1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to fastening devices, and more particularly to a fastening devices which readily and firmly secure computer data storage devices.
2. Description of Related Art
Conventionally, a computer data storage device is directly secured to a bracket using screws. Installation and removal of screws requires a tool. This is unduly complicated and laborious, and reduces the efficiency of assembly in mass production facilities.
A common means to overcome the above shortcomings is to have a pair of slideways formed in a bottom portion of opposite side walls of the bracket. A sliding rail is then attached to each side of the data storage device. Thus, the data storage device can be readily slid into and secured to the bracket. Unfortunately, the sliding rails themselves are secured to the data storage device with screws. Thus use of the sliding rails does not significantly simplify the assembly procedure.
A common means for further simplifying assembly is to have a pair of plastic plates attached to opposite sides of the data storage device. The plates can secure the data storage device to a bracket without any tool. However, gaps are formed between the data storage device and the bracket. This results in increased risk of Electromagnetic Interference (EMI).
Examples of the abovementioned mechanisms are disclosed in Taiwan Patent Applications Nos. 81207129, 78201813, 79209891, 82207667, and 82202204; and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,510,955 and 5,262,923.
Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a fastening device which readily and firmly secures a data storage device.
A further object of the present invention is to provide a fastening device having simple structure,
In order to achieve the objects set out above, a fastening device of the present invention for securing a data storage device comprises a locating plate and a bracket. The bracket receives the data storage device therein, and the locating plate secures the data storage device to the bracket. The bracket includes first and second side panels. The first side panel defines a slot. The second side panel defines a groove for slidingly receiving a screw of the data storage device. The locating plate comprises an engaging section and an elastic section. The engaging section forms a latch stamped toward and received in the slot of the bracket, and engaged with the data storage device. The elastic section extends from the engaging section, and provides the locating plate with elastic deformation capability so that the latch can move in and out of the slot of the bracket.
Other objects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.