Hatch Power Lift and Locking System with Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hinged hatch or window assemblies in boats are difficult to open and close manually, especially when positioned high or at an angle, requiring manual effort and posing risks of unauthorized access or accidental opening.
Innovation Solution
A hatch power lift and locking system that includes a hatch assembly with a latch dog and actuator, allowing for automatic opening and closing, and secure locking, utilizing a latch catch mechanism and actuator system to pivot the hatch between open and closed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to open and close the hatch, then the structure remains simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficult reaching and multiple manual steps required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated actuator system. The actuator automatically performs the hatch opening/closing motion and coordinates the latch dog engagement, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of multiple components while maintaining mechanical reliability through proven latch mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The hatch system performs self-service through automatic actuation. The actuator system automatically positions the hatch, engages the latch dog with the dog catch pin, and secures the opening without requiring external manual intervention, thereby improving operational ease while keeping the overall system relatively simple.
2Reliability
If manual latching is used, then the device complexity remains low, but the reliability deteriorates due to risk of unauthorized access or accidental opening
Solution Approach 1:
The latch dog is pre-positioned and spring-loaded to automatically engage with the dog catch pin when the hatch reaches the closed position. This preliminary positioning ensures that the locking action occurs automatically as part of the closing sequence, providing reliable security without requiring additional complex locking mechanisms or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces unreliable manual latching with an automated actuator-controlled latch system. The actuator precisely controls the latch dog's movement to ensure positive engagement with the dog catch pin, eliminating human error and providing consistent, reliable security while maintaining mechanical simplicity through proven latch components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hatch is positioned high or at an angle, then the design flexibility is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in reaching and manual manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system replaces manual mechanical operation, allowing the hatch to be positioned in various locations (high or at angles) without compromising operability. The actuator can be mounted in convenient locations and will automatically position the hatch and engage the latch, eliminating the need for the operator to reach difficult positions or perform complex manual manipulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves as an intermediary device between the control system and the hatch mechanism. It translates control signals into precise mechanical motion, automatically positioning the hatch and coordinating the latch dog engagement. This intermediary function allows flexible hatch placement while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
Data Source
AI summary
A hatch power lift and locking system may include a hatch configured to cover an opening, the hatch being pivotable about an axis between a closed position and an open position. The assembly may also include at least one latch dog attached to the hatch, and at least one dog catch pin engaging with the at least one latch dog in the closed position. The at least one latch dog may include a latch slot for receiving the at least one dog catch pin, and a latch catch for engaging the at least one dog catch pin. The assembly may further include an actuator configured to move at least a portion of the hatch between the closed position and the open position.