18072406. SLIDING LATCH MECHANISM simplified abstract (Rivian IP Holdings, LLC)

SLIDING LATCH MECHANISM

Organization Name

Rivian IP Holdings, LLC

Inventor(s)

Thomas Bernath of Huntington Woods MI (US)

SLIDING LATCH MECHANISM - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18072406 titled 'SLIDING LATCH MECHANISM

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes a patent application for a structure, such as a vehicle roof, that includes removable panels with latches controlled by an actuator. The latches can move between open and closed positions to secure the panels in place.

• The structure includes an opening for receiving removable panels.
• Each removable panel has a panel body and multiple latches positioned along the edges.
• An actuator and latch links are used to control the movement of the latches.
• Rotation of the actuator closes or opens the latches to secure or release the panels.

Potential Applications

This technology could be applied in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction for structures requiring removable panels with secure locking mechanisms.

Problems Solved

This innovation solves the problem of securely attaching and detaching removable panels to a structure without the need for complex manual locking mechanisms.

Benefits

The benefits of this technology include easy installation and removal of panels, secure locking system, and potential for automation in opening and closing panels.

Potential Commercial Applications

One potential commercial application of this technology could be in the automotive industry for convertible roofs or sunroofs with removable panels.

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art for this technology could be existing latch systems for removable panels in various industries, but the specific actuator-controlled latch system may be a novel innovation.

How does the actuator interact with the latch links to control the movement of the latches?

The actuator is connected to the latch links, which in turn are connected to the latches. When the actuator rotates, it drives the latch links, causing the latches to move between open and closed positions.

Are there any safety features in place to prevent accidental opening of the panels while in use?

Safety features such as sensors or locking mechanisms could be implemented to prevent accidental opening of the panels, especially in high-speed or turbulent conditions.

Original Abstract Submitted

A structure, for example a vehicle roof, may define an opening receiving one or more removable panels. The removable panels may each include a panel body configured to cover the opening, and a plurality of latches. The latches may each be positioned adjacent a respective edge of the body and configured to translate between different positions. The removable panel may also include an actuator and a plurality of latch links, with each latch link having a first end connected to a corresponding one of the latches, and each latch link having a second end operably linked with the actuator. Rotation of the actuator may drive each of the latches from an open position of the latch to a closed position, while rotation of the actuator in an opposite direction may drive each of the latches from the closed position of the latch to the open position of the latch.