Telescopic Slide Assembly for Compact Server Rack Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved slide assemblies with reduced cross-sectional size for use in computer server and KVM applications that maintain or enhance load-carrying capacity and functionality, while accommodating varying mounting rail sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a telescopic slide assembly with multiple segments, including an outer, intermediate, and inner slide segment, featuring rollers for smooth movement and adjustable mounting brackets with pin assemblies to accommodate different rail sizes, along with locking and detent mechanisms for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If the cross-sectional size of the slide assembly is reduced, then the space utilization in server racks is improved, but the load-carrying capacity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The slide assembly employs a nested telescopic structure with three segments (outer, intermediate, inner) that fit within each other. The intermediate segment is received by the outer segment, and the inner segment is received by the intermediate segment, allowing compact storage while maintaining full extension length for load support.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide assembly is divided into three separate telescopic segments rather than a single monolithic structure. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing both compact size and load-carrying capacity through the distributed roller support system.
2Device complexity
If fixed mounting brackets are used, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the adaptability to different mounting rail configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets incorporate adjustable pin assemblies that can be repositioned along the bracket body to accommodate different mounting hole patterns. This dynamic adjustability allows the same bracket design to adapt to various rail configurations without requiring multiple specialized bracket designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting brackets are designed with universal adaptability features, including adjustable pin positions and compatibility with different rail types (square, rectangular, round). A single bracket design serves multiple mounting configurations, eliminating the need for specialized brackets for each rail type.
3Area of moving object
If telescopic segments are added to reduce cross-sectional size, then the compactness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The three telescopic segments are nested within each other in a compact arrangement, with the intermediate segment received by the outer segment and the inner segment received by the intermediate segment. This nesting minimizes the cross-sectional footprint while maintaining the functionality of multiple segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are combined into integrated components. For example, the roller assemblies serve both as support elements and as connection points between segments, while the locking mechanisms integrate multiple locking functions into single actuated systems.
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 solution enables compact slide assemblies that support significant loads, provide smooth extension and retraction, and adjust to various mounting rail configurations, ensuring compatibility and reliability in server rack applications.
Implementation Method 1
The outer slide segment includes a plurality of rollers separated into an upper row and a lower row. The intermediate slide segment is telescopically engaged with the outer slide segment and supported by the plurality of rollers of the outer slide segment.
Implementation Method 2
The plurality of rollers of the outer slide segment engages the first C-shaped member. The plurality of rollers contact the second C-shaped member of the intermediate slide segment to transfer the load applied to the slide assembly between the inner slide segment and the intermediate slide segment.
Data Source
AI summary
Slide assemblies that include at least an inner slide segment and an outer slide segment. Many of the slide assemblies also include an intermediate slide segment interposed between the inner slide segment and the outer slide segment. The inner and outer slide segments include a plurality of rollers separated into upper rows and lower rows. The slide assembly can also include lock arrangements to secure individual slide segments in desired positions relative to one another. The slide assemblies preferably include mounting brackets, which, in some arrangements, include mounting pin assemblies capable of use with at least three mounting hole sizes or shapes.