Pivoting Latch Assembly for Low-Force Device Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch assemblies require a large downward force to couple and decouple devices due to attachment members that can only translate orthogonally, negatively impacting user experience.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of pivotable attachment members with a biasing mechanism that allows for reduced force requirements by pivoting the attachment members inward and outward along a centerline, facilitating easier coupling and decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If attachment members are configured to translate only in a direction orthogonal to the downward direction, then the latch assembly structure is simpler, but a relatively large downward force is required to couple the device to the docking assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment members are configured to pivot about a pivot axis rather than translate linearly. This dynamic motion allows the attachment members to move from an engaged position to a disengaged position with reduced downward force, as the pivoting action converts the coupling motion into a rotational movement that requires less force to overcome the engagement barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly incorporates a biasing member that applies a biasing force to the attachment members, changing the force parameter by providing a pre-loaded spring force. This biasing force assists in moving the attachment members during pivoting, reducing the additional downward force that the user must apply to achieve coupling or decoupling.
2Strength
If attachment members are configured to translate in a direction orthogonal to the downward direction, then the latch assembly structure is simpler, but the perceived quality of the docking assembly is negatively impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable attachment members create a more sophisticated mechanical mechanism that enhances the perceived quality of the docking assembly. The pivoting action with biasing member provides a more refined and controlled coupling experience, which users perceive as higher quality compared to simple linear translation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member acts as an intermediary element between the attachment members and the external force applied during coupling. This intermediary component smooths the force application and provides a more refined mechanical interaction, enhancing the perceived quality while managing the increased structural complexity through a well-defined mechanical relationship.
3Ease of operation
If pivotable attachment members with biasing mechanism are implemented, then reduced force requirements are achieved, but the latch assembly structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting mechanism with biasing member creates a dynamic system that reduces the force required for operation. The rotational degree of freedom combined with spring biasing provides a mechanical advantage that simplifies the user's interaction, making coupling and decoupling easier despite the increased structural complexity of the mechanism itself.
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
This design reduces the necessary downward force, enhancing user experience and perceived quality by allowing for smoother and more efficient device attachment and detachment processes.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member configured to pivot at least one of the first attachment member or the second attachment member in the outward direction when the actuating member is moved from the second position to the first position
Implementation Method 2
the actuating member is configured to exert an inward force onto the first attachment member and onto the second attachment member when the actuating member is in the second position
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly for coupling with a device is provided. The latch assembly defines an X direction, a Y direction, a Z direction, and a centerline that extends along the Z direction. The centerline defines an inward direction and an outward direction. The latch assembly includes a first attachment member, a second attachment member, and an actuating member. The actuating member is configured to move from a first position to a second position along the Z direction. The actuating member is further configured to exert an inward force onto the first attachment member and onto the second attachment member when the actuating member is in the second position. The latch assembly includes a biasing member configured to pivot at least one of the first attachment member or the second attachment member in the outward direction when the actuating member is moved from the second position to the first position.