Rotary Latch Joystick Release Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rotary latch systems require precise alignment of the release cable relative to the pivot axis of the trip lever for optimal mechanical advantage, leading to increased force requirements and the need for multiple configurations to accommodate different applications, which complicates manufacturing and usage.

Innovation Solution

A rotary latch system equipped with a spring-loaded toggle release lever, or joystick, allowing for release in various directions, enabling installation in any position and improving accessibility without physical modifications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If the release cable is aligned parallel to the housing of the rotary latch, then the mechanical advantage is maximized, but the cable accessibility is limited and multiple configurations are required for different applications

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveforce required to release the latchVSAvoidcable accessibility in different applications

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The trip lever is changed from a fixed pivot configuration to a rotating pivot configuration, allowing the lever to dynamically adjust its orientation. This enables the release cable to approach from various angles while maintaining optimal mechanical advantage through the rotating pivot mechanism that follows the cable's pull direction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The rotary latch assembly is designed with a universal rotating pivot mechanism that can accommodate cables approaching from any direction. This single configuration can serve multiple applications without requiring modifications or additional parts, as the rotating pivot adapts to different cable attachment positions and angles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Force

If the trip lever is configured with a fixed pivot axle, then the mechanical advantage is optimized for a specific cable alignment, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple configurations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical advantage of the trip leverVSAvoidnumber of configurations required

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixed pivot axle is replaced with a rotating pivot mechanism that allows the trip lever to change its pivot point dynamically. This single dynamic mechanism replaces multiple static configurations, reducing device complexity while maintaining optimal mechanical advantage across all cable alignment scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the release cable is positioned at a non-tangential angle to the pivot axis, then the cable accessibility is improved, but the force required to release the latch increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility of the release mechanismVSAvoidforce required to release the latch

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The rotating pivot mechanism dynamically adjusts the pivot orientation to maintain a tangential relationship between the release cable and the pivot axis, regardless of the cable's approach angle. This ensures optimal mechanical advantage is maintained while allowing the cable to be positioned for ease of operation and accessibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 joystick mechanism provides maximum mechanical advantage regardless of cable alignment, simplifying installation and use across different applications by reducing the force needed to release the latch, enhancing accessibility and versatility.

Implementation Method 1

A rotary latch for selectively locking a closure, such as a tonneau cover on a pickup truck bed or the swing-up window on a pickup truck cap, is provided with a spring loaded toggle release lever, or joystick.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring mechanism: Spring

Implementation Method 2

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS8029029B2Rotary latch with joystick

Publication Date: 2011.10.04 THE EASTERN COMPANY

AI summary

A rotary latch for selectively locking a closure, such as a tonneau cover, is provided with a joystick or toggle release lever. The joystick release lever enables the rotary latch to be installed in any position with respect to a remote handle because the joystick can be pulled in any direction, 360 degrees, to release the rotary latch. The joystick includes a trapped base supporting a spherical portion that is nested in a circular opening in the housing of the latch. The joystick is spring loaded, and is movable about its central axis in any direction, causing the base to pivot against the inside of the housing. The base of the joystick is positioned over a spring-loaded catch locking the rotary latch. As the base of the joystick rotates against the inside of the housing, it depresses the spring-loaded catch, releasing the rotary latch.