Patent ID: 6042156
Filing Date: 2000-03-28
Classification: B64D,E05B,E05C,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
A double jaw latch mechanism for releasably securing a moveable structure to a keeper, the double jaw latch mechanism comprising:a housing;a handle rotatably mounted to the housing, the handle having an open position, a closed position, and a pre-catch position;a linking mechanism having a first end and a second end, wherein the handle is connected to the first end of the linking mechanism; anda double jaw assembly having an open position, a closed position, and a pre-catch position, the double jaw assembly connected to the second end of the linking mechanism, wherein the double jaw assembly includes a first jaw and a second jaw mounted in pivoted relation for movement to and from each other to engage the keeper;a sensor, the sensor having a first end and a second end, the first end located adjacent to the keeper, wherein the sensor is pivotally connected to the housing;wherein, in the open position, the jaws are spaced apart to permit disengagement with the keeper when the handle is in the open position;wherein, in the closed position, the jaws are held together by the housing such that the jaws rigidly retain the keeper when the handle is in the closed position;wherein, in the pre-catch position, the jaws are urged together such that the jaws may yield to pressure exerted by the keeper and may accept and retain the keeper, and thereafter securely retain the keeper when the handle is in the pre-catch position; andwherein if the handle is attempted to be rotated to the closed position and the first end of the sensor is not capable of abutting the keeper then the second end of the sensor will be positioned within the housing such that the sensor will prevent the handle from closing.