Magnetic Latch Assembly for Movable Partition Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical latches used in movable partitions are unsightly, pose a hazard, and require significant effort to align and engage, making them difficult to use, especially in larger structures.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic latch assembly is introduced, featuring a ferrous structure and a magnet for secure engagement of post members, allowing for easy alignment and secure coupling without protruding hooks, and can be manually or automatically operated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical latches are used to secure movable partitions, then the partitions can be secured together, but the latches are unsightly, pose a hazard, and require significant effort to align and engage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical latch system with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic latch assembly uses magnetic attraction forces between a magnet in the first post member and a ferrous structure in the second post member to secure the movable partitions, eliminating the need for mechanical hooks and complex alignment mechanisms. This substitution provides reliable securing while dramatically reducing alignment effort and improving aesthetics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the securing mechanism from mechanical interlocking to magnetic attraction. By utilizing magnetic field strength as the securing parameter instead of mechanical engagement, the system achieves both strong securing forces and easy alignment, as the magnetic field creates an attractive force that guides the post members into proper alignment automatically.
2Reliability
If conventional mechanical latches with protruding hooks are used, then the partitions can be secured, but the protruding structures are unsightly and pose a hazard
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates protruding mechanical hooks by replacing them with a magnetic coupling system. The magnet and ferrous structure are contained within the post members, creating an invisible magnetic field that provides securing forces without any protruding elements. This resolves both the aesthetic concern and the safety hazard associated with protruding hooks.
3Reliability
If mechanical latches are used in larger structures, then the partitions can be secured, but the alignment and engagement require considerable effort that may be difficult for individuals without substantial strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical latch system that requires substantial engagement force with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic attraction force automatically draws the post members together during alignment, eliminating the need for users to exert considerable strength to engage the latches. This makes the system accessible to all individuals regardless of physical strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic latch assembly provides self-aligning and self-engaging functionality through magnetic attraction. The magnetic field automatically guides the post members into proper alignment and pulls them together for engagement without requiring external force or manual manipulation, enabling the system to service itself during the securing operation.
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 magnetic latch assembly provides a secure, aesthetically pleasing, and efficient means of securing movable partitions, reducing the effort required for alignment and engagement, while withstanding substantial forces and enhancing sound reduction.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic latch assembly is introduced, featuring a ferrous structure and a magnet for secure engagement of post members
Data Source
AI summary
A partition system is provided as well as an apparatus and method for securing movable partitions. In one embodiment, a movable partition, such as a folding door, includes a post member (e.g., a lead post) having a latching structure associated therewith. Another post member, such as associated with a wall or another movable partition, includes a latching structure configured to form a magnetic coupling with the first latching structure. One of the latching structures may be slidingly displaced relative to its associated post member so as to selectively bring the two latching members into or out of alignment with one another. When a magnetic coupling has been formed, relative displacement of the two latching structures results in the weakening, if not defeat, of the magnetic coupling so that the post members, and their associated partitions, may be displaced away from one another. Other latching structures are also disclosed.