Abstract: A latch system for coupling a panel or access door to a structure, having a hook, a keeper, an overcenter mechanism and an actuator. When the hook engages the keeper, the keeper drives a ramp formed into the hook causing the hook to pivot. The hook, torsionally linked to the overcenter mechanism, activates the overcenter mechanism securing the hook in a closed position. When the actuator is depressed it reverses the overcenter mechanism pivoting the hook into an open position. Multiple hooks are shown associated with the latching assembly.

Abstract: A latching structure defined by a mount, a handle pivotally mounted to the mount and linked with a latch pin slidably mounted in the mount. The linkage between the handle and the latch pin includes first parallel links pivotally mounted to the handle and pivotally mounted to the latch pin. Second links are pivotally mounted to the first links and to a spring block slidably mounted on the latch pin. A spring is placed in compression between a shoulder on the latch pin and the spring blocks. Consequently, the linkage mechanism operates to actuate the latch pin with the handle and create an overcenter mechanism to bias the entire mechanism to either a fully opened position or a fully closed position. A gasket is provided on a flange associated with the handle to seal the latch mechanism when the mechanism is strongly biased by the spring into the closed position.