Automatic Hidden Latch Mechanism for Door Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional latch structures are complex, require multiple steps for unlocking, and protrude when doors open, causing damage and aesthetic issues due to interference with door frames and floors.
Innovation Solution
An automatic hidden latch structure with a transmission mechanism and latch mechanism that retracts into the door when opened, using elastic elements and a rotating member to automatically release the latching state, enhancing locking without manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional latch structure is installed to enhance door locking, then the structural strength and security of the door are improved, but the device complexity increases and the door appearance is adversely affected due to multiple locks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the latch structure with the door frame and door panel, integrating the latch mechanism into the existing door assembly. The latch post is received within a receiving portion formed in the door frame, and the block portion is integrated into the door panel, creating a unified structure that enhances security without adding separate complex locking components
Solution Approach 2:
The latch structure is extracted from the traditional separate latch and lock configuration and repositioned as an automatic hidden mechanism. The latch post protrudes only when needed for locking, and automatically retracts into the receiving portion when the door is opened, removing the need for manual operation and reducing visual complexity
2Reliability
If a conventional latch structure is used to provide auxiliary locking, then door security is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users must perform multiple unlocking steps
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to operate automatically without user intervention. When the door is opened, the movement of the door panel relative to the door frame automatically causes the latch post to retract into the receiving portion through the transmission mechanism, eliminating the need for manual unlocking operations
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission mechanism is pre-configured with the latch mechanism such that the relative movement between the door and door frame during normal opening/closing operations automatically triggers the latch engagement and disengagement, preparing the system for secure locking without requiring additional user actions
3Reliability
If a conventional latch structure is installed to enhance door locking, then security is improved, but object-generated harmful factors increase as the latch cap protrudes and scratches the floor or door header
Solution Approach 1:
The latch post is designed as a dynamic component that changes its position based on door state. It protrudes from the block portion only when the door is closed and locked, and automatically retracts into the receiving portion when the door is opened, preventing contact with the floor or door header and eliminating scratching damage
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission mechanism is pre-configured to anticipate door opening movement and automatically retract the latch post before the door fully opens, preventing the latch cap from protruding and causing damage to surrounding structures
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
Simplifies door operation by automatically hiding the latch when unlocked, preventing damage and enhancing locking functionality without additional locking steps.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic element...pushes against the engaging member in an opposite direction so as to make the rotating member push against the transmission member and the lock tongue
Implementation Method 2
The transmission portion of the transmission member leans against the rolling member of the rotating member such that the rotating member swings around the rotating shaft
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic hidden latch structure includes: a base secured in position to a close side of a door, the base having a positioning plate for positioning and a receiving portion and a block portion disposed at one side of the positioning plate; a transmission mechanism including a lock tongue disposed in and protruding from the receiving portion, a transmission member abutting against the lock tongue, a rotating member driven by the transmission member, and an engaging member engaging with the rotating member and protruding from the receiving portion, a first elastic element insertably engaing the engaging member, and a second elastic element mounted on a joining member of the engaging member and insertably engaging the joining member. Given actuation of the mechanism, a latch post of the automatic hidden latch structure protrudes from the door whenever the lock tongue is pressed upon, thereby locking the door.