Tool-Free Functional Module Securing Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and disassembly of functional modules in data processing equipment, such as expansion cards, are inconvenient due to the use of screws, which complicates the process and requires additional tools.
Innovation Solution
A functional module securing device with a securing rack, limit piece, and linkage piece that allows for easy mounting and disassembly of modules using a hook mechanism that inserts into and out of slots without tools, utilizing a guide rail system and elastic pieces for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screws are used to secure functional modules, then the modules are firmly fixed, but the installation and disassembly process becomes complex and requires additional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device is divided into separate functional components: a limiting piece with a hook that engages with slots on the functional module, and a linkage piece that controls the hook's movement. This segmentation allows the fixation mechanism to be independent of the functional module while providing reliable securing through the hook-slot engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanism is extracted from the functional module itself and implemented as a separate limiting piece that interacts with the module through slots. This allows the module to maintain its primary function while the separate limiting piece provides the securing function, enabling tool-free operation.
2Reliability
If screws are used to secure functional modules, then the modules are firmly fixed, but the installation process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting piece is pre-configured with a hook that is designed to engage with slots on the functional module. The linkage piece is pre-arranged to control the hook's movement path. This preliminary configuration allows for rapid installation by simply sliding the module into place, eliminating the time-consuming process of screw assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanism transitions from a static screw-fixed state to a dynamic hook-engagement state. The linkage piece enables the hook to move between engaged and disengaged positions, allowing rapid transition between installed and removed states without requiring multiple tools or steps.
3Ease of operation
If a hook mechanism is used for tool-free mounting, then installation becomes convenient, but the securing structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting piece serves multiple functions: it provides the hook for engagement, defines the positioning through the slot geometry, and works with the linkage piece to enable both securing and release. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook of the limiting piece nests into the slots of the functional module, creating a compact engagement structure. The linkage piece is positioned to control the hook without adding significant external volume. This nesting arrangement minimizes the space required for the securing mechanism while maintaining its functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A functional module securing device and a data processing equipment, including a securing rack including a mounting area, the mounting area places a functional module; a limit piece slidably arranged on an exterior of the securing rack and at least partially located in the mounting area; and a linkage piece arranged on the exterior of the securing rack and connected to the limit piece. The linkage piece configured to drive the limit piece to move along a first direction to at least partially insert the limit piece into a slot of the functional module, or to separate the limit piece from the slot of the functional module. The linkage piece further configured to drive the limit piece to move along a second direction to drive the functional module to at least partially slide out of the mounting area when the limit piece is in the slot of the functional module.