Arc Resistant Door Latching System with Nested Linkages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door latching systems for power electronics enclosures are bulky and have components that protrude outward, failing to provide an effective low-profile solution for securing doors against arc events.
Innovation Solution
A multi-latch system with a hinge mechanism, featuring two vertically oriented linkages and corresponding horizontal rods that convert rotational handle motion into perpendicular linear motion, engaging multiple latching components with the door frame to secure the door in a slim profile configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing door latching systems are used to provide arc resistance, then the door can be secured against arc events, but the system becomes bulky with components protruding outward from the frame
Solution Approach 1:
The latching system components are nested within the door frame structure. The rods are received in recesses formed in the door frame, allowing the latching mechanism to be contained within the frame boundaries rather than protruding outward, thus achieving a low-profile configuration while maintaining arc resistance capability
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism transitions from a protruding configuration to a recessed configuration by utilizing the third dimension (depth) of the door frame. The rods extend perpendicular to the door surface and are received in recesses, effectively moving the latching components into the depth dimension of the frame rather than having them protrude outward, achieving a slim profile view
2Reliability
If existing door latching systems are used, then arc resistance is provided, but components protrude outward obstructing access to the door frame
Solution Approach 1:
The latching components are nested within the door frame recesses, eliminating outward protrusions that would obstruct access. When the door is open, the rods are received within the recesses formed in the door frame, creating a clean profile that does not interfere with personnel or equipment access to the door frame area
Solution Approach 2:
The protruding components are extracted from the external surface of the door frame and relocated into the recesses. This extraction of the protrusion problem moves the latching mechanism into the internal volume of the frame structure, eliminating the obstruction to access while preserving the latching function
Data Source
AI summary
A door latching system provides an arc resistant door for a power electronics cabinet. The door latching system includes a six point latch to secure the door in place against the frame of the cabinet. The door latching system includes two vertical linkages coupled to a door handle mechanism, the door handle mechanism being able to impart a vertical motion to the vertical linkages as the handle is turned. The latching system allows for this vertical motion to then become horizontal motion for closing several latches between the vertical frame of the cabinet and the door.