Pressure-Release Latch With Adjustable Torsion Force Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure-release latches for aircraft are heavy, complex, and lack the ability to adjust the torsion force, leading to variability in performance and the need for frequent spring replacements.
Innovation Solution
A compact, lightweight pressure-release latch with a toggle-linkage tensioner and adjustable torsion spring calibration mechanism, allowing manual opening and automatic release based on predetermined force thresholds, ensuring consistent performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art pressure-release latches use torsion springs to create latch locking force, then the latch can maintain a closed position, but the variability in bias properties of torsion springs leads to inconsistent opening forces and requires frequent spring replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transforms the static torsion spring system into a dynamic adjustable system. The calibration mechanism allows the opening force to be modified after assembly by adjusting the spring pre-load or engagement point, converting a fixed-property spring system into one where the effective force can be tuned. This resolves the reliability issue by allowing field adjustment to compensate for spring variability without replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the spring system through calibration. By adjusting the pre-load force, engagement angle, or effective lever arm length of the torsion spring, the opening force can be precisely controlled. This parameter adjustment capability eliminates the need to replace springs when force variability occurs, directly addressing the reliability contradiction.
2Reliability
If prior art pressure-release latches are designed with adequate strength and calibration mechanisms, then they provide reliable opening force, but they become heavier and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the calibration function from the main latch structure. The calibration mechanism is implemented as a separate, modular adjustment device that can be independently tuned. This segmentation allows the latch body to remain lightweight while the calibration component provides the necessary adjustment capability without adding excessive weight to the entire assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a calibration mechanism as an intermediary between the torsion spring and the latch bolt. This intermediary component allows precise control of the opening force without requiring a completely redesigned latch structure. The calibration mechanism acts as a force-modulating interface, enabling reliable opening forces with minimal additional weight compared to a fully redesigned heavy-duty latch.
3Ease of manufacture
If prior art pressure-release latches use standard torsion springs, then they are easier to manufacture, but they lack the ability to adjust opening force and require spring swapping for calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The invention performs the calibration action preliminarily during the assembly process rather than requiring post-assembly spring replacement. The calibration mechanism is designed to be adjusted and set before the latch is deployed, allowing the manufacturer or installer to precisely set the opening force during initial setup. This preliminary calibration eliminates the need for spring swapping later while maintaining ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention makes the standard torsion spring universal by adding a calibration mechanism that can accommodate a range of spring variations. Instead of requiring different spring specifications for different applications, the universal calibration mechanism allows a single spring type to be used across multiple applications with adjustable opening forces. This multi-functionality maintains ease of manufacture while providing adaptability.
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 latch provides reliable, adjustable opening forces, reducing weight and complexity while ensuring safe and efficient operation under varying pressure conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the latch includes a latch bolt movable between open and closed positions by an actuator. In the closed position, the actuator locks the latch bolt in place with a latch bolt head abutting the inside surface of the frame
Implementation Method 2
the latch bolt is pivotally mounted to a latch base and is restrained at one end by a spring-biased, toggle-linkage tensioner. In accordance with the mechanical advantage/leverage of the toggle-linkage tensioner in various configurations, the latch bolt releases soon after the rotational force exerted on the latch head created by the blowout force exceeds an opposed, pre-designed, rotational restraining force
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure-release latch for releasably locking closed a door panel on the frame to which the door panel is hingedly connected. The latch has a base and a latch bolt rotatable between a closed position that locks the door panel closed and an open position that allows the door to swing open. A latch bolt actuator connected to the latch bolt rotates the latch bolt between the closed and open positions from outside the door panel, locks the latch bolt in the closed position, and automatically unlocks and moves the latch bolt to the open position when a predetermined opening force is applied to the latch bolt. A calibration mechanism adjusts the magnitude of the predetermined opening force required to automatically unlock the latch.