Manual dual overcenter latch mechanism and lock mechanism

Abstract

A latch mechanism selectively maintains a first component in a fixed position relative to a second component. The latch mechanism include a first member for selective attachment to the first component; and a second member for selective attachment to a second component and pivotally attached to the first member. The first and second members assume a locked position when the first and second members are substantially aligned and assume an unlocked position when the first and second members are traverse to each other. A handle is pivotally connected to the second member. A link member is pivotally connected at one end to the second member and pivotally connected at an opposite end to the handle. The link member assumes a first position when the handle is moved to a corresponding first handle position to have the link member overcenter with respect to the first and second members to brace the first and second members in a locked position. The link member also assumes a second position when the handle is moved to a corresponding second handle position to move the link member traverse to the second member to allow the first and second members to pivot relative to each other. The link member maintains the first and second members in the locked position until the handle is moved from the first handle position to the second handle position.