Method for covering a plurality of apertures while accommodating passage of devices

Abstract

Each of one or more devices to be detachably attached to a mechanical substructure includes rails on opposed sides with insertion/extraction mechanisms. Each of a plurality of pairs of guides mounted on the substructure slidably receives and retains a respective set of rails upon attachment of the devices. The insertion/extraction mechanism includes one or more pivotable handles associated with each device for retaining the device with the substructure. A spring extending from a rail makes electrical contact with electrostatic discharge ground pads on the substructure to discharge existing static charge from the device prior to electrical engagement between an electrical connector on the device and an electrical connector on the substructure. An apertured plate of the substructure includes a plurality of apertures through which the devices are inserted/extracted. A face plate may be hingedly attached to and removable from the apertured plate to cover all of the apertures therein that accommodate insertion/extraction of the devices.

1 . A method for covering a plurality of apertures located in an apertured plate and adapted for accommodating passage therethrough of a device corresponding with each aperture for detachable attachment to a substructure, said method comprising the steps of: 
 a) inserting a plurality of tabs extending from a face plate into corresponding holes in the apertured plate to form hinges;    b) rotating the face plate about the axis of the hinges formed by the tabs and holes into a position adjacent the apertured plate to cover the apertures in the aperture plate; and    c) fastening the face plate to the apertured plate.    
   
   
       2 . The method as set forth in  claim 1 , including the steps of: 
 a) unfastening the face plate from the apertured plate; and    b) pivoting the face plate away from the apertured plate to provide access through the plurality of apertures to the respective device.    
   
   
       3 . The method as set forth in  claim 2 , including the step of disengaging the face plate from the apertured plate.  
   
   
       4 . A method for covering a plurality of apertures located in an apertured plate and adapted for accommodating passage therethrough of each of several devices to be recessed within a compartment, said method comprising the steps of: 
 a) pivoting a face plate adapted to cover all of the plurality of apertures to provide access to the plurality of apertures to accommodate insertion and extraction of any of the devices through the respective aperture of the plurality of apertures;    b) rotating the face plate to a position adjacent the aperture plate; and    c) fastening the face plate to the apertured plate.    
   
   
       5 . The method as set forth in  claim 4  including the steps of unfastening the face plate from the aperture plate prior to exercise said step of pivoting.  
   
   
       6 . The method as set forth in  claim 4  including the step of disengaging the face plate from the aperture plate.  
   
   
       7 . The method as set forth in  claim 6  wherein said step of disengaging comprises the step of withdrawing the tabs extending from the face plate from holes associated with the compartment.  
   
   
       8 . The method as set forth in  claim 6  wherein said step of disengaging comprises the step of withdrawing tabs extending from holes located in the face plate.