{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854673","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854673","title":"Grips to retain fasteners for expansion cards","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2013-09-27T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["G06F"],"num_claims":15,"abstract":"An example device in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure includes a grip to secure the device to an expansion card. The grip includes an upper grip portion to receive a fastener, and a standoff formed by a lower grip portion. The standoff is to establish a standoff distance between the expansion card and the mainboard when the device is secured to the expansion card and fastened to the mainboard."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Grips to Retain Fasteners for Expansion Cards patent introduces an innovative device designed to securely attach expansion cards to a mainboard. The core innovation lies in a grip that combines a fastener receiver and a standoff, ensuring both a stable connection and a precise distance between the expansion card and the mainboard. This approach solves the problem of expansion cards becoming loose or improperly seated, leading to performance issues and potential hardware damage.\n\nThe technical approach involves a specially designed grip, typically made of high-strength plastic or metal, that integrates both a fastener receiver and a standoff. The fastener receiver securely holds the screw or clip, while the standoff maintains the correct spacing between the card and the board. This dual-function design simplifies installation, reduces the risk of damage, and enhances overall system reliability. The business value of this technology is significant. By reducing hardware failures and warranty claims, manufacturers can lower their costs and improve customer satisfaction. The market opportunity is substantial, given the universal need for secure expansion card connections in various computing devices.\n\nThe Grips to Retain Fasteners for Expansion Cards patent offers a cost-effective solution compared to traditional methods, streamlining the manufacturing process and lowering overall production costs. This makes it an attractive option for computer manufacturers looking to improve the quality and reliability of their products without significantly increasing expenses. The potential for widespread adoption is high, given the universal need for secure expansion card connections in various computing devices. The long-term implications of this technology could reshape how expansion cards are installed and maintained in future computer systems.","layman_explanation":"The Grips to Retain Fasteners for Expansion Cards patent addresses a common issue in computer hardware: the instability and potential damage associated with expansion cards. Expansion cards are components that add functionality to a computer, such as graphics cards or network adapters. These cards are typically installed in slots on the mainboard, the central circuit board of the computer. However, traditional methods of securing these cards, such as screws, can be unreliable, leading to cards becoming loose or improperly seated.\n\nThis patent solves this problem by introducing a grip mechanism that combines a fastener receiver and a standoff. The fastener receiver securely holds the screw or clip, while the standoff maintains a precise distance between the expansion card and the mainboard. This ensures a stable and secure connection, reducing the risk of damage and improving overall system reliability. The grip mechanism is designed to be easy to install and remove, simplifying maintenance and upgrades. The analogy would be like ensuring a picture frame is hung perfectly straight and securely on the wall, preventing it from falling and breaking.\n\nThis innovation matters because it improves the reliability and longevity of computer systems. By reducing hardware failures and warranty claims, manufacturers can lower their costs and improve customer satisfaction. The market impact is significant, as this technology can be applied to various computing devices, including desktops, servers, and workstations. The competitive advantage lies in the improved stability and ease of installation compared to traditional methods. The potential ROI is high, as the reduced costs and increased customer satisfaction can lead to higher profits.\n\nFuture applications of this technology may include miniaturized versions for mobile devices and improved materials for increased durability. The market adoption timeline is expected to be gradual, as manufacturers incorporate this technology into their new products. The investment implications are positive, as this patent represents a valuable asset for companies looking to improve the quality and reliability of their products.","technical_analysis":"The Grips to Retain Fasteners for Expansion Cards patent describes a device that secures expansion cards to a mainboard using an integrated grip mechanism. This mechanism combines a fastener receiver and a standoff into a single component, ensuring a stable and precise connection. The technical architecture involves a grip, typically made of high-strength plastic or metal, that is designed to securely attach to the expansion card and the mainboard. The fastener receiver is designed to accommodate standard screws or clips, while the standoff maintains a consistent distance between the card and the board.\n\nThe implementation details involve precise molding and manufacturing techniques to ensure that the grip mechanism meets the required tolerances and specifications. The algorithm for installation is straightforward: the grip is attached to the expansion card, the card is inserted into the slot on the mainboard, and the fastener is tightened to secure the connection. Integration patterns involve standard mounting holes and dimensions, ensuring compatibility with existing expansion cards and mainboards. The performance characteristics of this technology are excellent, providing a stable and secure connection that reduces the risk of hardware failures and improves overall system reliability.\n\nCode-level implications are minimal, as this is primarily a hardware solution. However, software drivers and utilities can be used to monitor the status of the expansion card and detect any potential issues. The Grips to Retain Fasteners for Expansion Cards patent represents a significant advancement in the design and construction of computer systems, offering a practical and effective solution to a common problem. The long-term implications of this technology could reshape how expansion cards are installed and maintained in future computer systems.","business_analysis":"The Grips to Retain Fasteners for Expansion Cards patent presents a significant business opportunity in the computer hardware market. The market opportunity size is substantial, given the universal need for secure expansion card connections in various computing devices. This includes desktop computers, servers, workstations, and other electronic devices that utilize expansion cards. The competitive advantages of this technology are clear: improved stability, reduced installation time, and lower risk of hardware damage. These advantages translate to significant cost savings for manufacturers and improved customer satisfaction for end-users.\n\nThe revenue potential of this technology is high. Manufacturers can incorporate the Grips to Retain Fasteners for Expansion Cards into their products, increasing the value and reliability of their systems. Additionally, the patent can be licensed to other companies, generating a recurring revenue stream. The business model for this technology is straightforward: either direct sales to manufacturers or licensing agreements with other companies. The strategic positioning of this technology is excellent, as it addresses a common problem in the computer hardware market and offers a superior solution compared to traditional methods.\n\nThe ROI projections for this technology are very attractive. By reducing hardware failures and warranty claims, manufacturers can significantly lower their costs. Additionally, the improved customer satisfaction can lead to increased sales and market share. The Grips to Retain Fasteners for Expansion Cards patent represents a valuable investment for companies looking to improve the quality and reliability of their products while also generating a strong return on investment. The long-term implications of this technology could reshape how expansion cards are installed and maintained in future computer systems.","faqs":null,"topics":["expansion card fastener","secure grip","computer hardware","standoff","mainboard","grips","retain","fasteners"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Grips to Retain Fasteners for Expansion Cards - Patent US-9854673","description":"Secure expansion cards with this innovative fastener grip system. Prevents damage, improves stability. Full patent details, claims, and technical analysis.","keywords":["expansion card fastener","secure grip","computer hardware","standoff","mainboard","patent","patent US-9854673"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854673","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854673","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Grips to retain fasteners for expansion cards\" (US-9854673). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854673","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854673","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854673","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T01:53:25.062Z"}