Sliding Handle Mechanism for Tool-Free Expansion Device Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial and military laptop computers require more stringent use environments, such as waterproofness, dustproofness, lightweighting, and convenient removal/installation of expansion devices, which current SSDs and similar devices do not adequately meet due to the tedious process of detaching and locking multiple screws.
Innovation Solution
A function expansion device with a casing and a handle that slides between housed and extracted positions by gravitational force, allowing for easy removal and installation without manual operation, and a cover that blocks the handle and prevents moisture and dust entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple screws are used to lock the SSD in the casing, then the reliability and stability of the expansion device are improved, but the ease of operation and convenience in removal/installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the fastening system into two functional parts: a handle component for user operation and a screw component for secure locking. The handle can be independently operated to slide along the casing and trigger the release mechanism, separating the user interface from the fastening function. This allows the SSD to remain securely locked during normal use while enabling easy removal through simple handle manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the screw fastening system. Instead of requiring users to manually manipulate multiple screws, the handle serves as a mediator that translates simple user input (sliding the handle) into the complex action of releasing multiple screws simultaneously. This intermediary simplifies the user interface while maintaining the security and stability provided by the multi-screw locking mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the handle is made extractable and movable, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity and structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed with multiple functions: it serves as both a structural component of the casing and a functional release mechanism. When inserted, the handle provides structural support and aesthetic appearance. When extracted or slid, it triggers the release of the screw fastening system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in structural complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is nested within the casing structure, allowing it to be stored within the device body when not in use. The handle can be inserted into a designated slot or channel within the casing, and only extracted or slid when needed for removal or installation operations. This nesting approach minimizes the space occupied by the handle and reduces the overall structural complexity compared to having the handle as a permanent external component.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the cover is added to block the handle and prevent contamination, then the protection against harmful factors is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is merged with the existing casing structure, sharing common materials and manufacturing processes. The cover can be integrated as a separate panel that attaches to the casing using the same screw fastening system, or it can be designed as a removable panel that clips or latches to the casing. This merging approach allows the cover to provide protection against moisture and dust while minimizing the increase in device complexity by using similar components and assembly methods.
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 convenient and efficient removal/installation of expansion devices, providing a lightweight and thin electronic device that meets stringent environmental requirements while preventing unauthorized access or contamination.
Implementation Method 1
The handle is slidably disposed in the side space and is allowed to move between a housed position and an extracted position along a sliding direction of the casing by gravitational force
Data Source
AI summary
A function expansion device and an electronic device including the same. The function expansion device includes a casing, an expansion device and a handle. The casing has a main space and a side space. The expansion device is accommodated in the main space of the casing. The handle is slidably disposed in the side space and is thus allowed to move between a housed position and an extracted position along a sliding direction of the casing by gravitational force. A first protruding length of the handle relative to the casing when the handle is at the housed position is less than a second protruding length of the handle relative to the casing when the handle is at the extracted position. When the handle is at the extracted position, the handle is pressed against the casing to enable the casing to be moved along with the handle.