Tilt-Out Shelf Guide Mechanism for Rack Module Service Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rack-mounted computing systems face challenges in providing fast and convenient access to electronics modules for maintenance, as existing solutions require sliding out modules, which can disrupt system operation and are not always efficient.
Innovation Solution
A tilt out shelf guide mechanism that allows electronics module shelves to be slid out or tilted down for servicing, incorporating a slidable shelf with opposing tracks and a rear catch mechanism with a pivot support, enabling easy access without fully removing the shelf from the rack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electronics module is fully slid out of the rack for maintenance, then complete access to the module is achieved, but system operation is disrupted and access time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the necessary portion of the module (the shelf front section) for maintenance while leaving the rest of the system operational. The tilt-out mechanism allows technicians to access and service specific components without removing the entire module from the rack, thereby reducing system downtime while maintaining ease of operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the shelf is made stable and fixed in the rack, then structural stability is improved, but ease of access for maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf design incorporates dynamic characteristics by allowing the shelf to tilt outward on a pivot hinge while maintaining its fixed position during normal operation. This dynamic capability enables the shelf to transition from a stable fixed state to an accessible tilted state, resolving the contradiction between stability and ease of access for maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
Tilt out shelf guide mechanism suitable for rack mount computing systems are disclosed. The mechanism generally includes a slidable shelf and two opposing shelf tracks configured to support and guide the shelf. The slidable shelf incorporates a storage or component mounting region and a rear catch mechanism at the rear end of the shelf. The rear catch mechanism has a shelf-mounted pivot. The two opposing shelf tracks incorporate a pivot support at the front end of the tracks configured to engage the pivot of the shelf when the rear end of the shelf is approximately adjacent to the front end of the tracks, whereupon the pivot of the shelf is supported by the rear catch mechanism of the guides and the shelf is pivotable about the pivot.