Latch Assembly Linkage for Small-Angle Handle Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch assemblies in locks have complex structures that can malfunction due to poor assembly or component dimensional tolerances, leading to improper function.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with a latch bolt module and driving module, featuring a leverage mechanism that allows the latch bolt to be retracted by turning the handle at a smaller angle, and an adjustable driving shaft position for various door configurations, along with an anti-theft mechanism for enhanced stability and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a small angle driving mechanism is arranged to retract the latch bolt by turning the handle at a smaller angle, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly employs a dynamic linkage mechanism where the connecting plate pivots and the driving member rotates to convert small angular handle motion into sufficient latch bolt retraction. The system adapts its mechanical configuration during operation rather than relying on fixed geometric relationships, allowing small input angles to achieve the required output displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transforms the one-dimensional rotational input from the handle into multi-dimensional motion through the connecting plate's pivoting action and the driving member's rotation. This dimensional transformation allows a small rotation angle to be amplified into sufficient linear displacement of the latch bolt through the coordinated motion in multiple degrees of freedom.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable installation mechanism is arranged to install the latch assembly on door panels with different lock backsets, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing and driving member assembly can be dynamically repositioned along the latch bolt's axial direction to accommodate different lock backset distances. This adjustable positioning mechanism allows the same latch assembly to be installed on door panels with varying thicknesses and lock positions without requiring multiple specialized designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly is designed with universal adaptability features that allow it to function across multiple installation scenarios. The adjustable positioning capability enables a single design to serve multiple door configurations, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each lock backset specification.
3Manufacturing precision
If the latch assembly structure is simplified to reduce complexity, then the manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but the reliability may deteriorate due to poor assembly or component dimensional tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic linkage mechanism with multiple degrees of freedom inherently compensates for dimensional tolerances and assembly variations. The pivoting connecting plate and rotating driving member create a tolerance-absorbing mechanism that maintains reliable function even when component dimensions vary within standard manufacturing ranges, reducing the need for tight precision control.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly integrates multiple components (latch bolt, connecting plate, driving member, housing) into a composite mechanical system where the interaction between parts creates functional stability. This composite structure distributes stress and motion across multiple interfaces, making the overall system more robust to individual component variations than a simpler monolithic design would be.
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 latch assembly provides stable operation with improved functionality by allowing smaller angle handle turns and adaptable installation, reducing malfunctions due to assembly issues and tolerances, while enhancing security through an anti-theft feature.
Implementation Method 1
featuring a leverage mechanism that allows the latch bolt to be retracted by turning the handle at a smaller angle
Implementation Method 2
a spindle-shaped spring sleeved on the extension structure and configured to abut against the latch bolt and the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly includes a latch bolt module and a driving module. The latch bolt module includes a latch bolt cylinder, a latch bolt movably arranged on the latch bolt cylinder, a connecting plate connected to the latch bolt, and a linkage piece engaged with the connecting plate and formed with a notch. The driving module includes a driving plate abutting against the linkage piece, a driving member, and a housing having a first covering plate and a second covering plate. The first covering plate is formed with an extension structure bent relative to the first covering plate and passing through the notch. When the driving member is rotated, the driving plate is moved to drive the linkage piece to swing, such that the linkage piece drives the latch bolt to move relative to the latch bolt cylinder from an extended position to a retracted position through the connecting plate.