Tool-Free Storage Carrier With Cam Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage device carriers require additional tools for secure mounting and are not compatible with various storage device geometries defined by standards, leading to increased installation time and manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A carrier design featuring rails, a cap member, and a handle with a cam portion that allows for tool-free capture and secure mounting of storage devices within an enclosure, compatible with multiple geometries, using a handle to guide the device and a cam mechanism for locking, facilitating easy installation and uninstallation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mounting methods are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but additional tools are required and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier system performs self-service mounting where the handle with cam mechanism automatically secures the storage device to the enclosure without requiring external tools. The cam portion rotates to engage with the locking member, creating a self-contained mounting operation that eliminates the need for separate fastening tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier is pre-configured with the handle, cam portion, and locking mechanisms before the storage device is installed. The rails and cap member are already positioned to receive the storage device, allowing for rapid insertion and immediate securing without requiring assembly during installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional carriers are used, then mounting security is achieved, but compatibility with various storage device geometries is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is designed as a universal system where the rails, cap member, and handle assembly can accommodate multiple storage device geometries. The standardized interface between the carrier components and the storage devices allows a single carrier design to serve multiple device types, eliminating the need for geometry-specific carrier variations.
3Reliability
If secure locking mechanisms are used, then mounting reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged into the handle assembly itself, where the cam portion and latch portion are integrated components of the single handle. This consolidation reduces the number of separate locking mechanisms needed while maintaining secure mounting through the cam-based engagement with the locking member on the enclosure.
4Ease of operation
If tool-free mounting is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but manufacturing complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is segmented into distinct functional modules: the rails for positioning, the cap member for closure, and the handle assembly with cam mechanism for locking. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standardized processes, then assembled into the complete carrier system, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the advanced functionality.
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 quick and secure mounting and unmounting of storage devices without tools, reducing downtime and manufacturing complexity, while accommodating different storage device geometries with a single carrier design.
Implementation Method 1
The cam portion includes a first cam and a second cam. The first cam is configured to engage the back surface when the carrier is mounted to the receiving frame. The second cam is configured to engage the front surface to unmount the carrier from the receiving frame.
Data Source
AI summary
A rack enclosure system includes a receiving frame and a carrier. The carrier is configured to capture a storage device and to be slidably received by the receiving frame in a mounting direction. The carrier includes a first rail and a second rail each extending between a front end and a back end. The carrier also includes a cap member. The cap member may be rotatably or non-rotatably connected to the first rail at the front end. The cap is releasably connected to the second rail adjacent to the front end. The carrier further includes a handle with a cam portion and a latch portion. The cam portion is rotatably connected to the cap member and optionally the first rail. The latch portion is releasably connected to the cap member or the second rail.