Brigham Young University

Deanne Clements

Larry L Howell

Scott Lyon

Brent Weight

An apparatus () that is capable of a first stable configuration and a second stable configuration is disclosed. The bistable mechanism () has a leg () that is coupled on one end by a base member () and on the other end by a shuttle (). The leg () stores potential energy as it is deflected. The potential energy stored in the leg () has a maximum potential energy position with a low potential energy position on either side of the maximum. An apparatus and method are also disclosed for a latching mechanism () and the associated method. The latching mechanism () is comprised of a grasping member (), a lock slider (), and a detent slider (). These three members () operate together to induce a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration by actuating the lock slider () in a single direction.

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Lafayette, IN, United States of America

Deanne Clements