Server Handle Device Reducing Thickness for Fan Clearance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional server handles are no longer suitable for new generation servers due to increased internal components, which limits the space for the cover plate handle, necessitating a reduction in handle size to accommodate higher performance and functionality.

Innovation Solution

A handle device with a thin configuration, comprising a base part and a handle part with a pivotally coupled coupling part and a rotatably disposed shaft part, allowing the handle to be movable relative to the base part to disengage the cover plate from the main part, with non-parallel operative and connecting parts to minimize thickness and avoid interference with the fan frame, suitable for spaces smaller than 6 mm or 3 mm.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the number of internal components is increased to achieve higher performance and functionality, then the server's functionality is improved, but the internal space becomes limited and the handle size must be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveserver functionalityVSAvoidhandle size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The handle device is divided into multiple parts: a base part fixed on the cover plate, a handle part with operative part and connecting part, and a shaft part. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling the handle to achieve the required functionality while minimizing overall size by placing only necessary components where needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The handle part is designed with non-parallel operative and connecting parts arranged in different spatial dimensions. The operative part extends in a first direction while the connecting part extends in a second direction different from the first, creating a three-dimensional configuration that reduces the thickness projection and avoids interference with underlying fan frames.

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

2Volume of moving object

If the handle thickness is reduced to fit limited spaces above the fan frame, then the handle fits the space constraints, but the operational ease may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandle thicknessVSAvoidoperational ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The handle part is designed to be movable relative to the base part through the shaft part, which allows the handle to dynamically adjust its position and orientation. This dynamic configuration enables the handle to maintain adequate operational surface area and leverage while fitting within the limited thickness space above the fan frame.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The shaft part acts as an intermediary element between the base part and the handle part, providing a rotational joint that allows the handle to move freely. This intermediary mechanism enables the handle to achieve full operational range of motion while maintaining a compact thickness profile that fits within the constrained space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Volume of moving object

If the operative part and connecting part are arranged non-parallel to minimize thickness, then the handle fits the space constraints, but the structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandle thicknessVSAvoidhandle structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is segmented into distinct functional parts (operative part, connecting part, shaft part, base part) with clear separation of functions. This segmentation simplifies the design process and manufacturing while achieving the non-parallel arrangement needed for thickness reduction, as each segment can be optimized independently for its specific function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The operative part and connecting part are deliberately designed with asymmetric, non-parallel arrangements rather than symmetric parallel structures. This asymmetric configuration optimizes the spatial utilization above the fan frame, reducing the maximum thickness projection while maintaining full operational capability through the asymmetric geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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 handle device effectively reduces thickness to fit in limited spaces above the fan frame, ensuring compatibility with new servers while maintaining operational ease and minimizing friction resistance through rollers and elastic positioning components.

Implementation Method 1

minimizing friction resistance through rollers and elastic positioning components

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

minimizing friction resistance through rollers and elastic positioning components

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11229134B2Handle device, chassis and server
Publication Date: 2022.01.18 WISTRON CORP
  • US11229134B2 patent drawing
  • US11229134B2 patent drawing
  • US11229134B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A handle device is configured for a chassis body. The chassis body includes a main part and a cover plate. The handle device includes a base part and a handle part. The base part is disposed on the cover plate. The handle part includes an operative part, a coupling part and a shaft part. The coupling part is connected to the operative part. The shaft part is connected to the coupling part. The coupling part of the handle part is pivotally coupled to the base part. The shaft part is rotatably disposed on the main part. The handle part is movable relative to the base part so as to disengage the cover plate from the main part.