Rotatable PCI Bracket Retainer for Tool-Free Secure Fixing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for securing PCI and PCIe devices in computing systems require tools, which can be inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A toolless bracket assembly with a rotatable retainer mechanism that secures and releases these devices without the need for tools, using flexible retention mechanisms and a rotatable retainer that transitions between locked and open positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If screws or latches are used to secure PCI/PCIe devices, then the devices can be securely fixed to the computing system, but tools are required for installation and removal which reduces convenience and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is designed as a dynamic component that can rotate between a locked position (where it engages with the device flange to prevent removal) and an unlocked position (where the device can be freely installed or removed). This dynamic transformation allows a single component to provide both secure fixation and easy tool-free operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible retention mechanism uses spring-loaded fingers that automatically engage with the device flange when the retainer is in the locked position, providing self-latching functionality without requiring tools. The elastic deformation of the flexible finger provides the locking force, making the system self-servicing.
2Productivity
If a rotatable retainer mechanism is used for tool-free operation, then convenience and efficiency are enhanced, but the device complexity increases compared to simple screw or latch systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated retainer component: the rotatable body provides the locking/unlocking action, the flexible retention mechanism provides the latching force, and the aperture provides the engagement feature. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed compared to traditional screw-latch systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer mechanism is designed to be universally applicable to various PCI/PCIe devices with standard flange configurations. The same retainer design can secure different device types, and the bracket assembly can be used across multiple device slots, reducing the need for device-specific fastening solutions.
3Ease of operation
If flexible retention mechanisms with springs and balls are used, then toolless operation is enabled, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible retention mechanism utilizes elastic deformation as a key parameter change. The spring-loaded finger can deflect within a range of motion, allowing tolerance compensation during assembly. The ball-and-socket-like engagement between the flexible finger and the retainer aperture provides a self-centering effect that reduces precision requirements compared to rigid fixed-position fasteners.
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, tool-free installation and removal of PCI and PCIe devices, enhancing convenience and efficiency in computing system maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The first flexible retention mechanism and the second flexible retention mechanism each include a spring acting against a ball
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket assembly for securing a removable device within a computing system, and a bay with a bracket assembly are disclosed. The bracket assembly includes a bracket and a retainer. The bracket attaches to an exterior surface of a tray of the computing system, where the tray is configured to hold the removable device. The bracket includes a first flexible retention mechanism and a second flexible retention mechanism. The retainer is rotatably connected to the bracket. The retainer is configured to restrict withdrawal of the removable device from the tray when the retainer is retained in a locked position by the first flexible retention mechanism. The retainer further is configured to not restrict withdrawal of the removable device from the tray when the retainer is retained in an open position by the second flexible retention mechanism. The retainer is configured to rotate from the locked position to the open position.