Rotary latch with spring guide

Abstract

The latch assembly comprises a frame and a surface for receiving a striker and a pawl movably coupled to the frame between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the pawl is positioned to hold the striker in the latch assembly, and in the open position, the pawl is not positioned to hold the striker in the latch assembly. A spring guide is connected to the pawl and the frame, and in the closed position of the pawl, the spring guide is configured to deflect the pawl so that the pawl is held in the closed position, and in the open position of the pawl, the spring guide is configured to deflect the pawl so that the pawl is held 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

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 63 / 028,915, filed on May 22, 2020, titled “ROTARY LATCH WITH SPRING GUIDE,” the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of mechanical latches. Background Technology

[0003] Latch assemblies are relied upon in many applications to secure articles, such as panels, doors, and door frames, together. For example, containers, doors, cabinets, closets, drawers, compartments, and similars may be secured by latches. One type of latch assembly comprises a rotary pawl or cam, which 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 new rotary pawl assemblies having a design that is at least one of simpler, more compact, and cost-effective.

[0004] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the latch assembly is,

[0005] frame;

[0006] A pawl comprising a surface for receiving a striker and movably coupled to a frame between an open position and a closed position ─ in the closed position, the pawl is positioned to retain the striker in the latch assembly, and, in the open position, the pawl is not positioned to retain the striker in the latch assembly ─; and

[0007] It includes a spring guide connected to a pole and a frame, wherein in the closed position of the pole, the spring guide is configured to deflect the pole so that the pole is maintained in the closed position, and in the open position of the pole, the spring guide is configured to deflect the pole so that the pole is maintained in the open position.

[0008] One end of the spring guide is connected to the pole, and the opposite end of the spring guide is unconstrained.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, a latch assembly is,

[0010] Frame;

[0011] A pawl comprising a surface for receiving a striker and movably coupled to a frame between an open position and a closed position ─ in the closed position, the pawl is positioned to retain the striker in the latch assembly, and, in the open position, the pawl is not positioned to retain the striker in the latch assembly ─; and

[0012] It includes a spring positioned relative to the peripheral surface of the pole, and in the closed position of the pole, the spring is configured to deflect the pole so that the pole is maintained in the closed position.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, a multi-point latching system for a door is,

[0014] An actuator in the form of a latch, lever, or handle — the actuator is configured to move between a first position and a second position — ;

[0015] An elongated rail or rod connected to an actuator and configured to move in response to moving the actuator between a first position and a second position;

[0016] A plurality of poles configured to be mounted on a door — the poles are each connected to said rail such that the movement of the rail causes the poles to move between a locked position and an unlocked position — ;

[0017] A striker mounted on a rail; and

[0018] The latch comprises a latch configured to be mounted on a door, the latch comprising (i) a frame, (ii) a pawl having a surface for receiving a striker and movably coupled to the frame between an open position and a closed position — in the closed position, the pawl is positioned to hold the striker in the latch, and in the open position, the pawl is not positioned to hold the striker in the latch — and (iii) a spring connected to the pawl, wherein in the closed position of the pawl, the spring is configured to deflect the pawl so that the pawl is held in the closed position. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0019] The above and other embodiments and features of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art by describing exemplary embodiments in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1a depicts an isometric view of a latch according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1b depicts an exploded view of the latch of Figure 1a. FIGS. 1C and FIGS. 1D respectively depict elevation views of the latch of FIG. 1A in closed and open positions, and the cover of the latch is omitted to show the internal components of the latch. FIG. 2a depicts an isometric view of a latch according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2b depicts an exploded view of the latch of Figure 2a. FIGS. 2C and FIGS. 2D respectively depict isometric views of the latch of FIG. 2A in closed and open positions, and the cover of the latch is shown with dashed lines to indicate the internal components of the latch. FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D depict isometric views of a latch according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention interacting with an actuator and a striker. In FIG. 3A, the latch is shown in a locked and latched state. In FIG. 3B, the latch is shown in an unlocked and latched state. In FIG. 3C, the latch is shown in an unlocked and latched state. In FIG. 3D, the latch is shown in an unlocked and latched state, and the trigger is rotated to a position where the latch is ready to receive the striker again. FIG. 3e depicts an exploded view of the latch of FIG. 3a, with the actuator and striker omitted. FIG. 3f depicts an isometric view of the latch of FIG. 3a in a closed and locked state, with various components omitted to represent the internal components of the latch. FIG. 3g depicts a first alternative design for the latch of FIG. 3f, and the latch includes an alternative trigger. FIG. 3h depicts a second alternative design for the latch of FIG. 3f, and the latch includes a different alternative trigger. Figure 3i depicts the isometric view of the spring of the latch in Figure 3a. FIGS. 3J and FIG. 3K are isometric views of a multi-point latching system including the latch of FIG. 3A. In FIG. 3K, various details of the multi-point latch system are shown by dashed lines to indicate that these details are positioned on opposite sides of the door and generally not visible as seen from the perspective view. FIG. 4a depicts an exploded view of a latch according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 4b through 4e depict cross-sectional views of the latch of FIG. 4a. In FIG. 4b, the latch is shown in a locked configuration. In FIG. 4c, the latch is shown in a latched configuration. In FIG. 4d, the latch is shown in an unlocked and unlocked configuration. In FIG. 4e, the latch is shown in an unlocked and locked configuration. Figure 4f depicts an isometric view of the latch cap of Figure 4a. Figure 4g depicts an isometric view of the trigger of the latch in Figure 4a. FIG. 5a depicts a front view of a latch according to an exemplary fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5b depicts another front elevation of the latch of FIG. 5a with the front frame member omitted to show the internal components of the latch. FIG. 5c depicts an isometric view of the latch of FIG. 5b with the actuator omitted. FIG. 5d is an exploded view of the latch of FIG. 5a with the actuator and release cable omitted. FIGS. 5e and 5f depict front elevation views of the latch of FIG. 5d interacting with a striker. In FIG. 5e, the latch is shown in a locked and latched state. In FIG. 5f, the latch is shown in an unlocked and latched state, and the trigger is rotated to a position where the latch is ready to receive the striker again. FIG. 5g depicts a front view of the latch shown in FIG. 5e with the striker omitted. FIG. 5h depicts a front elevation view of the latch of FIG. 5g with the striker bar omitted to show the interaction between the trigger and the pole. Figure 5i depicts the posterior isometric view of the latch of Figure 5a. Figures 5j and 5k depict isometric views of the striker bar of the latch of Figure 5a. Fig. 5l depicts an isometric view of the bumper of the latch of Figs. 5a and 5h. Fig. 5m is a detailed view of the latch of Fig. 5a with various components omitted. Fig. 5n is an isometric view of the spring of the latch of Fig. 5a. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0020] Although the present invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to specific embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the details illustrated. Substantial improvements may be made in detail within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims and without departing from the present invention.

[0021] Various terms are used throughout this disclosure to describe the physical shape or arrangement of features. Many of these terms are used to describe features that conform to a cylindrical or generally cylindrical geometric shape, 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,” “longitudinal,” “axial,” and “axial” refer to a direction, dimension, or orientation parallel to the central axis. The terms “radial” and “radial” refer to a direction, dimension, or orientation perpendicular to the central axis. The terms “inward” and “inward” refer to a direction, dimension, or orientation extending radially toward the central axis. The terms “outward” and “outward” refer to a direction, dimension, or orientation extending radially away from the central axis.

[0022] In the description, relative terms such as “horizontally,” “vertically,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” and “bottom,” as well as their derivatives (e.g., “horizontally,” “downward,” “upward,” etc.), should be interpreted as referring to orientations as described later or illustrated in the drawings under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of explanation and are not generally intended to require a specific orientation.

[0023] Terms relating to attachments, couplings, etc., such as "mounted," "connected," and "interconnected," refer to structures in which structures are directly or indirectly interposed, as well as relationships in which structures are fixed or attached to one another through movable or rigid attachments or relationships unless otherwise specified.

[0024] The terms "proximal" and "distal" may be used herein as relative terms.

[0025] FIGS. 1a through 1d depict a first exemplary embodiment of a latch (10). The latch (10) generally comprises a rear frame member (12) and a front frame member (14) connected together by pins (16, 17, 18). Together, these components may be referred to as constituting a frame or housing. The frame members are (optional) constructed of bent sheet metal and together may be considered as a housing for the latch (10). Although not illustrated, additional fasteners may be included to fasten the frame members (12 and 14) together. The frame members (12 and 14) are spaced apart from each other by pins (16 through 18) to form an internal space for accommodating other components of the latch (10). More specifically, the spring guide retaining member (20) is positioned between the frame members (12 and 14) and includes an opening (22) for receiving the pin (16) (as described later), as well as an opening (36) having a dovetail shape for receiving the spring guide (30). The pawl (24) is rotatably mounted on the pin (18) and moves (i.e. rotates) between a closed position (Fig. 1c) and an open position (Fig. 1d). The pawl (24) includes an open C-shaped channel (26) that is sized and configured to receive and interact with a striker, as is known in the art. An opening (28) is provided in the pawl (24) to which the spring guide (30) is rotatably connected. The spring guide (30) is an elongated body having a first end that defines a pin (32) that is rotatably positioned within the opening (28) of the pole (24). The second end (34) on the opposite side of the spring guide (30) is substantially flat and is positioned to move within the opening (36) defined in the member (20).The end (34) moves in an unconstrained manner within the opening (36) of the member (20) and does not detach from the member (20) as the pole (24) moves between the open position and the closed position. A compression spring (38) is positioned on the elongated portion of the spring guide (30). One end (39) of the spring (38) is positioned to support the shoulder (37) of the opening (36) of the member (20), while the opposite end (41) of the spring (38) is positioned to support the pin (32) of the spring guide (30).

[0026] In the closed position of the pawl (24) shown in FIG. 1c, the spring (38) is configured to press the pawl (24) into a counterclockwise position (as shown in the drawing) and to hold it in the closed position. Conversely, in the open position of the pawl (24) shown in FIG. 1d, the spring (38) is configured to press the pawl (24) into a clockwise position and to hold it in the open position. Thus, the latch (10) can be considered a bi-stable latch because the latch (10) can be held in the open position until the latch is moved to the closed position and also can be held in the closed position until the latch is moved to the open position. In other words, the latch (10) is stable in both the closed and open positions. The latch (10) is at least partially bistable because the pin (32) of the spring guide (30) is connected to the pole (24) in the closed position of the pole (24), where the force vector of the spring guide (30) (see arrow in FIG. 1c) presses the pole (24) toward the closed position around its axis of rotation. And in the open position of the pole (24), the force vector of the spring guide (30) (see arrow in FIG. 1d) presses the pole (24) toward the open position around its axis of rotation.

[0027] To move the latch (10) from the closed position to the open position, a striker (not shown) is pulled away from the latch (10) with sufficient force (or vice versa), thereby rotating the pawl (24) clockwise and against the deflection of the spring (38). At some point during the rotation from the closed position to the open position, the spring (38) is positioned so that the spring presses the pawl (24) toward the open position. The striker is eventually separated from the channel (26) of the pawl (24), and the pawl (24) is held in the open position due to the deflection of the spring (38). In the open position, the uppermost end of the pawl (24) rests against a supporting surface (40) formed on the tab of the frame member (12).

[0028] To move the latch (10) from the open position to the closed position, the striker is moved into the channel (26) of the pole (24), thereby rotating the pole (24) counterclockwise and against the deflection of the spring (38). At some point during the rotation from the open position to the closed position, the spring (38) is positioned so that the spring presses the pole (24) toward the closed position. Once the pole (24) reaches the closed position, the striker is captured within the channel (26) of the pole (24), and the pole (24) is held in the closed position due to the deflection of the spring (38). In the closed position, the lower end of the pole (24) rests against a supporting surface (42) formed on the tab of the frame member (12).

[0029] The latch (10) may be referred to as a “pull to open” and “push to close” type latch.

[0030] FIGS. 2a through 2d depict a second exemplary embodiment of the latch (110). The latch (110) is substantially similar to the latch (10), and only the major differences between these latches will be described later. The latch (110) generally comprises 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 move within the opening (136). The end (134) has a reduced cross-sectional area compared to the cross-sectional area of ​​the elongated portion of the spring guide (130) located closer to the pin connector (132). The end (134) moves within the opening (136) without being detached from the opening (136) as the pole (124) rotates between an open position and a closed position around the pin (118). The compression spring (138) is positioned on the elongated portion of the spring guide (130). One end (139) of the spring (138) is positioned to support the inner facing surface (137) of the tab formed on the frame member (114), while the opposite end (141) of the spring (138) is positioned to support the pin connector (132) of the spring guide (130). The pin connector (132) is rotatably coupled to the opening (133) formed in the pole (124), as in the first embodiment. A striker bumper (150), which may be made of a soft flexible material, is positioned between the frame members (112 and 114). The concave top surface (152) of the bumper (150) is arranged to be contacted by the striker when the latch (110) is held in a closed position. When operated, the striker bumper (150) prevents or limits bumps, squeaks, and rattles.

[0031] In the closed position of the pawl (124) shown in FIG. 2c, the spring (138) is configured to press the pawl (124) clockwise (as shown in the drawing) and to maintain it in the closed position. Conversely, in the open position of the pawl (124) shown in FIG. 2d, the spring (138) is configured to press the pawl (124) counterclockwise and to maintain it in the open position. Thus, like the latch (10), the latch (110) can be considered a bistable latch because the latch (110) can be maintained in the open position until the latch is moved to the closed position and also can be maintained in the closed position until the latch is moved to the open position.

[0032] Although not shown, the latches (10 and 110) may also include a trigger, such as a trigger (211), configured to not only keep the pole in a locked position but also to release the pole.

[0033] FIGS. 3a through 3f depict a third exemplary embodiment of the latch (210). In FIGS. 3a through 3d, the latch (210) is shown interacting with an actuator (202) and a striker assembly (204). The actuator (202) may form part of a larger assembly containing the latch (210). Similarly, the striker assembly (204) may form part of a larger assembly containing the latch (210) and / or the actuator (202).

[0034] The actuator (202) is an electric solenoid configured to be connected to a power source and a computer controller (optional) by wires (203). Upon receiving a command from a computer controller (not shown), the actuator (202) is configured to actuate a piston (205) from the end of the actuator (202) (i.e., to extend or retract or otherwise translate), and the piston (205) is configured to interact with a trigger (211) of a latch (210), as described later. Other types of actuators are known to those skilled in the art. Additionally, the actuator (202) may be omitted.

[0035] The striker assembly (204) comprises an elongated rail (208) and a striker (207) that is mounted to the rail (208) by means of a bracket (209) using fasteners. The rail (208) may be flat, for example, as illustrated, or rounded. The geometric shape and form of the rail (208) may vary. The rail (208) is movable relative to the latch (210) in the direction of the arrows illustrated in FIG. 3c. The rail (208) moves relative to the latch (210), or the latch (210) moves relative to the rail (208). The striker (207) is a cylindrical (or semi-cylindrical) member configured to interact with the pole (224) of the latch (210).

[0036] The latch (210) shares some similarities with the latch (110), and the major differences between these latches will be explained later. Referring now to FIGS. 3e and 3f, the latch (210) generally comprises a rear frame member (212) and a front frame member (214) joined together by pins (217 and 218) and / or other fasteners. The rear frame member (212) comprises a mounting surface and an opening (213), and regarding this mounting surface and opening, an actuator (202) (not shown in FIGS. 3e and 3f) is mounted by fasteners (not shown). A pawl (224) has an opening in which the pin (218) is positioned, and the pawl (224) moves (i.e. rotates) around the pin (218) between a closed position (Fig. 3b) and an open position (Fig. 3c). A torsion spring (215) is mounted around the pin (218) and includes a first free end mounted on the rear frame member (212) (or other fixed feature) and a second free end mounted on a supporting surface on the pole (224). The spring (215) deflects the pole (224) into an open position. The trigger (211) has an opening in which the pin (217) is positioned, and the trigger (211) moves (i.e. rotates) between a locked position (Fig. 3f) and an unlocked position (Fig. 3c). A torsion spring (219) is mounted around the pin (217) and includes a first free end mounted on the rear frame member (212) (or other fixed feature) and a second free end mounted on a supporting surface on the trigger (211). The spring (219) deflects the trigger (211) into an unlocked position.

[0037] A spring member (230), formed of a soft and elastic material, is positioned on a protrusion located on both the frame member (212) and below the trigger (211) and the pawl (224). The spring member (230) includes four legs dependent on this spring member that press 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. A spring arm (232) also extends from the spring member (230). The spring arm (232) is a flexible curved member positioned to interact with the peripheral surface of the pawl (224).

[0038] Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 3f, in the closed position of the pole (224), the spring arm (232) rests in a concave indentation or depression (234) formed on the outer circumference of the lower side of the pole (224). The holding force applied by the spring arm (232) on the pole (224) is greater than the force applied by the torsion spring (215) so that the pole (224) remains in the closed position even after the trigger (211) is moved to the unlocked position (Fig. 3b). And in the open position of the pole (224), the spring arm (232) rests in another concave indentation or depression (235) formed on the outer circumference of the lower side of the pole (224). It is noted that a plurality of depressions (234 / 235) are defined on the lower peripheral side of the pole (224). Once the pole (224) is moved to the open position, the force applied by the spring arm (232) on the pole (224) keeps the pole in the open position.

[0039] Accordingly, like the latch (10), the latch (210) can also be considered a bistable latch, because the latch (210) can be maintained in an open position until the latch is moved to a closed position and can also be maintained in a closed position until the latch is moved to an open position.

[0040] In the locked position of the trigger (211) illustrated in FIG. 3f, a tab (221) extending from the periphery of the trigger (211) supports the supporting surface of the frame member (212). Additionally, in the locked position, a V-shaped recess (223) formed along the periphery of the trigger (211) is positioned within a corresponding V-shaped protrusion (225) formed on the periphery of the pole (224). The engagement between the recess (223) and the protrusion (225), as well as between the tab (221) and the frame (212), prevents the pole (224) from moving toward the open position in a counterclockwise direction (as seen in FIG. 3f).

[0041] The trigger (211) includes a control surface (227) in the form of a curved protrusion that protrudes from the latch (210) toward 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 support the support surface (227) to move the trigger (211) from a locked position (Fig. 3f) to an unlocked position (Fig. 3c).

[0042] Other control surfaces are anticipated as illustrated in FIG. 3g and FIG. 3h. For example, in FIG. 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) for pulling the cable to cause the trigger (211) to move from a locked position to an unlocked position. In FIG. 3h, the control surface (227b) is positioned on the upper side of the trigger and is provided in the form of a finger tab positioned to be accessed by a user to manually move the trigger (211) to cause the trigger (211) to move from a locked position to an unlocked position (e.g.).

[0043] Now, referring to FIGS. 3a through 3d, in FIG. 3a, 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) within the pawl (224). If a user attempts to move the striker (207) away from the latch (210) (e.g., by translating the rail (208)), the latch (210) will prevent movement of the striker (207) and the rail (208) because the trigger (211) will prevent the pawl (224) from rotating counterclockwise into an open position (as seen in FIG. 3f).

[0044] In FIG. 3b, the latch (210) is shown in an unlocked and latched state. To unlock the latch (210), the computer controller acts the actuator (202), which causes the piston (205) of the actuator (202) to extend and be supported on the control surface (227) of the trigger (211), which causes the trigger (211) to rotate counterclockwise (as seen in FIG. 3f) and against the deflection of the spring (219). Once the recess (223) of the trigger is separated from the protrusion (225) of the pawl (224), the trigger (211) is held in the unlocked position, and the latch (210) is unlocked. In the unlocked state of the latch (210), the pawl (224) is kept in a closed state due to the engagement between the spring arm (232) and the pawl (224).

[0045] In FIG. 3c, the latch (210) is shown unlocked and in an unlocked state. To move the latch (210) from the latched (i.e., closed) state to the unlocked (i.e., open) state, the user translates the rail (208) and the striker (207) away from the latch (210). The striker (207) moves the (unlocked) pawl (224) counterclockwise (as seen in FIG. 3f) against the deflection of the spring arm (232). As the pawl (224) rotates, the spring arm (232) slides along the lower surface of the pawl (224). The pawl (224) eventually releases the striker (207) as the striker (207) moves away from the latch (210). The pawl (224) is kept open due to the engagement between the spring arm (232) and the detent (235) of the pawl (224). In this stage, the trigger (211) is kept unlocked due to the engagement between the piston (205) and the control surface (227) of the trigger (211).

[0046] In FIG. 3d, the latch (210) is shown unlocked and in an unlocked state. To return the trigger (211) to a locked position, the computer controller acts 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, as shown in FIG. 3f, at which point the tab (221) supports the frame member (212). At this stage, the pawl (224) remains in an open state.

[0047] To return the latch (210) to the locked and latched state of FIG. 3a, the user moves the striker (207) toward the latch (210). The striker (207) engages with the opening in the pawl (224), and the pawl (224) rotates clockwise (as seen in FIG. 3f) against the deflection of the spring (215). The protrusion (225) of the pawl (224) rides on the periphery of the trigger (211) until the striker (207) supports the frame members (212 and 214) (and causes a slight rotation of the trigger (211) against the deflection of the spring (219). And, at this time, the protrusion (225) of the pawl (224) comes into place in the recess (223) of the trigger (211). After that, the latch (210) remains in the locked and latched state of Fig. 3a.

[0048] Now, referring to FIGS. 3J and 3K, the latch (210), actuator (202), and rail (208) can be adopted as parts of a multi-point latching system (292) for securing the door (290) to a door frame or other structure.

[0049] The multi-point latching system (292) includes an actuator (294) in the form of, for example, a lever, a handle, or a driver. The actuator (294) is movable between a first position corresponding to a locked state of the door (290) and a second position corresponding to an unlocked state of the door (290), as is known in the art. The actuator (294) has an output end connected to the rail (208) of FIG. 3c. Moving the actuator (294) between the first position and the second position causes the rail (208) to translate up and down, as is known in the art.

[0050] One or more of the striker assemblies (204) are connected to the rail (208).

[0051] One or more poles (295) (four are shown) are individually connected to the door (290). The poles (295) may be pivotably mounted on the door (290), for example. In particular, each pole (295) is connected to a cam (296) that pivots on the door (290). Each pole (295) is also connected to a rail (208), and the translational movement of the rail (208) causes the cams (296) and the poles (295) connected to the cams to pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the poles (295) are oriented so that the poles hold the door (290) against the door frame or other structure. And, in the unlocked position, the poles (295) are oriented so that the poles do not hold the door (290) against the door frame or other structure.

[0052] One or more guides (297) are mounted on the door (290). Each guide (297) may include a rectangular through-hole for receiving the rail (208) to limit the rail (208) to two translational degrees of freedom. One or more additional guides (298) are also mounted on the door (290). Each guide (298) may include an open-ended slot for receiving the rail (208) to limit the rail (208) to one translational degree of freedom.

[0053] One or more of the latches (210) are fixedly connected to the door (290). Each latch (210) is configured to interact with a striker (207) mounted on a rail (208) as previously described. In the locked state of the latch (210), the latch (210) restricts the movement of the striker (207) as well as 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) as well as the entire multi-point latch system (292).

[0054] Even as an improvement example, integrating the latch (210) and striker (207) within a mechanical multi-point system (292) results in an electric locking system (292). Accordingly, it is not necessary to replace the mechanical actuator (294) with an electromechanical actuator. Additionally, the push-to-close / pull-to-open style of the latch (210) allows the system (292) to remain closed even if the latch (210) is not locked. However, a remote signal can be transmitted to the latch (210) to lock the system (292). More specifically, the spring arm (232) holds the pawl (234) in a fixed position until the striker (207) is moved, thereby allowing electronic locking when the door (290) is not opened.

[0055] Although the multi-point latch system (292) has been described for use with the latch (210), it should be understood that the multi-point latching system (292) may include any of the latches described herein without extensive modification.

[0056] FIGS. 4a through 4d depict a fourth exemplary embodiment of a latch (310). The latch (310) is similar to the latch (210) of FIG. 3a, and the major differences between them will be explained later.

[0057] The latch (310) generally comprises a frame or housing including a rear frame member (312) and a front frame member (314) that are connected together, for example, by fasteners or clips. Various components are positioned within the internal space defined by the frame, and these components will be described later.

[0058] The pole (324) includes pins (318) aligned together and positioned within openings (313) defined in the frame members. The pins (318) may be integrated with the body of the pole (324) or may include one or more separate components mounted on the pole (324). The pole (324) moves (i.e. rotates) around the openings (313) between a closed position (Fig. 4b) and an open position (Fig. 4d). The pole (324), like the other poles described above, includes a concave area for receiving a striker. A concave portion (325) (Fig. 4c) is formed along the periphery of the pole (324), and a corresponding protrusion (323) is formed on the periphery of the trigger (311). The interlocking between the concave portion (325) and the protruding portion (323) prevents the pole (324) from rotating counterclockwise toward the open position (as seen in FIG. 4b).

[0059] An opening (328) (Fig. 4a) to which a spring guide (330) is rotatably connected is provided in the pole (324). The spring guide (330) is an elongated body having a first branched connecting end (331) which is rotatably positioned within the opening (328) of the pole (324) by a pin (332) positioned through the jointly aligned holes of the branched end (331). The second end (334) opposite the spring guide (330) is substantially flat and is positioned to move within an opening (336) defined in the frame. The end (334) moves in an unconstrained manner within the opening (336) of the frame and does not detach from the frame as the pole (324) moves between an open position and a closed position. A compression spring (338) is positioned over the elongated portion of the spring guide (330). One end of the spring (338) is positioned to support the shoulder (337) (Fig. 4d) of the opening (336) of the frame, while the opposite end of the spring (338) is positioned to support the branched connecting end (331) of the spring guide (330).

[0060] In the closed position of the pawl (324) shown in FIG. 4b, the spring (338) is configured to press the pawl (324) into a counterclockwise position (as seen in the drawing) and to hold it in the closed position. Conversely, in the open position of the pawl (324) shown in FIG. 4d, the spring (338) is configured to press the pawl (324) into a clockwise position and to hold it in the open position. Thus, the latch (310) can also be considered a bistable latch because the latch (310) can be held in the open position until the latch is moved to the closed position and can also be held in the closed position until the latch is moved to the open position.

[0061] As best illustrated in FIG. 4g, the trigger (311) comprises pins (317) aligned together and positioned within openings (315) (Fig. 4a, one shown) defined in the frame members. The pins (317) may be integrated with the body of the trigger (311) or may comprise one or more separate components mounted on the trigger (311). In use, the trigger (311) moves (i.e. rotates) around the opening (315) (Fig. 4a, one shown) between a locked position (Fig. 4b) and an unlocked position (Fig. 4c). The rotation axes of the trigger (311) and the pawl (324) are parallel. The trigger (311) comprises 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 an actuator (302), as described later, to move the trigger (311) between a locked position and an unlocked position. An opening (321) is defined in the body of the trigger (311) to accommodate a coiled portion of the torsion spring (319). A pin (e.g., pin (317)) can 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), while the other leg of the torsion spring (319) is positioned against a fixed surface, such as a surface on a frame. The spring (319) deflects the trigger (311) into a locked position.

[0062] The actuator (302) is mounted on the frame and 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, but other types of actuators are known to those skilled in the art. Like the actuators described above, the actuator (302) is connected to a computer controller for control purposes.

[0063] As best illustrated in FIGS. 4c and 4f, the cap (350) is connected to the piston (305) in a fixed manner so that the cap (350) moves together with the piston (305). The cap (350) has a J-shaped body (351), a C-clip (352) mounted on a curved end of the body (351), and a projection (353) extending longitudinally and outwardly from the body (351). The C-clip (352) and the projection (353) may be integrated with the body (351), or their features may be separate components mounted on the body (351). The C-clip (352) is connected to the piston (305) in a non-rotatable manner. The projection (353) is configured to interact with the control surface (327) of the trigger (311) of the latch (310).

[0064] The sensor (360) is mounted on the frame and configured to detect one or more of the rotational position, presence or absence of the pole (324) (and / or trigger (311)) and transmit the corresponding signal to a computer controller via a cable. The sensor (360) may be, for example, a switch. Other means for detecting the closed or open state of the pole (324), such as magnetic sensors, proximity sensors, Hall-effect sensors, and optical sensors, are known to those skilled in the art.

[0065] Now, referring to the operation of the latch (310) illustrated in FIG. 4b and FIG. 4e, in FIG. 4b, the latch (310) is illustrated in a 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) will prevent the striker from moving because the trigger (311) will prevent the pawl (324) from rotating counterclockwise into the open position (as seen in FIG. 4b).

[0066] In FIG. 4c, the latch (310) is shown in an unlocked and latched state. To unlock the latch (310), the user commands the computer controller to actuate the actuator (302), which causes the piston (305) of the actuator (302) to retract. Alternatively, the computer controller may perform this unlocking step in response to a situation, such as when the vehicle is placed in the Park 'P' position.

[0067] When retracting, the protrusion (353) on the cap (350) supports the control surface (327) of the trigger (311), which causes the trigger (311) to rotate counterclockwise (as seen in FIG. 4c) and against the deflection 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) is separated from the protrusion (323) of the trigger (311), the trigger (311) is maintained in an unlocked position, and the latch (310) is unlocked. In the unlocked state of the latch (310), the pawl (324) is maintained in a closed state due to the deflection of the spring (338) applied to the pawl (324). In the latched state, the sensor (360) detects the closed state of the pole (324) and communicates the pole to the computer controller. The computer controller may send a warning to the user if it is determined that the trigger (311) is unlocked (due to the known position of the actuator (302)) while other conditions exist, for example, while the vehicle to which the latch is attached is being driven.

[0068] In FIG. 4d, the latch (310) is shown unlocked and in an unlocked state. To move the latch (310) from the latched (i.e., closed) state to the unlocked (i.e., open) state, the user translates the striker away from (or opposite to) the latch (310). The striker moves the pawl (324) (which is unlocked) counterclockwise to the open position (as seen in FIG. 4d) and against the deflection of the spring (338). The pawl (324) remains in the open state due to the deflection of the spring (338) applied to the pawl (324).

[0069] In FIG. 4e, the latch (310) is shown in a locked and unlocked state. To lock the latch (310), the user commands the computer controller to drive the actuator (302), which causes the piston (305) of the actuator (302) to extend. When extending, the trigger (311) is allowed to rotate clockwise and return to the locked position under the deflection of the spring (319). However, while the pawl (324) remains in the open / unlocked state, the trigger (311) remains in the rotated state as shown in FIG. 4e due to interference between the pawl (324) and the trigger (311). Additionally, it is noted that the force indirectly applied to the pawl (324) by the spring (319) is smaller than the force indirectly applied to the pawl (324) by the spring (338).

[0070] To move the latch (310) from the locked and unlocked state of FIG. 4e to the locked and latched state of FIG. 4b, the user moves the striker toward the latch (310). The striker engages with the opening in the pawl (324), and the pawl (324) rotates clockwise (as seen in FIG. 4b) against the deflection of the spring (338). The protrusion (323) of the trigger (311) is placed around the pawl (324) due to the deflection of the spring (319) until the striker is caught in the latched position by the pawl (324). At this time, the protrusion (323) of the trigger (311) rests in the recess (325) of the pawl (324), thereby locking the pawl (324). After that, the latch (310) remains in the locked and latched state of Fig. 4b.

[0071] It should be understood that the latch (310) can be moved between the unlocked states shown in FIG. 4c and FIG. 4d without locking the pole (324) using the trigger (311). Additionally, the user can move the trigger (311) between the locked and unlocked states as desired (via a computer controller or other device).

[0072] FIGS. 5a through 5h depict a fifth exemplary embodiment of a latch (410). The latch (410) is similar to the latch (210), and the major differences between these latches will be explained later.

[0073] In FIGS. 5a and 5b, 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). Upon receiving a command 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) to move the trigger (411) from a locked position to an unlocked position. The release cable (409) is also connected to the opening of the trigger (411). When operated, the cable (409) may be pulled by manual or automated means to release the trigger (411) (i.e., to move the trigger (411) from a locked position to an unlocked position). The actuator (402) and the cable (409) may form parts of the latch (410) or parts of a separate assembly. The actuator (402) and / or the cable (409) are omitted in various drawings.

[0074] Now, referring to FIGS. 5a through 5d, the latch (410) generally comprises a rear frame member (412) and a front frame member (414) (omitted in FIGS. 5b and 5c) connected together by pins (417 and 418) and / or other fasteners. The pawl (424) has an opening in which the pin (418) is positioned, and the pawl (424) moves (i.e. rotates) around the pin (418) between a closed position (Fig. 5e) and an open position (Fig. 5f).

[0075] As best illustrated in FIGS. 5b and 5c, the torsion spring (415) is mounted around the pin (418) and includes a first free end (415a) supporting the rear frame member (412) and a second free end (415b) mounted on a recess (434) formed on the periphery of the pole (424). The spring (415) deflects the pole (424) into an open position. The trigger (411) has an opening in which the pin (417) is positioned, and, like the trigger (211), the trigger (411) moves (i.e. rotates) between a locked position and an unlocked position. The torsion spring (419) is mounted around the pin (417) and includes a first free end (419a) supporting the rear frame member (412) and a second free end mounted on a supporting surface on the trigger (411). The spring (419) deflects the trigger (411) into a locked position.

[0076] As illustrated in FIGS. 5b and 5n, a spring member (430) formed of a flexible and elastic material is inserted between (i) a frame member (414) and (ii) a trigger (411) and a pawl (424). The spring member (430) includes four legs dependent on this spring member that press the trigger (411) and the pawl (424) toward the frame member (412), thereby preventing the trigger (411) and the pawl (424) from rattling during operation. First and second spring arms (432, 433) extend from the spring member (430). The first spring arm (432) is a flexible bending member positioned to interact with the surface of the pawl (424). The second spring arm (433) is a flexible bending member positioned to interact with the surface of the striker bar (450).

[0077] As illustrated in FIG. 5c, in the closed position of the pole (424), the first spring arm (432) rests in a concave indentation or depression (434) formed on the outer circumference of the lower side of the pole (224). The spring arm (432) rests on the second free end (415b) of the spring (415). The holding force applied by the spring arm (432) on the pole (424) is greater than the force applied by the torsion spring (415) so that the pole (424) remains in the closed position even after the trigger (411) has moved to the unlocked position. And in the open position of the pole (424), the spring arm (432) rests in another concave indentation or depression (435) formed on the outer circumference of the lower side of the pole (424). The force applied by the spring arm (432) on the pawl (424) keeps the pawl in an open position. Thus, like the latch (10), the latch (410) can also be considered a bistable latch because the latch (410) can be held in an open position until the latch moves to a closed position and can also be held in a closed position until the latch moves to an open position. However, the spring arm (432) can be omitted if desired, and in this case, the latch (410) will not be bistable.

[0078] The trigger (411) includes a tab (421) extending from the periphery of the trigger (411). In the locked position of the trigger (411) as shown in FIG. 5f and FIG. 5h, the tab (421) supports the supporting 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 pole (424) is positioned within the recess (423). The engagement between the recess (423) and the protrusion (425), as well as between the tab (421) and the frame (412), prevents the pole (424) from moving toward the open position in a counterclockwise direction (as seen in FIG. 5f).

[0079] Now, referring to FIGS. 5a and 5h, the trigger (411) includes a control surface (427) in the form of a vertically extending projection configured to interact with the piston (405) of the actuator (402). The piston (405) is configured to support the support surface (427) to move the trigger (411) from a locked position (Fig. 5h) to an unlocked position. The control surface (427) also has a hole or opening (427a) connected to a cable (409) to move the trigger (411) from a locked position (Fig. 5h) to an unlocked position, as previously described.

[0080] Now, referring to FIGS. 5B, 5D, 5E, 5J, and 5K, a striker bar (450) is pivotally mounted in the opening (451) (Fig. 5D) at the center of the trigger (411) by a pin (452). The pin (452) passes through the opening (453) of the striker bar (450) and the opening (451) of the trigger (411). The striker bar (450) is mounted directly to the trigger (411). The striker bar (450) is configured to rotate about the trigger (411) around the pin (452). The periphery of the striker bar (450) includes a concave portion (459) configured to interact with the striker (407). The striker bar (450) is an elongated member having an outer surface and an inner surface. A protrusion or tab (455) protrudes from the inner surface of the striker bar (450). The tab (455) is configured to interact with the wiper arm (458) of the switch (460).

[0081] 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 over at least a portion of the cabling extending from the switch to partially conceal the switch (460). The switch (460) may be fixedly connected to a frame member (412). When operated, in the open state of the switch (460), the tab (455) of the striker bar (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 an unlocked position. And, in the closed state of the switch (460), the tap (455) is positioned to contact the wiper arm (458) of the switch (460), thereby indicating (i) that the striker (407) is positioned inside the latch (410), and (ii) that the trigger (411) is rotated to a locked position.

[0082] For example, if the striker (407) is positioned inside the latch (410) and the trigger (411) is rotated to an unlocked position, the tab (455) of the striker (450) will not be positioned to contact the wiper arm (458) of the switch (460), and thus, the switch (460) will be in an open state. This occurs because the striker bar (450) is mounted on the trigger (411) and moves together with the trigger (411), and in the unlocked position of the trigger (411), the path of movement of the tab (455) of the striker bar (450) is radially outside the fixed wiper arm (458) of the switch (460) and thus does not cross the fixed wiper arm (458) of the switch (460). This arrangement of the switch (460), trigger (411), and striker bar (450) substantially reduces the possibility of false “closed” reads while the trigger (411) is unlocked, or prevents these false “closed” reads.

[0083] When the switch (460) is closed, the switch transmits a corresponding ‘closed’ signal to a computer controller via the cable (461). Other means for detecting the presence or absence of the striker bar (450), such as magnetic sensors, proximity sensors, Hall-effect sensors, and optical sensors, are known to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the switch (460) may more generally be referred to as a means for detecting the position, presence, or absence of the striker bar (450).

[0084] As best illustrated in FIG. 5b, the second spring arm (433) of the spring member (430) is positioned to support the peripheral surface of the striker bar (450). The second spring arm (433) is configured to deflect the striker bar (450) toward the direction of the striker (407). Moving the striker (407) into the latch (410) causes the striker bar (450) to rotate relative to the trigger (411) against the deflection of the spring arm (433). As illustrated in FIG. 5e and FIG. 5f, counterclockwise rotation of the striker bar (450) is limited by the spring arm (433), and clockwise rotation of the striker bar (450) is limited by the pin (417).

[0085] It should be understood that the first and second spring arms may be replaced by simple spring elements, and that the first and second spring arms are not required to be associated with the same spring component. Accordingly, the first and second spring arms may be referred to herein more generally as spring elements.

[0086] Now, referring to FIGS. 5d, 5i, 5l, and 5m, the rear frame member (412) includes a curved tab section (470) having an L-shape that extends inward toward the interior of the frame. The tab section (470) is positioned adjacent to and extends from a concave opening (471) of the rear frame member (412) provided to accommodate a striker (407). The free end of the curved tab section (470) extends upward toward the striker (407). The curved tab section (470) is formed integrally with the frame member (412). The curved tab section (470) is arranged between the pins (417 and 418) when viewed in the longitudinal direction. The curved tab section (470) may be more generally referred to herein as a protrusion.

[0087] The bumper (474) is mounted on the curved tab section (470). The bumper (474) may be made of an elastomer material, such as rubber, for example. The upper end of the bumper (474) includes a concave surface (476) configured to interact with the cylindrical body of the striker (407). When operated, the striker (407) contacts the concave surface (476) without generating an audible bump, squeak, or rattle. The lower end of the bumper (474) includes an opening (478) to receive the free end of the curved tab section (470). The bumper (474) may be connected to the curved tab section (470), for example, using adhesive. Two elongated arms (480) are positioned on the sides opposite the opening (478). In the assembled form of the latch (410), the arms (480) are positioned in channels adjacent to the curved tab section (470), as best illustrated in FIG. 5i. The outer surface of the bumper (474) is maintained at the same height as the outer surface of the frame member (412) and extends within the inner section of the frame formed by the frame members (412 and 414). An opening (482) in the form of a rectangular aperture extends across the width of the bumper (474) (i.e., longitudinally) and intersects the opening (478). The opening (482) accommodates barbs (473) (Fig. 5m) on the curved tab section (470) to hold the bumper (474) in the frame.

[0088] Now, referring to the operation of the latch (410) illustrated in FIG. 5e and FIG. 5f, in FIG. 5e, the latch (410) is illustrated in a locked and latched state. In the locked and latched (i.e., closed) state, the latch (410) holds the striker (407) within the pawl (424). The pawl (424) is held in a fixed rotational position by the trigger (411) due to the interface between the surfaces (423 and 425) (see FIG. 5h). The switch (460) is held in a closed position, thereby indicating (i) that the striker (407) is positioned inside the latch (410) and (ii) that the trigger (411) is rotated to a locked position.

[0089] In FIG. 5f, the latch (410) is shown in an unlocked and latched state. To move the latch (410) from the latched (i.e., closed) state to the latched (i.e., open) state, the computer controller acts the actuator (402), which causes the piston (405) of the actuator (402) to extend and be supported on the control surface (427) of the trigger (411), which causes the trigger (411) to rotate counterclockwise (as seen in FIG. 5f) and against the deflection of the spring (419). The rotation of the trigger (411) may result in 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), translational movement of the release cable (409) (manually or by the actuator) will also result in counterclockwise rotation of the trigger (411).

[0090] Once the recess (423) of the trigger is separated from the protrusion (425) of the pawl (424), the trigger (411) is maintained in an unlocked position, and the latch (410) is unlocked. In the unlocked state of the latch (410), the pawl (424) is maintained in a closed state due to 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 an open state due to the spring (415).

[0091] Then, the user translates the striker (407) away from the latch (410). The striker (407) moves the (unlocked) pawl (424) counterclockwise (as seen in FIG. 5f) against the deflection of the spring arm (432). 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) eventually releases the striker (407). At the same time, the striker (407) is separated from the striker bar (450), and in the absence of the striker (407), the second spring arm (433) presses the striker bar (450) to rotate clockwise. Consequently, the tab (455) of the striker bar (450) is separated from 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 an unlocked position. The computer controller identifies this change in state due to signals (or the absence of signals) transmitted from the switch (460).

[0092] The pawl (424) is kept open due to the engagement between the spring arm (432) and the pawl (424) as well as the force applied by the spring (415). In this stage, the trigger (411) is kept unlocked due to the engagement between the piston (405) and the control surface (427) of the trigger (411).

[0093] To return the trigger (411) to a locked position, the computer controller activates 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).

[0094] To return the latch (410) to the locked and latched state of FIG. 5e, the user moves the striker (407) toward the latch (410). The striker (407) engages with the concave opening of the pawl (424), and the pawl (424) rotates clockwise against the deflection of the spring (415). The protrusion (425) of the pawl (424) rides on the periphery of the trigger (411) until the striker (407) supports the bumper (474) (and causes a slight rotation of the trigger (411) against the deflection of the spring (419)). At this time, the protrusion (425) of the pawl (424) is seated within the concave (423) of the trigger (411). Afterward, the latch (410) remains in the locked and latched state of FIG. 5e. The tap (455) of the striker bar (450) contacts 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 a locked position.

[0095] It is noted that various features described in separate embodiments may be combined or substituted.

[0096] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described herein, it will be understood that such embodiments are provided merely as examples. Many modifications, variations, 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 include all such modifications as falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

Claim 1 A latch assembly comprising: a frame; a pawl 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 in the latch assembly, and, in the open position, the pawl is not positioned to hold the striker in the latch assembly; and a spring guide connected to the pawl and the frame, wherein in the closed position of the pawl, the spring guide is configured to deflect the pawl so that the pawl is held in the closed position, and in the open position of the pawl, the spring guide is configured to deflect the pawl so that the pawl is held in the open position, and one end of the spring guide is connected to the pawl, and the opposite end of the spring guide is unconstrained. Claim 2 In claim 1, the opposite end of the spring guide is located within an opening formed in a spring guide retaining member, and the spring guide retaining member is located within the frame, latch assembly. Claim 3 In claim 2, the spring guide comprises a slender member having a connecting end rotatably connected to the pole, and a compression spring positioned on the slender member, forming a latch assembly. Claim 4 A latch assembly according to claim 3, wherein one end of the compression spring is supported on the connecting end, and the opposite end of the compression spring is supported on an opening formed in the spring guide retaining member. Claim 5 In claim 1, the opposite end of the spring guide is located within an opening formed in the frame, a latch assembly. Claim 6 In claim 5, the spring guide comprises a slender member having a connecting end rotatably connected to the pole, and a compression spring positioned on the slender member, forming a latch assembly. Claim 7 A latch assembly according to claim 6, wherein one end of the compression spring is supported on the connecting end, and the opposite end of the compression spring is supported on an opening formed in the frame. Claim 8 A latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the spring guide comprises an elongated member having a connecting end rotatably connected to the pole, and a compression spring positioned on the elongated member. Claim 9 In claim 1, the latch assembly, wherein the pole is rotatably connected to the frame by a pin. Claim 10 A latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the latch assembly has a configuration of pushing to close and pulling to open. Claim 11 A latch assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a trigger mounted on the frame and configured to keep the pole in a locked state while the pole is maintained in the closed position. Claim 12 In claim 11, the trigger comprises a latch assembly including a control surface configured to move to release the trigger from the pole so that the pole can move to the open position. Claim 13 A latch assembly according to claim 12, further comprising an actuator configured to move the control surface of the trigger. Claim 14 delete Claim 15 delete Claim 16 delete Claim 17 delete Claim 18 delete Claim 19 delete Claim 20 delete Claim 21 delete Claim 22 delete Claim 23 delete Claim 24 delete

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