Independent Latch Assemblies with Simultaneous Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latching systems with multiple latch assemblies face difficulties in simultaneous latching due to independent operation of latch pawls, leading to delays and potential door slamming when one latch assembly fails to latch, requiring re-initiation of the closure process.
Innovation Solution
A latching system with independently biased latch assemblies that can latch to a compartment structure independently but release simultaneously, utilizing a guide body, latch rod, and biasing springs to ensure all latch assemblies engage correctly, allowing for independent latching and simultaneous release through a single actuation mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple latch assemblies are used to secure a closure panel, then the reliability of latching is improved, but the difficulty of achieving simultaneous latching increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching system divides the closure panel into multiple independent latching zones, each with its own latch assembly that can engage independently. This segmentation allows each latch to function autonomously while contributing to overall security, resolving the contradiction by maintaining reliability through multiple latches while avoiding the operational difficulty of coordinating their simultaneous engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch rod is designed to be flexible rather than rigid, allowing it to bend and accommodate variations in the closure panel's position and the catches' alignment. This dynamic property enables each latch assembly to engage at slightly different times without requiring precise simultaneous latching, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If multiple latch assemblies are used, then the security of the closure panel is improved, but the time required for latching increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple latch assemblies are connected through a common latch rod that transmits the actuating force simultaneously to all latches. This merging of the actuation mechanism ensures that all latch assemblies engage or disengage in unison through a single action, reducing latching time while maintaining the security benefits of multiple independent latches.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch rod is pre-configured with the correct spacing and orientation to match the catches on the closure panel. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the latch rod is actuated, all latch assemblies are already positioned to engage their respective catches simultaneously, eliminating the need for sequential adjustment and reducing overall latching time.
3Area of stationary object
If latch assemblies are spaced apart on the closure panel, then the coverage area is improved, but the complexity of the latching system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch rod serves multiple functions simultaneously: it connects all latch assemblies, transmits actuating force to each latch, maintains proper spacing between latches, and ensures simultaneous engagement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional complex mechanisms while achieving wide coverage area through strategically spaced latch assemblies.
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 efficient and reliable latching and release of multiple latch assemblies, allowing operators to easily correct misaligned latch assemblies without disrupting the already locked ones, reducing operational delays and ensuring proper alignment and engagement.
Implementation Method 1
A first rod-biasing spring is coaxial with the latch rod and is disposed between the guide body and a first of the latch assemblies. The first rod-biasing spring biases the latch rod to a rest position corresponding with a latched position of the latch assemblies.
Implementation Method 2
A biasing member may bias the latch pawl to the latched position. The biasing member may be a torsion spring.
Data Source
AI summary
A latching system includes a guide body, and a latch rod slidably retained by the guide body. Latch assemblies fixed to the latch rod, are spaced apart from one another, and independently biased to a latched position. A first rod-biasing spring is coaxial with the latch rod and disposed between the guide body and a first latch assembly. The first rod-biasing spring biases the latch rod to a rest position corresponding with a latched position of the latch assemblies. Multiple catches are secured at a spacing equal to a spacing of the latch assemblies on the latch rod such that the latch assemblies latch to the catches independently of one another. A force on the latch rod against the first rod-biasing spring moves the latch rod along the longitudinal axis of the latch rod from a rest position to an actuated position and unlatches the latch assemblies simultaneously.