Abstract: The assembly is utilized in a centrifuge device wherein a receptacle is received and held between first and second platens which are held within a platen holder fixed to the centrifuge device and in respective inner and outer parallel planes spaced radially outwardly from a vertical axis of rotation of the centrifuge device. The first platen is movable with one side wall of the holder about a generally horizontal axis extending along a lower edge of a second side wall of the holder. A latch mechanism provides for a toggle latching action between the walls as the latch mechanism is moved from an open position to a closed position. In one embodiment of the latch mechanism a handle is connected to a shaft journalled on the one side wall and mounts a plate on each end thereof with each plate having a pin extending therefrom that is rotated within a keeper member on an edge of the second wall to latch the platens in place.

Abstract: The latch assembly is utilized in a centrifuge device wherein a receptacle is received and held between first and second platens which have elastomeric linings and which are held generally upright in respective inner and outer parallel planes spaced radially outwardly from a vertical axis of rotation of the centrifuge device. The first platen is situated in the inner plane and the second platen is fixed in the outer plane. The first platen is mounted for pivotal movement about a generally horizontal axis extending along a lower edge of the platens. The latch assembly includes first and second keeper members fixed respectively to adjacent opposite sides of the second platen. The latch assembly further includes a shaft journalled to the outer surface of the first platen. First and second latch mounting members are fixed, respectively, to opposite ends of the shaft.