PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11071228-B2
Application Number: US-201916583155-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Computing workstation with accessible in a rack environment

Abstract:
A rack system for one or more computing systems is described. The rack system may include support structures, or rack structures, and a housing affixed or un-affixed to the support structures. The rack system may include rails, including telescoping rails, affixed to the support structures and coupled to the computing system. When the rack system is in a closed position, the computing system is positioned within the housing. When the rack system is in an open position, the computing system is removed from the housing and the components of the computing system are accessible. In the open position, only components on one surface of the circuit board are accessible. However, the computing system can rotate, thereby placing the components on the opposing surface of the circuit board in an accessible position. Alternatively, the housing can be affixed to the computing system, and include modifications for access to the computing system.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A rack system, comprising:
 support structures; 
 a housing attached to the support structures, the housing comprising:
 a first housing component; and 
 a second housing component coupled to the first housing component by a first latch assembly, the second housing component comprising an opening; 
 
 a computing assembly located in the housing, the computing assembly comprising:
 a computing system comprising a lid and fans integrated with the lid; 
 a circuit board extending from the computing system, the circuit board having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, a first component located on the first surface; and 
 a second component located on the second surface, wherein a removal of the computing system from the housing comprises a first access position of the first component on the first surface, and wherein a rotation of the computing assembly comprises a second access position of the second component on the second surface, the second access position different from the first access position; and 
 
 a hatch coupled to the second housing component by a second latch assembly, wherein the hatch is capable of being i) positioned in the opening and ii) removed from the opening. 
 
     
     
       2. The rack system of  claim 1 , wherein the computing system that is removable from the housing. 
     
     
       3. The rack system of  claim 1 , wherein removal of the hatch allows access to at least the first component. 
     
     
       4. The rack system of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a first rail coupled to the computing assembly; and 
 a second rail coupled to the computing assembly, the first rail and the second rail allowing the rotation of the computing assembly wherein the first rail is coupled to the computing assembly by a first cantilevered coupling mechanism, and wherein the second rail coupled to the computing assembly by a second cantilevered coupling mechanism. 
 
     
     
       5. The rack system of  claim 4 , wherein the support structures comprise:
 a first support structure coupled with the first rail; and 
 a second support structure coupled with the second rail, wherein the computing assembly is perpendicular, prior to the rotation, with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure, and wherein the computing assembly is parallel, subsequent to the rotation, with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure. 
 
     
     
       6. The rack system of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 an air shielding element located on the computing assembly; 
 a first electromagnetic interference shield element located on the computing assembly; and 
 a second electromagnetic interference shield element located on the housing. 
 
     
     
       7. A rack system, comprising:
 a first support structure having a first rail coupled to a computing system; 
 a second support structure having a second rail coupled to the computing system; 
 a housing coupled with the first support structure and the second support structure, the housing comprising:
 a first housing component; and 
 a second housing component coupled to the first housing component by a first latch assembly, the second housing component comprising an opening, 
 wherein: 
 a closed position comprises the housing receiving computing system, and 
 an open position comprises the computing system removed from the housing and capable of rotation with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure, wherein the computing system comprises a circuit board that is perpendicular, prior to the rotation, with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure, and wherein the circuit board is parallel, subsequent to the rotation, with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure; and 
 
 a hatch coupled to the second housing component by a second latch assembly, wherein the hatch is capable of being i) positioned in the opening and ii) removed from the opening. 
 
     
     
       8. The rack system of  claim 7 , wherein;
 the circuit board is perpendicular, prior to the rotation, with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure, and 
 the circuit board is parallel, subsequent to the rotation, with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure. 
 
     
     
       9. The rack system of  claim 8 , wherein:
 the circuit board comprises a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, 
 subsequent to the rotation, the first surface faces toward the first support structure and the second support structure. 
 
     
     
       10. The rack system of  claim 9 , wherein, subsequent to the rotation, the second surface faces away from the first support structure and the second support structure. 
     
     
       11. The rack system of  claim 9 , wherein the circuit board comprises:
 processing circuitry located on the first surface; and 
 a memory module located on the second surface. 
 
     
     
       12. The rack system of  claim 7 , wherein the closed position comprises the computing system positioned between the first support structure and the second support structure. 
     
     
       13. The rack system of  claim 7 , wherein the housing comprises metal and forms an electromagnetic interference shield element. 
     
     
       14. The rack system of  claim 7 , wherein the rotation comprises a 180-degree rotation with respect to the first rail and the second rail. 
     
     
       15. The rack system of  claim 7 , further comprising:
 a front panel; and 
 a latch assembly that couples the front panel with the housing, wherein the latch assembly is capable of i) locking the latch assembly with the front panel, and ii) locking out the computing system from the housing. 
 
     
     
       16. A rack system, comprising:
 a first support structure having a first rail; 
 a second support structure having a second rail; 
 a housing coupled to the first support structure and the second support structure, the housing comprising:
 a first housing component; and 
 a second housing component coupled to the first housing component by a first latch assembly, the second housing component comprising an opening; 
 
 a computing system that is capable of removal from the housing, the computing system comprising a circuit board having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the computing system rotationally coupled with the first rail and the second rail to provide i) a first access position to a first component on the first surface, and ii) a second access position to a second component on the second surface, the second access position defined by a 180-degree rotation relative to the first access position; and 
 a hatch coupled to the second housing component by a second latch assembly, wherein the hatch is capable of being i) positioned in the opening and ii) removed from the opening. 
 
     
     
       17. The rack system of  claim 16 , wherein the housing comprises metal and forms an electromagnetic interference shield element. 
     
     
       18. The rack system of  claim 16 , wherein the computing system rotationally coupled with the first rail and the second rail such that the computing system is capable of 180-degree rotation with respect to the first rail and the second rail. 
     
     
       19. The rack system of  claim 16 , wherein the first component comprises a processing circuit, and wherein the second component comprises a memory module.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/736,820, filed on Sep. 26, 2018, and titled “COMPUTING WORKSTATION WITH ACCESSIBLE IN A RACK ENVIRONMENT,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The following description relates to computing assemblies. In particular, the following description relates to a computing assembly for use as a standalone workstation and also for use in a rack environment. The computing assembly may include several computing systems in the rack environment. The computing system can be removed from a housing attached to the rack environment, while still attached to rails (or slides) of the rack environment, allowing access various components of the computing system. Moreover, the computing system is rotatable relative to the rack environment such that multiple surfaces of the computing system are accessible, thereby allowing access to components mounted on the multiple surfaces for the purpose of maintenance and/or upgrading the various components. The computing assembly can be further modified such that housing moves in conjunction with the computing system. In these instances, the housing is modified to provide access to components of the computing system. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Rack unit computers can be used as a file server or a web server. Typically, rack unit computers are stacked in a server room. In large-scale systems, several hundred or more computers can be used for one or more applications. Also, these rack unit computers are often stored in large enclosures, such as cabinets. Collectively, rack unit computers can be used for a designated application(s). 
     However, traditional rack unit computers, and their collective layout, have certain drawbacks. For instance, when rack unit computers are stored in an enclosure, they must be removed from the enclosure to gain access. Additionally, in order for a user to perform an operation on the computer, the housing must be detached (e.g., unscrewed or unfastened) from the rack unit computer to gain access to the processing components of the computer. Once the user operation(s) is/are performed, the housing must again be re-attached, and the rack unit computer must be re-installed in the enclosure. Further, when the rack unit computer is part of a large-scale system, the operator cannot gain access to the rear side (often where expansion slots for additional components are installed), and must walk around several vertically built, side-by-side rack unit computers. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a rack system is described. The rack system may include support structures. The rack system may further include a housing attached to the support structures. The rack system may further include a computing assembly that is located in the housing. The computing assembly may include a circuit board having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The computing system may further include a first component located on the first surface. The computing system may further include a second component located on the second surface. In some instances, a removal of the computing system from the housing may include a first access position of the first component. Also, in some instances, a rotation of the computing system may include a second access position of the second component. The second access position may be different from the first access position. 
     In another aspect, a rack system is described. The rack system may include a first support structure having a first rail coupled to a computing system. The rack system may further include a second support structure having a second rail coupled to the computing system. The rack system may further include a housing coupled with the first support structure and the second support structure. In some instances, a closed position may include the housing receiving computing system. Also, in some instances, an open position may include the computing system removed from the housing and capable of rotation with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure. 
     In another aspect, a rack system is described. The rack system may include a first support structure having a first rail. The rack system may further include a second support structure having a second rail. The rack system may further include a housing coupled to the first support structure and the second support structure. The rack system may further include a computing system capable of removal from the housing. The computing system may include a circuit board having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. Also, the computing system can be rotationally coupled with the first rail and the second rail to provide i) a first access to a first component on the first surface, and ii) a second access to a second component on the second surface. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a computing assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of the computing assembly shown in  FIG. 1 , showing the housing removed; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an alternate isometric view of the computing assembly shown in  FIG. 1 , showing an additional surface of the circuit board and additional components on the additional surface; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a rack system carrying several computing assemblies, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a rack system carrying several computing assemblies, with the rack system in an enclosure, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a rack system carrying a computing assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates the rack system and the computing assembly shown in  FIG. 6 , showing the computing system removed from the housing; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a side view of an embodiment a rack system and a computing assembly, showing a computing system of the computing assembly removed from a housing, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a side view of the rack system and the computing assembly shown in  FIG. 8 , showing the computing system rotated with respect to the rack system; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a side view of the rack system and the computing assembly shown in  FIG. 9 , showing the computing system further rotated with respect to the rack system; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a rack system and a computing assembly, showing a computing system of the computing assembly connected to the rack system at an alternate location, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a rack system and a computing assembly, showing a computing system of the computing assembly connected to the rack system at an alternate location, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a rack system and a computing assembly, showing a counterbalance added to a computing system of the computing assembly, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a rack system and a computing assembly, showing multiple enhancements to the rack system, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a rack system and a computing system, showing a gear system connected to the rack system and the computing system, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a side view of the rack system and the computing system shown in  FIG. 15 , showing the computing system rotated using the gear system, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a computing assembly, showing several sealing elements disposed throughout a housing and a computing system; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a computing assembly; 
         FIG. 19  illustrates an isometric view of the computing assembly shown in  FIG. 18 , showing the computing assembly integrated with a rack system; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a front isometric view of the computing assembly, showing the latch assembly of the plate assembly; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a rear isometric view of the computing assembly, further showing the latch assembly; 
         FIG. 22  illustrates a side view of the bracket installed in the housing component; 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a computing assembly, showing the computing assembly with a plate assembly and an antenna integrated with the plate assembly; 
         FIG. 24  illustrates a cross sectional view of the computing assembly shown in  FIG. 23 , showing the antenna providing RF transmission; 
         FIG. 25  illustrates isometric views of an embodiment of a coupling mechanism; 
         FIG. 26  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment an coupling mechanism; 
         FIG. 27  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of housing components for a computing assembly, showing the housing components secured together by coupling mechanisms; 
         FIG. 28  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of latch assembly used to secure a housing component with a hatch; 
         FIG. 29  illustrates a partial isometric view of the hatch secured with the housing component; 
         FIG. 30  illustrates a partial isometric view of the hatch secured with the housing component based on the latch assembly, showing the latch assembly in a locked configuration; 
         FIG. 31  illustrates a partial isometric view of the hatch and the housing component shown in  FIG. 29 , showing the key mechanism rotated; 
         FIG. 32  illustrates a partial isometric view of the hatch and the housing component, showing the latch assembly in an unlocked configuration; 
         FIG. 33  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of a housing component and a plate assembly, further showing a latch assembly integrated with the housing component; 
         FIG. 34  illustrates a cross sectional of the housing component disengaged from the plate assembly using the latch assembly; 
         FIGS. 35A-35C  illustrate isometric views of alternate embodiments of a housing; 
         FIG. 36  illustrates a partial cross sectional view of a plate assembly secured with a handle, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG. 37  illustrates a partial cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of a plate assembly secured with a handle; and 
         FIG. 38  illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     The following disclosure relates to computing systems. In particular, the following disclosure relates to computing systems with modifications designed to facilitate access to its components. This includes instances in which the computing system is used as server hardware that is part of a rack computing system. Oftentimes, traditional computing systems integrated into a rack computing system have inherent difficulties with respect to gaining access (to the traditional computing systems). However, a computer system and/or a rack system described herein is/are designed to overcome these difficulties. 
     A rack system may include one or more support structures, such as vertical rails, used to mount one or more computing systems. In some instances, the support structures are mounted in an enclosure, or cabinet. The rack system further includes rails mounted onto the support structures. The rails may include sliding rails or telescoping rails that secure to the computing system. In this regard, the computing system may slide out from the support structures (or slide out from the enclosure/cabinet, when used). 
     A traditional computing system includes a housing that covers the components of the computing system, thereby making them internal components. The housing may include one or more housing parts that secured together to provide a protective housing and a form factor that defines the general size and shape of the traditional computing system. The housing parts generally define the outer perimeter of the traditional computing system. Internal structures, such as bracket, fasteners, clips, locks, or the like, couple circuit boards and other internal structures to the housing parts such that the circuit boards, and components mounted thereon, are fixed in the housing. However, the housing used for computing systems described herein are coupled to the support structures of the rack system. In this manner, when the computing system slides out from the support structures (or from the enclosure), the housing remains fixed to the support structures (or remains in the enclosure), and the components mounted on a surface of a circuit board of the computing system are readily accessible. Also, the coupling/securing between the computing system and each rail may include allow the computing system to be rotated, and subsequently, the components mounted on an additional (opposite) surface of the circuit board are also readily accessible. As a result, the components of the computing system can be mounted on both sides of the circuit board, and are readily accessible for service/maintenance, troubleshooting, and/or upgrading. 
     Alternatively, some computing assemblies described herein may include modified housing components that facilitate accesses to the components of the computing assembly. For example, the housing component may include a hatch that can disengage from the remaining housing components, thereby allowing user access to the components. Alternatively, or in combination, the computing assembly may include one or more latch assemblies that allow for disengagement between the housing components and other external structures of the computing assembly. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-38 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a computing assembly  100 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The computing assembly  100  may be referred to as a computer workstation, a desktop computer, or the like. As shown, the computing assembly  100  may include a housing  102  that provides a protective cover for several components (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) of a computing system (covered by the housing  102 ), such as circuit boards, processor circuits (including central processing units, graphics processing units), memory circuits, batteries, fans, audio modules, and flexible circuits, as non-limiting examples. The housing  102  may include openings  104   a  and openings  104   b  that allows airflow into and out of the housing  102  in order to cool components of the computing assembly  100 . The computing assembly  100  may include a platform  106  on which the housing  102  is mounted. Also, the housing  102  is defined in part by a dimension  109 . This will be discussed below. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of the computing assembly  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , showing the housing  102  removed. As shown, the computing assembly  100  may include a handle  101   a  and a handle  101   b , both of which are used to facilitate transporting the computing assembly  100 . Further, the handle  101   a  and the handle  101   b  can extend along the computing assembly  100  to define several “legs” on which the computing assembly  100  is positioned. The computing assembly  100  further includes a computing system  110 . The computing system  110  may include a circuit board  112  with several components mounted on the circuit board  112 , at least some of which are in communication with each other. For example, the computing system  110  may include a component  114   a , such as a power supply, mounted on the circuit board  112 . The computing system  110  may further include a component  114   b  and a component  114   c . Each of the component  114   b  and the component  114   c  may include a graphics processing unit or a central processing unit, as non-limiting examples. The computing system  110  may further include a connector  116   a  and a connector  116   b . Each of the connector  116   a  and the connector  116   b  serves as an expansion slot to receive an additional module, such as a graphics card or a network communication card, as non-limiting examples. The computing system  110  may further include a fan assembly  118  electrically coupled to the circuit board  112 . The fan assembly  118  may include multiple fan modules. The fan modules may be designed to drive airflow through the openings  104   a  of the housing  102  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) and into the computing system  110  across the aforementioned components and connectors. The airflow convectively carries heat generated by the components out of the openings  104   b  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
     As shown, the components and connectors are mounted to a surface of the circuit board  112 . In order to increase the number of components, which may increase the performance of the computing system  110 , additional components can be mounted onto an additional surface of the circuit board  112 . For example,  FIG. 3  illustrates an alternate isometric view of the computing system  110  shown in  FIG. 1 , showing an additional surface of the circuit board  112  and additional components mounted on the additional surface. As shown, a memory module  119   a , a memory module  119   b , and a memory module  119   c  are mounted on the circuit board  112 . Each of the memory module  119   a , the memory module  119   b , and the memory module  119   c  may include a random-access memory, solid-state drive, or a dual in-line memory module, as non-limiting examples. In this regard, in some embodiments, the processing components and power supply are mounted on one surface of the circuit board  112 , while the memory modules are mounted on an opposing surface of the circuit board  112 . This may prevent issues such as overheating of some modules and/or interference (e.g., noise). Also, it should be noted that the components, connectors and power supply on one surface of the circuit board  112  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) can be in electrical communication with the memory module  119   a , the memory module  119   b , and the memory module  119   c  (and any additional modules or components not shown) on the surface of the circuit board  112  shown in  FIG. 3 . Also, in some embodiments, each surface of the circuit board  112  includes a combination of power supplies, components (processing circuits), and/or memory modules. 
       FIGS. 2 and 3  illustrate that when the housing  102  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) is removed, the components, connectors, memory modules, and other devices (not shown) mounted on either surface of the circuit board  112  are readily accessible for reasons such as replacements/upgrades and service/maintenance/repair. With the housing  102  removed, minimal, if any, obstruction to a user is present, and the user can access components on either side of the circuit board  112 . Moreover, if the user is facing one surface of the circuit board  112 , the user can simply rotate the computing assembly  100  to access the other surface of the circuit board  112 . Also, the number of components, circuits, and connectors shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3  are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a rack system  220  carrying several computing assemblies, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the rack system  220  includes a support structure  222   a  and a support structure  222   b . The support structure  222   a  and the support structure  222   b  may include vertically mounted rails. Several computing assemblies, including a computing assembly  200 , are held by the rack system  220  via the support structure  222   a  and the support structure  222   b . As shown, the support structure  222   a  and the support structure  222   b  are mounted to a floor. However, the support structure  222   a  and the support structure  222   b  can be suspended from a ceiling (not shown in  FIG. 4 ) or secured to a vertical wall (not shown in  FIG. 4 ). 
     The rack system  220  may include several rails. For example, the rack system  220  includes a rail  224   a  and a rail  224   b  (shown as dotted lines). The rails can be located in a housing of a computing assembly. For example, the rail  224   a  and the rail  224   b  are located in a housing  202  of the computing assembly  200 . Further, the rail  224   a  and the rail  224   b  may be connected to the support structure  222   a  and the support structure  222   b , respectively, and/or to the housing  202  by fasteners (not shown in  FIG. 4 ). The remaining computing assemblies may be connected to a pair of rails, with each pair of rails also connected to the support structure  222   a  and the support structure  222   b.    
     Each housing of a computing assembly is attached to the support structures. For example, the housing  202  is attached to the support structure  222   a  and the support structure  222   b . The rails include sliding rails, or telescoping rails, that allow the relative movement of the computing assemblies. Each computing assembly includes a computing system within a housing. Furthermore, the rails allow relative movement of each computing system with respect to their housing, as well as with respect to the support structures. For example, the rail  224   a  and the rail  224   b  allow movement of the computing system  210  such that the computing system  210  slides out of the housing  202 . Accordingly, the computing system  210  (representative of computing systems described herein) is not attached to the housing  202 , and the housing  202  remains stationary while the computing system  210  moves into and out of the housing  202 . An exemplary embodiment will be shown below. 
     The support structure  222   a  is separated from the support structure  222   b  by a distance  209 . The distance  209  defines a dimension that is at least as large has the dimension  109  of the computing assembly  100  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). In this regard, the computing system  110  shown in  FIG. 2  can be mounted to the rack system  220 , and into a housing of the rack system  220 . Further, the computing system  210  can be removed from the housing  202  and can fit into the housing  102  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). Accordingly, a computing assembly described herein may include a computing system that is interchangeable, and can be used in standalone workstations and in rack systems. Also, the rack system  220  is shown with several additional computing assemblies that are not labeled. These computing assemblies may include any features and functionality shown and described for the computing assembly  200 . 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a rack system  320  carrying several computing assemblies, with the rack system  320  in an enclosure  330 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the enclosure  330  defines a cabinet used for protection and/or securing of the computing assemblies. The enclosure  330  includes a door  332  that can open, thereby providing access to a computing assembly  300  and several additional computing assemblies (not labeled). The rack system  320  shown in  FIG. 5  may include any features and structural components previously described for the rack system  220  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). Further, the rack system  320  may include a mobile rack system with wheels  308 . However, although not shown, the wheels  308  may be replaced with standoffs. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a rack system  420  carrying a computing assembly  400 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The rack system  420  and the computing assembly  400  may include several features described herein for a rack system and a computing assembly, respectively. As shown, the rack system  420  includes a support structure  422   a  and a support structure  422   b . The computing assembly  400  includes a housing  402  that is secured to the support structure  422   a  and the support structure  422   b . The rack system  420  further includes a rail  424   a  and a rail  424   b . The rail  424   a  and the rail  424   b  may be connected to the support structure  422   a  and the support structure  422   b , respectively, and/or to the housing  402  by fasteners (not shown in  FIG. 6 ). The computing assembly  400  includes a computing system  410  that is connected to the rail  424   a  and the rail  424   b . As shown, the computing system  410  is disposed in the housing  402 , representing a closed position of the computing assembly  400 . The closed position may also refer to a position in which the computing system  410  is positioned between the support structure  422   a  and the support structure  422   b . In the closed position, the computing system  410  is operable to serve in its intended computing functions, such as processing instructions in accordance with a file server or a web server, as non-limiting examples. Also, the computing system  410  may include a sensor  436  designed to sense a target  438  on the rack system  420 . This will be discussed below. 
     The computing assembly  400  is designed to transition from the closed position to an open position. For example,  FIG. 7  illustrates the rack system  420  and the computing assembly  400  shown in  FIG. 6 , showing the computing system  410  removed from the housing  402 . The rail  424   a  and the rail  424   b  permit relative movement of the computing system  410  with respect the housing  402  such that the computing system  410  is out of the housing  402 , representing an open position of the computing assembly  400 . Also, the open position may also refer to a position in which the computing system  410  is not positioned between the support structure  422   a  and the support structure  422   b.    
     When the computing assembly  400  is in the open positioned, the components of the computing system  410  are accessible. For example, the computing system  410  includes circuit board  412 , as well as a component  414   a , a component  414   b , and a component  414   c  mounted on a surface the circuit board  412 . Each of the component  414   a , the component  414   b , and the component  414   c  may include a power supply or processing circuitry (such as a graphics processing unit or a central processing unit), as non-limiting examples. With the computing assembly  400  in the open position, a user can readily access the component  414   a , the component  414   b , and the component  414   c  for replacements/upgrades and service/maintenance. Based on the open position, the computing system  410  is unobstructed from the housing  402  and the rack system  420 . 
     Each of the rail  424   a  and the rail  424   b  may include a telescoping rail with multiple rail components that move relative to each other. Furthermore, the rail  424   a  and the rail  424   b  are connected to a structure  426   a  and a structure  426   b , respectively, of the computing system  410 . As shown, the rail  424   a  is connected to the structure  426   a  by a coupling mechanism  432   a , and the rail  424   b  is connected to the structure  426   b  by a coupling mechanism  432   b . Each of the coupling mechanism  432   a  and the coupling mechanism  432   b  may include a cantilevered coupling mechanism. In this regard, the coupling mechanism  432   a  and the coupling mechanism  432   b  allow rotation of the computing system  410  with respect to the rail  424   a  and the rail  424   b , and in turn, the computing system  410  can rotate with respect to other features such as the housing  402 , the support structure  422   a , and the support structure  422   b . Accordingly, the computing system  410  can be oriented in a different manner. For instance, the computing system  410  can be rotated in a direction  434   a  to provide a user access to a different surface of the circuit board  412  such that the user can access a memory module  419  on the different surface. Alternatively, the computing system  410  can be rotated in a direction  434   b  (opposite the direction  434   a ) to provide the user with an alternate access of the component  414   a , the component  414   b , and the component  414   c . The rotation of the computing system  410  in the direction  434   a  or the direction  434   b  may include a 90-180 degree rotation relative to the initial position of the computing system  410  shown in  FIG. 7 . 
     In  FIG. 7 , the computing system  410  lies on an X-Y plane (in Cartesian coordinates). Further, the computing system  410  is parallel, or at least substantially parallel, with respect to the rail  424   a , the rail  424   b , and the housing  402 . Further, the computing system  410  is perpendicular, or at least substantially perpendicular, with respect to the support structure  422   a  and the support structure  422   b . However, a 90-degree rotation of the computing system  410  (placing the computing system  410  on an X-Z plane), causes the computing system  410  to be perpendicular, or at least substantially perpendicular, with respect to the rail  424   a , the rail  424   b , and the housing  402 , and causes the computing system  410  to be parallel, or at least substantially parallel, with respect to the support structure  422   a  and the support structure  422   b.    
     In the open position, the computing system  410  may transition to a reduced power mode, and the operations of the computing system  410  may be reduced for purposes of safety or thermal considerations. In this manner, the sensor  436  can detect the presence of the target  438  on the rack system  420 . The sensor  436  may include a Hall Effect sensor and the target  438  may include a magnet. In the closed position, the sensor  436  can detect a magnetic field (not shown in  FIG. 7 ) of the target  438 , and provide an input signal to a processor circuit the computing system  410 . The computing system  410  can use the input signal to determine the computing system  410  is in the housing  402  and the computing assembly  400  is in the closed position. If the sensor  436  does not detect the target  438 , the computing system  410  does not receive input signal from the sensor  436 , and can determine the computing system  410  is not the housing  402 , corresponding to the computing assembly  400  being in the open position. 
       FIGS. 8-10  illustrate an exemplary rotation of a computing system  510  relative to a rack system  520  and its components. The exemplary rotation of the computing system  510  may be applied to other computing systems described herein. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates a side view of an embodiment a rack system  520  and a computing assembly  500 , showing a computing system  510  of the computing assembly  500  removed from a housing  502 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The housing  502  may include a housing for computing assemblies described herein. As shown, the computing assembly  500  is in the open position. The computing system  510  includes a circuit board  512 . The computing system  510  further includes a component  514   a  and a component  514   b  mounted on a surface  542   a  of the circuit board  512 , as well as a memory module  519   a  and a memory module  519   b  mounted on a surface  542   b  of the circuit board  512 . The surface  542   a  and the surface  542   b  may be referred to, collectively, as opposing surfaces. 
     Generally, a user, when facing the computing system  510  has access to the component  514   a  and the component  514   b , and any other components on the surface  542   a . The user&#39;s access to the memory module  519   a  and the memory module  519   b , and any other components on the surface  542   b , is limited. However, the computing system  510  can be rotated to place the computing system  510  in a different orientation. For example,  FIG. 9  illustrates a side view of the rack system  520  and the computing assembly  500  shown in  FIG. 8 , showing the computing system  510  rotated with respect to the rack system  520 . The computing system  510  is rotated in a direction  534  such that when facing the computing system  510 , the user has access to the memory module  519   a  and the memory module  519   a , and any other components on the surface  542   b . Further, as shown, when the computing system  510  is rotated in the direction  534 , the surface  542   a  faces the rack system  520  (including a support structure  522  of the rack system  520 ) and the housing  502 , and the surface  542   b  faces away from the rack system  520  and the housing  502 . 
       FIG. 10  illustrates a side view of the rack system  520  and the computing assembly  500  shown in  FIG. 9 , showing the computing system  510  further rotated with respect to the rack system  520 . As shown, the computing system  510  is further rotated in the direction  534 . Again, the user has access to the memory module  519   a  and the memory module  519   a , and any other components on the surface  542   b . However, the circuit board  512  is oriented in a different manner, as compared to the manner shown in  FIG. 9 , thereby providing a different access orientation to the circuit board  512 . Based on the rotation shown  FIG. 10 , the computing system  510  is capable of 180-degree rotation. 
       FIGS. 8-10  show the computing system  510  coupled to a rail  524  by a coupling mechanism  532 . As shown, the coupling mechanism  532  is center mounted with respect to the computing system  510 . In other words, the coupling mechanism  532  is located at a midpoint taken along a dimension (or dimensions) of the computing system  510 . This may allow for easier rotation of the computing system  510 , as the required torque to rotate the computing system  510  is reduced (as compared to the coupling mechanism  532  being located near an end, or off-center with, the computing system  510 ). It should be noted that an additional rail and coupling mechanism (not shown in  FIGS. 8-10 ) can be present. 
       FIGS. 11 and 12  illustrate alternate locations to which a coupling mechanism can be secured to a computing system. The computer assemblies and rack systems shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12  may include features described herein for a computer assembly and a rack system, respectively. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a rack system  620  and a computing assembly  600 , showing a computing system  610  of the computing assembly  600  connected to the rack system  620  at an alternate location, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, a coupling mechanism  632  couples a rail  624  of the rack system  620  to the computing system  610 . The coupling mechanism  632  is mounted to an upper portion of the computing system  610 , and further, is mounted off-center. As a result, the position of the computing system  610  is relatively lower (vertically, along the Z-axis), as compared to a prior embodiment, thereby improving accessibility as computing system  610  is less elevated. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a rack system  720  and a computing assembly  700 , showing a computing system  710  of the computing assembly  700  connected to the rack system  720  at an alternate location, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, a coupling mechanism  732  couples a rail  724  of the rack system  720  to the computing system  710 . The coupling mechanism  732  is mounted to a lower portion of the computing system  710 , and further, is mounted off-center. The may prevent the computing system  710  from contacting a floor surface when the computing system  710  is mounted close to a floor, as the computing system is elevated in the Z-axis, as compare to the computing system  610  (shown in  FIG. 11 ). 
       FIGS. 13 and 14  illustrate features that may assist in rotating a computing system. The computer assemblies and rack systems shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14  may include features described herein for a computer assembly and a rack system, respectively. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a rack system  820  and a computing assembly  800 , showing a counterbalance  842  added to a computing system  810  of the computing assembly  800 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the computing system  810  includes a circuit board  812 . The circuit board  812  includes a component  814   a  mounted on one section of the circuit board  812  and a component  814   b  mounted on another section of the circuit board  812 . In some instances, the weight of the component  814   a  outweighs the weight of the component  814   b . In these instances, the counterbalance  842  is applied to the section of the computing system  810  with the component  814   b  to even the weight on both sections. Generally, the counterbalance  842  is added such that the weight of the computing system  810  is evenly distributed on each section, with each section separated by a coupling mechanism  832 . By balancing the weight with the counterbalance  842  in this manner, the rotational velocity of the computing system  810  is consistent, and unwanted high- and low-velocity rotations may be avoided. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a rack system  920  and a computing assembly  900 , showing multiple enhancements to the rack system  920 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the rack system  920  includes a rail  924  that includes a first rail component  944   a  and a second rail component  944   b . When a computing system  910 , coupled to the rail  924 , is rotated, the first rail component  944   a  remains stationary, while the second rail component  944   b  rotates with the computing system  910 , thereby preventing the second rail component  944   b  from extending laterally along the X-axis. This may prevent injury to a user. 
     Further, a spring member  946  is coupled to a support structure  922  and the computing system  910 . The spring member  946  may include a gas spring designed to assist a user in providing a rotating force to rotate the computing system  910  to the orientation shown in  FIG. 14 . Also, the spring member  946  can regulate the rotational velocity when rotating the computing system  910 . 
     Several other features may be integrated, alone or in combination with other features. For example, a friction hinge can couple to a computing system described herein, and can be used to reduce rotational velocity and/or place a computing system at a diagonal (e.g., an angle with respect to the X-axis in the range of 30-60 degrees). The rotational component of a computing system described herein can be motorized, thereby removing the manual requirements for movement. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment a computing system  1010  and a rack system  1020 , showing a gear system  1048  connected to the rack system  1020  and the computing system  1010 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the rack system  1020  includes a housing  1002  designed to receive the computing system  1010 . The computing system  1010  may include a circuit board  1012 , as well as component  1014   a  and a component  1014   b  mounted to opposing surfaces of the circuit board  1012 . Additional components may also be mounted on the circuit board  1012 . The rack system  1020  includes a rail  1024  that is coupled to the computing system  1010  by the gear system  1048 . The gear system  1048  includes a gear mechanism  1049   a  coupled to the computing system  1010 , and a gear mechanism  1049   b  coupled to the rail  1024 . Based on the position shown in  FIG. 15 , an operator can readily access the component  1014   a.    
     However, when access to the component  1014   b  required, the gear system  1048  can be used. For example,  FIG. 16  illustrates a side view of the rack system  1020  and the computing system  1010  shown in  FIG. 15 , showing the computing system  1010  rotated using the gear system  1048 , in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the computing system  1010  is rotated approximately 90 degrees such that the component  1014   b  is readily accessible. In order to rotate the computing system  1010 , the gear mechanism  1049   b  is rotationally driven clockwise, thereby causing counter-clockwise rotation of the gear mechanism  1049   a . It should be noted that the gear mechanism  1049   b  can be subsequently rotated counter-clockwise, thereby causing clockwise rotation of the gear mechanism  1049   a , which rotates the computing system  1010  back to its original position (as shown in  FIG. 15 ). The computing system  1010  can then be positioned in the housing  1002 . 
       FIG. 17  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a computing assembly  1100 , showing several sealing elements disposed throughout a housing  1102  and a computing system  1110 , in accordance with some described embodiments. For purposes of illustration, several components are removed from the computing system  1110 . The sealing elements may include electromagnetic interference (“EMI”) sealing shields designed to prevent intrusion and emission of EMI, or air shields designed to prevent air leaks. 
     As shown, the housing  1102  may include an EMI shield  1150   a  within the internal volume (defined by the shape of the housing  1102 ). It should be noted that the housing  1102 , and other housings described herein, may be formed from a metal so as to prevent intrusion and emission of EMI. The computing system  1110  may include an EMI shield  1150   b  on a front portion such that the computing assembly  1100  includes EMI shield at opposing ends (with the EMI shield  1150   a  at one end and the EMI shield  1150   b  at the other end). The computing system  1110  may include an EMI shield  1150   c  positioned around several openings (not labeled) in a location of expansion slots on a circuit board  1112 . 
     The computing system  1110  may include an air shield  1152   a  on the front portion. The computing system  1110  may include an air shield  1152   b  on the circuit board  1112 . The computing system  1110  may include an air shield  1152   c  on a back portion. At least some of these air shields are resistant to wear by, for example, rubbing against the air shields in two different directions. This may occur when the computing system  1110  is slid, in one direction, into and out of the housing  102  of a standalone workstation (shown in  FIG. 1 ), or slid in another perpendicular direction, when inserted into the housing  202  in a rack system  220  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). 
     The foregoing embodiments show and described computing assemblies in which the computing system is separable from the housing. In other words, the computing system could be removed from the housing in order to initiate servicing of the computing system or to transition the computing system from a standalone workstation to a rack environment, as non-limiting examples. However, in some embodiments, the computing system is secured or fastened to the housing, and the housing is modified to allow access to internal components of the computing system. 
       FIG. 18  illustrates an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a computing assembly  1200 . As shown, the computing assembly  1200  includes housing component  1202   a  and a housing component  1202   b . The housing component  1202   a  can combine with the housing component  1202   b , and form a housing for a computing system  1210 . The computing system  1210  may include several features and components shown and described herein for a computing system, including a fan assembly  1218 . In order to secure the housing component  1202   a  with the housing component  1202   b , the computing assembly  1200  may include a latch assembly  1203   a  and a latch assembly  1203   b.    
     The computing assembly  1200  can be connected to a rail  1224   a  and a rail  1224   b . The rail  1224   a  and the rail  1224   b  can couple to the housing component  1202   b  as well as a rack system (not shown in  FIG. 18 ). In this manner, both the housing component  1202   a  and the housing component  1202   b  (along with the computing assembly  1200 ) can move relative to the rack system. 
     In order to secure the computing assembly  1200  to the housing component  1202   b , the computing assembly  1200  may further include a bracket  1254   a  and a bracket  1254   b . The housing component  1202   b  may include modifications used to receive and align the bracket  1254   a  and the bracket  1254   b . This will be further shown and described below. 
     The computing assembly  1200  may further include a plate assembly  1256   a  and a plate assembly  1256   b  designed to secure with the housing component  1202   a  and the housing component  1202   b . The plate assembly  1256   a  and the plate assembly  1256   b  may be referred to as a front plate assembly and a back plate assembly, respectively. 
     As shown, the plate assembly  1256   a  includes a plate  1258   a  and a plate  1258   b . Both the plate  1258   a  and the plate  1258   b  include several openings. The plate  1258   a  includes relatively larger openings, as compared to the openings of the plate  1258   b , in order to allow airflow taken in by the fan assembly  1218 . The relatively smaller openings of the plate  1258   b  may limit debris from entering the computing system  1210 . In order to insert the computing assembly  1200  into a rack system or to remove the computing assembly  1200  from the rack system, the plate assembly  1256   a  includes a handle  1260   a  and a handle  1260   b.    
     Further, the plate assembly  1256   a  may include a latch assembly  1203   c  and a latch assembly  1203   d . Each latch assembly may include a lever (not labeled), with the lever of the latch assembly  1203   c  and the latch assembly  1203   d  positioned in an opening  1262   a  and an opening  1262   b , respectively, of the plates  1258 . The latch assembly  1203   c  and the latch assembly  1203   d  are designed to regulate the position of the computing assembly  1200  in a rack system. For example, the latch assembly  1203   c  and the latch assembly  1203   d  can maintain the computing assembly  1200  within the rack system. Conversely, when the computing assembly  1200  is out of the rack system, the latch assembly  1203   c  and the latch assembly  1203   d  can lock out the computing assembly  1200 , thereby preventing the computing assembly  1200  from moving back into the rack system. This will be further discussed below. 
     The plate assembly  1256   b  may include a plate  1258   c  that includes an opening that allows access to expansion slots (not shown in  FIG. 18 ), as an example, integrated with the computing system  1210 . In some instances, the plate assembly  1256   a  and/or the plate assembly  1256   b  are removed to allow access to the computing system  1210 . However, the computing assembly  1200  includes additional access points. For example, the computing assembly  1200  may include a hatch  1266  coupled to the housing component  1202   b . The hatch  1266  can be removed when access to at least some of the operational components of the computing system  1210  is desired. The hatch  1266  can be removed from the housing component  1202   b  using a latch assembly  1203   e  and a latch assembly  1203   f.    
     The computing assembly  1200  may further include several sealing elements designed to limit or prevent air into the computing assembly  1200 . For example, the computing assembly  1200  includes a sealing element  1205   a , a sealing element  1205   b , a sealing element  1205   c , and a sealing element  1205   d . These sealing elements can act as gaskets and provide air seals between the housing component  1202   a  and the housing component  1202   b . The computing assembly  1200  further includes a sealing element  1205   e  that provides an air seal between the housing component  1202   b  and the hatch  1266 . 
       FIG. 19  illustrates an isometric view of the computing assembly  1200  shown in  FIG. 18 , showing the computing assembly  1200  integrated with a rack system  1220 . The rail  1224   a  and the rail  1224   b  permit relative movement of the computing assembly  1200  with respect the rack system  1220  such that the computing assembly  1200  is external to the rack system  1220 , representing an open position of the computing assembly  1200 . Also, the open position may also refer to a position in which the computing assembly  1200  is not positioned within the rack system  1220 . 
     When the computing assembly  1200  is in the open position, at least some the components of the computing system  1210  is accessible. For example, the hatch  1266  (shown in  FIG. 18 ) can be opened and provide access to the computing system  1210 . Although not shown, the rail  1224   a  and the rail  1224   b  can be modified to allow the computing assembly  1200  to rotate (similar to prior embodiments) in a direction of the arrow  1234   a  or the arrow  1234   b , thereby facilitating access to the computing system  1210  when the hatch  1266  is removed. Based on the open position, the computing system  1210  is unobstructed from the rack system  1220 . 
       FIG. 20  illustrates a front isometric view of the computing assembly  1200 , showing the latch assembly  1203   c  and the plate assembly  1256   a . As shown in the enlarged view, the latch assembly  1203   c  includes a slide mechanism  1207  that can be operated by a user. The slide mechanism  1207  can place the latch assembly  1203   c  in a locked or unlocked configuration. The locked configuration corresponds to the computing assembly  1200  being immobilized within the rack unit (not shown in  FIG. 20 ) or out of the rack unit when the computing assembly  1200  lies outside the rack unit, based upon the position of the computing assembly  1200  when the latch assembly  1203   c  is moved to the locked configuration. Regarding the latter, when the computing assembly  1200  is outside of the rack unit and the latch assembly  1203   c  is in the locked configuration, the computing assembly  1200  is locked out and prevented from returning to within the rack unit. The unlocked configuration corresponds to the computing assembly  1200  movable in conjunction with the rail  1224   a  and the rail  1224   b  (shown in  FIG. 18 ) to an open or closed position. Although not shown, the latch assembly  1203   d  also includes a slide mechanism similar to the slide mechanism  1207 . As a result, both slide mechanisms may require user operation to place the computing assembly  1200  in the locked or unlocked configuration. 
       FIG. 21  illustrates a rear isometric view of the computing assembly  1200 , further showing the latch assembly  1203   c . As shown in the enlarged view, the latch assembly  1203   c  includes a lever  1209  attached to the slide mechanism  1207 . In this regard, user actuation of the slide mechanism  1207  corresponds to actuation of the lever  1209 . Further, the user actuation of the slide mechanism  1207  and the lever  1209  places the latch assembly  1203   c  in the locked or unlocked configuration. 
       FIG. 22  illustrates a side view of the bracket  1254   a  installed in the housing component  1202   b . A partial cross section of the housing component  1202   b  is shown. The bracket  1254   a  and the bracket  1254   b  (shown in  FIG. 18 ) are designed to secure the computing system  1210  (shown in  FIG. 18 ) with the housing component  1202   b . As shown in the enlarged view, the housing component  1202   a  may include a pin  1211   a  and a pin  1211   b . The bracket  1254   a  includes a recess  1255   a  and a recess  1255   b  engaged with the pin  1211   a  and the pin  1211   b , respectively. The recess  1255   a  and the recess  1255   b  each include a diagonal recess. In this regard, the recess  1255   a  and the recess  1255   b  engage the pin  1211   a  and the pin  1211   b , respectively, and move diagonally with respect to the housing component  1202   b . Further, the diagonal design of the recess  1255   a  and the recess  1255   b  assist in leading and centering the bracket  1254   a , and particularly the computing system  1210  (not shown in  FIG. 18 ), within the housing component  1202   b . Also, the computing system  1210 , when positioned within the housing component  1202   b , may compress the sealing element  1205   b  and the sealing element  1205   d  (both shown in  FIG. 18 ). 
       FIG. 23  illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a computing assembly  1300 , showing the computing assembly  1300  with a plate assembly  1356  and an antenna  1368  integrated with the plate assembly  1356 . The plate assembly  1356  may include several features described herein for a plate assembly. The antenna  1368  (shown as a dotted line) is positioned along an edge of a plate  1358 . Moreover, the antenna  1368  is positioned along a recess  1370  formed in the plate  1358 . As a result, the antenna  1368  is capable of transmission and receipt of radio frequency (“RF”) transmission even when the plate  1358  is formed from a metal generally known to block RF transmission. 
       FIG. 24  illustrates a cross sectional view of the computing assembly  1300  shown in  FIG. 23 , showing the antenna  1368  providing RF transmission. As shown, the antenna  1368  is integrated with the plate  1358  such that the antenna  1368  is at least partially uncovered by the plate  1358  and opens to the recess  1370 . Further, during RF transmission (represented by a dotted line) by the antenna  1368 , the antenna  1368  is oriented such that RF transmission generated by the antenna  1368  can reflect off of the plate  1358  and pass through the recess  1370 . Conversely, the antenna  1368  may receive RF transmission that is first reflected off of the plate  1358 . As a result of the integration of the antenna  1368  on an external structural such as the plate  1358 , the computing assembly  1300  may require less internal design changes as the antenna  1368  does not need to be accounted for within a computing system. 
       FIGS. 25 and 26  show and described additional structural elements used to couple together housing components of a computing assembly described herein. The described structural elements can be integrated with the housing components for a computing assembly.  FIG. 25  illustrates isometric views of an embodiment of a coupling mechanism  1470   a . As shown, the coupling mechanism  1470   a  includes a recess  1471  and a protrusion  1472   a . In the additional view (showing an opposing side), the coupling mechanism  1470   a  includes a protrusion  1472   b.    
       FIG. 26  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment an additional coupling mechanism. As shown, the coupling mechanism  1470   b  includes a protrusion  1473 , as well as a recess  1474   a  and a recess  1474   b . The coupling mechanism  1470   a  (shown in  FIG. 25 ) is designed to couple/mate with the coupling mechanism  1470   b . In this regard, the protrusion  1472   a  of the coupling mechanism  1470   b  can fit into the recess  1474   a  of the coupling mechanism  1470   b , and the protrusion  1472   b  of the coupling mechanism  1470   b  can fit into the recess  1474   b  of the coupling mechanism  1470   b . Then, the coupling mechanism  1470   a  can slide relative to the coupling mechanism  1470   b , or vice versa, such that the protrusion  1473  slides (or at least partially slides) into the recess  1471 . The coupling mechanism  1470   a  can de-couple from the coupling mechanism  1470   b  by sliding the coupling mechanism  1470   a  in the opposite direction. 
       FIG. 27  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of housing components for a computing assembly, showing the housing components secured together by coupling mechanisms. As shown, a housing component  1402   a  is coupled with a housing component  1402   b . As shown in the enlarged view, the coupling mechanism  1470   a  (integrated with the housing component  1402   a ) is coupled, or interlocked, with the coupling mechanism  1470   b  (integrated with the housing component  1402   b ) in a manner previously described. When the coupling mechanism  1470   a  and the coupling mechanism  1470   b  are coupled together, the outer surfaces of the housing component  1402   a  are flush, or co-planar, with respective outer surfaces of the housing component  1402   b . Accordingly, coupling mechanism  1470   a  and the coupling mechanism  1470   b  can reduce or eliminate offset surface between the housing component  1402   a  and the housing component  1402   b , and provide an appearance of a seamless housing. It should be noted that the housing component  1402   a  and the housing component  1402   b  may include additional coupling mechanisms similar to the coupling mechanism  1470   a  and the coupling mechanism  1470   b , respectively. 
       FIG. 28  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of latch assembly  1503  used to secure a housing component  1502  with a hatch  1566 . The housing component  1202   b  and the hatch  1266  (shown in  FIG. 28 ) may be modified with features shown in  FIG. 28 . As shown, the latch assembly  1503  includes a bracket  1576   a  and a bracket  1576   b  designed to slide into the bracket  1576   a . The latch assembly  1503  further includes a key mechanism  1578 . The key mechanism  1578  includes a protrusion  1579   a  and a protrusion  1579   b  that passes through an opening  1580   a  and an opening  1580   b , respectively, of the hatch  1566 . The latch assembly  1503  further includes a washer  1581  that engages the protrusion  1579   b . In addition, the protrusion  1579   a  passes through an opening  1580   c  of the bracket  1576   b  such that the protrusion  1579   a  can engage the bracket  1576   a . As a result, the key mechanism  1578  can be actuated (i.e., rotated) to actuate the bracket  1576   a . Although the key mechanism  1578  is rotated, the protrusion  1579   a  may follow a straight, or linear, path to promote movement of the bracket  1576   a.    
       FIG. 29  illustrates a partial isometric view of the hatch  1566  secured with the housing component  1502 . The view shown in  FIG. 29  represents an external view of the housing component  1502  and the hatch  1566 . The key mechanism  1578  includes a slot  1583  that can receive a tool (not shown in  FIG. 29 ) used to rotate the key mechanism  1578 . 
       FIG. 30  illustrates a partial isometric view of the hatch  1566  secured with the housing component  1502  based on the latch assembly  1503 , showing the latch assembly  1503  in a locked configuration. The view shown in  FIG. 30  represents an internal view of the housing component  1502  and the hatch  1566 . As shown, in the locked configuration, the bracket  1576   a  fully covers a surface of the bracket  1576   b , and the hatch  1566  remains engaged with the housing component  1502 . Accordingly, the locked configuration corresponds to a locked configuration of the hatch  1566  with respect to the housing component  1502 . 
       FIG. 31  illustrates a partial isometric view of the hatch  1566  and the housing component  1502  shown in  FIG. 29 , showing the key mechanism  1578  rotated. As shown, the key mechanism  1578  is rotated approximately 90 degrees. 
       FIG. 32  illustrates a partial isometric view of the hatch  1566  and the housing component  1502 , showing the latch assembly  1503  in an unlocked configuration. As shown, in the unlocked configuration, the bracket  1576   a  moves relative to the bracket  1576   b  and the surface of the bracket  1576   b  is partially exposed. Based on the movement of the bracket  1576   a , the hatch  1566  can be removed from the housing component  1502 . Accordingly, the unlocked configuration corresponds to an unlocked configuration of the hatch  1566  with respect to the housing component  1502 . It should be noted that the key mechanism  1578  can be modified to rotate to an angle other than 90 degrees to place the latch assembly  1503  in the unlocked configuration. 
       FIG. 33  illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of a housing component  1602  and a plate assembly  1656 , further showing a latch assembly  1603  integrated with the housing component  1602 . The housing component  1602  may represent a housing component similar to the housing component  1202   a  (shown in  FIG. 18 ) or the hatch  1266  (shown in  FIG. 18 ). As shown, the latch assembly  1603  includes a lever  1690  and a latch mechanism  1691   a  connected to the lever  1690 . The latch assembly  1603  further includes a latch mechanism  1691   b . The latch assembly  1603  includes a pin  1692   a  that extends from the latch mechanism  1691   b  and into a guide  1693   a  formed in the latch mechanism  1691   a . The housing component  1602  includes a pin  1692   b  that extends from an internal wall and into a guide  1693   b  formed in the latch mechanism  1691   b . The latch assembly  1603  is designed to lock the housing component  1602  with the plate assembly  1656 . However, when an applied force is provided to a button  1694  (defined by a recess) of the lever  1690 , the latch assembly  1603  can disengage the housing component  1602  from the plate assembly  1656 . 
       FIG. 34  illustrates a cross sectional of the housing component  1602  disengaged from the plate assembly  1656  using the latch assembly  1603 . When an applied force to the button  1694  causes the lever  1690  and the latch mechanism  1691   a  to rotate. During rotation, the latch mechanism  1691   a  engages the pin  1692   a  along the guide  1693   a . The combination of the movement of the latch mechanism  1691   a  and the engagement between the latch mechanism  1691   a  and the pin  1692   a  causes latch mechanism  1691   b  to move laterally relative to the pin  1692   b . The relative movement places the pin  1692   b  in a location within the guide  1693   b  that allows the housing component  1602  to disengage from the pin  1692   b  and move away from the plate assembly  1656 . As a result, the housing component  1602  can be pulled away from the plate assembly  1656  such that the housing component  1602  can be removed. 
       FIGS. 35A-35C  illustrate isometric views of alternate embodiments of a housing. The housings shown and described in  FIGS. 35A-35C  can substitute for other housings shown herein.  FIG. 35A  shows a housing  1702  that includes openings that can be used as multiple access points to a computing system, or alternatively for rails (not shown in  FIG. 35A ) such that the housing can be integrated with a rack unit.  FIG. 35B  shows a housing  1802  that includes multiple extensions for accommodating rails (not shown in  FIG. 35B ).  FIG. 35C  shows a housing  1902  that includes a single piece housing with a hatch  1966  that allows user access to a computing system (not shown in  FIG. 35C ) located in the housing  1902 . 
       FIG. 36  illustrates a partial cross sectional view of a plate assembly  2056  secured with a handle  2001 , in accordance with some described embodiments. The handle  2001  may be similar to the handle  101   a  and/or the handle  101   b  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). As shown, the handle  2001  is secured with the plate assembly  2056  by a snap mechanism  2095   a  and a snap mechanism  2095   b . The snap mechanism  2095   a  and the snap mechanism  2095   b  can clip onto the handle  2001 , and can subsequently be pulled off of the handle  2001  to remove the plate assembly  2056  from the handle  2001 . 
       FIG. 37  illustrates a partial cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of a plate assembly  2156  secured with a handle  2101 . The handle  2101  may be similar to the handle  101   a  and/or the handle  101   b  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). As shown, the handle  2101  is secured with the plate assembly  2156  by a clamp mechanism  2196   a  and a clamp mechanism  2196   b . The clamp mechanism  2196   a  and the clamp mechanism  2196   b  can cover an outer circumference of the handle  2101 , and can subsequently be removed from the handle  2101  by removing a portion of the clamp mechanism  2196   a  and the clamp mechanism  2196   b.    
       FIG. 38  illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device  2200  some described embodiments. At least some components shown for the electronic device  2200  in the block diagram may be incorporated into computing systems described herein. 
     As shown in  FIG. 38 , the electronic device  2200  can include a processor  2202  that represents a microprocessor or controller for controlling the overall operation of electronic device  2200 . The electronic device  2200  can also include inputs  2208 . Some of the inputs  2208  allow a user of the electronic device  2200  to interact with the electronic device  2200 . For example, the inputs  2208  can take the form of a variety of user input devices, such as a button, a keypad, a dial, touch screen, audio input interface, visual/image capture input interface, input in the form of sensor data, etc. Still further, the electronic device  2200  can include a display  2210  (screen display) that can be controlled by the processor  2202  to present visual information to the user. A data bus  2216  can facilitate data transfer between at least a storage device  2240 , the processor  2202 , and a controller  2213 . The controller  2213  can be used to interface with and control different equipment through an equipment control bus  2214 . The electronic device  2200  can also include a network/bus interface  22  that couples to a data link  2212 . In the case of a wireless connection, the network/bus interface  2211  can include a wireless transceiver. 
     The electronic device  2200  also includes a storage device  2240 , which may include a single disk or multiple disks (e.g., hard drives), and includes a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within the storage device  2240 . In some embodiments, storage device  2240  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. The electronic device  2200  can also include a Random Access Memory (RAM)  2220  and a Read-Only Memory (ROM)  2222 . The ROM  2222  can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM  2220  can provide volatile data storage, and stores instructions related to the operation of the electronic device  2200 . 
     The electronic device  2200  also includes a storage device  2240 , which may include a single disk or multiple disks (e.g., hard drives), and includes a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within the storage device  2240 . In some embodiments, storage device  2240  can include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory or the like. The electronic device  2200  can also include a Random Access Memory (RAM)  2220  and a Read-Only Memory (ROM)  2222 . The ROM  2222  can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a non-volatile manner. The RAM  2220  can provide volatile data storage, and stores instructions related to the operation of the electronic device  2200 . 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20190925
Publication Date: 20210720
Grant Date: 20210720
Priority Date: 20180926
Inventors: HERSHEY, DANIEL D.
PISTOR, CHRISTOPH M.
ANDRE, BARTLEY K.
KOSOGLOW, RICHARD D.
MCBROOM, MICHAEL D.
BHARADWAJ, SHRAVAN
BERK, Jonathan L.
FARAHANI, HOUTAN R.
CUSEO, JAMES M.
Allan, II, William R.
PARELL, DAVID C.
KNOPF, ERIC A.
MCFARLAND, SETH G.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H05K7/1487", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/1487", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K9/0062", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/16", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/1489", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/1489", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/1489", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/16", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K9/0062", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/1487", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 69883461