Latch apparatus and method
US7363788B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 7, 2004 |
| Grant date | Apr 29, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 7, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T292/1082
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A latch assembly having at least one control element having a first path of motion in which a ratchet is moved to an unlatched position and a second path of motion in which the ratchet is not so moved, the path of motion taken by the control element dependent upon whether an engagement element is engaged with the control element or disengaged therefrom. Preferably, the control element moves the ratchet by contact with a pawl which itself can be engaged with the ratchet. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the control element can be partially or fully actuated through its second path of motion while still being engagable with its engagement element. If already partially or fully actuated through its second path of motion, the engagement element is preferably movable into contact with the control element and can move the control element to its first path of motion. The latch assembly can have a second control element also having first and second paths of motion determined at least partially upon whether an engagement element is engaged with the second control element or disengaged therefrom. The second control element can be connected to the first engagement element t…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.