Door Latch Catch with Snap-Fit Spacing Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing locking holders require complex and potentially imprecise adjustment mechanisms for setting the distance between the holding surface and the mounting plane, which can lead to tilting or improper sealing due to non-uniform screw tightening.

Innovation Solution

A releasable holding shoe that can be easily plugged onto and latched to a holding element, allowing for simple adjustment of the distance between the holding surface and the mounting plane in two different positions, ensuring secure and intuitive mounting and dismounting without tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an adjusting mechanism with two screws is used to set the distance between the holding surface and mounting plane, then infinite variable spacing setting is possible, but the elements may tilt due to non-uniform screw tightening

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespacing settingVSAvoidalignment
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The adjusting mechanism is segmented into discrete positions rather than continuous adjustment. The holding element is divided into multiple positioning sites at different distances from the mounting plane, allowing selection of predetermined spacing positions without requiring uniform screw tightening across multiple adjustment points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a simple, inexpensive holding element with predetermined positioning sites rather than a complex, precision-adjustable mechanism. This disposable-like approach prioritizes reliability and simplicity over infinite adjustability, eliminating the need for precise screw tightening while maintaining adequate spacing control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Manufacturing precision

If a complex adjusting mechanism is used to adapt the closed position of the door, then precise spacing control is possible, but the adjustment process becomes complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespacing controlVSAvoidadjustment process
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment process is segmented into simple discrete steps. Instead of requiring coordinated manipulation of multiple screws, the user simply selects from predetermined positioning sites on the holding element, making the adjustment process intuitive and rapid while maintaining precise spacing control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The holding element is designed to be self-configuring through its predetermined positioning sites. The structure itself provides the adjustment capability without requiring complex external adjustment mechanisms, allowing simple installation and adaptation by the installer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If the holding shoe is connected via screw connection, then reliable connection is ensured, but tool-free mounting and dismounting is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmounting and dismounting
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection mechanism transitions from a static screw-fixed state to a dynamic snap-fit system. The holding shoe features elastic arms that can be inserted easily and then automatically lock into position on the holding element, providing both easy tool-free installation and reliable mechanical connection through elastic retention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Elastic arms serve as an intermediary between the holding shoe and holding element, providing both the ease of snap-fit insertion and the reliability of secure mechanical retention. This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for tools while ensuring dependable connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12540487B2Catch
Publication Date: 2026.02.03 EMKA BESCHLAGTAILE GMBH & CO KG
  • US12540487B2 patent drawing
  • US12540487B2 patent drawing
  • US12540487B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In an exemplary embodiment, a locking holder with a mounting element in which the locking holder can be fastened to a door frame in a mounting plane, and with a holding surface which is arranged spaced apart with respect to the mounting plane and can be engaged behind by a door-side locking latch in order to lock the door, the holder includes a holding shoe which can be fastened releasably to a holding element in order to set the distance of the holding surface with respect to the mounting plane.