Retracting Lock Mechanism for Electronics Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compact locking mechanisms for securing modules within cages are complex, expensive, fragile, and require additional force to retract, often getting caught and failing to efficiently manage electromagnetic interference in densely packed electronics.
Innovation Solution
A retractable locking mechanism utilizing a lever and slider block assembly with dual cams, allowing for easy module removal and efficient storage, featuring a robust design with balanced force distribution to prevent fatigue and minimize electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a compact locking mechanism is used to secure modules within cages, then the device size is reduced, but the mechanism becomes complex, expensive, and fragile
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into distinct functional components: a lock member with locking projections, a carrier with receptacles, and an actuating member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating member is designed to be removable from the carrier. This extraction capability allows the actuating member to be stored separately when not in use, reducing the space required within the cage assembly and simplifying the mechanism when the actuator is detached.
2Ease of operation
If an actuating member is used to retract biased projections, then the carrier can be removed from the receptacle, but additional force is required and the device becomes fragile
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic unlocked state through the actuating member. The biased locking projections are designed to be elastically deformable, allowing them to dynamically adjust during the unlocking process and reduce the force needed for carrier removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking projections are pre-biased with elastic force that cushions the unlocking action. This beforehand cushioning allows the projections to flex and absorb the forces involved in unlocking, reducing the peak force required and preventing fragile components from breaking.
3Volume of moving object
If modules are densely packed in compact electronics, then space efficiency is improved, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating member is extracted from the carrier when not in use, allowing it to be stored in a separate location outside the cage. This removes potential sources of electromagnetic interference from the dense electronic environment, while still enabling the locking function when needed.
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
The mechanism provides a reliable, force-efficient, and space-efficient locking solution that reduces the risk of breakage and minimizes electromagnetic interference, enabling easy module replacement and efficient storage in compact electronic systems.
Implementation Method 1
a lever having a handle end opposite a rotation end and a pivot point positioned between the handle end and the rotation end such that the lever pivots about an axis of rotation of the lever
Implementation Method 2
a first cam positioned on the rotation end of the lever; a second cam attached to the lock for bearing on the back end of the actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable locking mechanism comprising: a lever having a handle end opposite a rotation end and a pivot point positioned between the handle end and the rotation end such that the lever pivots about an axis of rotation of the lever; a first cam positioned on the rotation end of the lever; an actuator with a front end and a back end, the front end attached to the pivot point of the lever; a lock disposed adjacent to the actuator and the lock having a first end and a second end and an axis of rotation of the lock; a second cam attached to the lock for bearing on the back end of the actuator; and wherein pivoting the lever moves the actuator along a plane of the actuator to contact and rotate the second cam such that the lock is disposed in one of a locked state and an unlocked state.