Rotary Latch Disconnect Feature for Tamper Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary latches can be vulnerable to unauthorized opening through brute force or drilling, as locks may be overcome by physical force or tampering.
Innovation Solution
A rotary actuation latch with a disconnect feature, featuring a pawl that can be selectively disconnected from rotation while maintaining axial movement, incorporating a locking device that prevents unauthorized rotation while allowing axial movement, and utilizing compression springs to manage the latch's positions and interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locks are used in rotary latches, then unauthorized opening is prevented through frictional interference, but the locks can be overcome by brute force or drilling
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is divided into functionally independent segments: the pawl assembly that engages the closure surface, the rotary member for actuation, and the locking device with disconnect feature. This segmentation allows the locking device to independently control rotational movement while the pawl maintains axial engagement, creating layered security that prevents both brute force and drilling attacks.
Solution Approach 2:
The disconnect feature acts as an intermediary mechanism between the rotary member and the pawl. When engaged, it selectively decouples the rotational drive from the pawl while maintaining axial positioning. This intermediary protects the critical locking components by preventing direct transmission of brute force to the lock shaft or drilling access to internal mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the pawl is rigidly connected to the rotary member, then rotation is efficiently transmitted, but the latch cannot provide selective disconnect for enhanced security
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the rotary member and pawl transitions from static to dynamic through the disconnect feature. The system can switch between two states: engaged (rigid connection for efficient rotation) and disengaged (decoupled for security). This dynamic adaptability allows the same mechanism to optimize for both operational efficiency and security requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary member serves multiple functions: it transmits rotational motion to actuate the pawl during normal operation, and simultaneously serves as a platform for the locking device that controls rotational movement. The disconnect feature adds a third function by selectively decoupling the drive connection. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between efficient actuation and security disconnect.
3Reliability
If compression springs are used to manage pawl position, then axial movement is controlled, but the complexity of the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression springs are positioned to be self-contained within the latch assembly, utilizing existing structural spaces. The springs automatically engage and disengage with the pawl and housing features during normal operation without requiring external adjustment or additional control mechanisms. This self-service approach provides reliable axial position control while minimizing added complexity.
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
Enhances security by preventing rotation of the pawl when the latch is locked, while allowing axial movement, thus providing a secure and tamper-resistant closure mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
A compression spring member may be disposed between the tray and the pawl for urging the pawl drive interface toward the drive position.
Implementation Method 2
The compression spring member may comprise a first compression spring member, the latch further including a second compression spring member disposed between the tray and the disconnector for urging the disconnector away from the rear side of the tray.
Data Source
AI summary
According to certain aspects of the invention, rotary actuation latches are disclosed. The latches include a disconnect feature, so that when locked certain elements of the latches are deactivated. The disconnect feature may be operated by a locking device, such as a key lock or other device. The latch may be a rotary compression latch.