Rockwell Collins, Inc.

Stephen R Blair

Roger D Eller

Mark V McPeek

Josh M Roe

A sliding lock mechanism that utilizes a binding bar to prevent movement of a sliding member on a slide rail in at least one direction. A spring mechanism exerts a biasing force on the binding bar to maintain the locked position. The binding bar can be moved to an unlocking position by overcoming the bias of the spring. This then allows movement of the sliding member in two directions on the slide rail. An actuating rod moves the binding bar between the first and second positions. The mechanism can be added to a stowing mechanism for a laptop or other device that can secure different devices with varying widths within a compartment due to a drive spring mechanism. The addition of the locking mechanism allows for greater security of the laptop during periods of vibration and prevents backdriving of the spring mechanism.

Sliding lock mechanism

A stowing mechanism for a laptop or other device can secure different devices with varying thicknesses and widths within a compartment. The mechanism includes a cover which serves as the actuator for a jack mechanism. A pressure plate pivotally attached to the jack mechanism pushes against the device when the lid is closed, thereby securing the device within the compartment. The device can be released from the secure position by opening the cover. A buffer spring operating in conjunction with the jacking mechanism allows the mechanism to secure devices having different thicknesses and widths, while the pivotal pressure plate allows the plate to conform to devices having different shapes.

Growing community of inventors

Cedar Rapids, IA, United States of America

Stephen R Blair