Abstract: A mechanical component attachment safety system is disclosed wherein a position of a blcoking rod is controlled by an over-center lever assembly having a drive lever connected to the blocking rod by a cable actuating system and a link rod. Movement of the drive lever between its over-center positions causes the blocking rod to extend or retract, accordingly. When extended, the blocking rod will prevent closure of a cowl or protective panel and when retracted, will permit closure of the panel or cowl. The drive lever is engaged by a fastener attaching a mechanical component to a frame so as to be retained in a position in which the blocking rod is retracted. If the mechanical component is not properly attached, the fastener will not engage the drive lever, which is biased to its opposite over-center position so as to cause the extension of the blocking rod and prevent closure of the panel or cowl.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a locking hinge assembly for pivotally attaching a movable cowling panel to a stationary cowling portion in which the locking mechanism is incorporated into the hinge assembly. The hinge assembly includes pivoting links attaching the movable cowling panel to a stationary fitting member which, in turn, may be attached to the stationary cowling. The links, along with the stationary fitting member and the movable cowling panel form a quadrilateral with four pivot axes located at the apexes of the quadrilateral. The assembly includes a movable hook member mounted on the stationary fitting member such that it moves into engagement with a pivot shaft attaching one of the links to the movable cowling panel when the panel is in its closed position. A cam portion formed on one of the links contacts the hook member as the panel moves toward its closed position so as to move the hook member into engagement with the pivot shaft.