Patent ID: 7249397
Filing Date: 2007-07-31
Classification: B63B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A latch device comprising: a base suitable for attachment to a substrate; an elongate strap hinge having a proximal end affixed to the base and a distal end affixed to a cover that is hingedly attached to the base by the elongate strap hinge so that the cover is movable about the strap hinge between an open position and a closed position relative to the base by bending the strap hinge, the elongate strap hinge comprising the sole means of interconnecting the cover and base; a slot in the base that is spaced apart and separated from the strap hinge by a portion of the base so that an object disposed in the slot during use is prevented from contacting the strap hinge when the cover is in the closed position; a bearing protrusion positioned on the cover that is sized and configured so as to reside partially within the slot without touching the base when the cover is in the closed position; a hinge guide structure disposed on the cover or base, the hinge guide structure providing a curved surface around which at least a portion of the elongate strap hinge bends when the cover is selectively moved to the closed position relative to the base so that the elongate strap hinge bends over a significant portion of its entire length, at least a substantial portion of the strap hinge contacting the curved surface when the cover is in the closed position; and a locking mechanism that selectively locks and unlocks the cover relative to the base.