Interlockable Latch Assembly for Fast Secure Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing stackable objects, such as batteries in vehicles, are cumbersome and require complex mounting interfaces or threaded fasteners, limiting flexibility and efficiency in stacking.
Innovation Solution
A latch system with interlockable latch devices featuring pivotable members and engagement portions allows for secure stacking without complex mounting, using hook and bar members with a resilient clamping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If brackets are bolted into the walls of each stackable object, then the objects can be securely interconnected, but the securing and demounting process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system is divided into separate modular components: a latch body with engagement protrusions, a latch arm with engagement recesses, and individual mounting brackets. Each component can be independently manufactured, assembled, and replaced, enabling quick securing and demounting operations while maintaining reliable connection between stackable objects.
2Reliability
If long threaded guides or bolts extending through all stackable objects are used, then the objects can be connected, but the system becomes expensive, requires particular components, and lacks flexibility in the number of objects that can be stacked
Solution Approach 1:
The latch arm is designed as a movable component that can pivot between locked and unlocked positions, and the system allows for dynamic adjustment of the number of stacked objects by simply adding or removing latch devices. This eliminates the need for long fixed threaded guides and provides both reliability and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting brackets are designed with universal features that can accommodate different numbers of stackable objects. The same bracket design can be used whether stacking 2, 5, or 10 objects, eliminating the need for specialized components for different configurations and reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a simple latch mechanism is used, then the system is easier to operate, but the clamping force and security may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement protrusions and recesses are designed with curved surfaces that provide mechanical advantage during engagement. The arc-shaped contact surfaces guide the latch arm into proper alignment and amplify the clamping force through geometric leverage, maintaining simple operation while ensuring secure holding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch system incorporates multi-directional engagement features where protrusions engage recesses in both vertical and horizontal dimensions. This multi-dimensional engagement geometry distributes and amplifies the clamping force across multiple contact points, providing strong securing capability without complicating the basic latch operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Present disclosure relates to a latch system for retaining a plurality of stackable objects in a stacked configuration. The latch system comprises a plurality of interlockable latch devices, wherein the interlockable latch devices comprises a first member and a second member.