Reversible Key Chassis for Tool-Less Drive Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing data storage network chassis designs require multiple configurations to accommodate different sizes and types of storage drives, often necessitating significant modifications or the use of tools, which is impractical and unsuitable for small chassis.

Innovation Solution

A convertible chassis system with a tool-less safety mechanism using a reversible key that can be easily affixed to the chassis cage in different orientations, allowing it to securely receive either type of storage device without the need for tools, by sliding into alignment guides and using a spring clip to lock into place.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If safety components are formed integral with the chassis by pressing or extending tabs, then the safety components are effective and secure, but they cannot be changed or modified without significant work to the chassis

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafety component effectivenessVSAvoidsafety component changeability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The safety component system is segmented into a fixed integral portion (chassis-formed tabs) and a removable adjustable portion (interchangeable safety components). This allows the secure fixed base to remain while the adjustable portion can be changed without significant work to the chassis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The safety component system transitions from a static integral design to a dynamic interchangeable design. The removable safety components can be easily attached and detached, allowing the system to adapt to different drive types while maintaining secure attachment during use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If safety components are inserted into the chassis and fixed by fasteners that require tools, then the safety components can be modified, but a large amount of space is required and tools are needed to modify them

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafety component modifiabilityVSAvoidinstallation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The tool requirement is extracted and eliminated by replacing traditional fasteners with a tool-less attachment mechanism. The safety components are designed to be secured using simple snap-fit or clip mechanisms that require no tools, making them easy to install and modify in confined spaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The safety component attachment mechanism is designed to be self-servicing, allowing users to install and remove components without external tools. The design incorporates self-latching or self-aligning features that automatically secure the components during insertion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional safety components are used in small drive chassis, then the chassis can accommodate various drives, but there is limited space to use tools on or near the chassis

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedrive type accommodationVSAvoidchassis space availability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The safety components are designed as inexpensive, easily replaceable units that can be quickly swapped without tools. This allows frequent reconfiguration of the chassis for different drive types without requiring permanent modifications or tool-based installations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The safety component system allows easy changing of physical parameters (component geometry, position, configuration) to accommodate different drive types. The interchangeable components come in various configurations that can be selected based on the specific drive being installed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 flexible and secure installation of various storage drives without requiring multiple chassis designs, saving resources and accommodating small form factor applications with a low-profile design.

Implementation Method 1

a spring clip to lock into place

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10653029B2Tool-less convertible keying solution for modular components

Publication Date: 2020.05.12 HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE DEV LP

AI summary

A convertible chassis system for receiving a plurality of storage drives includes a chassis that includes a plurality of bays for receiving the storage drives. The convertible chassis also includes a reversible key that is removably affixed to the chassis body in either a first orientation or a second orientation. Each orientation provides a different key guide within the plurality of bays that either allows the storage drives to be received into or rejected from the bays of the chassis.