Latch mechanism

US6540272B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Meritor Light Vehicle Systems (UK) Limited · GB

Inventor

• Nigel Spurr · Dudley, GB

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 23, 2001
• Grant date: Apr 1, 2003
• Expiry date: Mar 23, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T292/1047
• WIPO field: Civil engineering
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

A latch mechanism includes a latch bolt having an open position for releasing a striker in use, and a closed position for retaining a striker in use, and a pawl having a retaining position for retaining the latch bolt in at least its closed position, and a release position for allowing the latch bolt to move between its open and closed positions, a release element having a rest position and an actuated position, a release link having an engaging position and a disengaged position, movement of the release element between its rest position and its activated position causing movement of the release link, movement of the release element from the rest position to the actuated position when the release link is in its engaging position causing the pawl to move to its release position, and movement of the release element from the rest position to the actuated position when the release link is in its disengaged position allowing the pawl to remain in its retaining position, and a locking member having a locked position, wherein the release link is held in its disengaged position and an unlocked position allowing the release link to move to its engaging position. A biasing member is provided…