Stacking Latch Mechanism With Self-Service Biasing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stacking latch mechanisms require manual operation to engage and disengage, which can be inconvenient for securing multiple containers or stackable bodies together.
Innovation Solution
A latch mechanism that automatically secures two bodies together by applying moderate downward pressure, utilizing a rotatable latch with a primary hook and secondary hook, and a stopper with biases to maintain engagement without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual connectors with swinging portions are used, then the latch mechanism can secure two bodies together, but manual operation is required which reduces convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism automatically engages when the second container is placed on the first container. The weight of the upper container causes the latch to rotate and the primary hook to engage with the step on the lower container without requiring manual operation. The system serves itself by using the gravitational force of the stacked containers to complete the latching action.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch is pre-configured in a housing with the primary hook positioned to automatically engage with the step when the container is stacked. The biasing mechanism is pre-set to rotate the latch into the engaged position upon application of downward force, eliminating the need for preliminary manual manipulation.
2Ease of operation
If automatic engagement is implemented, then operational convenience is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components like stopper and bias mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The housing serves multiple functions: it protects the latch mechanism, provides structural support, and includes a step that engages with the latch's primary hook. The biasing mechanism serves both to rotate the latch into position and to maintain engagement. By making components multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for additional separate parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism combines the housing, latch, stopper, and biasing mechanism into an integrated assembly. The stopper is slidably engaged to the latch and works in conjunction with the primary and secondary hooks. This merging of components achieves automatic engagement while keeping the overall structure compact and manageable.
3Reliability
If multiple hooks and stopper mechanisms are added, then securing reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the primary hook for engagement, the secondary hook for additional securing, the stopper for position control, and the biasing mechanism for automatic operation. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using standard fabrication techniques, then assembled through straightforward processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch incorporates movable components including the rotatable latch that pivots between engaged and disengaged positions, and the slidable stopper that moves along the latch. These dynamic elements are designed with simple pivot points and sliding surfaces that can be manufactured using conventional machining or molding processes, maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving reliable securing.
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
Enables secure stacking of containers without manual operation, allowing for easy engagement and disengagement through weight or applied force, enhancing convenience and efficiency in securing multiple bodies.
Implementation Method 1
a bias configured to bias the latch toward its first position
Implementation Method 2
the weight of the upper body would supply enough downward force to engage the latch mechanism and secure the two bodies together
Data Source
AI summary
A latch mechanism is configured to secure two containers together and includes a housing, a latch, a main body and a primary hook. The latch is rotatably engaged to the housing and movable between a first position, wherein it can secure a second container to the housing, and a second position, wherein it cannot secure a second container to the housing. A stopper is slidably engaged to the latch and includes a locking surface and holding surface. A stopper bias biases the stopper toward an upper position such that when the latch is in its first position, the locking surface and primary hook create a negative space which receives and secures the second container to the housing, and when the latch is in its second position, the holding surface is configured to engage a second container and prevent the latch from rotating back to its first position.