Tray Handle Transitioning Between Horizontal and Vertical Positions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information handling systems lack a versatile and efficient tray handle design that can transition between horizontal and vertical positions, compromising ease of use and accessibility.

Innovation Solution

A planar module tray with a handle that securely mounts on both side panels, allowing it to transition between horizontal and vertical positions, and includes a plunger lock mechanism for secure positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the tray handle is fixed in a single position, then the structure is simple, but the ease of operation and accessibility are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of use and accessibilityVSAvoidhandle structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is designed to rotate between horizontal and vertical positions, transitioning from a static to a dynamic structure. This allows the handle to adapt to different operational needs while maintaining structural integrity through the rotation mechanism connected to the side panels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The handle serves multiple functions by being able to position in both horizontal and vertical orientations. This multi-functionality allows the same handle structure to facilitate different types of tray operations, improving ease of use without requiring multiple separate handles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If the handle is mounted on both side panels, then the tray is securely held, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetray handling securityVSAvoidhandle mounting complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The handle mounting structure is divided into separate components attached to each side panel independently. This segmentation allows for modular assembly where each side panel connection can be manufactured and tested separately, then assembled together, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the handle transitions between positions, then accessibility is improved, but the risk of damage during handling increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveaccessibilityVSAvoidrisk of damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The rotation mechanism includes damping or cushioning elements that absorb impact energy during handle position transitions. This prevents sudden movements or impacts that could cause damage, while still allowing smooth transitions between horizontal and vertical positions for improved accessibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20250040070A1Tray handle design with multiple functions

Publication Date: 2025.01.30 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

A planar module tray includes a bottom panel, first and second side panels, and a handle. The first side panel is in physical communication with a first edge of the bottom panel. The second side panel is in physical communication with a second edge of the bottom panel. The handle is in physical communication with and securely mounted on both of the first and second side panels. The handle transitions between a horizontal position and a vertical position. When the handle is in the horizontal position, the handle is in physical communication with the bottom panel. When the handle is in the vertical position, the handle is perpendicular to the bottom panel.