Visible Hook Latch with Trigger Lock for Secure Closure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing aircraft latches are prone to accidental opening, difficult to visually confirm closure, and lack anti-vibration features, posing safety risks and operational inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A high visibility hook latch with a spring-braced trigger lock and anti-vibration means, featuring a hook arm, handle, and connector, which includes a detent mechanism to secure the latch in a preexisting housing and ensure visible confirmation of closure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If conventional latches are used, then the latch structure is simple, but the latch is difficult to visually observe to ensure closure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatch structureVSAvoidvisual observation of closure

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies color changes by using a visible indicator element that changes color or becomes visible when the latch is in the closed position. The indicator includes a light-reflective surface that is hidden when open but visible when closed, allowing easy visual detection of latch status without adding mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

2Ease of operation

If the trigger is exposed for easy operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the trigger can be hit accidentally during maintenance thus unlocking the latch

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetrigger accessibilityVSAvoidaccidental unlocking prevention

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary protective cover that surrounds the trigger mechanism. The cover includes a recessed area that allows intentional trigger actuation but protects against accidental impacts during maintenance, thus mediating between accessibility and protection needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by providing a protective shield positioned before the trigger can be accidentally struck. This shield preemptively blocks harmful impacts while still allowing deliberate operation, preventing accidental unlocking before it can occur.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Difficulty of detecting and measuring

If heavy and complex devices are used to improve visibility, then the visibility is improved, but the device becomes heavier and more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatch visibilityVSAvoidlatch weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Difficulty of detecting and measuringVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses color changes and light-reflective properties of the indicator element to achieve high visibility without adding weight. The indicator leverages optical properties rather than mechanical magnification, keeping the latch lightweight while ensuring clear visual detection of closure status.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the latch status through the indicator mechanism. Rather than making the entire latch larger or more complex, it creates a simplified visual signal that copies the essential information about latch status, achieving visibility without weight penalty.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

4Device complexity

If no positive locking provision is made, then the latch structure is simple, but the aircraft cowl may come down and close in a situation where the latch has not been completely locked

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelatch mechanismVSAvoidsecure locking

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by providing visual indication that confirms when the latch has reached the fully locked position. The indicator clearly shows when proper engagement has occurred, giving feedback to the operator to ensure secure locking before closing the cowl, without adding complex locking mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 latch provides enhanced visibility, secure closure confirmation, and resistance to accidental opening, while being lightweight and cost-effective, addressing safety and operational challenges.

Implementation Method 1

spring-braced trigger lock with anti-vibrating means

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

spring-braced trigger lock

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

detent in the latch that engages with the preexisting housing to hold the latch handle in place

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Fastener: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS12473095B2High visibility hook latch

Publication Date: 2025.11.18 HERNANDEZ ANDRES

AI summary

A high visibility hook latch may include a hook arm having a proximal end and a distal end; a handle pivotably attached to the proximal end of the hook arm; and a connector having a first connector end pivotably attached to the distal end of the hook arm via a link and a second connector end pivotably attached to the handle proximate to the hook arm.