Latch Lever Structure for Wider Opening and Easier Handling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional latch devices face issues with actuating handles being inconvenient to operate due to fixed length, reduced space for handling, and limited maximum open angle, primarily because the linking member is pivotally connected to the top inner area of the actuating member, hindering smooth operation.
Innovation Solution
The latch device features an actuating lever with cantilever arms and a secondary open area for a handling member, a linking member pivotally connected to a middle area, and a sliding member, allowing for a larger open angle and increased handling space without altering the device's overall length, facilitated by a torsion spring and shaft pins for smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the linking member is pivotally connected to the top inner area of the actuating member, then the device structure is compact, but the actuating member cannot be operated smoothly and the handling space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a shaft pin as an intermediary component to connect the linking member to the actuating lever. This intermediary element allows the linking member to be pivotally connected to a middle area of the actuating lever rather than the top inner area, thereby improving operation smoothness while maintaining structural compactness through the standardized pin connection mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the actuating handle length is decreased to fit within fixed shell specifications, then the device fits within standard chassis dimensions, but the actuating handle becomes inconvenient to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the connection position from the top inner area (vertical dimension) to a middle area (lateral dimension) of the actuating lever. This dimensional shift allows the actuating lever to maintain a sufficient length for convenient handling while still fitting within the fixed shell specifications, as the pivotal connection is relocated to optimize both operational ergonomics and spatial constraints.
3Shape
If the linking member is connected to the top inner area of the actuating member, then the device maintains a compact structure, but the maximum open angle is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the actuating lever to swing through a larger angular range by connecting the linking member to a middle area rather than the top inner area. This dynamic configuration allows the actuating lever to achieve a larger maximum open angle, improving the operational range and effectiveness of the latch device while maintaining a compact overall device footprint through optimized component arrangement.
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
The redesigned structure enables smoother and more convenient operation with a larger open angle and handling area, overcoming limitations of prior art latch devices by maintaining the device's length and improving operational ease.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member for allowing the actuating lever to move between a closed position and an opened position
Implementation Method 2
facilitated by a torsion spring and shaft pins for smooth operation
Data Source
AI summary
A latch device includes a shell having an actuating lever, a linking member and a sliding member mounted thereto. The actuating lever has a free end formed into two cantilever arms with an open area defined therebetween for mounting a handling member and an elastic element; and a pivotal end pivotally connected to the shell, allowing the actuating lever to move, rotate or swing in a reciprocating motion. The linking member has a first end pivotally connected to a middle area of the actuating lever; and a second end assembled to the shell. When the handling member is pulled or pushed, the actuating lever is movable between a closed and an opened position allowing the linking member and the sliding member to move at the same time. The latch device with the above structure has relatively large open angle and long handling area to facilitate smooth or convenient operation thereof.