See "Trunk Latch Project 2.0 (Current - S21)" for current project info

Owned by Jacob Chartrand
Last updated: Jun 19, 2021 by Josh Dembicky
4 min read

Deadlines as per Task Master List:

Req. Def'n

Concept Design

MVP CAD

Detailed Design

July 4

July 11

7/25/2020

8/1/2020

Hand Calcs Doc:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pk31TMsWAiDHDWT-rBfxTDK9PmpGYC66/view

Definition

A latch is a mechanical fastener that holds two surfaces securely together while allowing for regular separation [1].

A trunk latch specifically secures the top trunk panel to the bottom panel.

Research

Types of Latches :

Cam/Twist [2]

 

Cam/Twist Latches are mechanical devices consisting of bases and cam levers and actuated by a twisting or turning motion and used to shut cabinet doors

Hook [2]

 

Hook Latches are spring-loaded (sometimes) mechanical devices used with crane or similar load-carrying hooks that act as safety gates to keep loaded lines from jumping out of the hooks. Key specifications include the hook capacity and the material. Not very structural.

Pull Down/Toggle (Draw) [2]

 

Pull Down/Toggle Latches are closures that consist of pivoting levers and drawbars that reach onto catches as a means of shutting cabinet doors

Slam/Push to Close [2]

 

Slam/Push-to-Close Latches are spring-loaded mechanical devices that automatically lock doors shut upon closing and require manual motions to open. 

Slide/Swing Bolt [2]

 

Slide/Swing Bolt Latches are mechanical devices that are used to hold doors closed and consist of sliding or rotating members and separate catches. Not incredibly structural.

Rotary [3]

 

A rotary latch system consists of an actuator, the black plastic lever a person uses to activate the latch in the system shown, the cable that connects the actuator to the latch, and the latch itself. Typically, a rotary latching system consists of three main elements: the rotary latch itself, the actuator (the interface with user), and the cable which connects these two components.

Similar to slam latches, used widely in the automotive industry for securing hoods, doors, and trunks. Able to be remote operated, and able to be used in structural applications.

 

 

 

 

References:

[1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latch

[2]: https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/hardware/types-of-latches/

[3]: https://www.machinedesign.com/automation-iiot/cables-connectors-enclosures/article/21832079/how-to-get-the-best-rotary-latches

 

UPDATE NOV 20, 2020

Latches!



distance between panels = ~0.5in (0.58something in)

closer to back seats = greater distance between panels



  • Latches must be < 0.5in tall in order to fit at the very end of the car

    • pretty hard to accomplish… 

 

  1. Traditional Car latches

. This normally uses handles/keys to release the latch. Hard to apply to car as there are no mounting locations for a handle that would reach the trunk latch. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Cable latches

. Latch is connected to cable

  • bolt on one panel, latch on other panel

    • wire is drawn to front of the car or maybe the backseats 

      • potential other areas to draw the line to



T Latch Locations

Orange = one latch. Green = two latches. 

  • Concerns about if the latch can hold down the trunk in both directions (end of trunk and sides of trunk)

    • depth of latch (distance from end of car) matters. If latch is too far from end of car then the trunk might not be fully closed

    • width latches matter as well. If latch is too far from sides of car then the sides of the trunk might not be fully closed 



https://www.mcmaster.com/trunk-latches/self-aligning-remote-release-latches/ 



  • Options

    • 1. Make it ourselves

      • design is pretty simple, everything can be done with CNC/manual

      • elastic material / springs to keep latch closed

        • Cost?

    • 2. McMaster-Carr / outsource

      • 3 feet cable, $71.10

      • 5 feet cable, $84.66