Latch with adjustable contact point for bath
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing walk-in baths face challenges in efficiently securing the door in a closed position while allowing easy transition between locked and unlocked states, particularly when dealing with fluid pressure.
Innovation Solution
A locking assembly with an adjustable latch and adjustment assembly that allows for varying the lateral distance of the latch relative to the bath, thereby adjusting the locking force applied, facilitating easier transition between locked and unlocked positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the latch is positioned closer to the bath to reduce switching force, then the force required to transition the latch is reduced, but the water-tight seal and security of the locked position deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly incorporates an adjustment mechanism that allows the contact point between the latch and bath to be dynamically repositioned. The latch can be adjusted to multiple positions along the hinge axis, enabling users to optimize the balance between switching force and sealing effectiveness based on specific operational requirements. This dynamic adjustability resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt to different force-seal requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the positional parameter of the latch contact point relative to the bath. By providing multiple adjustable positions (e.g., first position closer to the bath for stronger sealing, second position farther for easier switching), the system allows parameter variation to resolve the contradiction between sealing strength and operational ease.
2Force
If the latch is positioned farther from the bath to reduce locking force, then the force required to maintain locked position is reduced, but the security and seal strength deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism enables dynamic repositioning of the latch contact point, allowing users to select optimal positions for different operational conditions. When maximum security is needed, the latch can be positioned closer to the bath; when easier operation is needed, it can be positioned farther away, thus resolving the force-security contradiction through adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention varies the positional parameter of the latch along the hinge axis to control the locking force. By providing multiple discrete positions with different force characteristics, the system allows parameter optimization to balance locking force requirements with security needs.
3Device complexity
If a fixed latch position is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different user needs and conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into discrete positional settings (e.g., first position, second position, third position) rather than continuous adjustment. This segmentation provides adaptability for different user needs while keeping the structure relatively simple, as each position corresponds to a specific cutout or engagement point in the adjustment assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable latch assembly serves multiple functions: it provides secure locking, easy unlocking, water-tight sealing, and adaptability to different user strengths and preferences. The single adjustment mechanism enables the latch to fulfill multiple operational requirements that would otherwise require separate specialized mechanisms, thus improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking assembly includes a latch configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position and an adjustment assembly including a first component including an engagement feature and a second component including at least a first cutout defining a first depth and a second cutout defining a second depth shallower than the first depth. The first cutout and the second cutout are configured to receive the engagement feature. The first component is movable relative to the second component between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the engagement feature is engaged with the first cutout such that the latch is laterally spaced from the bath by a first distance. In the second position, the engagement feature is engaged with the second cutout such that the latch is laterally spaced from the bath by a second distance greater than the first distance.