Seesaw Latch Release Assembly for Obstructed Cable Connectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Access to modular connectors in rackmount appliances is restricted due to interference from top-mounted components, making it difficult to plug or unplug cables without manual manipulation of retaining latches.

Innovation Solution

A seesaw assembly with a connector retaining latch disengagement mechanism that allows automatic release of retaining latches by rotating a seesaw bracket, enabling easy access to connectors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If top-mounted components are used in rackmount appliances, then device functionality is improved, but access to modular connectors is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoidaccess to modular connectors

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a movable bracket that can be shifted between a first position (blocking access to the modular connector) and a second position (providing access). This dynamic repositioning allows the system to adapt between maintaining component stability and enabling user access, resolving the contradiction between device functionality and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If retaining latches are used on cable connectors, then connection reliability is improved, but manual manipulation is required for disconnection

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidcable disconnection

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a spring-loaded latch mechanism that automatically engages with the modular connector when the bracket is in the first position, providing reliable connection without manual intervention. The spring force ensures automatic retention, eliminating the need for manual manipulation while maintaining connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If automatic latch release mechanism is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable connection and disconnectionVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the bracket positioning function with the latch release function into a single integrated mechanism. By merging these two functions, the system achieves automatic latch release that improves ease of operation without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same structural element performs multiple functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 easy connection and disconnection of cables by automatically releasing retaining latches, overcoming interference issues and enhancing user accessibility.

Implementation Method 1

The seesaw bracket rotates around a pivot when a force is applied on an actuator end of the seesaw bracket. A sloped end of the seesaw bracket moves in a direction opposite of the actuator end as the seesaw bracket rotates around the pivot

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS12592517B2Seesaw assembly with a connector retaining latch disengagement mechanism

Publication Date: 2026.03.31 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

A seesaw assembly includes a base bracket rotatably coupled to a seesaw bracket. The seesaw bracket rotates around a pivot when a force is applied on an actuator end of the seesaw bracket. A sloped end of the seesaw bracket moves in a direction opposite of the actuator end as the seesaw bracket rotates around the pivot that pushes down a retaining latch of a cable connector releasing the cable connector from a port.