Latch Actuated By Component Or Its Latch Patents (Class 312/222)
  • Publication number: 20120217851
    Abstract: A laundry treatment apparatus may facilitate input and removal of laundry items. The laundry treatment apparatus may include a door which may selectively open and close an opening into a receiving space formed in a cabinet in which laundry items may be received for treatment. The door may serve as a laundry guide when positioned at an angle relative to the cabinet so as to guide laundry items into the receiving space, and may serve as a shelf to support laundry items thereon when positioned at another angle relative to the cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventors: Sanghun BAE, Jeongyun Kim, Hongjun Cho, Hyunwoo Noh, Yongcheol Jin, Seungphyo Ahn, Donghyun Kim
  • Patent number: 8199526
    Abstract: An exemplary electronic apparatus includes a housing, a wireless communication device disposed on the housing, and a motherboard received in the housing. The wireless communication device includes a circuit board and a wireless communication module disposed on the circuit board. The circuit board is connected the motherboard by electrical wires. The wireless communication module is located at an outside of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiao-Hui Yu, Wen-Hsiang Hung, Xiao-Yong Ma, Meng-Ping Xu
  • Patent number: 8196939
    Abstract: The drawer assembly comprises a cabinet defining an internal space. A shelf is supported in the cabinet. The shelf supports a latch that is movable between a first position and a second position. A drawer is supported on the shelf where the drawer has a latch receiving structure formed thereon. The latch receiving structure includes a first surface engageable with the latch when the latch is in the first position and a second surface also engageable with the latch when the latch is in the first position such that the drawer can be locked relative to the cabinet in one of two positions. In one embodiment the drawer is supported on a mobile medical cart. The cart may also include a computer such as a PC, wireless communications systems to communicate with a wider network system, a system controller and/or other systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventors: Benjamin Shane Bustle, Jacob Connelly, Chad M. Holzshu, Robert Grant McRorie
  • Patent number: 8197017
    Abstract: A drawer that includes a container and an activation member is disclosed. The container includes a receptacle and a lid. The lid moves between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle. The container further includes a fastener, coupled to the lid, to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position. The activation member moves radially around a longest axis of the activation member, and includes an actuator. When the activation member is rotated in a first direction, the actuator is placed into a first orientation relative to the fastener. When the activation member is rotated in a second direction opposite the first direction, the actuator is placed into a second orientation relative to the fastener such that the actuator actuates the fastener to cause the lid to move into the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: CareFusion 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Rahilly
  • Patent number: 8167386
    Abstract: Disclosed are rack enclosures for electronic equipment including at least one door configured to define a space between an edge of the door and a wall or frame of the cabinet, kits for retrofitting rack enclosures to include such a door, and methods of installing such.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: American Power Conversion Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph H. Bergesch, Kevin Neil Thomas, Mark A. Uhrhan
  • Patent number: 8157336
    Abstract: There is disclosed a showcase in which a width of a transparent door can be extended to substantially the whole width of a main body even in a case where a locking device is incorporated in a handle of a transparent door. A low-temperature showcase comprises the transparent door which is rotatably supported on the main body on one side so as to openably close an opening of the main body including a showroom, the handle disposed at an outer surface of this transparent door on an unsupported side, and a locking device disposed in this handle. The locking device has a keyhole, a rotary shaft which rotates concentrically with a key by a rotating operation of the key inserted into this keyhole and a hook which is attached to this rotary shaft so as to disengageably engage with the main body, and the keyhole is disposed at a side surface of the handle on a supported side of the transparent door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koji Hayase, Kazuo Tetsukawa
  • Patent number: 8123312
    Abstract: A door assembly includes a hook hole, a door having a hook shaft to be placed in the hook hole, and a holder between the hook hole and the hook shaft for maintaining the door to be in a state the door is opened by a predetermined gap, wherein the holder includes a first holder to be engaged with the door and a second holder to be engaged with hook hole, wherein the second holder includes a hook member for placing in, and holding the hook hole. The assembly, for example, prevents a tub of a washing machine from being enclosed when the washing machine is not in operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Yong Min Jeon, Han Ki Cho, Chang Woo Son
  • Patent number: 8113599
    Abstract: A cabinet provided with a cabinet body having at least one vertical row of superimposed compartments which are separated by shelves and which can be opened and closed with compartment doors articulated on the cabinet. This invention simplifies and substantially reduces the cost of parts and of mounting the cabinet. Thus, a joint rod extending over a height of the cabinet body is assigned to each vertical row of compartments. The shelves are guided by a shoulder in the hinge zone having the joint rod and are fixed vertically on the joint rod by flange sleeves overlooking the upper and/or lower side of the shelves and their shoulder. The compartment doors which are adjusted to the heights of the compartments bear, on their rear surface, in the hinge zone, housings for the flange sleeves and can be covered with a shroud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Keba AG
    Inventors: Samuel Klassen, Matthias Krüger
  • Patent number: 8104848
    Abstract: A dryer having a door opening and closing apparatus are disclosed. The door opening and closing apparatus includes a cabinet provided with an opening part, a door installed to the cabinet to open and close the opening part, a hook provided to the door, a fixing part provided to the cabinet, a plate spring provided to the fixing part to allow the hook to be inserted therein and a projection part provided to the fixing part to allow the plate spring to be pivoted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Daewoo Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Hyoung Tae Yoon
  • Publication number: 20120019112
    Abstract: A latching system for an appliance is disclosed. The appliance includes a first oven, a first door for the first oven, a second oven and a second door for the second oven. The latching system includes a master latch assembly for locking the first door when it is fully closed; a slave latch assembly for locking the second door when it is fully closed; a cable operatively coupling the two latch assemblies so that a movement of one latch assembly between an unlocking position and a locking position generates a corresponding movement of the other latch assembly between an unlocking position and a locking position; a position switch for one latch assembly; and a controller configured to enable an operation of the first oven and/or the second oven when the position switch detects the latch assembly is in its locking position in conjunction with an operation request.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventor: Brian Steurer
  • Patent number: 8100281
    Abstract: A sterilization case assembly including a plurality of sterilization cases having a first sterilization case and a second sterilization case. The second sterilization case is stacked upon the first sterilization case in a vertical direction. The second sterilization case is offset from the first sterilization case in a direction transverse to the vertical direction. In another embodiment, the second sterilization case is configured for both stacking offset from the first sterilization case in a direction transverse to the vertical direction and stacking inline from the first sterilization case in a direction transverse to the vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Symmetry Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel L. Sands, Jon D. Shoemaker, Chad M. LaMar
  • Patent number: 8047622
    Abstract: A storage container of a storage container for a refrigerator, which is configured to mount the storage container for storing articles therein to a storage container seating portion formed in a rear surface of a refrigerator door by using a mounting protrusion and locking mechanism provided on the storage container and a mounting groove and catching protrusion provided on the storage container seating portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Hang-Bok Lee, Sang-Sin Kwak, Seon-Kyu Kim
  • Patent number: 7954912
    Abstract: A cabinet comprises a cabinet frame having a first side and a second side, a pair of doors coupled to the frame on the first side, wherein one of the pair of doors includes a locking rod positioned along a portion of the length of the door, a latch coupled to the frame on the first side and positioned to receive the locking rod, an actuator positioned on the second side of the cabinet frame and coupled to the latch, and an access door, positioned on the second side of the cabinet frame, the access door restricting access to the actuator. Opening the access door allows activation of the actuator to release the locking rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: American Power Conversion Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph H. Bergesch
  • Publication number: 20110121695
    Abstract: A storage unit having a frame, drawers and a carrying handle. When the unit is lifted by the handle, or the handle is moved to a position suitable for lifting the storage unit, the handle arms lift the bottom drawer of the stack of drawers which in turn lifts each of the above drawers relative to the frame. As each drawer rises, the clearance gap between adjacent drawers is reduced and the drawers are moved to a locked position where they are blocked by detents mounted on the inside of the frame. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the handle is coupled to drawer locking slides instead of the bottom drawer and detents on the drawer locking slides engage with the drawers to lock them in the closed position as the drawer locking slides are moved relative to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: PDY SYSTEMS LP
    Inventor: Paul Douglas Purdy
  • Patent number: 7934780
    Abstract: A latching mechanism for a device is disclosed. The device includes a first member and a second member. The latching mechanism comprises one or more protruding members coupled to an interior of the device. The one or more protruding members is coupled to one of the first member and the second member. The latching mechanism includes one or more latches coupled to an interior portion of the device. The one or more latches are coupled to the other of the first and second members. The one or more latches is engageably coupled to the one or more protruding members when the first and second are coupled together. The one or more latches can be released from the one or more protruding members through the use of a magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Michael David McBroom, Brian Thomas Sudderth, Daniel Lynn McBroom, John Ternus
  • Publication number: 20100283361
    Abstract: A storage cabinet with key is provided with an electronic key having an electronic key ID memory means that stores electronic key ID, a storage box that stores an item to be kept, an opening and closing permission means that permits opening and closing of storage boxes, and an opening and closing control means that, when it reads out the electronic key ID and authenticates the right, makes the opening and closing permission means permit opening and closing of the storage boxes. The electronic key checks individual identification information input by one or more buttons arranged at the electronic key with specific individual identification information registered at an individual identification information memory means arranged at the electronic key.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: TOKAI RIKEN CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Akihiro Sato, Nobuhiko Segi
  • Patent number: 7806491
    Abstract: A storage container for a refrigerator, which is configured to mount the storage container for storing articles therein to a storage container seating portion formed in a rear surface of a refrigerator door by using a mounting protrusion and locking mechanism provided on the storage container and a mounting groove and catching protrusion provided on the storage container seating portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Hang-Bok Lee, Sang-Sin Kwak, Seon-Kyu Kim
  • Patent number: 7806489
    Abstract: Latch systems for a drive cage assembly are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the latch system may be operated by moving a hinge bracket in a first direction to slide at least one latch on the hinge bracket into an open position. Then receiving a peripheral device in the drive cage assembly in either a tower orientation or a rack orientation when the at least one latch is in the open position. Then moving the hinge bracket in a second direction to slide the at least one latch into a closed position and secure the peripheral device in the drive cage assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: David A. Selvidge, Erik R. Nielsen, David W. Deis
  • Publication number: 20100201234
    Abstract: A locker is provided. The locker comprises a base defining a storage space, a door coupled to the base and rotatable relative to the base between an open position and a closed position, and a latch bar moveable relative to the door between an extended and a retracted position. The latch bar defines at least one guide slot configured to receive a projection for guiding the movement of the latch bar between the extended position and the retracted position. The at least one guide slot is at least partially non-linear. The latch bar is moved to the extended position to secure the door in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: James R. Heimler, Mark A. Thielke, Thomas E. Pelt, Jon Dommisse, Todd Morris, Adam Perry
  • Patent number: 7744173
    Abstract: A refrigerator is provided with a cabinet having a door that is openable by a user to provide access to a refrigeration compartment. A storage bin is located in the refrigeration compartment and accessible upon the opening of the cabinet door. A mounting system is arranged for the storage bin, supporting the storage bin for movement into and out of the refrigeration compartment. A latch is carried on the cabinet door to be selectively engaged by the user with a latch receiving portion of the storage bin. When the latch is engaged with the latch receiving portion, the storage bin will be pulled out of the refrigerator upon the opening of the cabinet door, and when the latch is disengaged from the latch receiving portion, the storage bin will remain in the refrigeration compartment, unless manually moved by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Frank Weston Maglinger, Martin Shawn Egan, Aidan C. Kunkle, Richard Bruce Mills
  • Patent number: 7747190
    Abstract: An image forming device includes: a main body; a plurality of image forming units; a holding unit; and an engagement mechanism. Each of the plurality of image forming units has a developing portion. The holding unit holds the plurality of image forming units. The plurality of image forming units are aligned in the holding unit in a predetermined drawing direction. The holding unit is configured so as to be drawn out in the predetermined drawing direction from a storage position where the holding unit is stored in the main body. The holding unit sequentially reaches a plurality of different drawing positions while moving in the predetermined drawing direction. The plurality of image forming units are sequentially exposed to the outside while the holding unit sequentially reaches the plurality of drawing positions. The engagement mechanism is configured to engage the holding unit with the main body when the holding unit reaches each of the plurality of drawing positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinji Kimura, Yasushi Okabe
  • Patent number: 7726751
    Abstract: A multi-latch compatible system is disclosed for electrical enclosures. The system accommodates latches of different types and configurations. A rail structure may be formed to interface with pin-type latches and with plate-type latches. The rail structure may be configured as a pre-assembled insert that can be placed within an electrical enclosure. The system permits the same general structure to be used regardless of the type of latching mechanism selected and installed in the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Herberto Bergmann, Jose Fernando Furtado, Chester Malkowski, Jr., Arnaldo Hiroyuki Omoto, José Batista Ferreira Neto
  • Patent number: 7708355
    Abstract: A cabinet comprises a cabinet frame having a first side and a second side, a pair of doors coupled to the frame on the first side, wherein one of the pair of doors includes a locking rod positioned along a portion of the length of the door, a latch coupled to the frame on the first side and positioned to receive the locking rod, an actuator positioned on the second side of the cabinet frame and coupled to the latch, and an access door, positioned on the second side of the cabinet frame, the access door restricting access to the actuator. Opening the access door allows activation of the actuator to release the locking rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: American Power Conversion Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph H. Bergesch
  • Patent number: 7665813
    Abstract: A protection mechanism is provided for protecting connectors which are to be connected to electronic interfaces at a rear panel of a computer chassis. The protection mechanism includes a bracket secured to the rear panel, a first cover pivotally attached to the bracket for shielding the connectors, a second cover pivotally attached to the bracket, and a locking device. The first cover defines a plurality of slots for extension of cables of the connectors therethrough. The second cover is closed to abut against a side panel of the computer chassis to prevent the side panel from withdrawal. The locking device is so arranged between pivot ends of the first and second covers, that one of the first and second covers can be opened only when the other one is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shen Zhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zhao-Yu Wang
  • Patent number: 7661776
    Abstract: A fastening arrangement for detachably fastening a component (2) to a frame part (4). The arrangement comprises a handle means (6) pivoted to the frame part (4) and an arranged to turn about its pivoting axis (12) between a normal position and a release position, and locking means (14, 16) arranged such that when the handle means (6) is in its normal position, inserting the component (2) into its position arranged in the frame part (4) causes the component (2) to be locked into the frame part (4). The arrangement also comprises means (18, 20) for opening the locking and arranged such that turning the handle means (6) to its release position releases the locking of the component (2) in relation to the frame part (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: ABB Oy
    Inventor: Simo Kangas
  • Patent number: 7645002
    Abstract: A piece of furniture with a furniture body and a first and at least one second drawer, displaceable relative to the furniture body, the front panel of the first drawer essentially completely covering the front panel or front wall of the second drawer in the closed position for both drawers, characterized in that the first and the at least one second drawer comprise an opening device for displacing the drawers from a closed position to an open position and a switch element is provided between both opening devices which couples both opening devices in a first switch position and uncouples the same in a second switch position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Julius Blum GmbH
    Inventor: Helmut Fitz
  • Patent number: 7604232
    Abstract: A sheet feeding device includes a casing having an engagement portion, and a sheet stacker detachably housed in the casing. The stacker has a liftable stacking plate, a handle, a lock claw, and a transmission mechanism. The plate is provided for loading a plurality of sheets. The handle is pivotable between operational and nonoperational positions. The claw is pivotable between engaged and disengaged positions. In the engaged and disengaged positions, the claw is engaged with, and disengaged from, the engagement portion, respectively. The mechanism has a solenoid and an interlock member. The solenoid has a plunger movable between locking and unlocking positions according to an input driving signal. The member allows, only with the plunger in the unlocking position, the claw to be moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position in association with pivot movement of the handle from the nonoperational position to the operational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akira Nakashima, Toyoaki Nanba
  • Publication number: 20090256453
    Abstract: A latch-type locating device including an outer sleeve having an annular engaging section formed at a front end thereof; an inner sleeve movably telescoped in the outer sleeve; a linking unit including a connecting rod located in the outer sleeve, an actuating rod connected to a front end of the connecting rod and fitted in the inner sleeve to interfere with the same, and a flange formed at a rear end of the connecting rod; a cap member being engaged with the flange of the linking unit; and an elastic element fitted around the connecting rod of the linking unit. The inner sleeve may be driven by the cap member and linking unit to extend from or retract into the outer sleeve to thereby lock an article in place or release the article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: FIVETECH TECHNOLOGY INC.
    Inventors: Ting-Jui Wang, Ming-De Wu
  • Patent number: 7588216
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cable management via hook and loop type materials are provided. The apparatus includes a substrate and a tie wrap. In at least one embodiment, the substrate is coupled to a rigid frame that is capable of accommodating a plurality of cables. The substrate and the tie wrap each have engaging mechanisms that enable them to create a hook and loop type releasable bond when pressed into contact with each other. The tie wrap is shaped to define an elongated body and a head portion having an interior opening. The body of the tie wrap may be pulled through the interior opening of the head portion in order to provide support for cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley S. Hoyl, Carl G. Harrison, Maurice Robertson
  • Publication number: 20090224638
    Abstract: A medication cabinet that includes at least one drawer, a drive mechanism, and a drawer latching mechanism, is disclosed. The drawer includes a slider, and a container that includes a receptacle and a lid that moves between an open position and a closed position. The container also includes a fastener to fasten the lid to the receptacle. The slider maintains the lid in the closed position when at least a portion of the wall is coupled with the fastener, and actuates the lid from the closed position to the open position when the fastener passes through an opening in the wall. The drive mechanism controls longitudinal movement of the slider, and is mounted to the chassis, allowing the drawer to be free of electrical connections with the chassis. When the drive mechanism is not used to move the lid into the open position, longitudinal movement of the slider is inhibited.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank Dean Weber
  • Patent number: 7540573
    Abstract: A cabinet has a housing, multiple tracks, multiple drawers, a safety device and a lock assembly. Each track has a sliding rail having a guiding notch and a locking hole. The safety device is mounted in the housing and has a fixed base, a moving base, multiple locking blocks, multiple locking tongues, multiple guiding posts and multiple guiding blocks. The locking blocks are securely attached to the moving base and each have a locking tab. The locking tongues are mounted respectively on the drawers and selectively aligning with the locking tabs on the locking blocks. The guiding posts are mounted on the moving base and locate respectively above the locking blocks. The guiding blocks are slidably and respectively attached to of the tracks. Each guiding block has an inclined face and corresponding to and selectively abutting with a corresponding one of the guiding posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Ching-Hsiang Lin
  • Publication number: 20090127987
    Abstract: A cabinet includes a frame portion and a door hingedly connected to the frame portion. A member is rigidly connected to the door and includes a flange portion extending from and spaced apart from an outer surface of the door. A handle is pivotably connected to the door and includes a user graspable portion disposed between the first outer surface of the door and the flange portion of the member. A catch member is rigidly connected to the user graspable portion and extends through a slot in the door for interlocking engagement with a retention feature disposed on the frame portion. When the door is in a closed position, handle is pivotable with respect to the door from a door retention position to a door release position for disengagement of the catch member from the door retention feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: WATERLOO INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Franco Fabio Daino, Gregory Jon Holcomb, Steven Frederick Kohagen, Matthew J. Sallee, Bradley M. White
  • Publication number: 20090102333
    Abstract: An antislip drawer-chucking structure includes a cabinet body, at least one drawer and a chucking unit. The drawer can be slid and drawn out of and pushed into the cabinet body. The chucking unit includes a shift member, a first engaging section and a second engaging section. The shift member is disposed on outer face of the front board of the drawer, including a handle section and a shift section. The handle section is fixed on the drawer. The shift section is positioned between the handle section and the drawer and movable between a first position and a second position. The first engaging section is arranged at one end of the shift section. The second engaging section is arranged on the cabinet body corresponding to the first engaging section. When the drawer is fully pushed into the cabinet and the shift section is positioned in the first position, the first and second engaging sections are engaged with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: Kuo-Chan WENG
  • Publication number: 20090066203
    Abstract: A latch is provided for engagement between the closure member of an enclosure and the frame of the enclosure, the latch comprising a member with a first portion, including a hook portion to engage the frame and prevent the closure member frame from fully opening. The first portion and a complementary second portion each may include buttressing wall sections, one of which must be deflected from alignment with the other to allow the hook portion to be deflected and clear the frame. The latch may be useful as a childproof device to prevent unwanted entry into the enclosure. In addition, a pin may extend from the hook portion and engage a hole in the frame to provide a third feature which must be actuated in order to fully open the closure member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Randall S. Zielinski
  • Patent number: 7425026
    Abstract: Described are seismic-resistant equipment cabinets and door latches for enabling a hinged door to remain attached to the cabinet during a seismic event of a particular intensity. The door has a latch disposed along one edge of the door. The latch includes a latch-keeper receptacle and a latching bolt disposed in the latch-keeper receptacle. The latching bolt is slideable between a latched and an unlatched position. The frame has a latch keeper assembly attached to an edge thereof. The latch keeper assembly is positioned to enter the latch-keeper receptacle when the door latches to the frame. The latch keeper assembly includes a protruding member having a tapered edge and a latching-bolt aperture to receive the latching bolt when in the latched position. The tapered edge establishes a close fit by the latch keeper assembly within the latch receptacle to limit relative motion therebetween during a seismic event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: EMC Corporation
    Inventors: David H. Henderson, C. Ilhan Gundogan, F. William French, Erik C. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7154745
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a lock mountable on an LCD panel of an electronic device, which comprises a latch, a linking member adapted to have its both ends inserted into a first slot and a second slot of the latch; and a knob including a latching member projected from its side surface and being adapted to insert through a through hole of the latch to fasten the knob and the latch together. By utilizing this lock, a user may slide the knob to move the lock toward either direction with the torsion spring or the helical spring being compressed or expanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventor: Yaz-Tzung Wu
  • Patent number: 7052097
    Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to an assembly comprising a plurality of bins with a plurality of lids associated therewith. Each of the bins has a lock assembly that includes a catch operable to lock the lid in its closed position and a mechanical indicator responsive to the catch. Another aspect of the invention relates to an automated dispensing cabinet that includes a control computer and a plurality of drawers having a plurality of row assemblies therein. Each row assembly has bins that include a tabbed lid, a lock assembly with a catch operable to engage and disengage the tab, and an indicator responsive to the lock assembly. Methods for dispensing from and restocking the remote dispensing systems are also given, as well as a method for indicating which item is to be dispensed from one of a plurality of bins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: McKesson Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert B. Meek, Jr., Kirk A. Young, Louis S. Conley, Eric J. Switalski, Allen D. Bowers
  • Patent number: 7050295
    Abstract: Embodiments of a bidirectional latch assembly, methods for using same and an electronic apparatus using the same can provide a bidirectional latch assembly whereby both faces of one of two bodies constituting an electronic apparatus can be selectively latched to the other body. A bidirectional latch assembly can include a casing having a seating groove formed with a passage hole, a pressure member in the seating groove and having a seating surface on one side thereof, and a latch insertable into the passage hole and having one surface seated on the seating surface. The latch can include a frame formed with a pair of latching holes on opposite sides therein, and a pair of catching protrusions integrally formed with the frame at opposite edges along the sides (e.g., middle) of the frame. A keeper can selectively engage with either one of the pair of latching holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Lai-O Kang
  • Patent number: 7035117
    Abstract: An expansion card mounting apparatus includes a rear panel (10), a pressing body (50) pivotably attached to the rear panel, and two retention members (70) attached to the pressing body. The rear panel defines two retention slots, and includes a support frame supporting slot covers (101) of expansion cards (100). The retention members are received in the retention slots respectively. Each retention member is movable in a corresponding retention slot to drive the pressing body between a locked position in which end portions (101) of the slot covers are sandwiched between the support frame and the pressing body, and a released position in which the end portions are released from the pressing body. The retention member includes a spring arm (76) snappingly engaging in the corresponding retention slot to retain the pressing body in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yun Lung Chen, DaLong Sun
  • Patent number: 6932445
    Abstract: An improved drawer interlocking mechanism mainly has a number of curved holes at equal angle along the peripheral of an axle hole in the base. There are flexible and moveable sticking tabs along the peripheral of an axle cam, which is allowed to freely rotate when it is installed into the axle hole of a base. After the axle cam rotates by an angle, the tab matches and locks into a curved hole for positioning. Two sets of brakes have symmetrical matching stoppers on two opposite sides, so the brakes can be placed into any slot of the base and a guide groove can be placed on the axle line corresponding to convex point. The groove surface has a stop to block the convex point, so the brake can slide and lead the direction with position limiting function. Thus, this can prevent the brake from dropping out of the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Nan Juen International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: I-Hsiang Chiu
  • Patent number: 6851771
    Abstract: A lockable wire mesh security and closure including a locking member which engages and locks to both the top wall and the bottom wall of the enclosure. The locking member can be latched into position and locked in place to securely lock the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: REC Enterprises, Ltd.
    Inventors: Jon R. Marler, Lori L. Graves, Carrie L. Monce
  • Patent number: 6811236
    Abstract: An apparatus assists a user to move a door between closed and open states. The apparatus includes a permanent magnet provided on the door. An electromagnet is located on the door frame adjacent thereto when the door is closed and is energizable to provide a magnetic field which reinforces the permanent magnetic field or to provide a magnetic field in opposition to the permanent magnetic field. A detector detects the state of the door and an interface detects the presence of a user. A controller receives input from the detector and the interface and energizes the electromagnet to provide a reinforcing magnetic field if a user is attempting to open the door and provides an opposing magnetic field to the permanent magnetic field if the door is closed and the user is attempting to open the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Limited
    Inventors: Keith Brookes Spong, Graeme Colin Fuller, Gerald David Duncan
  • Patent number: 6808239
    Abstract: Casing, in particular plastic casing (1; 101; 201; 301) of a hand-held electronic apparatus, having a first and a second casing shell (3, 5; 103, 105; 203, 205; 303, 305) and connecting means pressing the first and second casing shells against each other along the contact region, the connecting means having at least one holding element (17), arranged on the first casing shell (5), for a separate locking element (7; 107a, 107b; 207; 307) and at least one hook element (13) arranged on the second casing shell (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Harald Bader
  • Patent number: 6801435
    Abstract: An improved fixing structure for power supplies defines an accommodating area on a power supply for installing a fixing structure, and the power supply has a fixing hole on a casing of the power supply defining a limit fixing condition for the fixing structure when the power supply is pushed into the casing, and the power supply has a limit hole for installing a limit fixing member to restrict the displacement of the fixing structure, and constitutes a fixing structure that can be installed directly inside a power supply without occupying additional space, and attains the effects of fixing two fixing structures and limiting the fixing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Zippy Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Chun-Lung Su, Tzung-Han Lee, Hsien-Tang Weng
  • Patent number: 6764148
    Abstract: A latch arrangement for a drawer includes a latching mechanism having a latch element and a latching mechanism-receiving structure formed as part of a drawer. The structure includes two integral spring elements for biasing the latching mechanism upwardly. The latching mechanism and the drawer have cooperating, snap-engageable retaining features that allow the latching mechanism to move over a vertical range of movement but retain the latching mechanism on the structure. The structure and the remaining portions of the drawer can be molded as a unitary plastic part. The latching mechanism can be molded as a second unitary plastic part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Home Products International, Inc.
    Inventors: Laura Morris, Shailesh Patel, Peter Graves, Paul Mann, Michael Thuma, Ron Llanes
  • Patent number: 6746092
    Abstract: A switchgear cabinet includes a plurality of securing apparatuses that are mounted on a vertical flange of the switchgear cabinet, with the securing apparatuses each being formed with a locking hole that is engageable by a pin of a locking mechanism on a door member. Each securing apparatus includes an anchor plate connected with a first bracket and a second bracket, with the first and second brackets being mounted on the flange of the switchgear cabinet. The locking hole is formed in the anchor plate, and the anchor plate is substantially planar and free of bends. The anchor plate further is generally U-shaped and is configured to extend generally around at least a portion of the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Brad R. Leccia, Mary Beth Hill
  • Patent number: 6729701
    Abstract: A safety cabinet is disclosed which includes an enclosure having a double-wall construciton and a pair of doors to selectively seal the enclosure. The safety cabinet includes a retaining system for retaining the doors in an open position and a closure system for automatically closing the doors. The safety cabinet also includes a latch system for selectively retaining the doors in a closed position to cover the enclosure. The latch system includes a paddle handle, first and second slide plates, a bullet slam latch, and first and second latch rod assemblies. The safety cabinet can be used to store, for example, flammable liquids, flammable waste, corrosives, pesticides, or combustible waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Justrite Manufacturing Company LLC
    Inventors: Glen Alan Carter, Steven Michael Eyer
  • Patent number: 6654236
    Abstract: A computer enclosure includes a base (10), a hood (40), a pair of rails (80), and a pair of locking devices (60). The base includes a bottom plate (12) and a pair of side plates (14, 16). A pair of slideways (24) is defined in the side plates. The hood includes a top cover (42) and a bezel (44) perpendicular to the top cover. A pair of pivot rods (46) extends inwardly from opposite sides of the bezel. Each rail includes a sliding part (82) and a pivoting part (84). The sliding parts are slidably received in the slideways. Each pivoting part defines a pivoting hole (92) therein for receiving a corresponding pivot rod. The locking devices lock the hood to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jung-Chi Chen, Yun-Lung Chen
  • Patent number: 6604797
    Abstract: A rotary storage unit includes a cabinet defining an interior within which a rotary storage member is located. A latch mechanism is mounted to the cabinet, and selectively engages the rotary storage member for maintaining the storage member in either an open position or a closed position. A motorized actuator arrangement is interconnected with the latch mechanism, for selectively moving the latch mechanism between a latching position and a release position. The motorized actuator arrangement includes a motor which imparts movement to an actuator rod interconnected with the latch mechanism, for moving the latch mechanism between its latching and release positions in response to axial movement of the actuator rod. The motor moves the actuator rod so as to return the latch mechanism to its latching position after expiration of a predetermined time delay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Spacesaver Corporation
    Inventors: Steven M. Lehmann, Robert A. Housh
  • Patent number: 6578587
    Abstract: A dish washing machine according to the present invention has vertically divided upper and lower doors 16 and 17 for covering an opening of a washing chamber. The upper door 16 is opened through its upward pivotal movement about its shafts 20. The lower door 17 is opened through its downward pivotal movement about its shafts 22. The upper door 16 is fully opened through its pivotal movement substantially through 180 degrees. The lower door 17 is opened to a substantially horizontal position. And when the lower door 17 is in this opened state, a basket 4 contained in the washing chamber 3 can be pulled out onto the lower door 17.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomohiko Matsuno, Tetsuo Harada, Yasuhisa Fukui