Integrated Trigger Hook Latch Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing industrial hooks with locking latches require external activation mechanisms, lacking an integrated trigger mechanism within the handle for unlocking the latch.

Innovation Solution

A hook design featuring a retractable finger trigger mechanism entirely within the handle, allowing the latch to be moved from a closed to an open position without external operation, utilizing a pivotally connected activating pin and torsion or compression springs to engage and disengage the latch.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If an external button or switch is used to activate the lock, then the locking function can be achieved, but the operator must move fingers or hands from the handle reducing operational efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatch activation convenienceVSAvoidoperational efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger mechanism is merged with the handle structure, integrating the locking activation function into the handle itself. The trigger becomes an integral part of the handle assembly, allowing operators to activate the latch without moving their hands from the handle, thus combining the handle and lock activation functions into a single integrated unit.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

A trigger mechanism acts as an intermediary between the operator's hand on the handle and the latch locking mechanism. The trigger translates the operator's finger pressure on the handle into mechanical motion that activates or deactivates the latch, providing a smooth transmission of force without requiring hand movement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If the trigger mechanism is integrated within the handle, then operational efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidhandle structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handle assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the handle body, the trigger mechanism, and the latch mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be designed and manufactured separately, then assembled together, reducing overall complexity while enabling the integrated functionality within the handle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The handle assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: providing a grip for the operator, housing the trigger mechanism, and activating the latch system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate external activation devices, improving operational efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If a retractable finger trigger is used within the handle, then unlocking can be achieved without moving hands from the handle, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatch activation convenienceVSAvoidhandle assembly manufacturing

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger mechanism is pre-assembled within the handle structure during manufacturing, with the trigger, spring, and connecting components positioned and secured before final assembly. This preliminary action simplifies the manufacturing process by allowing modular assembly rather than requiring complex in-situ adjustments during final assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The trigger mechanism incorporates a spring-loaded design that automatically returns the trigger to its resting position after activation. This self-service feature eliminates the need for additional actuators or complex control systems, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining the ability to unlock without moving hands from the handle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 locking and easy unlocking of loads without requiring operators to move their fingers or hands from the handle, enhancing operational safety and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing a pivotally connected activating pin and torsion or compression springs to engage and disengage the latch

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorsion spring: Torsion Spring

Implementation Method 2

utilizing a pivotally connected activating pin and torsion or compression springs to engage and disengage the latch

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression spring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS10214394B2Hook with latch and trigger mechanism assembly

Publication Date: 2019.02.26 THE CROSBY GROUP INC

AI summary

A hook with a latch and trigger mechanism assembly. The assembly includes a hook having a body and an open saddle. A latch is pivotable between a closed position and an open position. A finger handle extends from the body. A finger trigger entirely within a space between the finger handle and the body is movable between a closed rest position and a retracted position permitting movement of the latch to the open position.