Drawer Latch System with Single-Handed Pull Release Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional drawer latch systems require both hands to unlock, making it inconvenient to open drawers on cargo trucks or utility cabinets, especially when one hand is needed to manage cargo or items.

Innovation Solution

A drawer latch system with a latching mechanism integrated within the drawer slides and a releasing mechanism within the drawer pull, allowing single-handed operation by using latch levers and torsion springs to secure and release the drawer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional locking mechanisms are mounted on both sides of the drawer, then the drawer can be securely locked in open or closed positions, but both hands are required to unlock the drawer

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedrawer locking securityVSAvoiddrawer unlocking operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the locking functions of both left and right drawer slides into a single centralized latch lever mechanism. When the latch lever is actuated, it simultaneously disengages both left and right locking mechanisms, allowing the drawer to be unlocked with a single-handed operation while maintaining secure locking on both sides when engaged

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a drawer pull latch as an intermediary component that connects to both latch levers. This intermediary mechanism allows a single user input on the drawer pull to simultaneously control both locking mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate manual operation of each side's lock

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If a centralized releasing mechanism is used within the drawer pull, then single-handed operation is enabled, but the latching mechanism complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedrawer unlocking operationVSAvoidlatching mechanism structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs spring-loaded latch levers that automatically engage and disengage based on drawer position and user input. The springs provide automatic resetting functionality, allowing the latch to return to its engaged position after being released, reducing the need for complex manual resetting mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the latching system into modular components: separate latch levers for each drawer slide, individual springs for each latch, and a centralized drawer pull latch. This segmentation allows each component to be simple and independent, reducing overall system complexity while enabling coordinated function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables easy, single-handed unlocking and locking of drawers, maintaining a compact design while ensuring the drawer remains latched in the closed position, enhancing usability and accessibility.

Implementation Method 1

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorsion spring: Torsion Spring

Data Source

PatentUS10443271B1Drawer latch system

Publication Date: 2019.10.15 CORNWELL QUALITY TOOLS CO

AI summary

A drawer assembly including a drawer, a first drawer slide carried by the drawer and a second drawer slide also carried by the drawer. Both the first and second drawer slide each include a latch lever. The drawer assembly additionally includes a drawer pull latch engaged with both latch levers such that upon movement of the drawer pull latch, opening of the drawer is permitted.