Dual Action Gravity Latch for Gate Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gate latch systems lack a dual action mechanism that allows secure closure and easy opening from either side of the gate without requiring holes or modifications to the gate, and they often rely on complex configurations or additional components like magnets and spindles.
Innovation Solution
A dual action gravity latch device featuring a pivotal latch member with upper and lower extensions, actuator assemblies, and a spring bias to maintain the latch in a locked position, allowing the gate to be opened by rotating or moving actuator assemblies to disengage the latch from the striker pin, with a lock mechanism for secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional gravity latch is used, then the gate can be secured in a closed position, but it cannot be opened from either side of the gate
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is divided into two separate actuator assemblies (first actuator assembly on one side of the gate, second actuator assembly on the other side), each capable of independently unlatching the gate. This segmentation allows the gate to be opened from either side while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Both actuator assemblies perform the same function of unlatching the gate, making them universal in their operation. Each actuator can independently disengage the latch member from the keeper, providing multi-functional capability that allows opening from either side without requiring different mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If holes are made in the gate to accommodate actuators, then opening from either side is enabled, but the gate structure is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator assemblies are mounted on the exterior surfaces of the gate rather than requiring holes through the gate structure. This intermediary mounting approach allows the actuators to function while preserving the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the gate by avoiding penetrations.
3Reliability
If a lock mechanism is added for security, then secure operation is achieved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is engaged in advance to prevent unauthorized operation. When the key is inserted and turned, it preliminarily secures the latch member in the latched position, ensuring secure operation. The legitimate user simply needs to manipulate the actuator assemblies without dealing with complex locking mechanisms during normal operation.
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 secure closure and easy opening of gates from either side without modifying the gate, using a straightforward gravity-based mechanism with a spring bias for reliable operation and a lock system for added security.
Implementation Method 1
a spring bias to maintain the latch in a locked position
Implementation Method 2
pivotal latch member movable between a latched and unlatched position
Data Source
AI summary
A double lock, dual action gravity latch device to secure a gate in a closed position comprising a latch assembly including a pivotal latch member movable between a latched and unlatched position, a keeper assembly including a striker pin to maintain the gate in the closed position when the pivotal latch member in the latched position, a latch lock assembly including a lock assembly with a first lock and a second lock each independently movable between a locked position and an unlocked position disposed on opposite sides of the gate to selectively move a lock subassembly from a locked position to an unlocked position when either the first lock or second lock is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, and move the lock subassembly from the unlocked position to the locked position when the unlocked lock is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position and a first latch actuator and a second latch actuator each movable between a first position and a second position disposed on opposite sides of the gate to selectively move the pivotal latch member when either the first lock or the second lock is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position moving the lock subassembly from the locked position to the unlocked position such that when either the first actuator assembly or the second actuator assembly is moved from the first position to the second position the pivotal latch member is moved from the latched position to the unlatched position to allow the gate to be opened.