Abstract: A vending machine cabinet is retained in a closed position by a hook that is engaged by a vertically moveable latch bar that can be latched closed without requiring a solenoid. The latch bar is moved by means of a cam attached to one of the hooks. Prior to engaging the hook, an angled surface of the cam engages a surface defined by the opening in the latch bar. As the door is closed, the cam rotates through an angle thereby lifting the latch bar until the upwardly extending finger of the hook can move through the opening of the latch bar. When the door is fully closed, the surface of the cam is moved from beneath the edge of the opening in the latch bar thereby allowing the latch bar to drop behind the hook, latching the door closed.

Abstract: A vending machine cabinet that is retained in a closed position by a hook that is engaged by a vertically moveable latch bar can be latched closed without actuating a solenoid by means of a cam attached to one of the hooks. To engage the latch bar, the hook extends through an opening in the latch bar. Prior to the hook passing through the opening, an angled surface of the cam engages an upper surface defined by the opening in the latch bar. As the door is closed, the cam rotates through an angle less than ninety degrees, thereby lifting the latch bar until the upwardly extending finger of the hook can move through the opening of the latch plate. When the door is fully closed, the surface of the cam is moved from beneath the upper edge of the opening in the latch plate thereby allowing the latch plate to drop behind the hook, latching the door closed.