Rotating latch with spring guide

Abstract

A latch assembly includes a frame and a pawl. The pawl includes a surface for receiving an impact member and the pawl is movably coupled to the frame between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the pawl is positioned to hold the impact member to the latch assembly, and in the open position, the pawl is not positioned to hold the impact member to the latch assembly. A spring guide is connected to the pawl and the frame. Wherein, in the closed position of the pawl, the spring guide is configured to bias the pawl to hold the pawl in the closed position, and in the open position of the pawl, the spring guide is configured to bias the pawl to hold the pawl in the open position. One end of the spring guide is connected to the pawl, and the opposite end of the spring guide is unconstrained.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 028,915, filed on May 22, 2020, entitled "ROTARY LATCH WITH SPRING GUIDE", the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of mechanical latches. Background Art

[0004] In many applications, latch assemblies are relied upon to fasten objects such as panels, doors, and door frames together. For example, containers, doors, closets, wardrobes, drawers, compartments, etc. can be fastened with latches. One type of latch assembly includes a rotary pawl or cam that remains open until the pawl or cam strikes a striker (or bolt). The relative displacement of the assembly with respect to the striker causes the rotary pawl to rotate and capture the striker. There is a need for a new rotary pawl assembly that is at least one of simple, more compact, and cost - effective in design. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a latch assembly includes:

[0006] A frame;

[0007] A pawl, including a surface for receiving a striker and the pawl is movably coupled to the frame between an open position and a closed position, wherein, in the closed position, the pawl is positioned to hold the striker to the latch assembly, and in the open position, the pawl is not positioned to hold the striker to the latch assembly; and

[0008] A spring guide, connected to the pawl and the frame, wherein, in the closed position of the pawl, the spring guide is configured to bias the pawl such that the pawl stays in the closed position, and in the open position of the pawl, the spring guide is configured to bias the pawl such that the pawl stays in the open position,

[0009] wherein one end of the spring guide is connected to the pawl and the opposite end of the spring guide is unconstrained.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, a latch assembly includes:

[0011] A frame;

[0012] A jaw, including a surface for receiving an impact member and movably coupled to the frame between an open position and a closed position, wherein, in the closed position, the jaw is positioned to hold the impact member to the latch assembly, and in the open position, the jaw is not positioned to hold the impact member to the latch assembly; and

[0013] A spring, positioned against the outer peripheral surface of the jaw, wherein in the closed position of the jaw, the spring is configured to bias the jaw such that the jaw remains in the closed position.

[0014] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a multi-point latch system for a door includes:

[0015] An actuator, in the form of a latch, lever or handle, the actuator being configured to move between a first position and a second position;

[0016] An elongated track or rod, connected to the actuator and configured to move in response to the actuator moving between the first position and the second position;

[0017] A plurality of jaws, configured to be mounted to the door, wherein the jaws are each connected to the track such that movement of the track causes the jaws to move between a locked position and an unlocked position;

[0018] An impact member, mounted to the track; and

[0019] A latch, configured to be mounted to the door, the latch including: (i) a frame, (ii) a jaw, having a surface for receiving the impact member and the jaw being movably coupled to the frame between an open position and a closed position, wherein, in the closed position, the jaw is positioned to hold the impact member to the latch, and in the open position, the jaw is not positioned to hold the impact member to the latch, and (iii) a spring, connected to the jaw, wherein in the closed position of the jaw, the spring is configured to bias the jaw such that the jaw remains in the closed position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The above and other aspects and features of the present invention will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by referring to the following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0021] Figure 1A An isometric view of a latch according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0022] Figure 1B illustrates Figure 1A an exploded view of a latch.

[0023] Figure 1C and Figure 1D illustrate Figure 1A front views of the latch of Figure 1A in the closed and open positions, respectively, with the cover of the latch omitted to show the internal components of the latch.

[0024] Figure 2A illustrates an isometric view of a latch according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2B illustrates Figure 2A an exploded view of a latch.

[0026] Figure 2C and Figure 2D illustrate Figure 2A isometric views of the latch of Figure 2A in the closed and open positions, respectively, with the cover of the latch shown in dashed lines to show the internal components of the latch.

[0027] Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B 、 Figure 3C and Figure 3D illustrate an isometric view of a latch interacting with an actuator and a striker according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 3A , the latch is shown in the locked and latched state. In Figure 3B , the latch is shown in the unlocked and latched state. In Figure 3C , the latch is shown in the unlocked and unlatched state. In Figure 3D , the latch is shown in the unlocked and unlatched state, and the trigger is rotated to a position where the latch is ready to receive the striker again.

[0028] Figure 3E illustrates Figure 3A an exploded view of a latch, with the actuator and the striker omitted.

[0029] Figure 3F illustrates Figure 3A an isometric view of the latch of Figure 3A in the closed and locked state, with various components omitted to show the internal components of the latch.

[0030] Figure 3G illustrates Figure 3F a first alternative design of a latch, where the latch includes an alternative trigger.

[0031] Figure 3Hdepicts Figure 3F a second alternative design of a latch, where the latch includes a different alternative trigger.

[0032] Figure 3I depicts Figure 3A an isometric view of the spring of the latch of Figure 3A .

[0033] Figure 3J and Figure 3K are isometric views of a multi-point latch system of a latch including Figure 3A . In Figure 3A , various details of the multi-point latch system are shown in dashed lines to indicate that those details are on the opposite side of the door and are generally not visible from that angle. Figure 3K

[0034] Figure 4A depicts an exploded view of a latch according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figures 4B - 4E Figure 4A depicts Figure 4B a cross-sectional view of the latch of Figure 4A . In Figure 4B , the latch is shown in a locked configuration. In Figure 4C , the latch is shown in a latched configuration. In Figure 4D , the latch is shown in an unlocked and opened configuration. In Figure 4E , the latch is shown in an unlocked and locked configuration.

[0036] Figure 4F depicts Figure 4A an isometric view of the cap of the latch of Figure 4A .

[0037] Figure 4G depicts Figure 4A an isometric view of the trigger of the latch of Figure 4A .

[0038] Figure 5A depicts a front view of a latch according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 5B depicts Figure 5A another front view of the latch of Figure 5A , where the front frame member is omitted to show the internal components of the latch.

[0040] Figure 5C depicts Figure 5B an isometric view of the latch of Figure 5B , where the actuator is omitted.

[0041] Figure 5D is Figure 5A an exploded view of the latch of Figure 5A , where the actuator and the release cable are omitted.

[0042] Figure 5E and Figure 5F depicts Figure 5DFront view of the interaction between the latch and the striker. In Figure 5E the latch is shown in the locked and latched state. In Figure 5F the latch is shown in the unlocked and unlatched state, and the trigger is rotated to a position where the latch is ready to receive the striker again.

[0043] Figure 5G Depicts Figure 5E a front view of the latch shown in

[0044] Figure 5H where the striker is omitted. Figure 5G Depicts

[0045] Figure 5I a front view of the latch shown in Figure 5A where the striker bar is omitted to show the interaction between the trigger and the pawl.

[0046] Figure 5J and Figure 5K Depicts Figure 5A an axonometric rear view of the latch shown in

[0047] Figure 5L Depicts Figure 5A and Figure 5H an axonometric view of the striker bar of the latch shown in

[0048] Figure 5M Is Figure 5A a detailed view of the latch shown in

[0049] Figure 5N Is Figure 5A an axonometric view of the spring of the latch shown in Detailed Description

[0050] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described herein with reference to specific embodiments, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Instead, various modifications may be made to the details within the scope and extent of the equivalents of the claims and without departing from the present invention.

[0051] Throughout the disclosure, a variety of terms are used to describe the physical shape or arrangement of features. Features described using some of these terms conform to a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical geometry characterized by a radius and a central axis perpendicular to the radius. Unless otherwise specified, the terms are given the following meanings. The terms "longitudinal", "longitudinally", "axial", and "axially" refer to a direction, dimension, or orientation parallel to the central axis. The terms "radial" and "radially" refer to a direction, dimension, or orientation perpendicular to the central axis. The terms "inward" and "inwardly" refer to a direction, dimension, or orientation extending in a radial direction toward the central axis. The terms "outward" and "outwardly" refer to a direction, dimension, or orientation extending in a radial direction away from the central axis.

[0052] In the specification, relative terms such as "horizontal", "vertical", "upper", "lower", "top", and "bottom" and their derivatives (e.g., "horizontally", "downward", "upward", etc.) should be interpreted as referring to the orientation shown in the accompanying drawings described or discussed subsequently. These relative terms are for convenience of description and generally are not intended to require a particular orientation.

[0053] Unless otherwise expressly stated, terms related to attachment, coupling, etc., such as "mounted", "connected", and "interconnected", refer to a relationship in which multiple structures are directly or indirectly fastened or attached to each other, either directly or through intermediate structures, and to a removable or rigid attachment or relationship.

[0054] The terms "proximate" and "distant" may be used as relative terms herein.

[0055] Figures 1A - 1D A first exemplary embodiment of a latch 10 is depicted. The latch 10 generally includes a rear frame member 12 and a front frame member 14 connected together by pins 16, 17, 18. These components together can be said to constitute a frame or housing. The frame members are optionally formed of bent sheet metal and can be considered together as the housing of the latch 10. Although not shown, additional fasteners may be included to fasten the frame member 12 and the frame member 14 together. The frame member 12 and the frame member 14 are spaced from each other by pins 16 - 18 to form an internal space for receiving other components of the latch 10. More particularly, a spring guide retaining member 20 is positioned between the frame member 12 and the frame member 14 and includes an opening 22 for receiving the pin 16 and an opening 36 having a dovetail shape for receiving a spring guide 30 (as described later). A pawl 24 is rotatably mounted to the pin 18 and is in a closed position ( Figure 1C ) and an open position ( Figure 1D) move (i.e., rotate) therebetween. The jaw 24 includes an open C-shaped channel 26 sized and configured to receive and interact with an impact member, as is known in the art. An opening 28 is provided in the jaw 24, and a spring guide 30 is rotatably connected to the jaw. The spring guide 30 is an elongate body having a first end portion defining a pin 32 that is rotatably positioned within the opening 28 in the jaw 24. The opposite second end portion 34 of the spring guide 30 is substantially flat and is positioned to travel within an opening 36 defined in the member 20. As the jaw 24 moves between the open position and the closed position, the end portion 34 moves unrestrainedly within the opening 36 of the member 20 and does not disengage from the member 20. A compression spring 38 is positioned above the elongate portion of the spring guide 30. One end portion 39 of the spring 38 is positioned to bear against a shoulder 37 of the opening 36 of the member 20, while the opposite end portion 41 of the spring 38 is positioned to bear against the pin 32 of the spring guide 30.

[0056] In Figure 1C the closed position of the jaw 24 shown in, the spring 38 is configured to push the jaw 24 to the counterclockwise position (as shown in this figure) and stay in the closed position. Conversely, in Figure 1D the open position of the jaw 24 shown in, the spring 38 is configured to push the jaw 24 to the clockwise position and stay in the open position. Thus, the latch 10 can be considered a bistable latch because the latch 10 can stay in the open position until it is moved to the closed position, and can also stay in the closed position until it is moved to the open position. In other words, the latch 10 is stable in both the closed position and the open position. The latch 10 is at least partially bistable because the pin 32 of the spring guide 30 is connected to the jaw 24 at a position such that, in the closed position of the jaw 24, the force vector of the spring guide 30 (see the arrow in Figure 1C ) pushes the jaw 24 about its axis of rotation towards the closed position. Moreover, in the open position of the jaw 24, the force vector of the spring guide 30 (see the arrow in Figure 1D ) pushes the jaw 24 about its axis of rotation towards the open position.

[0057] To move the latch 10 from the closed position to the open position, an impact member (not shown) is pulled away from the latch 10 (or vice versa) with sufficient force such that the jaw 24 rotates in the clockwise direction and against the biasing of the spring 38. At some point (position) during the rotation from the closed position to the open position, the spring 38 is positioned such that it pushes the jaw 24 towards the open position. The impact member eventually separates from the channel 26 of the jaw 24, and the jaw 24 stays in the open position by the biasing of the spring 38. In the open position, the top end of the jaw 24 abuts against a support surface 40 formed on a tab of the frame member 12.

[0058] To move the latch 10 from the open position to the closed position, the striker is moved into the passage 26 of the pawl 24, causing the pawl 24 to rotate counterclockwise and against the bias of the spring 38. At some point during the rotation from the open position to the closed position, the spring 38 is positioned such that it biases the pawl 24 toward the closed position. Once the pawl 24 reaches the closed position, the striker is captured in the passage 26 of the pawl 24, and the pawl 24 remains in the closed position by the bias of the spring 38. In the closed position, the bottom end of the pawl 24 abuts against the support surface 42 formed on the tab of the frame member 12.

[0059] The latch 10 can be referred to as a "pull to open" and "push to close" type of latch.

[0060] Figures 2A - 2D A second exemplary embodiment of the latch 110 is depicted. The latch 110 is substantially similar to the latch 10, and only the major differences between these latches will be described hereinafter. The latch 110 generally includes a rear frame member 112 and a front frame member 114 connected together by pins 117 and 118 and / or other fasteners. An opening 136 is formed in the front frame member 114 to accommodate the movement of the spring guide 130. The end 134 of the spring guide 130 is substantially flat, and is positioned to travel within the opening 136. The cross-sectional area of the end 134 is reduced compared to the cross-sectional area of the elongated portion of the spring guide 130 closer to the pin connector 132. As the pawl 124 rotates about the pin 118 between the open and closed positions, the end 134 moves within the opening 136 but does not disengage from the opening 136. A compression spring 138 is positioned above the elongated portion of the spring guide 130. One end 139 of the spring 138 is positioned to bear against the inward-facing surface 137 of a tab formed on the frame member 114, while the opposite end 141 of the spring 138 is positioned to bear against the pin connector 132 of the spring guide 130. Similar to the first embodiment, the pin connector 132 is rotatably coupled to an opening 133 formed in the pawl 124. An impact buffer 150 may be formed of a soft ductile material and is positioned between the frame member 112 and the frame member 114. The concave top surface 152 of the buffer 150 is arranged to be contacted by the striker when the latch 110 is maintained in the closed position. In operation, the impact buffer 150 prevents or limits collisions, squeaks, and clicks.

[0061] In Figure 2C the closed position of the pawl 124 shown in, the spring 138 is configured to push the pawl 124 to remain in the closed position along the clockwise direction (as shown in this figure). Conversely, in Figure 2DIn the open position of the jaw 124 shown in [FIGURE], the spring 138 is configured to push the jaw 124 counterclockwise to stay in the open position. Thus, like the latch 10, the latch 110 can be considered a bistable latch because the latch 110 can stay in the open position until it is moved to the closed position and can also stay in the closed position until it is moved to the open position.

[0062] Although not shown, the latches 10 and 110 may also include a trigger, such as the trigger 211, which is configured to hold the jaw in the locked position and release the jaw.

[0063] Figures 3A - 3F A third exemplary embodiment of the latch 210 is depicted. Figures 3A - 3D In [FIGURE], the latch 210 is shown interacting with the actuator 202 and the impact assembly 204. The actuator 202 may form part of a larger assembly that includes the latch 210. Similarly, the impact assembly 204 may form part of a larger assembly that includes the latch 210 and / or the actuator 202.

[0064] The actuator 202 is (optionally) an electric solenoid, which is configured to be connected to a power source and a computer controller via a wire 203. When receiving an instruction from a computer controller (not shown), the actuator 202 is configured to actuate (i.e., extend or retract or otherwise translate) the piston 205 from the end of the actuator 202, and the piston 205 is configured to interact with the trigger 211 of the latch 210, as will be described later. Other types of actuators are known to those skilled in the art. Moreover, the actuator 202 may be omitted.

[0065] The impact assembly 204 includes an elongated track 208 and an impact member 207, and the impact member is fixedly mounted to the track 208 using a fastener through a bracket 209. For example, the track 208 may be flat, as shown, or may be rounded. The geometry and shape of the track 208 may vary. The track 208 is capable of moving Figure 3C in the direction of the arrow shown in [FIGURE] relative to the latch 210. Either the track 208 moves relative to the latch 210 or the latch 210 moves relative to the track 208. The impact member 207 is a cylindrical (or semi-cylindrical) member, which is configured to interact with the jaw 224 of the latch 210.

[0066] The latch 210 shares some similarities with the latch 110, and the main differences between these latches will be described below. Now refer to Figure 3E and Figure 3F, the latch 210 generally includes a rear frame member 212 and a front frame member 214 connected together by pins 217 and 218 and / or other fasteners. The rear frame member 212 includes a mounting surface and an opening 213, and the actuator 202 (not shown in Figure 3E and Figure 3F ) is mounted to the mounting surface and the opening by fasteners (not shown). The pawl 224 has an opening through which the pin 218 is positioned, and the pawl 224 moves (i.e., rotates) about the pin 218 between a closed position ( Figure 3B ) and an open position ( Figure 3C ). The torsion spring 215 is mounted about the pin 218 and includes: a first free end mounted to the rear frame member 212 (or other fixed feature); and a second free end mounted to a support surface on the pawl 224. The spring 215 biases the pawl 224 toward the open position. The trigger 211 has an opening through which the pin 217 is positioned, and the trigger 211 moves (i.e., rotates) between a locked position ( Figure 3F ) and an unlocked position ( Figure 3C ). The torsion spring 219 is mounted about the pin 217 and includes: a first free end mounted to the rear frame member 212 (or other fixed feature); and a second free end mounted to a support surface on the trigger 211. The spring 219 biases the trigger 211 toward the unlocked position.

[0067] The spring member 230 is formed of a resilient and elastic material and is positioned at a height above the frame member 212 and below the trigger 211 and the pawl 224. The spring member 230 includes four legs depending therefrom that urge the trigger 211 and the pawl 224 toward the frame member 214, thereby preventing the trigger 211 and the pawl 224 from rattling during operation. The spring arm 232 also extends from the spring member 230. The spring arm 232 is a flexible bending member that is positioned to interact with the peripheral surface of the pawl 224.

[0068] Specifically, as shown in Figure 3F , in the closed position of the pawl 224, the spring arm 232 is seated in a recess, indentation, or depression 234 formed in the outer perimeter on the underside of the pawl 224. The holding force applied to the pawl 224 by the spring arm 232 is greater than the force applied by the torsion spring 215 such that even after the trigger 211 has moved to the unlocked position ( Figure 3B) Thereafter, the jaw 224 also remains in the closed position. Further, in the open position of the jaw 224, the spring arm 232 is seated in another recess, indentation or depression 235 formed in the outer periphery on the lower side of the jaw 224. It should be noted that a plurality of depressions 234 / 235 are defined on the lower peripheral side of the jaw 224. Once the jaw 224 is moved to the open position, the force exerted by the spring arm 232 on the jaw 224 holds the jaw in the open position.

[0069] Thus, like the latch 10, the latch 210 can also be considered a bistable latch since the latch 210 can remain in the open position until it is moved to the closed position and can also remain in the closed position until it is moved to the open position.

[0070] In Figure 3F In the locked position of the trigger 211 as shown, the tab 221 extending from the periphery of the trigger 211 bears on the support surface of the frame member 212. Further, in the locked position, the V-shaped recess 223 formed along the periphery of the trigger 211 is positioned within the corresponding V-shaped protrusion 225 formed on the periphery of the jaw 224. The engagement between the recess 223 and the protrusion 225 and between the tab 221 and the frame 212 prevents the jaw 224 from moving to the open position in the counterclockwise direction (as shown in Figure 3F ).

[0071] The trigger 211 includes a control surface 227 in the form of a curved protrusion that projects from the latch 210 towards the actuator 202. The control surface 227 is positioned to interact with the piston 205 of the actuator 202. The piston 205 is configured to bear on the support surface 227 to move the trigger 211 from the locked position ( Figure 3F ) to the unlocked position ( Figure 3C ).

[0072] As shown in Figure 3G and Figure 3H , other control surfaces can be envisioned. For example, in Figure 3G , the control surface 227a has a hole or opening that can be connected to a cable (not shown), and the cable can be connected to an actuator (not shown) such that pulling the cable causes the trigger 211 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. In Figure 3H , the control surface 227b is provided in the form of a finger tab that is positioned on the top side of the trigger and is positioned to be accessible (e.g., by a user) to manually move the trigger 211 such that the trigger 211 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0073] Now turning to Figures 3A - 3D , in Figure 3AIn [reference], the latch 210 is shown in a locked and latched state. In the locked and latched (i.e., closed) state, the latch 210 holds the striker 207 in the pawl 224. If the user attempts to move the striker 207 away from the latch 210 (e.g., by translating the track 208), the latch 210 prevents movement of the striker 207 and the track 208 because the trigger 211 prevents the pawl 224 from rotating counterclockwise (as shown in Figure 3F ).

[0074] In Figure 3B , the latch 210 is shown in an unlocked and latched state. To unlock the latch 210, the computer controller actuates the actuator 202, which causes the piston 205 of the actuator 202 to extend and bear on the control surface 227 of the trigger 211, which causes the trigger 211 to rotate counterclockwise (as shown in Figure 3F ). Once the recess 223 of the trigger separates from the protrusion 225 of the pawl 224, the trigger 211 is maintained in the unlocked position and the latch 210 is unlocked. In the unlocked state of the latch 210, the pawl 224 remains in the closed state by virtue of the engagement between the spring arm 232 and the pawl 224.

[0075] In Figure 3C , the latch 210 is shown in an unlocked and released state. To move the latch 210 from the latched (i.e., closed) state to the released (i.e., open) state, the user translates the track 208 and the striker 207 away from the latch 210. The striker 207 moves the pawl 224 counterclockwise (as shown in Figure 3F ) against the bias of the spring arm 232 (i.e., unlocks). As the pawl 224 rotates, the spring arm 232 slides along the lower surface of the pawl 224. As the striker 207 moves away from the latch 210, the pawl 224 finally releases the striker 207. The pawl 224 remains in the open state by virtue of the engagement between the spring arm 232 and the detent 235 of the pawl 224. At this stage, the trigger 211 remains in the unlocked state due to the engagement between the piston 205 and the control surface 227 of the trigger 211.

[0076] In Figure 3D , the latch 210 is shown in an unlocked and released state. To return the trigger 211 to the locked position, the computer controller actuates the actuator 202, which causes the piston 205 of the actuator 202 to retract and separate from the control surface 227 of the trigger 211. The torsion spring 219 returns the trigger 211 to its locked position, and thus, the tab 221 bears on the frame member 212, as shown in Figure 3F . At this stage, the pawl 224 remains open.

[0077] To return the latch 210 to Figure 3A its locked and latched state, the user moves the striker 207 towards the latch 210. The striker 207 engages an opening in the pawl 224, and the pawl 224 rotates clockwise (as shown in Figure 3F ) against the bias of the spring 215. The projection 225 of the pawl 224 rides on the periphery of the trigger 211 (and causes the trigger 211 to rotate slightly against the bias of the spring 219) until the striker 207 bears against the frame members 212 and 214. Also, at this time, the projection 225 of the pawl 224 is seated in the recess 223 of the trigger 211. Then, the latch 210 is maintained in Figure 3A its locked and latched state.

[0078] Now turning to Figure 3J and Figure 3K , the latch 210, the actuator 202, and the track 208 can be used as part of a multi-point latch system 292 to fasten the door 290 to a door frame or other structure.

[0079] For example, the multi-point latch system 292 includes an actuator 294 in the form of a lever, a handle, or a driver. The actuator 294 is capable of moving between a first position corresponding to the locked state of the door 290 and a second position corresponding to the unlocked state of the door 290, as is known in the art. The actuator 294 has an output end that is connected to Figure 3C the track 208. Moving the actuator 294 between the first and second positions causes the track 208 to translate vertically, as is known in the art.

[0080] One or more striker assemblies 204 are connected to the track 208.

[0081] One or more pawls 295 (four are shown) are respectively connected to the door 290. For example, a plurality of pawls 295 can be pivotally mounted to the door 290. Specifically, each pawl 295 is connected to a cam 296 that is pivotally mounted on the door 290. Each pawl 295 is also connected to the track 208, such that translation of the track 208 causes the plurality of cams 296 and the associated plurality of pawls 295 to pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the plurality of pawls 295 are oriented such that they hold the door 290 to the door frame or other structure. Also, in the unlocked position, the plurality of pawls 295 are oriented such that they do not hold the door 290 to the door frame or other structure.

[0082] One or more guides 297 are mounted to the door 290. Each guide 297 may include a rectangular through-hole for receiving the track 208 so as to constrain the track 208 in two translational degrees of freedom. One or more additional guides 298 are also mounted to the door 290. Each guide 298 may include an end-opening slot for receiving the track 208 so as to constrain the track 208 in one translational degree of freedom.

[0083] One or more latches 210 are fixedly connected to the door 290. Each latch 210 is configured to interact with a striker 207 mounted to the track 208, as described above. In the locked state of the latch 210, the latch 210 inhibits the movement of the striker 207 and the entire multi-point latch system 292. In the unlocked state of the latch 210, the latch 210 does not prevent the movement of the striker 207 and the entire multi-point latch system 292.

[0084] Combining the latch 210 and the striker 207 within the mechanical multi-point system 292, even as a retrofit, an electronic locking system 292 can be produced. Therefore, there is no need to replace the mechanical actuator 294 with an electromechanical actuator. Even when the latch 210 is not locked, the push-to-close / pull-to-open type latch 210 allows the system 292 to remain closed. However, a remote signal can be sent to the latch 210 to lock the system 292. More particularly, the spring arm 232 holds the pawl 234 in a fixed position until the striker 207 is moved, thereby allowing electronic locking even if the door 290 is not open.

[0085] Although the multi-point latch system 292 has been described in use with the latch 210, it should be understood that the multi-point latch system 292 can be combined with any latch described herein without substantial modification.

[0086] Figures 4A - 4D A fourth exemplary embodiment of a latch 310 is depicted. The latch 310 is similar to Figure 3A the latch 210, and only the main differences therebetween will be described hereinafter.

[0087] For example, the latch 310 generally includes a frame or housing that includes a rear frame member 312 and a front frame member 314 connected together by fasteners or clips. A variety of components are positioned within the internal space defined by the frame, and these components will be described hereinafter.

[0088] The pawl 324 includes a plurality of calibrated (co-aligned) pins 318 that are positioned within a plurality of openings 313 defined in the frame member. The pins 318 may be integral with the body of the pawl 324 or may include one or more separate components mounted to the pawl 324. The pawl 324 is in the closed position about the opening 313 (Figure 4B ) and the open position Figure 4D ), i.e., rotate). The jaw 324 includes a concave area for receiving the striker, like the other jaws described above. The concave recess 325 ( Figure 4C ) is formed along the periphery of the jaw 324, and a corresponding convex portion 323 is formed on the periphery of the trigger 311. The engagement between the recess 325 and the convex portion 323 prevents the jaw 324 from turning to the open position in the counterclockwise direction (as shown in Figure 4B ).

[0089] An opening 328 ( Figure 4A ) is provided in the jaw 324, and the spring guide 330 is rotatably connected to the jaw. The spring guide 330 is an elongated body having a first bifurcated connecting end 331 which is rotatably positioned within the opening 328 in the jaw 324 by a pin 332 which is positioned through calibrated holes in the bifurcated end 331. The opposite second end 334 of the spring guide 330 is substantially flat and is positioned to travel within an opening 336 defined in the frame. As the jaw 324 moves between the open and closed positions, the end 334 moves in an unconstrained manner within the opening 336 of the frame and does not disengage from the frame. A compression spring 338 is positioned above the elongated portion of the spring guide 330. One end of the spring 338 is positioned to bear on a shoulder 337 ( Figure 4D ) of the opening 336 in the frame, while the opposite end of the spring 338 is positioned to bear on the bifurcated connecting end 331 of the spring guide 330.

[0090] In Figure 4B the closed position of the jaw 324 shown, the spring 338 is configured to push the jaw 324 to the counterclockwise position (as shown in that figure) and remain in the closed position. Conversely, in Figure 4D the open position of the jaw 324 shown, the spring 338 is configured to push the jaw 324 to the clockwise position and remain in the open position. Thus, the latch 310 can also be considered a bistable latch since the latch 310 can remain in the open position until it is moved to the closed position and can also remain in the closed position until it is moved to the open position.

[0091] As best shown in Figure 4G , the trigger 311 includes a plurality of calibrated pins 317 which are positioned within a plurality of openings 315 ( Figure 4A , one shown) defined in the frame member. The pins 317 can be integral with the body of the trigger 311 or can include one or more separate components mounted to the trigger 311. In use, the trigger 311 rotates about the opening 315 ( Figure 4A, showing a) in the locked position ( Figure 4B ) and the unlocking position ( Figure 4C ) and moves therebetween (i.e., rotates). The axes of rotation of the trigger 311 and the pawl 324 are parallel. The trigger 311 includes a control surface 327 in the form of a leg extending from the body of the trigger 311. The control surface 327 is configured to be contacted by the actuator 302, as will be described later, to move the trigger 311 between the locked position and the unlocking position. An opening 321 is defined in the body of the trigger 311 to receive a coiled portion of the torsion spring 319. A pin (such as pin 317) may be positioned through the coiled portion of the spring 319 to hold the spring 319 in place. One leg of the torsion spring 319 is positioned against the trigger 311, and the other leg of the torsion spring 319 is positioned against a stationary surface, such as a surface on the frame. The spring 319 biases the trigger 311 toward the locked position.

[0092] The actuator 302 is mounted to the frame and is configured to actuate (i.e., extend or retract or otherwise translate) the piston 305 from the end of the actuator 302. The actuator 302 is a solenoid, however, other types of actuators are known to those skilled in the art. Like the above-described actuator, the actuator 302 is connected to a computer controller for control purposes.

[0093] As best shown in Figure 4C and 4F , the cap 350 is fixedly connected to the piston 305 such that the cap 350 moves with the piston 305. The cap 350 has a J-shaped body 351, a C-shaped clip 352 mounted to the curved end of the body 351, and a protrusion 353 extending longitudinally outward from the body 351. The C-shaped clip 352 and the protrusion 353 may be integral with the body 351, or these features may be separate components mounted to the body 351. The C-shaped clip 352 is non-rotatably connected to the piston 305. The protrusion 353 is configured to interact with the control surface 327 of the trigger 311 of the latch 310.

[0094] The sensor 360 is mounted to the frame and is configured to detect one or more of the rotational position, presence or absence of the pawl 324 (and / or the trigger 311), and transmit a corresponding signal to the computer controller via a cable. For example, the sensor 360 may be a switch. Other devices for sensing the closed or open state of the pawl 324 are known to those skilled in the art, such as magnetic sensors, proximity sensors, Hall effect sensors, and optical sensors.

[0095] Now turning to Figures 4B - 4E the operation of the latch 310 shown in Figure 4BIn [reference], the latch 310 is shown in the locked and latched state. In the locked and latched (i.e., closed) state, the latch 310 holds the striker within the pawl 324. If the user attempts to move the striker away from the latch 310 (or vice versa), the latch 310 prevents the striker from moving because the trigger 311 prevents the pawl 324 from rotating counterclockwise (as shown in Figure 4B as shown).

[0096] In Figure 4C the latch 310 is shown in the unlocked and latched state. To unlock the latch 310, the user instructs the computer controller to actuate the actuator 302, which causes the piston 305 of the actuator 302 to retract. Alternatively, the computer controller can perform this unlocking step in response to an event (such as the vehicle being placed in the park “P” position).

[0097] Upon retraction, the protrusion 353 on the cap 350 bears against the control surface 327 of the trigger 311, which causes the trigger 311 to rotate counterclockwise (as shown in Figure 4C as shown) and against the bias of the spring 319. The rotation of the trigger 311 causes the protrusion 323 of the trigger 311 to separate from the recess 325 of the pawl 324. Once the recess 325 of the pawl 324 separates from the protrusion 323 of the trigger 311, the trigger 311 is maintained in the unlocked position and the latch 310 is unlocked. In the unlocked state of the latch 310, the pawl 324 remains in the closed state by virtue of the bias of the spring 338 applied against the pawl 324. In the latched state, the sensor 360 detects the closed state of the pawl 324 and communicates it to the computer controller. If it is determined that the trigger 311 is unlocked (by virtue of the known position of the actuator 302), and there is another condition (e.g., the motor vehicle to which the latch is attached is being driven), the computer controller can send a warning to the user, for example.

[0098] In Figure 4D the latch 310 is shown in the unlocked and released state. To move the latch 310 from the latched (i.e., closed) state to the released (i.e., open) state, the user translates the striker away from the latch 310 (or vice versa). The striker moves the pawl 324 counterclockwise (as shown in Figure 4D as shown) to the open position (which is unlocking) and against the bias of the spring 338. By virtue of the bias of the spring 338 applied against the pawl 324, the pawl 324 remains in the open state.

[0099] In Figure 4EIn [Figure], the latch 310 is shown in the locked and unlocked states. To lock the latch 310, the user instructs the computer controller to actuate the actuator 302, which causes the piston 305 of the actuator 302 to extend. When extended, the trigger 311 is allowed to rotate clockwise under the biasing of the spring 319 and return to the locked position. However, when the pawl 324 is maintained in the open / unlocked state, the trigger 311 remains rotated due to the interference between the pawl 324 and the trigger 311, as shown in Figure 4E as shown. Also, it should be noted that the force indirectly applied to the pawl 324 by the spring 319 is less than the force indirectly applied to the pawl 324 by the spring 338.

[0100] To move the latch 310 from the Figure 4E locked and unlocked state to the Figure 4B locked and latched state, the user moves the striker towards the latch 310. The striker engages the opening in the pawl 324, and the pawl 324 rotates clockwise (as shown in Figure 4B as shown) against the biasing of the spring 338. Due to the biasing of the spring 319, the protrusion 323 of the trigger 311 rides on the periphery of the pawl 324 until the striker is captured by the pawl 324 in the latched position. Also, at this time, the protrusion 323 of the trigger 311 is disposed in the recess 325 of the pawl 324, thereby locking the pawl 324. Then, the latch 310 is maintained in the Figure 4B locked and latched state.

[0101] It should be understood that the latch 310 can be moved between the Figure 4C unlocked state shown in [Figure] where the trigger 311 is not used to lock the pawl 324 and the Figure 4D unlocked state shown in [Figure]. Also, the user can move the trigger 311 between the locked state and the unlocked state as desired (by the computer controller or other device).

[0102] Figures 5A - 5H Depicts a fifth exemplary embodiment of the latch 410. The latch 410 is similar to the latch 210, and only the main differences between these latches will be described hereinafter.

[0103] In Figure 5A and Figure 5BIn [the figure], the latch 410 is shown interacting with the actuator 402 and the release cable 409. The actuator 402 is substantially similar to the actuator 202. When receiving an instruction from a computer controller (not shown), the actuator 402 is configured to actuate (i.e., extend or retract) the piston 405 from the end of the actuator 402, and the piston 405 is configured to interact with the trigger 411 of the latch 410 so as to move the trigger 411 from the locked position to the unlocked position. The release cable 409 is also connected to an opening in the trigger 411. In operation, the cable 409 can be pulled manually or automatically to release the trigger 411 (i.e., move the trigger 411 from the locked position to the unlocked position). The actuator 402 and the cable 409 can form part of the latch 410 or can form part of a separate component. The actuator 402 and / or the cable 409 are omitted in multiple figures.

[0104] Now referring to Figures 5A - 5D , the latch 410 generally includes a rear frame member 412 and a front frame member 414 connected together by pins 417 and 418 and / or other fasteners (omitted in Figure 5B and Figure 5C ). The jaw 424 has an opening through which the pin 418 is positioned, and the jaw 424 rotates (i.e., moves) about the pin 418 between a closed position ( Figure 5E ) and an open position ( Figure 5F ).

[0105] As best shown in Figure 5B and Figure 5C , the torsion spring 415 is mounted around the pin 418 and includes: a first free end 415a supported on the rear frame member 412; and a second free end 415b mounted in a recess 434 formed in the perimeter of the jaw 424. The spring 415 biases the jaw 424 toward the open position. The trigger 411 has an opening through which the pin 417 is positioned, and like the trigger 211, the trigger 411 moves (i.e., rotates) between the locked position and the unlocked position. The torsion spring 419 is mounted around the pin 417 and includes: a first free end 419a supported on the rear frame member 412; and a second free end mounted on a support surface of the trigger 411. The spring 419 biases the trigger 411 to the locked position.

[0106] As in Figure 5B and Figure 5NAs shown, the spring member 430 is made of a ductile and elastic material and is sandwiched between (i) the frame member 414 and (ii) the trigger 411 and the pawl 424. The spring member 430 includes four legs suspended therefrom that urge the trigger 411 and the pawl 424 toward the frame member 412, thereby preventing the trigger 411 and the pawl 424 from clicking during operation. A first spring arm 432 and a second spring arm 433 extend from the spring member 430. The first spring arm 432 is a flexible bending member that is positioned to interact with the surface of the pawl 424. The second spring arm 433 is a flexible bending member that is positioned to interact with the surface of the striker 450.

[0107] As shown in Figure 5C In the closed position of the pawl 424, the first spring arm 432 is seated in a recess, indentation, or depression 434 formed in the outer periphery on the lower side of the pawl 224. The spring arm 432 is located above the second free end 415b of the spring 415. The holding force exerted on the pawl 424 by the spring arm 432 is greater than the force exerted by the torsion spring 415, such that the pawl 424 remains in the closed position even after the trigger 411 has been moved to the unlocked position. Also, in the open position of the pawl 424, the spring arm 432 is seated in another recess, indentation, or depression 435 formed in the outer periphery on the lower side of the pawl 424. The force exerted on the pawl 424 by the spring arm 432 holds the pawl in the open position. Thus, like the latch 10, the latch 410 can also be considered a bistable latch because the latch 410 can remain in the open position until it is moved to the closed position and can also remain in the closed position until it is moved to the open position. However, if desired, the spring arm 432 can be omitted, and in this case, the latch 410 will not be bistable.

[0108] The trigger 411 includes a tab 421 that extends from the periphery of the trigger 411. In Figure 5F and Figure 5H In the locked position of the trigger 411 shown in, the tab 421 bears on the support surface of the frame member 412. Also, in the locked position, a V-shaped recess 423 is formed along the periphery of the trigger 411, and a corresponding V-shaped protrusion 425 formed on the periphery of the pawl 424 is positioned within the recess 423. The engagement between the recess 423 and the protrusion 425 and between the tab 421 and the frame 412 prevents the pawl 424 from moving toward the open position in the counterclockwise direction (as shown in Figure 5F ) as shown in.

[0109] Now refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5H, the trigger 411 includes a control surface 427 in the form of a vertically extending protrusion and is configured to interact with the piston 405 of the actuator 402. The piston 405 is configured to rest on the support surface 427 to move the trigger 411 from the locked position ( Figure 5H ) to the unlocked position. The control surface 427 also has a hole or opening 427a that is connected to the cable 409, as previously described, for moving the trigger 411 from the locked position ( Figure 5H ) to the unlocked position.

[0110] Now referring to Figure 5B , Figure 5D , Figure 5E , Figure 5J and Figure 5K , the striker 450 is pivotally mounted to an opening 451 ( Figure 5D ) at the center of the trigger 411 by a pin 452. The pin 452 passes through an opening 453 in the striker 450 and an opening 451 in the trigger 411. The striker 450 is directly mounted to the trigger 411. The striker 450 is configured to rotate about the pin 452 relative to the trigger 411. The periphery of the striker 450 includes a concave portion 459 that is configured to interact with the striker 407. The striker 450 is an elongated member having an outer surface and an inner surface. A protrusion or tab 455 projects from the inner surface of the striker 450. The tab 455 is configured to interact with the wiper arm 458 of the switch 460.

[0111] The switch 460 is connected to a computer controller (not shown) by a cable 461 that terminates at a connector. A cover 462 is positioned above the switch 460 and at least a portion of the cable extending therefrom to partially conceal the switch 460. The switch 460 may be fixedly attached to the frame member 412. In operation, in the open state of the switch 460, the tab 455 of the striker 450 is not positioned to contact the wiper arm 458 of the switch 460, thereby indicating that: (i) the striker 407 is not positioned inside the latch 410, and / or (ii) the trigger 411 is rotated to the unlocked position. Also, in the closed state of the switch 460, the tab 455 is positioned to contact the wiper arm 458 of the switch 460, thereby indicating that: (i) the striker 407 is positioned inside the latch 410, and (ii) the trigger 411 is rotated to the locked position.

[0112] If, for example, the striker 407 is positioned inside the latch 410 and the trigger 411 is rotated to the unlocked position, then the tab 455 of the striker lever 450 will not be positioned to contact the scraping arm 458 of the switch 460, and the switch 460 will thus be in the open state. This occurs because the striker lever 450 is mounted to and moves with the trigger 411, and in the unlocked position of the trigger 411, the travel path of the tab 455 of the striker lever 450 is radially outside of the fixed scraping arm 458 of the switch 460 and thus does not intersect the scraping arm. This arrangement of the switch 460, the trigger 411, and the striker lever 450 substantially reduces or prevents potential false "closed" readings when the trigger 411 is unlocked.

[0113] When the switch 460 is closed, it transmits a corresponding "closed" signal to the computer controller via the cable 461. Those skilled in the art are aware of other devices for sensing the presence or absence of the striker lever 450, such as magnetic sensors, proximity sensors, Hall effect sensors, and optical sensors. Thus, the switch 460 can be more generally referred to as a device for sensing the position, presence, or absence of the striker lever 450.

[0114] As best shown in Figure 5B , the second spring arm 433 of the spring member 430 is positioned to bear on the peripheral surface of the striker lever 450. The second spring arm 433 is configured to bias the striker lever 450 in the direction of the striker 407. Further, moving the striker 407 into the latch 410 causes the striker lever 450 to rotate relative to the trigger 411 against the bias of the spring arm 433. As shown in Figure 5E and Figure 5F , the rotation of the striker lever 450 in the counterclockwise direction is limited by the spring arm 433, and the rotation of the striker lever 450 in the clockwise direction is limited by the pin 417.

[0115] It should be understood that the first and second spring arms can be replaced by simple spring elements, and the first and second spring arms need not be associated with the same spring component. Thus, the first and second spring arms can be more generally referred to as spring elements herein.

[0116] Now turning to Figure 5D , Figure 5I , Figure 5L and Figure 5M, the rear frame member 412 includes a bent tab portion 470 having an L-shaped configuration that extends inwardly toward the interior of the frame. The bent tab portion 470 is positioned adjacent and extends from a recessed opening 471 in the rear frame member 412 that is provided for receiving the striker 407. The free end of the bent tab portion 470 extends upwardly toward the striker 407. The bent tab portion 470 is integrally formed with the frame member 412. When viewed in the longitudinal direction, the bent tab portion 470 is disposed between the pin 417 and the pin 418. The bent tab portion 470 may be more generally referred to herein as a protrusion.

[0117] A buffer member 474 is mounted on the bent tab portion 470. For example, the buffer member 474 may be composed of an elastic material such as rubber. The top end of the buffer member 474 includes a concave surface 476 that is configured to interact with the cylindrical body of the striker 407. In operation, the striker 407 contacts the concave surface 476 without producing audible collisions, squeaks, and clicks. The bottom end of the buffer member 474 includes an opening 478 for receiving the free end of the bent tab portion 470. For example, the buffer member 474 may be connected to the bent tab portion 470 using an adhesive. Two elongated arms 480 are positioned on opposite sides of the opening 478. In the assembled form of the latch 410, the arms 480 are positioned in a channel that extends adjacent to the bent tab portion 470, as best shown in Figure 5I . The outer surface of the buffer member 474 remains flush with the outer surface of the frame member 412 and extends within the interior region of the frame formed by the frame member 412 and the frame member 414. The opening 482 is in the form of a rectangular aperture that extends across the width of the buffer member 474 (i.e., along the longitudinal direction) and intersects the opening 478. The opening 482 receives barbs 473 ( Figure 5M ) on the bent tab portion 470 for retaining the buffer member 474 to the frame.

[0118] Turning now to Figure 5E and Figure 5F the operation of the latch 410 shown in Figure 5E , in Figure 5H , the latch 410 is shown in a locked and latched state. In the locked and latched (i.e., closed) state, the latch 410 holds the striker 407 in the pawl 424. Moreover, due to the interaction between the surface 423 and the surface 425, the pawl 424 is held in a fixed rotational position by the trigger 411 (see

[0119] In Figure 5FIn [the figure], the latch 410 is shown in the unlocked and released state. To move the latch 410 from the latched (i.e., closed) state to the released (i.e., open) state, the computer controller actuates the actuator 402, which causes the piston 405 of the actuator 402 to extend and bear on the control surface 427 of the trigger 411, which causes the trigger 411 to rotate in the counterclockwise direction (as shown in Figure 5F ). The rotation of the trigger 411 may cause a slight rotation of the pawl 424 until the recess 423 of the trigger separates from the protrusion 425 of the pawl 424. Alternatively, instead of activating the actuator 402, translating the release cable 409 (manually or via an actuator) will also cause a counterclockwise rotation of the trigger 411.

[0120] Once the recess 423 of the trigger separates from the protrusion 425 of the pawl 424, the trigger 411 is maintained in the unlocked position, and the latch 410 is unlocked. In the unlocked state of the latch 410, the pawl 424 remains in the closed state by virtue of the engagement between the spring arm 432 and the pawl 424. However, if the spring arm 432 is omitted, the pawl 424 will automatically move to the open state by virtue of the spring 415.

[0121] Then, the user translates the striker 407 away from the latch 410. The striker 407 moves the pawl 424 in the counterclockwise direction (as shown in Figure 5F ) against the bias of the spring arm 432 (this is unlocking). As the pawl 424 rotates, the spring arm 432 slides along the surface of the pawl 424. As the striker 407 moves away from the latch 410, the pawl 424 finally releases the striker 407. At the same time, the striker 407 separates from the striker rod 450, and in the absence of the striker 407, the second spring arm 433 pushes the striker rod 450 to rotate in the clockwise direction. Accordingly, the tab 455 of the striker rod 450 separates from the scraping arm 458 of the switch 460, thereby indicating: (i) the striker 407 is not positioned inside the latch 410, and / or (ii) the trigger 411 is rotated to the unlocked position. Due to the signal (or lack of signal) transmitted from the switch 460, the computer controller recognizes this change in state.

[0122] By virtue of the engagement between the spring arm 432 and the pawl 424 and the force exerted by the spring 415, the pawl 424 remains in the open state. At this stage, due to the engagement between the piston 405 and the control surface 427 of the trigger 411, the trigger 411 remains in the unlocked state.

[0123] To return the trigger 411 to the locked position, the computer controller actuates the actuator 402, which causes the piston 405 of the actuator 402 to retract and separate from the control surface 427 of the trigger 411. Then, the torsion spring 419 returns the trigger 411 to its locked position. At this stage, the pawl 424 remains open due to the supporting force of the spring arm 432.

[0124] To return the latch 410 to Figure 5E the locked and latched state, the user moves the striker 407 towards the latch 410. The striker 407 engages the recessed opening in the pawl 424, and the pawl 424 rotates clockwise against the bias of the spring 415. The protrusion 425 of the pawl 424 rides on the periphery of the trigger 411 (and causes the trigger 411 to rotate slightly against the bias of the spring 419) until the striker 407 bears against the buffer 474. Also, at this time, the protrusion 425 of the pawl 424 is disposed in the recess 423 of the trigger 411. Then, the latch 410 is maintained in Figure 5E the locked and latched state. The tab 455 of the impact rod 450 contacts the scraping arm 458 of the switch 460, thereby indicating: (i) the striker 407 is positioned inside the latch 410, and (ii) the trigger 411 is rotated to the locked position.

[0125] Note that the multiple features described in separate embodiments may be combined or substituted.

[0126] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that these embodiments are provided by way of example only. Many variations, changes, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to cover all such variations falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A latch assembly, comprising: A frame having a support surface; A pawl including a surface for receiving an impact member and the pawl is movably coupled to the frame between an open position and a closed position, wherein, in the closed position, the pawl is positioned to hold the impact member to the latch assembly, and in the open position, the pawl is not positioned to hold the impact member to the latch assembly, wherein a convex portion is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pawl; and A spring positioned against the outer peripheral surface of the pawl, wherein in the closed position of the pawl, the spring is configured to bias the pawl such that the pawl remains in the closed position; A trigger mounted to the frame, the trigger being configured to hold the pawl when the trigger is in a locked state and the pawl is maintained in the closed position; A tab extending from the outer periphery of the trigger, the tab being configured to rest on the support surface of the frame; A recess formed along the outer periphery of the trigger and located in a corresponding convex portion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pawl to prevent the pawl from moving towards the open position; and Wherein the convex portion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pawl rides on the outer periphery of the trigger until the convex portion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pawl is located in a recess formed along the outer periphery of the trigger.

2. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of depressions are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pawl, each depression being configured to receive the spring.

3. The latch assembly according to claim 2, wherein, In the open position of the pawl, the spring is seated in one of the plurality of depressions, and the pawl stays in the open position by the engagement between the spring and the depression, and in the closed position of the pawl, the spring is seated in a different one of the plurality of depressions.

4. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the spring is a bent spring arm.

5. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the trigger includes a control surface configured to be moved to release the trigger from the pawl so that the pawl can move to the open position.

6. The latch assembly according to claim 5, further comprising an actuator configured to move the control surface of the trigger.

7. The latch assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a torsion spring for biasing the pawl towards the open position.

8. A multi-point latch system for a door, comprising: An actuator in the form of a latch, lever or handle, the actuator being configured to move between a first position and a second position; An elongate track or rod connected to the actuator and configured to move in response to the movement of the actuator between the first position and the second position; A plurality of pawls configured to be mounted to the door, wherein the pawls are each connected to the track such that the movement of the track causes the pawls to move between a locked position and an unlocked position; An impact member mounted to the track; And A latch configured to be mounted to the door, the latch comprising: (i) a frame having a support surface, (ii) a pawl having a surface for receiving the striker, and the pawl being movably coupled to the frame between an open position and a closed position, wherein, in the closed position, the pawl is positioned to hold the striker to the latch, and in the open position, the pawl is not positioned to hold the striker to the latch, wherein a protrusion is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pawl, (iii) a spring connected to the pawl, wherein, in the closed position of the pawl, the spring is configured to bias the pawl such that the pawl remains in the closed position, (iv) a trigger mounted to the frame, the trigger being configured to hold the pawl when the trigger is in a locked state and the pawl is maintained in the closed position, (v) a tab extending from the outer periphery of the trigger, the tab being configured to rest on the support surface of the frame; (vi) a recess formed along the outer periphery of the trigger and located in a corresponding protrusion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pawl to prevent the pawl from moving towards the open position; and wherein the protrusion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pawl rides on the outer periphery of the trigger until the protrusion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the pawl is located in the recess formed along the outer periphery of the trigger.

9. The multi-point latch system according to claim 8, wherein the latch further comprises a torsion spring for biasing the pawl towards the open position.

10. A door assembly comprising the multi-point latch system according to claim 8.

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