Compression latch

Abstract

A compression latch assembly (CLA) includes a latch subassembly movably mounted to a housing, the latch subassembly including a frame, a pawl pivotably connected to the frame and biased to move from a closed position to an open position, a trigger pivotably connected to the frame and movable between an initial position and a release position, and a release arm rotatably connected to the frame. The release arm has a cam follower positioned to engage a cam on the housing. A motor unit is configured to move the latch subassembly between an extended position and a retracted position. During movement from the retracted position to the extended position, the cam is configured to push the cam follower to rotate the trigger from the initial position to the release position such that the trigger releases the pawl to move to the open position.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application relates to and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 964,824, entitled “Compression LATCH,” filed January 23, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to the field of latch or connector systems configured to provide a mechanical connection between adjacent components, and particularly to latch systems for securing doors, drawers, or panels in a closed position. For example, a door could be the door of a luggage storage compartment (e.g., that may be installed on a recreational vehicle, bus, train, etc.). Background Technology

[0004] Door closing systems (such as those used in luggage storage cases) typically consist of a housing, a door, and a latch. The latch engages with one or more strikers to hold the door in the closed position while covering the housing. It has been found that there is a need to continue improving existing door closing systems or to provide alternatives to them. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, a compression latch assembly (CLA) is provided, comprising: a housing including a cam surface; and a latch subassembly movably mounted to the housing. The latch subassembly includes: (i) a frame; (ii) a pawl pivotally connected to the frame and biased to move from a closed position to an open position, the pawl including a surface configured to receive a striker; (iii) a trigger pivotally connected to the frame and movable between a home position and a release position, wherein in the home position the trigger is positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position, and in the release position the trigger is not positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position; and (iv) a release arm pivotally connected to the frame and biased to engage the trigger, the release arm having a cam follower positioned to engage a cam of the housing. A motor unit is mounted to the housing for moving the latch subassembly relative to the housing between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein, during the movement of the latch subassembly from the retracted position to the extended position, a cam is configured to urge (force) a cam follower to rotate the trigger from an initial position to a release position, causing the trigger to release the pawl, thereby moving the pawl to the open position.

[0006] According to another aspect of the invention, a method of operating a compression latch assembly (CLA) is provided. The method includes activating a motor unit such that the latch subassembly moves from a retracted position to an extended position, such that a cam follower on a release arm bears against a surface of a stationary cam, such that the release arm presses against a trigger and pivots the trigger, causing the trigger to move to a release position in which the trigger separates from the pawl and the pawl moves to an open position.

[0007] According to another aspect of the invention, a latch subassembly for a compression latch assembly (CLA) is provided. The latch subassembly includes: a frame; and a pawl pivotally connected to the frame and biased to move from a closed position to an open position, the pawl including a surface configured to receive a striker. A trigger is pivotally connected to the frame and movable between an initial position and a released position, in the initial position being positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position, and in the released position being not positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position. A release arm is pivotally connected to the frame and biased to engage the trigger, the release arm having a cam follower positioned to engage with a cam of the compression latch assembly (CLA). The latch subassembly is configured to move between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein, during movement from the retracted position to the extended position, the cam follower is configured to be actuated by a cam to rotate the trigger from the initial position to the released position, causing the trigger to release the pawl, thereby moving the pawl to the open position. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The above and other aspects and features of the present invention will become clearer to those skilled in the art from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0009] Figure 1A This is a front perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment, viewed from the right front top side of the compression latch assembly, wherein the latch is shown in a closed and fully retracted state.

[0010] Figure 1B This is another front perspective view of the compression latch assembly (CLA), with the latch shown in the open and fully extended positions.

[0011] Figure 1C , Figure 1D , Figure 1E , Figure 1F , Figure 1G , Figure 1H and Figure 1I They are Figure 1A and1B Top view, right view, bottom view, rear view (shown in fully extended state), rear view (shown in fully retracted state), front view (shown in fully retracted state), and partially exploded view of the compression latch assembly.

[0012] Figure 1J yes Figure 1J The cross-sectional view of the compression latch assembly shown is taken along line 1I-1I, where the compression latch assembly is shown in normal operation.

[0013] Figure 1K It is similar Figure 1J The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a compression latch assembly, which is shown in a manually constructed configuration.

[0014] Figure 2A and Figure 2B They are Figure 1A and Figure 1B 3D and exploded view of the housing and motor unit (HMU) of the compression latch assembly.

[0015] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C They are Figure 1A Rear view, top view and exploded view of the latch sub-assembly (LS) of the compression latch assembly.

[0016] Figures 4A to 4E yes Figure 1A and Figure 1B A rear view of a compression latch assembly, with various components omitted, to show the movement of the compression latch assembly between open and closed states and between extended and retracted states. Figure 4A In the diagram, the compression latch assembly is shown as an open and unlock configuration, and Figures 3A to 3C The latch subassembly is shown in its fully extended state. Figure 4B In the diagram, the compression latch assembly is shown as a closed and locked configuration, and Figures 3A to 3C The latch subassembly is shown in its fully extended state. Figure 4C In the diagram, the compression latch assembly is shown as a closed and locked configuration, and Figures 3A to 3C The latch subassembly is shown in the fully retracted state. Figure 4D In the diagram, the compression latch assembly is shown as an open and unlock configuration, and Figures 3A to 3C The latch subassembly is shown in a partially extended state. Figure 4E In the diagram, the compression latch assembly is shown in an open and unlocked configuration (due to the actuation of the manual release trigger 40), and Figures 3A to 3C The latch subassembly is shown in a fully retracted state.

[0017] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Depicted respectively Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view and a front view of the housing and the housing of the motor unit (HMU). Figure 5C yes Figure 5B Detailed view.

[0018] Figure 6A and Figure 6B Depicted respectively Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view and a top view of the housing and the motor unit (MU) of the motor unit (HMU).

[0019] Figure 7A and Figure 7B Depicted respectively Figure 6A The motor unit includes exploded and assembled 3D views.

[0020] Figure 8A and Figure 8B Depicted respectively Figure 6A A three-dimensional view and a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the gears of the motor unit.

[0021] Figure 9 Depicting Figure 6A A 3D view of the gears in the motor unit.

[0022] Figure 10A and Figure 10B Depicted respectively Figure 6A A perspective view and a top view of the motor unit housing.

[0023] Figure 11 Depicting Figure 6A A three-dimensional view of the cover of the motor unit.

[0024] Figure 12 Depicting Figure 6A A 3D view of the gears in the motor unit.

[0025] Figure 13A and Figure 13B Depicted respectively Figure 6A A three-dimensional view and a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the gears of the motor unit.

[0026] Figure 14 Depicting Figure 6A A three-dimensional view of the threaded column of the motor unit (MU) in the image.

[0027] Figure 15 Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A three-dimensional view of the mechanical override (MOT) trigger of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0028] Figure 16 Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A perspective view of the latch claw of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0029] Figure 17 Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A perspective view of the pins of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0030] Figure 18A and Figure 18B Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A three-dimensional view of the trigger of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0031] Figure 19 Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A perspective view of the release arm of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0032] Figure 20 Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A three-dimensional view of the stepped pin of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0033] Figure 21 Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A perspective view of the pins of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0034] Figure 22 Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A perspective view of the torsion spring of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0035] Figure 23 Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A perspective view of the housing plate of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0036] Figure 24 Depicting Figures 3A to 3C A perspective view of the support plate of the latch subassembly (LS).

[0037] Figure 25 A basic schematic diagram depicts a compression latch assembly mounted to a fixed structure and interacting with a movable door.

[0038] Figures 26A to 26D Depicted respectively Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view, top view, side view, and cross-sectional side view of the housing and the compression spring of the motor unit (HMU). Detailed Implementation

[0039] Although the invention has been described and illustrated herein with reference to specific embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications may be made to the details within the scope and implications of the equivalents of the claims and without departing from the invention.

[0040] Figures 1A to 4E A first embodiment of a compression latch assembly (CLA) 10 incorporating aspects of the present invention is shown. The compression latch assembly 10 can be incorporated into a luggage storage compartment door system.

[0041] like Figure 25 As best shown in the schematic diagram, and according to one exemplary application of the compression latch assembly 10, the compression latch assembly 10 can be mounted to a fixed structure 8 (e.g., a storage box) to hold a movable door 9 (with a striker S attached) in a closed position above an opening 13 formed in the fixed structure 8. One or more seals 11 are provided at the interface between the door 9 and the opening 13. Once the striker S is locked by the compression latch assembly 10, the compression latch assembly 10 enables the door 9 to move closer to the opening 13, thereby compressing the seals 11.

[0042] The compression latch assembly 10 typically includes a latch subassembly (LS) 12 and a housing and motor unit (HMU) 14.

[0043] The housing and motor unit 14 can be mounted to the aforementioned fixed structure. The latch sub-assembly 12 translates relative to the housing and motor unit 14 between an extended state and a retracted state. For example, the extended position is as follows: Figure 1B , Figure 1F and Figure 1H As shown, the retracted state of the latch subassembly 12 is as follows: Figure 1A and Figure 1G As shown. During the movement of the latch subassembly 12 between the retracted state and the extended state, the housing and the motor unit 14 are held in a fixed position.

[0044] The latch subassembly 12 can switch between an open / unlocked state and a closed / locked state. The latch subassembly 12 is connected to the striker S (as shown in the image). Figure 1F and Figure 1G The latch subassembly 12 interacts with the motor unit 14 to hold the movable door (with the striker S fixedly connected to it) in the closed and locked positions. In the open / unlocked state, the latch subassembly 12 is separated from and / or disengaged from the striker S, thus allowing the movable door to move relative to the compression latch assembly 10. In the closed / locked state, the latch subassembly 12 captives the striker S within the housing and motor unit 14, preventing the striker S from being removed from the compression latch assembly 10.

[0045] The latch subassembly 12 also moves (i.e., translates) relative to the housing and motor unit 14 between a retracted state and an extended state. As described above, a seal can be provided at the interface between the movable door and the opening. In the retracted and closed / locked states of the latch subassembly 12, the seal between the door and the opening for the door is compressed. In the extended and closed / locked states of the latch subassembly 12, the seal between the door and the opening for the door is not compressed, or is compressed to a lesser degree compared to the degree of compression in the retracted state of the latch subassembly 12.

[0046] Reference at this time Figures 1A to 2B The housing and motor unit 14 shown are characterized. The housing and motor unit 14 typically includes a C-shaped housing portion 16 to which other components of the compression latch assembly 10 are connected.

[0047] Housing part 16 (also in 5A and Figure 5B (As shown in the figure) includes a central portion 19 extending between two opposing ends 17, the two opposing ends 17 extending perpendicularly to the central portion 19. A longitudinally extending channel 18 is provided on the two opposing ends 17 of the housing portion 16. A latch sub-assembly 12 is located within and between the channel 18, and the latch sub-assembly 12 is translatable in the longitudinal direction “A” within the channel 18. For example, the channel 18 may otherwise be described as a slot or guide rail. An opening 20 is defined at one end of the housing portion 16. In the assembly form of the compression latch assembly 10, a manual lever or cable (see figure) is used. Figure 4E The mechanical overrun trigger (MOT) 40 is positioned to pass through the opening 20 and connect to the latch subassembly 12.

[0048] A laterally extending shelf 22 extends across the interior of the housing section 16. The lateral direction is... Figure 1B Arrow "B" is used to depict this. Shelf 22 can be integrally formed with or connected to housing 16. Motor unit (MU) 24 is fixedly mounted to the underside of shelf 22. Motor unit 24 includes a motor that translates the shaft 26 of latch subassembly 12 in the longitudinal direction. (See reference...) Figure 2B , Figure 6A and Figure 6B Further details of the motor unit 24 are described in more detail.

[0049] A cam 21 in the form of a convex polygon or triangle is defined on the interfacing surface of the central portion 19. The cam 21 includes an angled top side 21a and an angled bottom side 21b. Sides 21a and 21b are inclined relative to the transverse axis B. (See reference...) Figures 4A to 4EAs described in detail, the inclined surface of the cam 21 interacts with the pin 110 fixed on the release arm 90 to unlock the latch subassembly 12 during operation of the motor unit 24.

[0050] Rib 27 extends to the height above shelf 22. Rib 27 (which may be referred to as anti-fouling rib) is designed to reduce the possibility of objects pinching between latch subassembly 12 and housing portion 16.

[0051] Reference at this time Figures 3A to 3C The latch subassembly 12 shown typically includes a support plate 30 in the form of a flat sheet of material. The support plate 30 (also...) Figure 24 (As shown in the figure) includes a hole 32 for connection to the shaft 26 by fasteners (e.g., pins, rivets, or other connecting devices). Two openings 34a / b are formed in the plate 30. The end 37 of the stepped pin 36a is fixedly mounted to the hole 34a, while the end 37 of the stepped pin 36b is fixedly mounted to the hole 34b.

[0052] Pins 36a and 36b may be collectively referred to as pins 36 or individually. Each pin 36 has multiple diameters forming a stepped shape along its length. It should be noted that pins 36a and 36b are slightly different. Figure 17 One of pins 36 is shown.

[0053] Mechanical Override Trigger (MOT) 40 (also available) Figure 15 (As shown in the image) is a curved sheet of material, comprising: a first opening 42 for receiving the end 39 of pin 36a; a second opening 44 through which a leg 46 of the first torsion spring 48a is positioned; a pin 50, projecting downward and having an opening 52 for connection to the aforementioned rod or cable for actuating the mechanical overrun trigger 40; an outwardly projecting curved tab 54 positioned to press against the surface 62 of the trigger 60 of the latch subassembly 12; and an upwardly projecting tab 64 positioned to press against the surface 66 of the housing plate 68 of the latch subassembly 12. Interference between the tab 64 and the surface 66 of the housing plate 68 restricts the counterclockwise rotation of the mechanical overrun trigger 40 (e.g., ...). Figure 3A (As shown) Exceeds the predetermined range.

[0054] The trigger 60 (also shown in Figure 18) is a curved sheet of material comprising: an opening 70 for receiving the end 39 of the pin 36a; an upwardly projecting tongue 72 positioned to press against the surface 66 of the housing plate 68 of the latch subassembly 12; a C-shaped or V-shaped cut or notch 74 configured to interact with the nose 78 of the pawl 80; a cut defining a support surface 82 on which the pin 46 of the spring 48a rests; and an outwardly projecting tongue 84 against which the release arm 90 can press. Interference between the tongue 72 and the surface 66 of the housing plate 68 limits the counterclockwise rotation of the trigger 60 (e.g., ...). Figure 3A (As shown) Exceeding the predetermined range. It should be noted that the mechanical overrun trigger 40 and trigger 60 are separate components for different purposes; however, in different embodiments, these two components may be combined into a single element.

[0055] Card Claw 80 (also) Figure 16 The sheet material (shown in the image) is a flat sheet comprising: a rounded or angled protrusion in the form of a convex portion 78; an opening 92 for receiving the end 39 of a pin 36b; a semi-circular or rounded surface 94 for receiving a firing pin S; and a tongue defining a support surface 96 on which one pin 46 of a spring 48b rests. The other pin 46 of the spring 48b rests on the surface of the housing plate 68. The spring 48b biases the pawl 80 to... Figure 1B The open position shown is such that the surface 97 of the chuck 80 is... Figure 16 ) Subjected to the surface 67 of the shell plate 68 Figure 23 (restrictions)

[0056] The torsion spring 48a includes: (i) a coiled section, (ii) a first pin 46 passing through the opening 44 of the mechanical overrun trigger 40 and resting on the support surface 82 of the trigger 60, and (iii) a second pin 46 resting on the underside surface of the arm 106 of the housing plate 68. The torsion spring 48a biases the trigger 60 to, for example... Figure 3A and Figure 4A The initial position is shown. In the initial position of the trigger 60, the notch 74 of the trigger 60 is ready to receive the protrusion 78 of the pawl 80 to hold the compression latch assembly 10 in a closed and locked state.

[0057] Shell plate 68 (also in) Figure 23(Shown in the image) is a curved sheet of material comprising: an opening 98a for receiving the end 39 of pin 36a; another opening 98b for receiving the end 39 of pin 36b; an opening 100 on which the pin 102 of torsion spring 104 is pressed; and two arms 106 extending outward therefrom, configured to be positioned on the top end 31 of plate 30. It should be noted that the opening 100 is sized to accommodate the movement of the pin 46 of spring 48a; however, the pin 46 is not actually located on the peripheral surface of the opening 100.

[0058] The end 39 of each pin 36a / b is forged to the housing plate 68, while the end 37 of each pin 36a / b is forged to the support plate 30. The pins 36 captivate the components of the latch subassembly 12 as a single unit.

[0059] The housing plate 68 and the support plate 30 are stationary components that are fixed together. These components are generally referred to herein as the frame or frame members of the latch subassembly 12.

[0060] Release arm 90 (also) Figure 19 (As shown) is a curved sheet of material, which includes an outwardly projecting curved tab 112, on which the second pin 116 of the spring 104 presses. As described above, the first pin 102 of the spring 104 presses against the opening 100 of the housing plate 68. An opening 118 is defined at the tip of the release arm 90, and a stepped pin 120 ( Figure 20 The pin 120 is inserted through the opening. The pin 120 is securely mounted to the opening in the housing plate 68. The helical portion of the torsion spring 104 is positioned about the pin 120. The release arm 90 is pivotable about the pin 120 under the bias of the spring 104. An opening 122 is defined at the bottom end of the release arm 90, where the pin 110 ( Figure 21 The pin 110 is fixedly inserted through the opening. As described above, the surface 111 of the pin 110 interacts with the cam 21 of the housing portion 16 to unlock and open the latch subassembly 12 during operation of the motor unit 24. An arcuate surface 124 is defined at the bottom end of the release arm 90, and this arcuate surface 124 is configured to interact with the surface 85 of the tongue 84 of the trigger 60. Figure 18B Interactions, such as Figure 3A As shown.

[0061] Torsion spring 104 (in) Figure 22 (As shown in the diagram) includes: a helical section; a first pin 102 positioned to press against an opening 100 in the housing plate 68; and a second pin 116 positioned to press against a tab 112 of the release arm 90. The spring 104 rotates clockwise (e.g., ...). Figure 3AAs shown, the bias release arm 90 causes the arcuate surface 124 to normally press against the surface 85 on the tongue 84 of the trigger 60.

[0062] In the assembly configuration of latch subassembly 12, components 30, 36a / b, and 68 are fixed, while components 40, 60, 48a / b, 80, 104, and 90 are pivotable or rotatable relative to the fixed components.

[0063] As a non-limiting example, the components of the latch subassembly 12 may be made of metal or plastic and may be formed using bending, machining casting or injection molding processes.

[0064] At this point, refer to the characteristics of the motor unit (MU) 24, and refer to Figure 2B , Figure 6A and Figure 6B The motor unit 24 includes a box-shaped housing 140. Figure 10A and Figure 10B It has a hollow internal area for accommodating other components of the motor unit 24. Opening 145 ( Figure 10B A cover 143 is provided on the bottom side of the housing 140 to provide access to the manually operated gear 172 using standard tools, as will be described in more detail later. Figure 11 It is mounted on the bottom side of housing 140 to conceal the opening in the bottom side. Motor 144 Figure 7A and Figure 7B It is installed in a channel defined within the internal housing 140. For example, motor 144 can be an electric motor. Motor 144 includes an output shaft 146 and an input / output shaft 148. Worm gear 147 is connected to output shaft 146. The teeth of worm gear 147 mesh with the teeth 151 of gear 150 to rotate gear 150. Figure 9 As shown, gear 150 includes two different sets of gear teeth. The second set of gear teeth 152 of gear 150 is connected to gear 154 (…). Figure 12 The teeth of gear 154 mesh with the teeth of gear 156 to rotate gear 154. Figure 13A and Figure 13B The gear 156 is rotated by means of a hollow annular boss 158 protruding from both sides of the gear 156, and a threaded hole 160 is formed in the boss 158.

[0065] Threaded post 26 (also) Figure 14(As shown in the diagram) includes a cylindrical post having a threaded portion 164 and a forked top with a radially extending opening 166 formed through the forked top. The threaded portion 164 is threadedly mounted to a threaded hole 160 of a gear 156. In operation, rotation of the gear 156 causes the threaded post 26 to translate (not rotate) due to the threaded interface between these components. The top end of the post 26 is fixedly mounted to the plate 30 of the latch subassembly 12 by positioning a fastener through the hole 166 of the post 26 and the hole 32 of the plate 30. Consequently, subsequent rotation of the output shaft 146 of the motor 144 causes the latch subassembly 12 to translate. In other words, rotation of the output shaft 146 in a first direction causes the latch subassembly 12 to translate into an extended state, while rotation of the output shaft 146 in a second direction opposite to the first direction causes the latch subassembly 12 to translate into a retracted state. Movement of the latch subassembly 12 into the extended state will unlock the latch subassembly 12, as will be shown in the diagram. Figures 4A to 4E A more detailed description.

[0066] Gears 147, 150, 154, 156 and shaft 26 may be referred to herein as gear units or gear drives.

[0067] As described above, motor 144 also includes input / output shaft 148. Shafts 146 / 148 are single, solid, continuous shafts. Gear 170 is connected to input / output shaft 148. Another gear 172 ( Figure 8A and Figure 8B It is rotatably mounted on housing 140 and positioned adjacent to gear 170. (Reference) Figure 8A and Figure 8B The gear 172 includes a cylinder having a set of vertically extending gear teeth around its periphery, a boss 174 extending from the cylinder, and a hollow region disposed in the boss 174. A tool receiving surface 176 (e.g., a hexagonal groove) is formed in the hollow region of the boss 174. Those skilled in the art will understand that the size and shape of the tool receiving surface 176 can vary and can be adapted to any type of standard tool, such as a screwdriver, wrench, driver, etc.

[0068] Gear 172 is mounted in a boss extending upward from the interior base surface 141 of housing 140, and gear 172 is configured to translate longitudinally along the length of the boss. Spring 178 is clamped between the top side of gear 172 and the lower side of shelf 22 of housing portion 16, toward the interior base surface 141 of housing 140. Figure 6B Bias gear 172. (Refer to...) Figure 1J and Figure 1K Describe the significance of the spring-loaded gear 172.

[0069] Although gear 172 is shown and described as selectively meshing with gear 170, it should be understood that motor unit 24 can be modified so that gear 172 can selectively mesh with different gears (e.g., one of gears 150, 152, or 156).

[0070] Spring 178 Figures 26A to 26D The spring 178 is best illustrated in the diagram. It is a helical compression spring having a helical body 179 wound around a longitudinal axis T with a constant helical radius (measured from axis T). However, the two free ends 185 of the spring 178 do not follow the helical trajectory of the helical body 179. Specifically, each end 185 is bent inwards by approximately 90 degrees toward the internal space defined by the circumference of the body 179. Friction between the end 185 and the post 174 holds the end 185 onto the post 174. Before attaching the motor unit 24 to the housing portion 16, the motor unit 24 assembly can be inverted without separating the spring 178 from the gear 172 due to the friction between the end 185 and the post 174. Furthermore, without the inwardly bent end 185, the end 185 might unintentionally dig into the gear 172 when it is rotating.

[0071] It should be understood that each of the aforementioned gears is pivotally mounted within the housing 140 by means of a pin or shaft and is configured to rotate about its own axis.

[0072] A power and signal cable assembly 180 (hereinafter referred to as cable 180) supplies power and signals to the compression latch assembly 10. A processor / controller is attached to cable 180 and positioned within the compression latch assembly 10, or the processor / controller may be connected to cable 180 and positioned externally to the compression latch assembly 10. A connector 181 is mounted at one end of cable 180 for connection to a remote control having or configured with, for example, power and release signals. Cable 180 is connected at least to (i) a motor 144 for supplying power thereto, and (ii) a sensor 183 for sensing the longitudinal position of the latch subassembly 12 and the position of the claw 80. Specifically, cable 180 is electrically connected to these components via a printed circuit assembly (PCA) with a microcontroller on the circuit board. For example, sensor 183 may be a proximity sensor or limit switch, or any other type of sensor configured to sense the movement or position of a moving part.

[0073] Reference at this time Figures 4A to 4E The operation of the compression latch assembly 10 shown is as follows: the compression latch assembly 10 initially... Figure 4AThe open, fully extended, and unlocked states are shown. In this state, the claw 80 rotates to the open position and is ready to receive the firing pin S. The trigger 60 is in the initial position and is ready to receive the claw 80.

[0074] Go to Figure 4B The end user moves the striker S into the pawl 80, causing the pawl 80 to rotate counterclockwise until the protrusion 78 of the pawl 80 enters the recess 74 of the trigger 60, thereby locking the pawl 80 and the trigger 60 together. During this stage, due to the biasing effect of the spring 104, the pin 110 of the release arm 90 presses against the top side 21a of the cam 21 of the housing 16. Furthermore, during this stage, the latch subassembly 12 also remains in the closed and locked states as well as the extended state. A sensor or switch 183 connected to the printed circuit assembly (PCA) senses the locked rotational position of the pawl 80 and transmits a "locked" signal to the controller via a sensor or wire. If the user attempts to remove the striker S from the locked compression latch assembly 10, as described above, the interaction between the protrusion 78 of the pawl 80 and the recess 74 of the trigger 60 will prevent the rotation of the trigger 60 (and thus prevent the rotation of the pawl 80).

[0075] Now turn to Figure 4C Once the controller receives a "lock" signal, it activates motor 144 of motor unit 24 to move latch subassembly 12 from its fully extended position toward its retracted position. Motor 144 rotates output shaft 146 in a first rotational direction, ultimately causing shaft 26 and latch subassembly 12, which is fixedly connected to shaft 26, to translate downwards. The operation of motor unit 24 is as described above. As latch subassembly 12 moves downwards, as pin 110 slides downwards along the top side 21a of cam 21, release arm 90 resists the bias of spring 104 in a counterclockwise direction (e.g., ...). Figure 4C (As shown) rotate. Once the release arm 90 reaches the bottom end of the cam 21, the spring 104 causes the release arm 90 to move clockwise to... Figure 4C The position shown. In this position, pin 110 is positioned below the bottom side 21b of the fixed cam 21. Pin 110 can contact cam 21. Once the surface 124 of the release arm 90 contacts the tongue 84 of the trigger 60, the movement of the release arm 90 stops. It should be understood that the trigger 60 does not rotate with the release arm 90 at this stage. The spring force of spring 104 is insufficient to cause the trigger 60 to move in a clockwise direction because the spring force of spring 48A (biasing the trigger 60 in a counterclockwise direction) is greater than the spring force of spring 104. Furthermore, it should be understood that due to the engagement between the protrusion 78 of the pawl 80 and the recess 74 of the trigger 60 (see... Figure 4B Therefore, it prevents trigger 60 from... Figures 4A to 4C The initial position shown is rotated counterclockwise.

[0076] exist Figure 4C During the phases shown, the latch subassembly 12 remains in the closed and locked state as well as the retracted state. In the retracted state, the seal (not shown) between the door (with the striker S attached) and the housing (not shown) with the door and the compression latch assembly 10 attached is compressed. By default, the compression of the seal applies a force (F) to the striker S in the direction shown. 密封 ).

[0077] A sensor or switch connected to the controller senses the retraction state of the latch subassembly 12 and transmits a "retraction" signal to the controller via sensor wires. The controller then stops the motor 144 to prevent the latch subassembly 12 from overtraveling.

[0078] Now turn to Figure 4D To move the compression latch assembly 10 from the locked and retracted state to the unlocked and extended state, the user presses or selects a button, icon, keypad, or other device to unlock the compression latch assembly 10 (transmitting an "unlock" signal to the controller connected to the compression latch assembly 10). Upon receiving the "unlock" signal, the controller then activates motor 144 of motor unit 24 to move latch subassembly 12 from the fully retracted position toward the extended position. Motor 144 causes output shaft 146 to rotate in a second rotational direction (opposite to the first rotational direction), which ultimately causes shaft 26 and latch subassembly 12 fixedly connected to shaft 26 to translate upwards. The operation of motor unit 24 is as described above.

[0079] The pin 110 of the release arm 90 moves upward together with the other parts of the latch subassembly 12. As the latch subassembly 12 moves upward, the pin 110 of the release arm 90, located between the bottom side 21b of the fixed cam 21 and the movable tongue 84 of the trigger 60, forces the tongue 84 of the trigger 60 to rotate clockwise against the bias of the spring 48a (e.g., ...). Figure 4D (As shown). Then, as the trigger 60 continues to rotate clockwise against the bias of the spring 48a, the pin 110 slides upward along the bottom side 21b of the fixed cam 21. It should be noted that the mechanical overdrive trigger 40 does not rotate with the trigger 60 because these parts are separate. The trigger 60 eventually rotates to the position where the notch 74 of the trigger 60 separates from the protrusion 78 of the pawl 80, thereby unlocking the pawl 80 from the trigger 60. The pawl 80 can automatically rotate to the open position under the bias of the spring 48b. The firing pin S can then be removed from the compression latch assembly 10. The motor 144 continues to run until the sensor detects that the latch subassembly 12 has moved to the fully extended position. The upper limit switch sends a signal to the controller to stop the motor 144. In addition, the shoulder 73 ( Figure 18AThe arm 106 of the contact housing 68 is positioned below to prevent the trigger 60 from rotating further clockwise.

[0080] Back Figure 4A Once the pin 110 of the release arm 90 reaches the top of the cam 21, the bottom end of the release arm 90 no longer prevents the spring-biased movement of the trigger 60. Therefore, the spring 48a causes the trigger 60 to rotate counterclockwise back to its original position. Figure 4A The initial position is shown. Release arm 90 moves to the position while still biased by spring 48a (and against the bias of spring 104). Figure 4A The location shown.

[0081] In the event of a power failure or other emergency, there are other methods to unlock the compression latch assembly 10. According to the first method for unlocking the compression latch assembly 10 in the event of a power failure, and from... Figure 4C Initially, for example, the compression latch assembly 10 is in the locked, closed, and fully retracted state. At this point, it transitions to... Figure 4E In the event of a power failure, the user can move cable "C" in the direction indicated by the arrow to unlock the compression latch assembly 10. More specifically, cable C is connected to the mechanical overrun trigger 40. Along... Figure 4E Pulling cable C in the direction indicated by the middle arrow causes the tongue 54 of the mechanical overrun trigger 40 to press against the trigger 60, thereby causing the mechanical overrun trigger 40 and trigger 60 to rotate clockwise against the bias of the spring 48a. Trigger 60 eventually rotates to the position where the notch 74 of trigger 60 separates from the protrusion 78 of the pawl 80, thus unlocking the pawl 80 from trigger 60. Figure 4E As shown. The pawl 80 will automatically rotate to the open position under the bias of spring 48b. At this point, the firing pin S can be removed from the compression latch assembly 10. Once the user releases cable C, the mechanical overrun trigger 40 and trigger 60 return to the open position under the bias of spring 48a. Figure 4C The initial position is shown.

[0082] Now turn to Figure 1J and Figure 1K Furthermore, according to the second method of unlocking the compression latch assembly 10 in the event of a power failure, the motor 144 can be manually operated to move the latch subassembly 12 to the extended position, thereby unlocking the compression latch assembly 10. More specifically, as Figure 1J As shown, during normal operation of the compression latch assembly 10, due to the bias of the spring 178, the teeth of gear 170 separate from the teeth of gear 172. Therefore, during normal operation, gear 172 does not rotate and is not rotated by gear 170. (Refer to...) Figure 1KIn the event of a power outage or electrical failure in the motor 144, circuitry, or other components of the motor unit 24, the user of the compression latch assembly 10 can manually operate the compression latch assembly 10 using standard tools by pressing and rotating gear 172, thereby unlocking the compression latch assembly 10. More specifically, the user can insert a tool (e.g., a hex screwdriver attached to a drill) through hole 145 (… Figure 10B The tool receiving surface 176 of the inserted gear 172 is then inserted. The user then resists the bias of the spring 178 and moves along... Figure 1K Pressing gear 172 in the direction of the arrow indicates that the teeth of gear 172 mesh with the teeth of gear 170. The user then rotates the tool, causing gear 172 to rotate gear 170, which in turn rotates gear 147, ultimately causing the latch subassembly 12 to translate upwards, as described above, thereby unlocking the compression latch assembly 10. When the tool is removed from gear 172, gear 172 returns to its original position under the bias of spring 178. Figure 1J The location shown.

[0083] In addition to manually unlocking the compression latch assembly 10, the gear 172 described above can also be used to (ii) reduce the compression of the seal between the door and the housing, or (iii) increase the compression of the seal between the door and the housing. Rotation of the gear 172 in a first direction causes the latch subassembly 12 to translate toward an extended state, thereby reducing the compression of the seal, while rotation of the gear 172 in a second direction opposite to the first direction causes the latch subassembly 12 to translate toward a retracted state, thereby increasing the compression of the seal.

[0084] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that these embodiments are provided by way of example only. Many variations, modifications, and substitutions will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such variations falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A compression latch assembly, comprising: Housing, including the cam surface; A latch subassembly, movably mounted to the housing, the latch subassembly comprising: (i) a frame; (ii) a pawl pivotally connected to the frame and biased to move from a closed position to an open position, the pawl including a surface configured to receive a firing pin; (iii) a trigger pivotally connected to the frame and movable between an initial position and a release position, in the initial position the trigger being positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position, and in the release position the trigger not being positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position; and (iv) a release arm pivotally connected to the frame and biased to engage the trigger, the release arm having a cam follower positioned to engage a cam of the housing; and A motor unit, mounted to the housing, is used to move the latch subassembly relative to the housing between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein as the latch assembly moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the cam is configured to push the cam follower to rotate the trigger from the initial position to the release position, causing the trigger to release the pawl, thereby moving the pawl to the open position; The latch subassembly further includes a manual overrun trigger connected to the frame and movable between an initial position and an overrun position, in which the manual overrun trigger has moved the trigger to the release position; and The manual overrun trigger includes a surface configured to releasably engage with the trigger.

2. The compression latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, As the latch subassembly moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the cam is configured to separate the release arm from the trigger.

3. The compression latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The trigger and the manual overrun trigger are configured such that the trigger can move between the initial position and the release position at any point during the latching operation.

4. The compression latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The latch subassembly also includes a spring configured to bias the trigger to the initial position and the manual overrun trigger to the initial position.

5. The compression latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The latch subassembly also includes a spring configured to bias the release arm against the trigger.

6. The compression latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The latch subassembly also includes a spring configured to bias the pawl to the open position.

7. The compression latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The latch subassembly also includes a spring configured to bias the trigger to the initial position.

8. The compression latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The latch subassembly further includes: a first spring configured to bias the release arm against the trigger; and a second spring configured to bias the trigger to the initial position, wherein the spring force of the second spring is greater than the spring force of the first spring.

9. The compression latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The entire latch subassembly moves between the extended position and the retracted position.

10. A compression latch assembly, comprising: Housing, including the cam surface; A latch subassembly, movably mounted to the housing, the latch subassembly comprising: (i) a frame; (ii) a pawl pivotally connected to the frame and biased to move from a closed position to an open position, the pawl including a surface configured to receive a firing pin; (iii) a trigger pivotally connected to the frame and movable between an initial position and a release position, in the initial position the trigger being positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position, and in the release position the trigger not being positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position; and (iv) a release arm pivotally connected to the frame and biased to engage the trigger, the release arm having a cam follower positioned to engage a cam of the housing; and A motor unit, mounted to the housing, is used to move the latch subassembly relative to the housing between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein as the latch assembly moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the cam is configured to push the cam follower to rotate the trigger from the initial position to the release position, causing the trigger to release the pawl, thereby moving the pawl to the open position; The motor unit includes: (i) a motor having an output shaft directly or indirectly connected to the frame of the latch subassembly for moving the latch subassembly relative to the housing between the extended position and the retracted position; and (ii) a manually operable gear movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the manually operable gear does not mesh with a gear non-rotatably connected to the output shaft, and rotation of the manually operable gear does not cause rotation of the output shaft, while in the second position the manually operable gear meshes with the gear non-rotatably connected to the output shaft, and rotation of the manually operable gear causes rotation of the output shaft.

11. The compression latch assembly of claim 10, further comprising a spring configured to bias the manually operable gear to the first position.

12. The compression latch assembly of claim 11, wherein, The spring is a helical body having at least one inwardly curved end, the inwardly curved end being connected to the manually operable gear to secure the spring to the manually operable gear.

13. A storage box, comprising the latch according to claim 1.

14. The storage box according to claim 13, further comprising: (i) a door movably mounted to the storage box to cover an opening defined in the storage box, and (ii) a compressible seal positioned around the opening of the storage box and between the door and the door mounting surface of the storage box when the door is closed.

15. A method of operating a compression latch assembly, the compression latch assembly comprising: Housing, including the cam surface; A latch subassembly, movably mounted to the housing, the latch subassembly comprising: a frame; a pawl pivotally connected to the frame and biased to move from a closed position to an open position, the pawl including a surface configured to receive a firing pin; a trigger pivotally connected to the frame and movable between an initial position and a released position, in the initial position the trigger being positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position, and in the released position the trigger not being positioned to hold the pawl in the closed position; and a release arm pivotally connected to the frame and biased to engage the trigger, the release arm having a cam follower positioned to engage a cam of the housing; The method includes: The motor unit is activated, causing the latch subassembly to move from the retracted position to the extended position, causing the cam follower on the release arm to press against a surface of the cam, causing the release arm to press against the trigger and pivot the trigger, causing the trigger to move to the release position, in which the trigger separates from the pawl, and the pawl moves to the open position; The manually operable gear is moved from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the manually operable gear is not engaged with the gear that is non-rotatably connected to the output shaft of the motor unit, while in the second position, the manually operable gear is engaged with the gear that is non-rotatably connected to the output shaft. The manually operable gear is rotated while being held in the second position, causing the output shaft of the motor unit to rotate, thereby moving the latch subassembly between the retracted position and the extended position.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising restarting the motor unit to move the latch subassembly from the extended position to the retracted position, thereby disengaging the release arm from the trigger.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The compression latch assembly includes a manual overrun trigger that is movable between an initial position and an overrun position, in which the manual overrun trigger has moved the trigger to the release position, wherein the step of activating the motor unit to move the trigger to the release position does not move the manual overrun trigger.

18. A latch sub-assembly of a compression latch assembly, the latch sub-assembly comprising: frame; A chuck, pivotally connected to the frame and biased to move from a closed position to an open position, the chuck including a surface configured to receive a firing pin; A trigger, pivotally connected to the frame and movable between an initial position and a release position, wherein the trigger is positioned to hold the jaws in the closed position in the initial position, and wherein the trigger is not positioned to hold the jaws in the closed position in the release position; as well as A release arm, pivotally connected to the frame and biased to engage the trigger, has a cam follower configured to engage with a cam in the compression latch assembly. The latch subassembly is configured to move between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein during the movement of the latch subassembly from the retracted position to the extended position, the cam follower is configured to be pushed by the cam to rotate the trigger from the initial position to the release position, causing the trigger to release the pawl, thereby moving the pawl to the open position; The latch subassembly further includes a manual overrun trigger connected to the frame and movable between an initial position and an overrun position, in which the manual overrun trigger has moved the trigger to the release position; and The manual overrun trigger includes a surface configured to releasably engage with the trigger.

19. The latch subassembly of claim 18, wherein, During the movement of the latch subassembly from the extended position to the retracted position, the cam is configured to separate the release arm from the trigger.

20. The latch subassembly of claim 18, wherein, The latch subassembly further includes: a first spring configured to bias the release arm against the trigger; and a second spring configured to bias the trigger to the initial position, wherein the spring force of the second spring is greater than the spring force of the first spring.

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