Adjustable Gate Latch Assembly for Inward Outward Swing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gate latch assemblies are limited in flexibility, as the swing direction of the door is determined by the hinge location, requiring separate assemblies for left and right side hinge installations, which restricts user flexibility in choosing the swing direction.
Innovation Solution
A gate latch assembly with position limiting structures and adjustable components that allow the latch bar and pivot bar to pivot in either direction, enabling the assembly to be configured for either left or right side hinge installations and allowing the door to swing inward or outward, regardless of hinge orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed configuration gate latch assembly is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the swing direction is fixed and user flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gate latch assembly incorporates adjustable position limiting structures that can be repositioned between different locations on the body, transforming a static device into a dynamic one capable of adapting to different swing directions. The latch bar can pivot in either direction depending on the position of the limiting structure, providing user flexibility without requiring multiple fixed configuration assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate latch assembly is designed to perform multiple functions by accommodating both left-side and right-side hinge configurations within a single device. The position limiting structure can be selectively positioned to permit pivoting in either the first direction or the second direction, making one assembly universal for both swing directions rather than requiring separate left and right side latches.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate left and right side latch assemblies are provided, then user flexibility is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of separate left-side and right-side latch assemblies into a single unified device. By incorporating a repositionable position limiting structure that can be placed in different locations on the body, the assembly combines what were previously two distinct products into one versatile unit, simplifying manufacturing and inventory while maintaining full functionality for both swing directions.
Solution Approach 2:
A single gate latch assembly design serves both left-side and right-side hinge configurations through the use of adjustable position limiting structures. This universal design eliminates the need for manufacturers to produce and stock multiple variant assemblies, reducing complexity while providing users with the flexibility to choose their preferred swing direction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the latch bar can pivot in both directions freely, then user flexibility is improved, but control over swing direction is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The position limiting structure is designed to be repositionable by the user or installer, allowing the device to self-adapt to the desired swing direction. The limiting structure physically constrains the latch bar to pivot only in the permitted direction based on its position, providing intuitive mechanical control without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or tools.
Data Source
AI summary
A gate latch assembly includes a first door mountable portion including a first body and carrying a pivotable latch bar that extends outward from a side of the first body, and a first handle part operatively connected to effect pivot of the latch bar when the first handle is rotated, a second door mountable portion including a second body and carrying a pivot bar, and a second handle part operatively connected to effect pivot of the pivot bar when the second handle is rotated. The gate latch assembly can be assembled in either a first configuration to permit rotation of the pivot bar away from its neutral position in only a first direction, or a second configuration to permit rotation of the pivot bar away from its neutral position in only a second direction that is opposite the first direction.