Fixing Apparatus for Server Rack Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

The shrinking size of servers in container-type data centers poses a challenge for the installation and removal of servers due to the limited operating space for handle hooks, which are typically large and cumbersome.

Innovation Solution

A fixing apparatus comprising a housing with a sliding button, a buckle unit, and a latch unit that allows for secure mounting and easy removal of electronic devices from a cabinet, utilizing rollers and elastic components to facilitate sliding and locking mechanisms without resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a large handle hook is used to remove servers from the cabinet, then the server can be securely held and removed, but the operating space required for installation and removal becomes excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveserver removal capabilityVSAvoidoperating space
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The handle hook is divided into two separate components: a hook portion that engages with the server and a handle portion that extends outward. This segmentation allows the hook to be compact while providing sufficient leverage for removal, resolving the contradiction between secure handling and space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The handle hook transitions from a purely linear extension to a configuration that utilizes angular movement and rotational components. The handle can pivot and rotate to engage and disengage the hook, adding dimensional complexity that enables compact storage while maintaining operational effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If the server size is reduced to fit more devices in the cabinet, then the cabinet capacity increases, but the operating space for handle hooks becomes limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecabinet device capacityVSAvoidhandle hook operating space
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The handle hook is designed with dynamic movement capabilities, allowing the handle portion to pivot, rotate, and flex. This dynamic design enables the hook to adapt to limited spaces while maintaining sufficient leverage for server removal, accommodating smaller servers without requiring excessive operating space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The handle hook components are designed to nest within each other or fold back when not in use. The handle portion can be positioned alongside or within the cabinet structure, minimizing the space required for installation and removal operations while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

If a secure locking mechanism is used to fix servers in the cabinet, then the server remains firmly installed, but the complexity of installation and removal procedures increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveserver installation securityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed to engage and disengage automatically through the handle's movement. When the handle is moved to the locked position, the hook automatically engages with the cabinet structure without requiring additional fastening operations. This self-servicing mechanism maintains security while simplifying the installation and removal procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The locking and handling functions are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The handle hook simultaneously serves as both the removal tool and the locking component, eliminating the need for separate locking devices and procedures. This integration reduces overall system complexity while maintaining secure server installation.

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

Enables secure and effortless installation and removal of electronic devices within the limited space, ensuring they can be slid and locked into place without obstructing the reduced server size constraints, while allowing for easy disassembly without resistance.

Implementation Method 1

a buckle unit (60) mounted in the housing (40), wherein the buckle unit (60) comprises a mounting part (61) and a fastener (65), the fastener (65) comprises a hook (651) mounted to the mounting part (61) and a resisting surface (652) abutting the hook (651)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9986657B2Fixing apparatus and electronic equipment using the same
Publication Date: 2018.05.29 CLOUD NETWORK TECH SINGAPORE PTE LTD
  • US9986657B2 patent drawing
  • US9986657B2 patent drawing
  • US9986657B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fixing apparatus for an electronic device to be installed in a cabinet includes a housing fixed in the electronic device and a latch member with one end rotatably mounted in the housing. The housing includes an opening for the latch member to pass through and the other end of the latch member includes a blocking member. The blocking member is rotatable between an unlocking position and a locked position. An electronic equipment is further disclosed.