Inclined Hook Latch for Peeling Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional latch assemblies in portable electronic devices require rework access to disengage, which is not feasible in designs where space is limited, such as when a keypad is installed, necessitating a mechanism that can easily disengage with a peeling force.
Innovation Solution
A latching assembly with a hook and bracket design where the bracket slides on an inclined or sloped surface of the hook, allowing disengagement without the need for rework access, facilitated by a chamfered or arcuate profile and resilient materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional hook-bracket latch mechanism is used, then secure holding is achieved, but rework access is required for disengagement which is not feasible in space-limited designs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional latch disengagement approach. Instead of requiring access to push and bend the hook or bracket (conventional method), the invention enables disengagement by applying force to peel the parts apart. The inclined surface on the hook converts the peeling force into a disengaging action, allowing latch release without traditional access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic element through the resilient material used for the hook. The hook can elastically deform under peeling force, allowing it to bend away from the bracket during disengagement and then return to its original position. This dynamic behavior enables easy disengagement while maintaining secure holding when engaged.
2Volume of moving object
If device size is reduced to make it more portable, then portability is improved, but space for rework access slots is eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the disengagement action from the front decoration area where access slots would traditionally be located. By enabling peeling-force disengagement, the mechanism removes the need for front access slots, allowing the front decoration to be solid and continuous while maintaining latch functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the disengagement direction and method. Instead of accessing the latch from the front through a slot to push components apart, the disengagement is achieved by peeling the parts apart from their joined state, utilizing the inclined surface to convert peeling motion into latch release.
3Ease of manufacture
If the hook has a roofed top for engagement facilitation, then engagement is simplified, but disengagement requires forceful bending access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the force application method for disengagement. Instead of requiring access to push and bend the hook or bracket (conventional method), the invention enables disengagement by applying force to peel the parts apart. The inclined surface on the hook converts the peeling force into a disengaging action.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient material allows the hook to dynamically respond to peeling force by elastically deforming and bending away from the bracket during disengagement, then returning to its original position when engaged. This dynamic behavior simplifies the disengagement process while maintaining secure holding.
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 disengagement of the latch mechanism with a peeling force, suitable for locations without access points, allowing for secure holding and easy separation of device components.
Implementation Method 1
The hook may be formed from a resilient material
Data Source
AI summary
A latching assembly comprises a bracket, and a hook. The hook comprises: a top; a base having a first portion proximate to a first end and a second portion proximate to a second end. The second portion is inclined or sloped towards the top. A front surface extends from the first end to the second end. The front surface is substantially parallel to the surface of the second part at the first end, forming a first portion of the base for engaging the bracket. The front surface is further inclined or sloped toward the surface of the second part at the second end. When the bracket and the hook are engaged and the first part and the second part are separated by force, the bracket slides on the second portion of the base and the inclined or sloped front surface at the second end, thereby disengaging the bracket from the hook.