Operating Means Patents (Class 292/110)
  • Patent number: 12000594
    Abstract: A home appliance includes a body and a door. The body includes a chamber. The door is configured to open and close the chamber. The door includes an upper flange forming an upper surface of the door. The door also includes a side flange forming a side surface of the door. The door further includes a support flange formed by being bent at an upper end of the side flange. The support flange includes a support portion that is configured to come in contact with the upper flange and a bending portion connecting the side flange to the support portion. The upper flange is arranged on the support portion such that one end of the upper flange is located on an upper portion of the bending portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2024
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Heesoo Jeong, Woojoo Kim, Sihwan Kim, Hoseung Seo, Dongmyeong Lee, Hongman Chang
  • Patent number: 11583047
    Abstract: Provided is a lunch box container including a lower housing that is formed to have an inner containing space; an upper housing that is hinged to one edge of the lower housing and is rotatable; an inner case contained in the lower housing and provided with partition walls to separate a plurality of inner spaces; and a locking wing that is formed on the other edge of the lower housing or the upper housing. The upper housing includes a trench portion formed on a lower surface to correspond to an upper end portion of the inner case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: FLEXNLOCK
    Inventor: Kyung Sun Kim
  • Patent number: 11119123
    Abstract: A power meter includes a power meter housing and a terminal block that is movable relative to the power meter housing between a first orientation where two or more terminals of the terminal block face a first direction, and a second orientation where the two or more terminals of the terminal block face a second direction. A controller is operatively coupled to the two or more terminals of the terminal block in the first orientation and in the second orientation and is configured to determine a number of power monitor parameters for one or more phases of power that is delivered to a load based at least in part on signals at the two or more terminals of the terminal block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Staub
  • Patent number: 10578645
    Abstract: An electrical contact for use in an integrated circuit testing apparatus having an elongated electrically conductive contact pin with a contact tip facing upwards at an inner end of the contact pin, a curved bottom surface that allows the contact pin to rock and slide from side to side during testing. An elongated compressible member with a “P-shaped” cross section, with a “vertical portion” which is the upper, curved part of the so-called letter “P” shape adapted to fit snugly within an upward-facing recess on a top part of the contact pin, and a “horizontal portion” which is the trunk or vertical line of the so-called letter “P” shape positions in between and in contact with a lower top surface of the contact pin and a socket roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: JF MICROTECHNOLOGY SDN. BHD.
    Inventors: Wei Kuong Foong, Kok Sing Goh, Shamal Mundiyath, Eng Kiat Lee
  • Patent number: 10364968
    Abstract: Systems and apparatus for joining structures, such as light fixture sections, are provided. In some example embodiments, a joiner assembly can include a hook element having an opening defined in at least one side portion of the hook element and a translational element passing through the opening of the hook element. The joiner assembly further includes an actuator operably connected to the translational element such that rotational movement of the actuator causes the translational element rotate the hook element from a first position to a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Derek Bruce Baker, David W. Dranchak
  • Patent number: 10266041
    Abstract: A locking device for a convertible vehicle is proposed, comprising a locking support, a locking hook, which can be shifted in a translational and/or rotational manner so as to be displaced between a release position and a locked position, and a driving mechanism for the locking hook, said driving mechanism comprising a driving element, which is driven by a driving motor and drives the locking hook, as well as a detection device for detecting a position of the driving element. The detection device is a sensor, which continuously detects the position of the driving element with respect to the locking support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: WEBASTO SE
    Inventors: Christian Rudolfi, Franz Haberl, Magnus Sviberg
  • Patent number: 10233682
    Abstract: A mechanism configured to fasten a hood panel to a vehicle body for covering a vehicle under-hood compartment includes a pivotable latch. The latch has a primary catch portion that facilitates closure of the under-hood compartment via the hood panel. The latch also has a secondary catch portion that limits position of the hood panel within a predetermined distance from the vehicle body and generates an opening between the vehicle body and the hood panel. The latch additionally has a release handle that shifts into the opening to permit operator access to the release handle for releasing the secondary catch portion to uncover the under-hood compartment. The mechanism also includes a resilient element that selectively preloads the primary catch portion to facilitate closure of the under-hood compartment and preloads the secondary catch portion to limit the position of the hood panel within the predetermined distance from the vehicle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Justin J. Roth, James M. Townson, James N. Nelsen, Ryan Calomeni
  • Patent number: 9533554
    Abstract: A top of a convertible vehicle includes at least one top element displaceable between a closed position and a storage position. Each of two side portions accommodates a closing system fixing the relevant side portion to a front apron of the vehicle or to a further top element. The closing systems are displaceable between a blocked position and a cleared position. Each closing system includes a locking hook, which interacts with a corresponding locking element and which is pivotable about a hook axis, and a drive unit, which drives a control element pivotable about a pivot axis and mounted at the relevant side portion as well as being connected to the locking hook via a coupling unit. The pivot axis of the control element and the hook axis are oriented with respect to each other in a skew fashion and the coupling unit includes at least one 3-D link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Webasto-Edscha Cabrio GmbH
    Inventors: Magnus Sviberg, Alexander Haimerl
  • Patent number: 9528298
    Abstract: A door locking mechanism for an appliance provides a bolt that is biased by a spring but may be moved by a unidirectional actuator. A bi-stable mechanism blocks movement of the bolt at certain positions at successive actuations of the unidirectional actuator. In this way, energy need not be provided to the electromechanical actuator except periodically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael S. Osvatic
  • Patent number: 9151080
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the field of door fittings, particularly door fittings comprising a privacy latch for a sliding door. In one particular aspect the present disclosure is suitable for use for securing interior or exterior doors, including doors for bathrooms, changing rooms, shower or toilet cubicles to give users the option of privacy. The present disclosure stems from the realization that smooth movement of a latch hook between a locked and unlocked condition can be obtained by use of a guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Jacou Industry Zhongshan Limited
    Inventors: John David Saunders, Yan Gao Wu
  • Patent number: 8641103
    Abstract: An aircraft latch utilizes a spindle in combination with an over-center linkage assembly to impart linear motion to a hook member, causing the hook member to either disengage or engage a keeper member on the adjacent structure. The over-center linkage and the spindle are operated by different and independent operations of a handle member. Specifically, the over-center linkage is moved from a stored position, in which the two link members are in end-to-end axial alignment, to a position in which the two link members are no longer in end-to-end axial alignment. This movement is caused by pivoting the handle member from a position in which the longitudinal axis of the handle member is parallel to the axis of the aligned link members, to a second position in which the handle member is pivoted at least ninety degrees. This pivoting motion, which may be accompanied by other actions, such as releasing a trigger, causes the two link members to pivot with respect to each other, or “break”.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Avibank Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Zeljko Baic
  • Patent number: 8328247
    Abstract: A lock for carrying cases comprises at least one block hinged at a first end to a first half-shell. The block is rotatable about a pivoting axis from a closed configuration, in which at least one tab that protrudes on the opposite side with respect to the pivoting axis engages elastically and detachably a perimetric ridge that protrudes from a second half-shell, to couple the first half-shell to the second half-shell, to an opening configuration, in which the tab is disengaged from the ridge, and vice versa. The lock comprises a lever, which is hinged to the block at a first end portion thereof and can be gripped at a second end portion thereof, which is opposite to the first one, for the rotation of the block and the disengagement of the tab from the ridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: G.T. Line S.R.L.
    Inventor: Massimo Tonelli
  • Publication number: 20120292923
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the field of door fittings, particularly door fittings comprising a privacy latch for a sliding door. In one particular aspect the present disclosure is suitable for use for securing interior or exterior doors, including doors for bathrooms, changing rooms, shower or toilet cubicles to give users the option of privacy. The present disclosure stems from the realization that smooth movement of a latch hook between a locked and unlocked condition can be obtained by use of a guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: JACOU INDUSTRY ZHONGSHAN LIMITED
    Inventors: John David Saunders, Yan Gao Wu
  • Patent number: 8172282
    Abstract: A computing device latching assembly comprises a latching member configured to releasably secure an accessory to a computing device, and a release mechanism actuatable to move the latching member from a locking position to an unlocked position and to cause the latching member to urge the accessory away from the computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Lev, Dustin L. Hoffman, Mark S. Tracy
  • Publication number: 20120006081
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a lock for a sliding door. The lock includes a locking assembly, a controlling plate, and a locking dish. The locking assembly includes a locking module, a reverting module, and a housing with a panel. The driving module drives the locking module to extend out of the panel. In the embodiments, the locking assembly can be driven to extend out of the panel to be used as a handle, thus, a door utilizing the lock can be drawn or pulled the locking module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: GULI SECURITY PRODUCTS LIMITED
    Inventor: KONGHUA TAN
  • Patent number: 8061165
    Abstract: A door latch for securing a door of a building in a closed condition, the door latch including a housing, a handle rod, a lock set assembled into the housing and including a movable key tab, a main lock pivotally connected to the handle rod and including a connecting slot, the main lock being movable for lifting an engagement end, an unlocking latch pivotally connected to the handle rod and including an engagement structure for coupling with the connecting slot and a lock bar assembled to the housing and being movable relative to the housing between a locked position and an unlocked position. Wherein, when the lock bar is in the locked position, the main lock is not pivotable from a position exterior to the building by the use of the handle rod, the main lock being pivotable from a position interior to the building by manual lifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: David Cassini
  • Patent number: 7942027
    Abstract: A door latch for securing a door of a building in a closed condition, the door latch including a housing, a handle rod, a lock set assembled into the housing and including a movable key tab, a main lock pivotally connected to the handle rod and including a connecting slot, the main lock being movable for lifting an engagement end, an unlocking latch pivotally connected to the handle rod and including an engagement structure for coupling with the connecting slot and a lock bar assembled to the housing and being movable relative to the housing between a locked position and an unlocked position. Wherein, when the lock bar is in the locked position, the main lock is not pivotable from a position exterior to the building by the use of the handle rod, the main lock being pivotable from a position interior to the building by manual lifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: David Cassini
  • Patent number: 7874609
    Abstract: A powered vehicle door system and method in which a motor-driven door opening and closing mechanism and a motor-driven latching mechanism cooperate to enable the door to open from a latched, fully-closed position with improved noise control and improved smoothness of operation. The door can be a tailgate or a swinging or sliding door, and the opening and closing mechanism is operative to place the door in an over-closed position, thus reducing or eliminating the inherent tension placed upon the latch from the compressive force of the seal interposed between the door and the door frame. Optionally, the door latching mechanism assists the door opening and closing mechanism in placing the door in the over-closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Joseph Whinnery
  • Publication number: 20100295426
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a body, a cover, a sliding apparatus, and a latch assembly. The body defines two sliding slots. The sliding apparatus is received in the slots and is slidable relative thereto. The cover is foldable on the body and is rotatably coupled to the sliding apparatus. The latch assembly is fixed to the sliding apparatus. When the latch assembly clasps the body, the sliding apparatus is unlatched from the electronic device, and the cover is slidable relative to the body and is unfolded while the cover slides away from the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hong-Wei Zhu, Chieh-Yu Lee, Hai-Yang Yu, Er-Zheng Zhao
  • Publication number: 20100253187
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a first body, a second body pivotally attached on the first body for covering on the first body, and a latching device for locking the second body on the first body when the second body covers the first body. The latching device includes a locking member rotatably attached on the first body, a hook disposed on the second body and capable of hooking on the locking member for locking the second body on the first body, and a driving subassembly rotatably connecting with locking member and slidably disposed on the first body. The driving subassembly drives the locking member to rotate to engage and disengage with the hook.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: XIN YANG, WEI WU
  • Patent number: 7770942
    Abstract: The releasable locking arrangement for two components consists of a hook-connecting element arranged on a first component (10) and a spring-loaded locking hook (26) with swivelling axis (22) arranged on a second component (20). The locking hook (21) and the hook-connecting element can be connected with one another to form the lock. The hook-connecting element on the first component (10) is a retaining rod (11) whose ends are movable in a guide track (12, 12?). The swivelling axis (22) of the locking hook (21) on the second component (20) is connected with a holder (27). The holder (27) has a sliding bevel (24-S, 25-S) for the retaining rod (11). When the two components (10, 20) approach one another, the retaining rod (11) slides upwards on the sliding bevel (24-S, 25-S) of the holder. This causes the retaining rod to move in its guide track (12, 12?) at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: S-Fasteners GmbH
    Inventor: Bernhard Homner
  • Publication number: 20100090066
    Abstract: Latching elements on a first structure are configured to securely engage corresponding bearings on a second structure, via a lateral member that drives all of the latching elements simultaneously. When engaged, or when disengaged, the system is in a stable state, requiring no active force by the controlling system to maintain the system in each state. Preferably, each latching element is coupled to the lateral member via a pinion that provides a mechanical advantage that substantially reduces the force required on the lateral member to effect the coupling or decoupling. Also preferably, the elements are formed from extruded aluminum forms, thereby providing for a relatively inexpensive and lightweight configuration that is particularly well suited for spacecraft applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Walter HOLEMANS
  • Patent number: 7690700
    Abstract: A door latch device for a domestic electrical appliance, in particular for a dishwasher, has a frame (10) provided or to be provided on a first component of the domestic appliance, a latching unit (28) arranged so it can be displaced relative to the frame between an open position and a latched position for engagement with a closure system of a second component of the domestic appliance that can be moved relative to the first appliance component and is to be locked with respect thereto, and a latching spring assembly that pre-tensions the latching unit and which in the open position of the latching unit forces the unit into engagement with a blocking surface (24) that blocks relaxation of the latching spring assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: emz-Hanover GmbH & Co. KGaA
    Inventor: Thomas Neumann
  • Patent number: 7441811
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a casement window locking device having improved function, including improved strength, security, and durability. The invention provides a simple, elegant casement window lock having an extended operating range, is economical to manufacture, and uses few parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventor: Barry G. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 7137387
    Abstract: An oven lock mechanism is disclosed having a latch mechanism driven by a motor between a latched position wherein the oven door is held in a closed position and an unlatched position wherein the oven door freely opens and closes. The motor is controlled by a switch that enables rotation of the motor when in a first state and prevents rotation of the motor when in a second state. A switch actuator mechanism places the switch in the first state when the door is closed and in the second state when the door is open. The switch is mounted at the rear of the oven away from the front opening of the oven compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Charles V. Edwards, Harry I Courter, Tracy J. Talley
  • Patent number: 7066501
    Abstract: An aircraft latch is disclosed for latching to the preexisting latch pin of an aircraft assembly. The latch includes a trigger safety to block the trigger from accidentally being opened. A link trunion adds rigidity to the system and cooperates with the trigger safety to provide an anti-vibrating feature. A detent on the latch cooperates with the installation housing in which the latch pin is mounted to hold the latch handle in place when the latch is fully opened to prevent the aircraft doors in which the latch is mounted from being closed inadvertently while the latch is still unlatched.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Avibank Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: William Steve Meineke, Carolyn L. Wilkerson, Braskel Elmer Phillips, III
  • Patent number: 7040673
    Abstract: An oven lock mechanism has a latch that is moved between an unlatched and a latched position in response to movement of the door from an open to a closed position and a motor that turns a cam acting as a blocker to block the latch in the latched position when a cleaning cycle is initiated. The rotation of the cam also induces movement of the latch to cause the latch to pull the door in closer to the frame of the oven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Steve W. Smock, Harry I. Courter, Greg Wright, Tracy J. Talley
  • Patent number: 7036853
    Abstract: An oven lock mechanism has a latch that is moved between an unlatched and a latched position in response to movement of the door from an open to a closed position and a motor that turns a cam acting as a blocker to block the latch in the latched position when a cleaning cycle is initiated. The rotation of the cam also induces movement of the latch to cause the latch to pull the door in closer to the frame of the oven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Steve W. Smock, Harry I. Courter, Greg Wright, Tracy J. Talley
  • Patent number: 6966582
    Abstract: An oven door lock for self-cleaning ovens is described. The oven door lock includes a clutch mechanism which locks and unlocks the oven door at substantially different temperatures, in particular, the lock temperature is substantially higher than the unlock temperature. The clutch mechanism comprises a thermally responsive element, a clutch, and a lock member. During heating, in a self-clean or normal cooking operation, an expanding thermally responsive element, acting upon the clutch, causes the lock member to lock the oven door. During cool down, the contracting thermally responsive element, acting upon the clutch in an opposing direction, in concert with a restraining spring, causes the lock member to unlock the oven door at a temperature substantially lower than the locking temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: France/Scott Fetzer Company
    Inventors: Charles F. Malone, James D. Livers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6896302
    Abstract: A push button release apparatus for releasing a door of a vehicle has a housing secured to the door of the vehicle. The housing defines a cavity. A push button supported by the housing is slidable relative to the housing and moves between an inoperative location and an operative location. A cam device pivotally supported about a pivotal axis has a first termination defining a cam surface that cooperates with the push button and a second termination connected to a cable. When the push button is moved from the inoperative location toward the operative location the cam rotates about the pivotal axis and the second termination of the cam device moves, pulling the cable for releasing the door of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Walter Belchine, III, Robert N. Templeman
  • Patent number: 6863316
    Abstract: A door latching or locking mechanism or module for a self-cleaning oven includes latching linkage of the door latch module that enables use of lighter duty, less expensive motor. The mechanical advantage and vector optimization of the latching linkage avoids stalling especially from a locked position. The latching mechanism includes a plurality of switches having a corresponding plurality of terminals. The terminals are grouped or ganged to allow connection with a single connector interface. The switches are selectively actuable/de-actuable by a cam and cam plate that utilizes linear motion translated from rotational motion of a driven (motor) to selectively actuate and/or de-actuate the switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Ronald E. Cole
  • Publication number: 20040070213
    Abstract: A detented and dampened hinge mechanism, with push-pull, and pull-push operation includes a first and second arms pivotally connected to move relative to one another in a scissor fashion between a closed and open positions. A cam and cam follower track establish a detent-type hold at both closed and open positions and add a radial motion component to the general pivotal motion. A damper limits relative movement of the arms. A biasing spring is utilized to bias the first and second arms toward the open position. A free moving anti-gravity ball moves in a channel when a momentum is imparted to the hinge mechanism. With the ball in its normal, lower position, arms are free to move; and moved to an upper position, the arms become locked out from full movement by the interference of the ball. Bumper materials are added.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Fabrice Vitry
  • Patent number: 6719337
    Abstract: A latch wherein latching and unlatching is accomplished by an inward push by the keeper into the latch housing. The latch uses an improved housing configuration in conjunction with improved internal components, allowing for more consistent and reliable operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Southco, Inc.
    Inventor: Lianli Ji
  • Patent number: 6709029
    Abstract: A door latching or locking mechanism or module for a self-cleaning oven includes latching linkage of the door latch module that enables use of lighter duty, less expensive motor. The mechanical advantage and vector optimization of the latching linkage avoids stalling especially from a locked position. The latching mechanism includes a plurality of switches having a corresponding plurality of terminals. The terminals are grouped or ganged to allow connection with a single connector interface. The switches are selectively actuable/de-actuable by a cam and cam plate that utilizes linear motion translated from rotational motion of a driven (motor) to selectively actuate and/or de-actuate the switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Ronald E. Cole
  • Patent number: 6702340
    Abstract: A sliding door latch with a finger pull mechanism is described that fits within a standardized aperture normally utilized for a hinged door latch. Provided is a latch assembly having an extendable latching hook for mounting in a sliding door and latching with a strike plate mounted in a door frame and a finger pull mechanism for accessing the sliding door from within a surrounding framework. Included are a housing assembly for fitting within the sliding door, an exposed edge plate mounted to the edge of the sliding door beside the housing assembly, a latching hook for engaging with the strike plate and extendable through the exposed edge plate, and a finger pull mechanism mounted in the edge plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Newfrey LLC
    Inventor: Joseph G. Donald
  • Publication number: 20040021325
    Abstract: A latch for members that move at least in part slidably into a secured position is disclosed. The latch includes a cup adapted for mounting to a member such as a panel, door, cover, or circuit board, means for securing the cup to the member, a sliding member supported by the cup, a first linking member, and a second linking member. The sliding member is slidably movable relative to the cup. The first linking member is pivotally connected to the cup, and the second linking member is pivotally connected to the sliding member. The first and second linking members are pivotally connected to one another. The member to which the latch is mounted moves toward a secured position as the first and second linking members are moved to their respective closed positions while the sliding member is in engagement with a stationary keeper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Richard E. Schlack, D. Dale Turner
  • Patent number: 6674638
    Abstract: A fastening device is provided to assemble a first unit and a second unit. The first unit has a first cover and the second unit has a second cover. The fastening device comprises a positioning post mounted on the first cover; a positioning aperture positioned on the second cover; a sliding piece mounted on the second cover and having at least one arm of which a slant edge slants upward along a first direction; a resilient element of which one end is fixed on the sliding piece and the other end is fixed on the second cover for making the sliding piece move with the resilient element on the second cover; and an operating key being mounted on the upper end of the sliding piece such that a user can push the sliding piece along the first direction by means of the operating key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Acer Inc.
    Inventor: Chiang Hsien-Chin
  • Patent number: 6672646
    Abstract: A fastening device for a convertible top includes a front bow, a front window frame, a bracket disposed on one of the front bow and the front window frame, a first catch element assigned to the other of the front bow and the front window frame, and at least one second catch element. The first catch element is secured so as to be pivotable about a first axis, and is connectable to the bracket. The at least one second catch element is connectable to the bracket and pivotable about a second axis spaced apart from the first axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Edscha Cabrio-Dachsysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Obendiek
  • Patent number: 6601882
    Abstract: A door latching or locking mechanism or module for a self-cleaning oven includes latching linkage of the door latch module that enables use of lighter duty, less expensive motor. The mechanical advantage and vector optimization of the latching linkage avoids stalling especially from a locked position. The latching mechanism includes a plurality of switches having a corresponding plurality of terminals. The terminals are grouped or ganged to allow connection with a single connector interface. The switches are selectively actuable/de-actuable by a cam and cam plate that utilizes linear motion translated from rotational motion of a driven (motor) to selectively actuate and/or de-actuate the switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Ronald E. Cole
  • Publication number: 20030116975
    Abstract: A door latching or locking mechanism or module for a self-cleaning oven includes latching linkage of the door latch module that enables use of lighter duty, less expensive motor. The mechanical advantage and vector optimization of the latching linkage avoids stalling especially from a locked position. The latching mechanism includes a plurality of switches having a corresponding plurality of terminals. The terminals are grouped or ganged to allow connection with a single connector interface. The switches are selectively actuable/de-actuable by a cam and cam plate that utilizes linear motion translated from rotational motion of a driven (motor) to selectively actuate and/or de-actuate the switches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald E. Cole
  • Publication number: 20030116974
    Abstract: A door latching or locking mechanism or module for a self-cleaning oven includes latching linkage of the door latch module that enables use of lighter duty, less expensive motor. The mechanical advantage and vector optimization of the latching linkage avoids stalling especially from a locked position. The latching mechanism includes a plurality of switches having a corresponding plurality of terminals. The terminals are grouped or ganged to allow connection with a single connector interface. The switches are selectively actuable/de-actuable by a cam and cam plate that utilizes linear motion translated from rotational motion of a driven (motor) to selectively actuate and/or de-actuate the switches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald E. Cole
  • Patent number: 6547291
    Abstract: A secondary latch (38) for a vehicle hood (34) includes a secondary latch member (90) that is mounted on the vehicle body (22) by a pin and slot mounting connection (98) for pivotal movement between latched and unlatched positions with respect to an associated striker (40) on the hood and for translational movement between a lower retracted position and an upper extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Midway Products Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis D. Schwaiger
  • Patent number: 6547292
    Abstract: A door closing mechanism for pulling a door tight to a frame to which the door is mounted comprises a latch arm assembly having a latch arm pivotally secured to a panel of the door and pivotable between a first, open position and a second, latched position. An activating mechanism is operably connected to the latch arm assembly by a connecting apparatus and actuates the latch arm between its first and second positions. A latch member is secured to the jamb in which the door is mounted and is arranged and constructed so that when the latch arm is moved into its second, closed position, the latch arm engages the latch member and exerts force upon the latch member in a direction substantially normal to the plane of the door so as to cause the door to contact the door frame over substantially its entire height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Hi-Fold Door Corporation
    Inventor: Richard D. Keller
  • Patent number: 6443504
    Abstract: A sliding door latch with a finger pull mechanism is described that fits within a standardized aperture normally utilized for a hinged door latch. Provided is a latch assembly having an extendable latching hook for mounting in a sliding door and latching with a strike plate mounted in a door frame and a finger pull mechanism for accessing the sliding door from within a surrounding framework. Included are a housing assembly for fitting within the sliding door, an exposed edge plate mounted to the edge of the sliding door beside the housing assembly, a latching hook for engaging with the strike plate and extendable through the exposed edge plate, and a finger pull mechanism mounted in the edge plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Emhart LLC
    Inventor: Joseph G. Donald
  • Patent number: 6250694
    Abstract: A latch wherein latching and unlatching is accomplished by an inward push by the keeper towards the latch uses an improved spring arrangement, allowing for quieter operation. A modified housing configuration works in conjunction with improved internal components to permit single direction assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Southco, Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas Roy Weiland
  • Patent number: 5938249
    Abstract: An apparatus for opening and detaching a panel has a rotating plate rotatively installed in an escutcheon of a car audio. The rotating plate is secured to the escutcheon by fastening the fastened protrusion of the rotating plate with a locking portion installed in an upper side of one side of a rear face of the escutcheon. A detaching portion is secured to one side of the rear face of the rotating plate. A panel is secured to the rotating plate by fastening the rear face of the panel with the detaching portion. When the rotating plate is released from the escutcheon, an elastic portion secured to the lower one side of the rotating plate elastically opens the rotating plate. A speed reducing portion secured between the escutcheon and the rotating plate reduces the rotating speed of the rotating plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Daewoo Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seung-Seob Kim
  • Patent number: 5413390
    Abstract: A vehicle sun roof fastening device, particularly for convertible vehicles, wherein a lever is fitted with a hinged latch element designed to mate with a fixed connecting element, and is hinged to a support so as to oscillate in relation to the support and by virtue of a crank mechanism interposed between the lever and the support and operated by a linear actuator, the output rod of which is connected to one end of a crank having the other end angularly integral with a crank (14) on the crank mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Assignee: Roltra Morse S.p.A.
    Inventor: Aldo Filippi
  • Patent number: 5193862
    Abstract: An anti-theft latch mechanism is especially suitable for securing vending machines. According to the present invention, a control mechanism (such as a rotatable stud attached to a knob) includes a clutch arrangement by which the control mechanism remotely controls a latch portion. Thus, the control mechanism is not rigidly tied to the remote latch, thereby avoiding possible damage to the latch and relaxing design criteria for the mechanism as a whole. A latch portion prevents vandals or thieves from pushing the door either inward or outward as they attempt to gain entry to the inside of the vending machine. For this purpose, the latch provides a cove in which a catch in the side of the vending machine is enclosed at least partially on all four sides when the door is closed. This cove arrangement substantially prevents the latch from being shaken loose even when the vandal or thief jars the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: Royal Vendors, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Oden
  • Patent number: 5087088
    Abstract: A latching device for latching two items together has a housing and a shaft mounted to one item such that rotation of the shaft by a sprocket causes the shaft to move longitudinally up and down. The shaft has one end extending beyond the housing with a alignment cone attached to this end for engaging a receptor on the other item. A latch mounted to the shaft by a traveling nut provides a pivot point for the latch so that rotation of the shaft causes the pivot point of the latch to translate along the longitudinal axis of the shaft. Camming surfaces and a camming spring are used for rotating the latch so that the latch will engage and disengage a receptor on the other item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventor: Malcolm B. Milam
  • Patent number: 5058939
    Abstract: A powered latching device for an automotive vehicle convertible top includes a reversible drive element linked to a latch incorporating a substantially J-shaped keeper for engaging a latch receiving flange portion of the vehicle's windshield header. The modular latching system is mounted to an articulated side rail of the convertible top, and, preferably two such latching systems are employed, one on each side rail of the convertible top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Assignee: ASC Incorporated
    Inventor: Dean R. Miilu