Rotatable Computer Chassis Handle With Spring Biasing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computer chassis handles lack ergonomic design and durability, particularly in transitioning between retracted and extended positions, which can lead to user inconvenience and potential damage during handling.

Innovation Solution

A rotatable handle system with a handle portion and support portion, utilizing a spring mechanism and hinges with dowel pins, along with locking and actuating tabs, to securely transition between positions while enhancing durability through frictional engagement and tension distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional fixed handle is used, then the structure is simple, but the ergonomics and user comfort are poor

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveergonomicsVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is designed with rotational capability about a first axis, allowing it to transition between retracted and extended positions. This dynamic configuration enables the handle to adapt to different user preferences and handling scenarios, improving ergonomics while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through controlled movement rather than multiple fixed components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a rotatable handle with spring mechanism is used, then the durability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidmechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handle assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: the handle portion rotatable about a first axis, the support portion rotatable about a second axis, and the spring mechanism providing biasing force. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to improve overall durability through controlled movement and reduced stress concentrations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spring mechanism is configured to provide a biasing force that cushions the transition between handle positions. This beforehand cushioning prevents sudden impacts and reduces mechanical stress on the hinge points and connecting elements, thereby improving durability by anticipating and mitigating potential damage before it occurs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the handle lacks a locking mechanism, then the structure is simpler, but the stability during handling is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition stabilityVSAvoidlocking mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring mechanism automatically maintains the handle in its desired position by providing a continuous biasing force. When the handle is rotated to either the retracted or extended position, the spring's elastic force naturally resists further movement and stabilizes the handle in that position, eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms while maintaining position stability throughout operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 solution provides a user-friendly and durable handle system that securely transitions between retracted and extended positions, ensuring enhanced ergonomic handling and durability of the computer chassis.

Implementation Method 1

The support portion may include at least one spring configured to bias the rotatable handle from the extended position to the retracted position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring mechanism: Spring

Implementation Method 2

The handle portion may be operably coupled to the computer chassis body by a handle hinge having an axis of rotation. The support portion may be operably coupled to the computer chassis body by a support hinge having an axis of rotation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHinge rotation: Hinge

Implementation Method 3

the locking tab may be disposed within the locking recess so as to frictionally engage the locking recess in order to secure the rotatable handle in the extended position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrictional engagement: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS8590108B2Computer chassis handle
Publication Date: 2013.11.26 NETAPP INC
  • US8590108B2 patent drawing
  • US8590108B2 patent drawing
  • US8590108B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer chassis handle may comprise: (a) at least one handle portion rotatable about a first axis of rotation; and (b) at least one support portion rotatable about a second axis of rotation.A computer chassis may comprise: (a) a computer chassis body; and (b) at least one rotatable handle.