Tool-less Storage Tray Clip with Torsional Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage device trays require numerous screws to securely mount 2.5-inch storage devices, making the process tedious, time-consuming, and prone to errors, especially in large server implementations.
Innovation Solution
A storage device tray design featuring a sideplate, baseplate, and a clip assembly with torsional springs that securely fasten a storage device without screws, allowing for quick and tool-less mounting and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional screw mounting is used to secure 2.5-inch storage devices in larger form factor trays, then the storage device can be securely mounted, but the mounting process becomes tedious, time-consuming, and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the screw fastening mechanism entirely from the mounting process. Instead of using screws to secure the storage device to the tray, the invention extracts the fastening function and replaces it with a snap-fit mechanism where the storage device directly engages with the tray structure through complementary geometric features, eliminating the need for separate fastening components and manual screwing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The storage device and tray are designed with self-aligning and self-securing features. The mounting interface includes guide rails, positioning pins, or shaped engagement surfaces that automatically align the storage device with the tray and secure it through a simple insertion motion. The device secures itself without requiring external tools or manual fastening operations, making the mounting process intuitive and error-proof
2Reliability
If multiple screws are used to fasten the storage device, then secure mounting is achieved, but the complexity of the mounting process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple mounting functions into a single integrated structure. The tray design incorporates alignment guides, positioning features, and securing mechanisms as unified structural elements rather than separate components. The storage device and tray form a integrated mounting system where geometric complementarity provides both alignment and securing functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate fastening operations
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting interface is designed with universal compatibility features that serve multiple functions. The same structural features that provide alignment also provide securing, and the same engagement mechanism works for both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch storage devices. This multi-functional design simplifies the overall mounting process while maintaining security and adaptability across different device types
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 fast and secure mounting of 2.5-inch storage devices to trays and computing devices, eliminating the need for screws and reducing installation time, while maintaining stability and compatibility with larger form factor trays.
Implementation Method 1
a clip coupled to the baseplate and configured to exert a force against a storage device to secure the storage device against the sideplate
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device tray has a form factor designed to support a larger storage device, and is configured to secure a small storage device, thereby acting as an adapter between storage device sizes. The storage device tray includes a clip configured with pegs that may couple to screw hole sin the storage device. The clip also exerts a force against the storage device to secure that storage device. At least one advantage of this approach is that a storage device can be coupled to a storage device tray without using screws.