate the simple insertion motion into secure engagement with the latching holes, providing both stable fixation and operational simplicity through this intermediary mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Strength

If screw-based mounting is used, then the connection is strong, but the productivity for maintenance and upgrades decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidmaintenance efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex screw tightening operation is extracted and replaced by a simple snap-fit engagement mechanism. The resilient latching member with latching blocks provides strong connection through elastic engagement with the latching holes, eliminating time-consuming screw operations and dramatically improving maintenance productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The traditional mechanical screw-fastening system is replaced with an elastic resilient latching system. This substitution maintains connection strength through the resilient engagement while eliminating the need for threaded fasteners and tightening operations, thereby enhancing maintenance efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 quick and efficient installation and removal of the heat dissipation apparatus from the electronic device, reducing the time and effort required for maintenance and upgrades.

Implementation Method 1

The heat dissipation apparatus (100) includes a resilient latching member (60). The resilient latching member (60) includes two resilient latching plates (62). Each resilient latching plate (62) includes two latching blocks (624) extending perpendicularly from the resilient latching plate (62). When the latching blocks (624) are inserted into the latching holes (304), the resilient latching plate deforms elastically to engage the latching blocks, enabling easy assembly and disassembly.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9265181B2Heat dissipation apparatus and electronic device using the same
Publication Date: 2016.02.16 FULIAN PRESION ELECTRONICS (TIANJIN) CO LTD
  • US9265181B2 patent drawing
  • US9265181B2 patent drawing
  • US9265181B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device includes a chassis and a heat dissipation apparatus. The chassis includes a sidewall defining a latching hole and a rear wall defining an opening adjacent to the latching hole. The heat dissipation apparatus is detachably inserted in the chassis from the opening. The heat dissipation apparatus includes a casing defining a positioning slot aligning with the latching hole of the chassis, a liquid cooling assembly received in the casing, and a resilient latching member. A first end of the latching member is mounted in the casing. A latching block protrudes out from a second end of the latching member. The latching block extends through the positioning slot, to be latched in the latching hole of the chassis.