Stacking Latch Mechanism for Automatic Container Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latches for securing stackable containers require manual operation to engage, which can be inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A latch mechanism that secures two bodies together by simply placing one body on top of the other, utilizing a rotatable latch with a primary and secondary hook, biased to a first position, and engaging with a step on the body under moderate downward pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual connectors with swinging portions are used to secure stackable bodies, then the latch can be securely engaged, but the operator must actively move the swinging portion into engagement which is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism automatically engages when the upper container is placed on the lower container. The downward force from placing the container causes the latch to rotate and the primary hook to engage with the step on the lower container, eliminating the need for manual operation. The system serves itself by using the weight of the upper container to trigger the engagement mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch is pre-configured in an unengaged position where the primary hook is exposed and ready to engage. The housing is designed with a step that guides the latch into the correct position before engagement, so that when downward force is applied, the latch is already positioned to automatically secure with the step without requiring additional manual adjustment.
2Extent of automation
If a rotatable latch with primary and secondary hooks is used, then automatic engagement is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch combines multiple functions into a single component: the main body provides rotational movement, the primary hook engages with the step for securement, and the secondary hook provides an alternative engagement point or backup security. The housing integrates the latch mechanism within its structure, merging the container lid function with the latch mechanism housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch is divided into distinct functional segments: the main body for rotation, the primary hook for main engagement, and the secondary hook for additional security or alternative engagement. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while keeping the overall design relatively simple and manageable.
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
Automatically secures containers without manual effort, ensuring stable coupling and easy release with minimal operational force.
Implementation Method 1
The latch mechanism also includes a bias configured to bias the latch toward its first position.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a latch mechanism configured to secure two bodies together by simply placing one body on top of the other and applying moderate downward pressure to the top body. The latch mechanism includes a housing, a latch partially disposed within the housing, a main body and a primary hook configured to secure a second container to the housing. The latch may be is rotatably engaged to the housing and movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the primary hook is adjacent the housing and, in a position, wherein it can secure a second container to the housing. In the second position, the primary hook is distal from the housing and, in a position, wherein it cannot secure a second container to the housing. The latch mechanism also includes a latch bias configured to bias the latch toward its first position. The latch mechanism also includes a stopper slidably engaged to the latch and including a locking surface and holding surface. The stopper is movable between an upper position and a lower position. The latch mechanism also includes a stopper bias configured to bias the stopper toward its upper position such that when the latch is in its first position, the locking surface and primary hook create a negative space configured to receive and secure a second container to the housing. When stopper is in its upper position and the latch is its second position, the holding surface is configured to engage a second container and prevent the latch from rotating back to its first position.