Motorized Compression Latch Cam Trigger Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door closure systems for baggage storage compartments in recreational vehicles, buses, and trains lack efficient mechanisms for securing doors in the closed position, particularly in scenarios requiring automated or manual override operations.
Innovation Solution
A compression latch assembly (CLA) comprising a housing with a cam surface, a latch subassembly with a pawl, trigger, and release arm, and a motor unit that moves the latch subassembly between extended and retracted positions, allowing for automated operation and manual override.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a motor unit is added to enable automated operation, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated motor unit that drives the latch subassembly through a cam mechanism. The motor unit converts electrical energy to mechanical motion, automatically cycling the cam follower along the cam surface to control pawl engagement and disengagement, thereby improving ease of operation while accepting increased device complexity through the addition of the motor assembly.
2Reliability
If a cam mechanism is used to control pawl release, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is pre-configured with specific surface geometries that automatically guide the cam follower through the correct sequence of motions. As the motor unit drives the cam rotation, the pre-designed cam surfaces proactively control the timing and sequence of pawl release and engagement, ensuring reliable operation without requiring complex control systems or multiple actuators.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the latch subassembly is made movable between extended and retracted positions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch subassembly is designed with movable mounting that allows it to transition between extended and retracted positions along the door surface. This dynamic positioning capability enables the latch to adapt to different door configurations and sealing requirements. The movability is achieved through a motor-driven mechanism that cycles the subassembly positions, accepting increased device complexity in exchange for enhanced adaptability to various transportation applications.
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 CLA effectively secures doors in the closed position while allowing for automated operation and manual override, enhancing security and usability in various transportation applications.
Implementation Method 1
the cam is configured to urge the cam follower to rotate the trigger from the home position to the release position
Implementation Method 2
a release arm pivotably connected to said frame and biased to engage said trigger
Implementation Method 3
a pawl pivotably connected to said frame and biased to move from a closed position to an open position
Data Source
AI summary
A compression latch assembly (CLA) includes a latch subassembly that is movably mounted to a housing and includes a frame, a pawl pivotably connected to the frame and biased to move from a closed position to an open position, a trigger pivotably connected to the frame and movable between a home position and a release position, and a release arm pivotably connected to the frame. The release arm has a cam follower that is positioned to engage a cam on the housing. A motor unit is configured for moving the latch subassembly between extended and retracted positions. In the course of moving from the retracted position to the extended position, the cam is configured to urge the cam follower to rotate the trigger from the home position to the release position, which causes the trigger to release the pawl, which causes the pawl to move to the open position.