Rotary Actuated Latch With Linear Rods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical latching systems are complex, bulky, and prone to premature failure due to the need for off-axis rotation of latch rods, which complicates installation and increases stress on the mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A rotary actuated latch system with linearly acting latch rods that self-engage without additional user input, utilizing a handle with guides and strike plates to rotate the handle and apply tension via a spring, allowing for compact and stress-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional latch rods rotate off-axis using a cam plate, then the latch can be engaged and disengaged, but the design becomes complex and bulky with increased stress on the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the cam plate component from the conventional latch mechanism. Instead of using a cam plate to rotate the latch rod off-axis, the invention uses a straight rod that rotates in-line with the handle axis, eliminating the need for additional cam plates and reducing overall mechanism complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by having the latch rod rotate in-line with the handle axis rather than off-axis. This reversal of the rotation geometry simplifies the mechanism by eliminating the need for cam plates and other intermediate components required for off-axis rotation
2Reliability
If conventional latch rods rotate off-axis, then the latch can function, but installation is complicated and potential failure points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the cam plate and associated off-axis rotation mechanism, reducing the number of components that need to be installed and aligned. The straight rod design with in-line rotation simplifies installation by requiring fewer precision alignments and mounting points
Solution Approach 2:
By inverting the rotation geometry to in-line rather than off-axis, the patent simplifies the installation process. The straight rod can be directly mounted without requiring the complex alignment and mounting infrastructure needed for off-axis rotating rods and cam plates
3Ease of operation
If conventional latch systems use cam plates to rotate rods, then the latch can be operated, but additional stresses are imposed on the rods and mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the cam plate that generates additional bending and torsional stresses on the latch rod. The direct in-line rotation eliminates the moment arms and complex force vectors created by off-axis rotation, resulting in purely axial loading on the rod
Solution Approach 2:
By inverting the rotation geometry to in-line rotation, the patent changes the stress distribution from complex multi-axial loading to simple axial loading. This reversal of the rotation geometry significantly reduces the maximum stresses experienced by the rod during operation
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 system provides a simple, compact, and reliable self-engaging mechanism that reduces potential failure points and can function in limited spaces, with the ability to be manufactured as a complete subassembly for easy installation.
Implementation Method 1
a handle (101) having two guides (102), the handle (101) operably connected to a spring (103)
Data Source
AI summary
Rotary actuated latch systems with linearly acting latch rods, and methods of assembling rotary actuated latch systems with linearly acting rods are disclosed. In some aspects, the rotary actuated latch systems are “self-engaging” and comprise a handle having two guides, the handle operably attached to a spring, two latch rods comprising clevises operably attached to the two guides, and at least two strike plates for actuating the latching system without additional user input. The spring applies equal tension to the two linearly acting latch rods, allowing for smooth operation of the latching system without binding while providing for a compact design that eliminates stresses imposed by conventional latch systems where the latch rods rotate off-axis. In some embodiments, the rotary actuated latch system may be assembled as a complete unit, prior to installation on the mechanism to be latched.