The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Nov. 18, 2003
Filed:
Jun. 19, 2002
Weyman Weems, Littleton, CO (US);
Lockheed Martin Corporation, Bethesda, MD (US);
Abstract
An electromagnetic latching assembly is disclosed that provides a mechanically advantageous holding force for securing two objects relative to one another. Generally, the assembly contains at least one and preferably two levers that are mounted to a frame so that they may pivot between open and closed positions. The frame is mounted to a first object and the lever(s) applies a holding force to a second object when the lever(s) is in the closed position. A permanent magnet is used to apply a magnetic restraining force to maintain the lever(s) in the closed position. The magnetic restraining force utilizes the leverage of the lever(s) to effectively apply an amplified holding force to the second object when the assembly is in the closed position. An electromagnet, which may be remotely actuated, is utilized selectively counteract the magnetic restraining force and allow the latch assembly to open and release the second object.