Telescoping Slide Keyhole Lock for Tool-Free Chassis Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telescoping slide assemblies lack a simple and tool-free mechanism for securely mounting and demounting equipment, such as a chassis, which complicates the installation and removal processes.
Innovation Solution
A telescoping slide assembly with a keyhole-shaped slot and retainer system that allows for secure coupling and decoupling of a mounting post, enabling easy extension and retraction of the load-carrying slide relative to the stationary slide, using a post retainer to trap and release the mounting post within the keyhole-shaped slot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional mounting mechanism is used, then the equipment can be securely mounted, but the installation and removal processes become complicated and require tools
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a keyhole-shaped slot with an enlarged-diameter entry/exit portion and a narrow-width post-retainer portion, and a separate retainer with a retention aperture. This segmentation allows the mounting post to be inserted through the enlarged portion and then locked by the retainer engaging with the narrow portion, enabling tool-free operation while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer is positioned within the keyhole-shaped slot structure, with the retention aperture nested within the narrow-width post-retainer portion. The mounting post passes through the enlarged entry/exit portion and is then captured by the nested retainer aperture, creating a compact integrated mounting system that is both simple to operate and secure.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then the equipment can be firmly held, but the release process becomes difficult without tools
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is designed as a movable component that can dynamically transition between a locked position (where the retention aperture engages the mounting post in the narrow-width portion) and an unlocked position (where the retainer is moved to release the mounting post). This dynamic design allows firm holding during operation while enabling easy release when needed, eliminating the need for tools.
3Productivity
If a simple mounting system is used, then the installation is quick, but the equipment may not be securely held
Solution Approach 1:
The keyhole-shaped slot is pre-formed with an enlarged-diameter entry/exit portion that facilitates easy insertion of the mounting post, and a narrow-width post-retainer portion that is pre-configured to engage with the retainer. This preliminary preparation of the slot geometry enables quick installation while ensuring secure holding, as the mounting post naturally aligns with the enlarged portion during insertion and is then automatically secured by the retainer engaging with the narrow portion.
Data Source
AI summary
A telescoping slide assembly includes interconnected load-carrying, intermediate, and stationary slides. A retainer is used to retain a piece of equipment in a fixed position on the load-carrying slide.