Die-Cast Cable Fitting for Gate Latch Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gate latch cables are not strong enough to pull misaligned, stuck, or frozen gate latches open, often failing due to inadequate connection methods.
Innovation Solution
A gate latch assembly featuring a cable with a die-cast fitting made from zinc, zinc alloy, or aluminum at one end, which engages the gate latch and maintains optimal alignment with the lock hook, providing a stronger pull force and preventing movement misalignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a conventional cable connection method is used, then the cable is easier to manufacture and install, but the cable is not strong enough to pull misaligned or stuck latches open
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural reinforcement for the cable, creates a connection interface with the latch, and maintains proper alignment through integrated features. This merging of functions increases pull strength without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is made from zinc, zinc alloy, or aluminum material that is die cast onto the cable end. This composite construction combines the flexibility of the cable with the strength and rigidity of the metal fitting, enabling the assembly to withstand high pull forces on misaligned or stuck latches.
2Force
If the cable is pulled without optimal alignment, then the operation is simpler, but the pull force is insufficient to open the latch
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting automatically maintains optimal alignment between the cable pull force and the latch moment arm through its integrated structure. The alignment features within the fitting self-correct minor misalignments, ensuring that the pull force is always applied at the optimal angle without requiring precise manual alignment by the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The pull loop is formed with a curved geometry that naturally guides the pull force through the fitting in the optimal direction. This curved path ensures that even if the user pulls from slightly different positions, the force is redirected to maintain optimal alignment with the latch mechanism.
3Reliability
If a simple cable connection is used, then the installation is easier, but the connection fails when pulled or slides off the cable end
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is pre-formed with receiving features and attachment mechanisms that are designed to securely capture the cable end before installation. The die-cast construction creates integrated features that prevent the cable from sliding out, and the preliminary formation of these features during manufacturing ensures reliable connection without requiring complex post-assembly steps.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a gate latch assembly comprising a gate latch cable including a pull loop on a first end of the cable, and a fitting on a second end of the cable, opposite the first end. In certain embodiments, the fitting is made from a zinc, zinc alloy, and/or aluminum which is die cast onto the second end of the cable and is configured to engage a gate latch and to maintain an alignment with a gate latch and/or pull loop such that a pull force on the cable is at an optimal alignment with the moment arm of the gate lock hook. In some embodiments, the end of the cable onto which the fitting material is die cast may be frayed.