Pivoting Latch Assembly for Low-Force Device Docking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch assemblies require a large downward force to couple and decouple devices due to attachment members that translate orthogonally, affecting user experience.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating pivotable attachment members with a biasing mechanism that allows for reduced force coupling and decoupling by pivoting the attachment members relative to a centerline.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If attachment members translate in a direction orthogonal to the downward direction, then the latch assembly can be designed with simple linear motion, but a relatively large downward force is required to move the attachment members a sufficient distance to couple the device
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment members are designed to pivot rather than translate linearly. The downward force causes the attachment members to rotate about a pivot point, with the biasing member providing a mechanical advantage that reduces the force required. This dynamic rotational motion allows the attachment members to engage with the device more efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member changes the force parameters by providing a spring force that assists the downward motion. As the attachment member pivots, the biasing member's force vector changes, providing maximum assistance at the critical engagement point, thereby reducing the overall downward force required from the user.
2Ease of manufacture
If attachment members translate orthogonally, then the mechanism is simple, but the perceived quality of the docking assembly is negatively impacted due to the large force required
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable attachment members with biasing members create a dynamic mechanism that feels responsive and high-quality to the user. The rotational motion combined with spring assistance provides a smooth, controlled engagement that enhances perceived quality, while still being manufacturable with standard mechanical components.
3Area of stationary object
If attachment members are positioned farther from the centerline in the first position, then there is more space for device engagement, but more force is required to move them closer to the centerline for coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member's spring force parameter changes as the attachment member moves from the first position to the second position. The spring is pre-loaded to provide increasing assistance as the attachment member approaches the centerline, reducing the force required despite the changing leverage conditions.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
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.