Swappable Electronic Module Latch for High Density Rack Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Data centers face challenges in efficiently utilizing space within rack systems due to increasing density of electronic components, and existing solutions fail to securely fix modules against shock and vibrations without compromising space or module design.

Innovation Solution

A swappable electronic module system with a latch mechanism that includes protrusions extending through side walls, allowing for secure fixation and activation by external pressure, enabling narrower partitions and maintaining the module's rectangular cross-section, thus accommodating higher density without reducing internal capacity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If the density of circuit(s) and parts within electronic modules is increased, then the space utilization within rack systems is improved, but the space available for securing modules against shock and vibrations becomes insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule densityVSAvoidmodule retention

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism is segmented into multiple functional parts: a resilient body, a latch arm, a protrusion, and a depression. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to secure the module, enabling reliable retention even with reduced overall space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism is nested within the housing structure, with the resilient body integrated into the housing wall and the latch arm positioned within the housing interior. This nesting approach maximizes the use of available space by utilizing the housing structure itself as part of the retention mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Area of stationary object

If narrower partitions are used in shelf systems, then the space for holding multiple modules is improved, but the structural strength to withstand shock and vibrations is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshelf spaceVSAvoidpartition strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism provides localized strengthening at the interface between the module and shelf partition. The resilient body engages with the partition wall through the protrusion and depression interaction, creating a strong mechanical connection at this specific location without requiring the entire partition to be thicker or stronger.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism is pre-configured in the housing during manufacturing, with the resilient body and latch arm positioned to automatically engage with the shelf partition upon insertion. This preliminary preparation ensures that the module is securely retained as soon as it is installed, without requiring additional structural support from the partition.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If a latch mechanism with protrusions extending through side walls is used, then the module can be securely fixed, but the complexity of the module structure increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule fixationVSAvoidlatch structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism components (resilient body, latch arm, protrusion) are merged into a single integrated structure. The resilient body is formed as one piece with the latch arm and protrusion, eliminating the need for separate fasteners or multiple discrete components, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining reliable fixation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient body provides self-service by automatically engaging and disengaging the latch mechanism through its elastic deformation. When the module is inserted, the resilient body naturally pushes the latch arm into the engaged position; when release force is applied, the resilient body automatically returns the latch arm to the disengaged position, eliminating the need for additional actuators or control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 system allows for higher module density and secure retention against shock and vibrations, enabling efficient space utilization and easy module swapping without requiring extensive redesign or additional space.

Implementation Method 1

a resilient body (122) formed as an integrated unit with the latch arm, the resilient body including the depression

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11425838B2Swappable electronic device and shelf systems

Publication Date: 2022.08.23 AES GLOBAL HLDG PTE LTD

AI summary

An electronic module, such as a power module, may include a latch having two or more protrusions where a first protrusion can fix the electronic module into a shelf and the second protrusion can be a curved protrusion that activates the latch when an adjacent electronic module is inserted into or removed from the shelf. In some embodiments, a third protrusion may be included, where the first protrusion and the third protrusion both fix the electronic module to the shelf and are activated by the latch. Also, a shelf may include a partition between two electronic module receptacles that has a width that is less than a protrusion extending from a side wall of one of the electronic modules.