[go: up one dir, main page]

WO2025004035A1 - A utility module and a latch assembly - Google Patents

A utility module and a latch assembly Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2025004035A1
WO2025004035A1 PCT/IL2024/050620 IL2024050620W WO2025004035A1 WO 2025004035 A1 WO2025004035 A1 WO 2025004035A1 IL 2024050620 W IL2024050620 W IL 2024050620W WO 2025004035 A1 WO2025004035 A1 WO 2025004035A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
locking
pair
lid
utility module
latch
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/IL2024/050620
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Yaron Brunner
Uri Parizer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Keter Home and Garden Products Ltd
Original Assignee
Keter Home and Garden Products Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Keter Home and Garden Products Ltd filed Critical Keter Home and Garden Products Ltd
Publication of WO2025004035A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025004035A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25H—WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT, e.g. FOR MARKING-OUT WORK; STORAGE MEANS FOR WORKSHOPS
    • B25H3/00—Storage means or arrangements for workshops facilitating access to, or handling of, work tools or instruments
    • B25H3/02—Boxes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
    • A45C13/005—Hinges
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
    • A45C13/10—Arrangement of fasteners
    • A45C13/1076—Arrangement of fasteners with a snap action
    • A45C13/1084—Arrangement of fasteners with a snap action of the latch-and-catch type
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage
    • A45C5/03—Suitcases

Definitions

  • the present disclosure is directed to a container and more specifically to a utility module comprising a body and a lid pivotally connectable to the body.
  • the disclosure is further directed to a latch assembly for releasably coupling the lid to the body of the utility module.
  • the term 'utility module ' is used in the present disclosure in its broad meaning and is meant to denote a variety of articles, such as storage containers, travel luggage, tool boxes, organizers, compacted work benches, cable storage, tools (e.g. hand tools, power generators and power sources), communication modules, carrying platforms, locomotion platforms, etc., of any shape and size, and wherein the utility module includes a latch assembly for releasably coupling the lid to the body of the utility module.
  • 'latch assembly' denotes a set of components of the utility module for releasably coupling the lid to the body of the utility module.
  • WO2017191628 relates to a utility module and a utility assembly including more than one utility module.
  • the utility module includes a body, lid pivotally coupled to the body and locking latch disposed in register with a locking latch arresting location.
  • the locking latch is arrested by corresponding locking latch arresting location, in a locked condition.
  • the locking latch and the locking latch arresting location are disposed at a front portion of the respective utility module.
  • the locking latch is configured for displacement in a direction substantially normal to a respective face of a utility module.
  • the locking latch is spring biased and configured for normally projecting from a face of the utility module.
  • the document further relates to a coupling mechanism for detachably attaching two or more utility modules to one another, utility assembles, mobile carriers and other attachable modules and articles.
  • a first aspect of the disclosure concerns a latch assembly for releasably coupling a lid with a body of a utility module.
  • the latch assembly includes at least one latch member pivotally connectable to the lid.
  • the at least one latch member being configured to be operated between a locked position and an unlocked position.
  • the at least one latch member is defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the at least one latch member facing the lid.
  • the latch assembly further includes a locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module.
  • the locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween.
  • the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, and wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition.
  • the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the at least one latch member is operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
  • the pair of locking tabs include a first locking tab extending outwardly from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
  • the first locking tab and the second locking tab have different protruding lengths, and wherein the protruding length of the first locking tab is shorter than protruding length of the second locking tab.
  • the lid being configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
  • the lid being configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
  • the bottom edge of the lid rests on the top edge of the utility module.
  • the at least one latch member includes an upper portion pivotally connectable to the lid, a lower portion engageable with the body, and an intermediate portion connecting the upper portion and the lower portion.
  • the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the lower portion of the at least one latch member.
  • the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the intermediate portion of the at least one latch member.
  • the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
  • each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
  • the at least one latch member is configured to be biased momentarily away from the body of the utility module, during sliding of the inwardly slanted portion of the pair of locking protrusions over the pair of locking tabs.
  • the at least one latch member is configured to be accommodated in the locking portion, in the second locking condition.
  • the elastic tongue is biased against the lower surface of the second locking tab, in the second locking condition.
  • a second aspect of the disclosure concerns a latch assembly for releasably coupling a lid with a body of a utility module.
  • the latch assembly includes a latching unit pivotally connectable to the lid.
  • the latching unit includes a plurality of latch members pivotally connectable to the lid of the utility module.
  • the plurality of latch members being configured to be operated between a locked position and an unlocked position.
  • Each of the plurality of latch members is defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the plurality of latch members facing the lid.
  • a connecting rod is coupled to each of the plurality of latch members.
  • the connecting rod is configured to simultaneously bias the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position, upon biasing of at least one of the plurality of latch members.
  • a releasable locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module.
  • the releasable locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween, wherein, when the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition.
  • the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the plurality of latch members being operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
  • the pair of locking tabs include a first locking tab extending from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab is defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
  • the first locking tab and the second locking tab have different protruding lengths, and wherein the protruding length of the first locking tab is shorter than protruding length than the second locking tab.
  • the latch assembly includes a handle coupled to the connecting rod, the handle being configured to rotate the connecting rod by a predetermined angle, to correspondingly bias each of the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position.
  • the lid is configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
  • the lid is configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
  • the bottom edge of the lid rests on the top edge of the utility module.
  • the plurality of latch members include an upper portion pivotally connectable to the lid, a lower portion engageable with the body, and an intermediate portion connecting the upper portion and the lower portion.
  • the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the lower portion of the plurality of latch members.
  • the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the intermediate portion of the plurality of latch members.
  • the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
  • each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
  • the plurality of latch members are configured to be biased momentarily away from the body of the utility module, during sliding of the inwardly slanted portion of the pair of locking protrusions over the pair of locking tabs.
  • the plurality of latch members are configured to be accommodated in the locking portion, in the second locking condition.
  • the elastic tongue is biased against the lower surface of the second locking tab, in the second locking condition.
  • a third aspect of the disclosure concerns a utility module.
  • the utility module includes a body; a lid pivotally articulated to a top back edge of the body; and a latch assembly being configured to releasably secure the lid to a top front edge of the body, the latch assembly including: at least one latch member pivotally connectable to the lid, the at least one latch member being configured to be operated between a locked position and an unlocked position, and the at least one latch member defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the at least one latch member facing the lid; and a releasable locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module, the releasable locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween, wherein, when the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and
  • the pair of locking tabs include: a first locking tab extending outwardly from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
  • the lid is configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
  • the lid is configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
  • the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
  • each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
  • a fourth aspect of the disclosure concerns another example of a utility module.
  • the utility module includes: a body; a lid pivotally articulated to a top back edge of the body; and a latch assembly being configured to releasably secure the lid to a top front edge of the body, the latch assembly including: a latching unit pivotally connectable to the lid, the latching unit including: a plurality of latch members pivotally connectable to the lid of the utility module, the plurality of latch members being configured to be operated between an locked position and an unlocked position, and each of the plurality of latch members defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the plurality of latch members facing the lid; and a connecting rod coupled to each of the plurality of latch members, the connecting rod configured to simultaneously bias the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position, upon biasing of at least one of the plurality of latch members; and a releasable locking unit defined in
  • the pair of locking tabs include a first locking tab extending from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
  • the utility module includes a handle coupled to the connecting rod, the handle being configured to rotate the connecting rod by a predetermined angle, to correspondingly bias each of the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position.
  • the lid is configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
  • the lid being configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
  • the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
  • each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
  • Fig- 1 is a top perspective view of a utility module, according to an example of the present disclosure
  • Fig- 2 is a side view of Fig. 1;
  • Fig- 3 is a rear perspective view of the Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 4A is another rear perspective view of the Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 4B is a closeup view of a rear portion outlined in Fig. 4A;
  • Fig- 5 is a front perspective view of the Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 6 is another front perspective view of the Fig. 1, however, with the utility module being in a first locking condition;
  • Fig. 7 is yet another front perspective view of the Fig. 6;
  • Fig. 8A illustrates a front perspective view of a latch member of the utility module ofFig. 1;
  • Fig. 8B illustrates a rear perspective view of the latch member of the Fig. 8A
  • Fig. 9 illustrates a top perspective view of a lid of the utility module of the Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 10A illustrates another front perspective view of the latch member of Figs. 8 A and 8B;
  • Fig. 10B illustrates another rear perspective view of the latch member ofFig. 10A
  • Figs.llA-llD illustrate different rear perspective views of the latch member of Figs. 10A and 10B;
  • Fig. HE illustrates a side perspective of the latch member ofFig. 11;
  • Fig. 12 illustrates another front perspective views of the utility module of the Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 13A illustrates a close up view of the region ‘S’ outlined in Fig. 12;
  • Fig. 13B-13E close up views of a locking unit of the utility module of the Fig. 12;
  • Figs. 14A-14B illustrate perspective views of the utility module ofFig. 1 in a first locked condition
  • Figs 15A-15B illustrate front views of the utility module of Figs. 14A and 14B, respectively;
  • Fig. 16 illustrates a side perspective view of the utility module ofFig. 14A
  • Figs 17A-17C illustrate sectional views of the utility module in the first locking condition, with the sections taken along planes X-X, Y-Y and Z-Z, respectively, depicted in Fig. 15 A;
  • Fig. 18 illustrates a side perspective view of the utility module of Fig. 1 in a second locking condition
  • Figs. 19A-19C illustrate sectional views of the utility module, with the sections taken along planes P-P, Q-Q and R-R, respectively, depicted in Fig. 15B;
  • Figs. 20A-20B illustrate a close-up view of the latch assembly of the utility module of the Fig. 1, in respective bottom perspective view and top perspective view;
  • Fig. 21 illustrates another example of the latch assembly for the utility module of the Fig. 1, in a front perspective view
  • Fig. 22 illustrates another example of the latch assembly for the utility module of the Fig. 1, in a rear perspective view
  • Fig. 23 illustrates yet another example of the latch assembly for the utility module of the Fig. 1, in a front perspective view
  • Fig. 24 illustrates another example of the utility module including the latching assembly illustrated in the Fig. 23;
  • Fig. 25 illustrates a sectional view of the utility module of the Fig. 24, with the section taken along the plane T-T.
  • a utility module of the present disclosure is exemplified as containers or receptacles configured to hold articles such as, but not limited to, tools, equipment, electronic products, and the like. Accordingly, the utility module is illustrated as a tool caddy in an exemplary manner. Further, it is to be appreciated that the utility module can be of any type, shape, or size, as discussed hereinabove and as will be exemplified below.
  • Fig. 1 illustrating the utility module generally designated 200.
  • the utility module 200 includes a body 11 and is configured with a lid 10 constituting a top face of the utility module 200.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates the utility module 200 in a side view, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer A in the Fig. 1.
  • Figs. 3 and 4 illustrate rear perspective views of the utility module 200, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer B in the Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 4A illustrates a rear perspective of the utility module 200
  • the Fig. 4B illustrates a closeup view of a rear portion 46 of the utility module 200.
  • Fig. 5 illustrate a front perspective view of the utility module 200, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer C in the Fig. 1.
  • the lid 10 is pivotally attached and securely articulated to the to the body 11. As can be seen in the Fig. 5, the lid 10 is pivotally articulated to a top back edge 43 of the body 11. While it is illustrated that the lid 10 is pivotally articulated to the top back edge 43 of the body 11, it is to be appreciated that the lid 10 can be pivotally articulated to a top right or left edge of the body 11 as well. However, for illustration purpose, it is depicted as to be pivotally articulated to the top back edge 43 of the body 11. Referring to Fig. 4A, a top rear portion of the body 11 is configured with flanges 47 extending therefrom, in an upward direction.
  • a bottom rear portion lid 10 is also configured with flanges 48 extending therefrom, in a downward direction.
  • the flanges 47 of the body 11 and the flanges 48 of the lid 10 are configured to have complementary profiles, for facilitating engagement therebetween.
  • Each of the flanges 47, 48 is defined with an aperture at an end portion thereof.
  • an elongate member such as a hinge rod, is passed through the apertures defined in each of the flanges 47, 48, to pivotally couple the lid 10 to the body 11.
  • the lid 10 may be pivotally articulated to the body 11 of the utility module 200, through any other suitable pivoting arrangement that is deemed suitable, based on operational requirements of the utility module 200.
  • Fig. 6 illustrates another front perspective view of the utility module 200, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer C in the Fig. 1.
  • the utility module 200 includes a latch assembly generally designated as 100 and outlined in the Figure 6.
  • the term 'latch assembly' as used herein denotes a set of components of the utility module 200, that are configured for articulation to one another (i.e., having engagement with each other), for releasably coupling the lid 10 to the body 11 of the utility module.
  • the latch assembly 100 is configured to releasably secure the lid 10 to a top front edge 44 see Fig. 5 of the body 11.
  • the latch assembly 100 includes at least one latch member 20. While the example of the utility module 200 illustrated in the Figures includes two latch members 20, such depiction should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. It is to be appreciated that in some examples the lid 10 may be releasably secured to the top front edge 44 of the body 11 by a single latch member 20.
  • the two latch members 20 of the utility module 200 as depicted in the Fig. 7, may be configured to be coupled to each other by a coupling member such as, but not limited to, a connecting rod and the like. Alternatively, the two latch members 20 may be operated independent of each other, without any coupling/connection therebetween.
  • Figs. 8A and 8B illustrate a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of the latch member 20, when viewed in directions depicted by pointers D and E in Fig. 7.
  • the latch member 20 is pivotally articulated to the lid 10 in a manner such that the latch member 20 is operable between a locked position 12 and an unlocked position 13.
  • the term ‘locked position’ as used herein refers to the state of the latch member 20, in which the latch elements are engaged with corresponding catch or arresting members (i.e. locking tabs 18, 19) of the latch assembly 100.
  • the locked position 12 is generally designated as 12 and is as shown in Fig. 14.
  • the term ‘unlocked position’ as used herein refers to the state of the latch member 20, in which the latch elements are disengaged (positioned away) from corresponding catch or arresting members (i.e. locking tabs 18, 19) of the latch assembly 100.
  • the unlocked position 13 is generally designated as 13 and is as shown in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 9 illustrates a top perspective view of the lid 10, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. Further, the Figs. 10A and 10B illustrate another front perspective view and another rear perspective view of the latch member 20, when viewed in directions depicted by pointers D and E in Fig. 7.
  • the latch member 20 includes an upper portion 33 pivotally connectable to the lid 10, a lower portion 34 configured to be engageable with the body 11, and an intermediate portion 35 connecting the upper portion 33 and the lower portion 34.
  • the upper portion 33 includes a pivoting stem 55.
  • the pivoting stem 55 is configured to facilitate pivotally connecting the latch member 20 to the lid 10.
  • the pivoting stem 55 may also include a through aperture defined therein. The through aperture may be configured to accommodate at least a portion of a connecting rod that may be employed to connect two or more latch members 20 of the latching assembly 100.
  • the front portion of the lid 10 is defined with slots 49, 50 configured to accommodate the upper portion 33 of the latch member 20, for facilitating pivotal articulation of the latch member 20 to the lid 10.
  • the latch member 20 is defined with an elastic tongue 14 and a pair of locking protrusions 36, 37.
  • Each of the elastic tongue 14 and the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are configured to extend rearwardly from the lower portion 34 of the at least one latch member 20.
  • Each of the elastic tongue 14 and the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 protrude in a rearward direction R (see Fig. 6). Further, each of the elastic tongue 14 and the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 protrude from a major surface 15 of the latch member 20 facing the lid 10.
  • the elastic tongue 14 and the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 may be configured to extend rearwardly from the intermediate portion 35 of the at least one latch member 20.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue 14.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue 14. That is, while a first locking protrusion 36 is positioned on a first side of the elastic tongue 14 (on right side from the viewer/reader perspective), a second locking protrusion 37 is positioned on a second side of the elastic tongue 14 (on left side from the viewer/reader perspective)].
  • each of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 is defined with an inwardly slanted portion 38A, 38B (see Fig. 1 ID).
  • Each of the inwardly slanted portions 38A, 38B include a pocket 53, 54 defined therein.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are separated from the elastic tongue 14 with a space defined therebetween.
  • the major surface 15 of the latch member 20 is defined with strengthening ribs 51.
  • the strengthening ribs 51 extend from the upper portion 33 lower portion 34 of the latch member 20, and delimit the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 on the major surface 15.
  • the major surface 15 is also defined with a cut-out 52 at a base of the elastic tongue 14.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and elastic tongue 14 protrude from the common major surface 15, base portions of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and elastic tongue 14 are separate and distinct.
  • An end portion of the elastic tongue 14 is defined with a bulge that is substantially trapezoidal shaped. As illustrated in the Figs.
  • the elastic tongue 14 has a trapezoidal profile defined pair of slanting portions separated by a flat portion in the middle.
  • the pair of slanting portions include an inwardly slanting portion (slanting towards the major surface 15) and an outwardly slanting portion (opposite to the inwardly slanting portion), that are separated by the flat portion on the middle.
  • Fig. HE illustrates a side perspective of the latch member 20. As illustrated in the Fig. HE, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are slightly longer in length than the elastic tongue 14.
  • Fig. 12 illustrates another front perspective views of the utility module 200, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer C in the Fig. 1.
  • the latching assembly 100 includes a locking unit 16.
  • the term ‘locking unit’ as used herein denotes a set of components/features of the utility module 200, that are configured to facilitate locking and unlocking of the latch member 20 with the body 11 of the utility module 200.
  • Fig. 13 A illustrates a close up view of the region ‘S’ outlined in Fig. 12.
  • the locking unit 16 is defined in a locking portion 17 of the body 11 of the utility module 200.
  • the locking portion 17 is a cavity (or an arresting space) defined in a top front portion of the body 11, as depicted in the Fig. 13 A.
  • the locking unit 16 includes at least a pair of locking tabs 18, 19.
  • the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 are defined with a gap 21 therebetween.
  • the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 include a first locking tab 18 extending or protruding outwardly from a top surface 24 of the body 11.
  • the first locking tab 18 defined with a first inclined portion 25 and a first vertical portion 26.
  • the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 further includes a second locking tab 19 extending or protruding outwardly below and along a vertical axis A-A of the first locking tab 18.
  • the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 extend away from the storage space of the utility module 200.
  • the second locking tab 19 is defined with a second inclined portion 27 and a second vertical portion 28.
  • the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 have a shape that resembles a parallelogram that is cut into half.
  • the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 may also have a wedge shaped profile.
  • the first locking tab 18 and the second locking tab 19 have different protruding lengths. As can be seen in the illustrative example, the protruding length of the first locking tab 18 is shorter than protruding length of the second locking tab 19. Further, the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 having a slightly downward inclination shown in Figs. 17 and 19 to facilitate firm engagement with the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37.
  • the locking unit 16 includes at least a pair of locking tabs 18, 19 and construction, operation of the latch assembly 100 is described in the context of the pair of locking tabs 18, 19.
  • the locking unit 16 may be configured with more than one pair of locking tab 18, 19.
  • the number of pairs of locking tabs 18, 19 included in the locking unit 16 may be varied based on constructional and operational requirements of the latch assembly 100, and based on overall dimension of the utility module 200 and the locking unit 16.
  • the locking unit 16 may include two pair of locking tabs or three pair of locking tabs or more pairs of locking tabs.
  • the inwardly slanted portion 38A, 38B of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 is configured to slide over first locking tab 18 and the second locking tab 19.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 have a slightly upward inclination (shown in Figs. 17 and 19) to facilitate firm engagement with the pair of locking tabs 18, 19.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are slightly longer in length than the elastic tongue 14.
  • length of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 cannot be substantially longer than the length of the elastic tongue 14, as such construction may lead to interference during operation of the latch member 20.
  • the length of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 can be configured in a manner that is suitable for the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 to engage firmly with the pair of locking tabs 18, 19. Such configuration ensures that the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 slide over the first locking tab 18 and the second locking tab 19.
  • the inwardly slanted portion 38A, 38B are configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion 25 of the first locking tab 18 and the second inclined portion 27 of the second locking tab 19.
  • the at least one latch member 20 is configured to be biased momentarily away from the body 11 (from an inward/locked position 12 to the outward/unlocked position 13) of the utility module 200, during sliding of the inwardly slanted portion 38 of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 over the pair of locking tabs 18, 19.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are slightly longer in length than the elastic tongue 14. Such shorter length of the elastic tongue 14 coupled with the lengthier configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37, ensures that the elastic tongue 14 is pulled away from the first locking tab 18 and the second locking tab 19, to avoid interference, during sliding of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 over the pair of locking tabs 18, 19.
  • the latch member 20 includes the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and construction, operation of the latch assembly 100 is described in the context of pair of locking protrusions 36, 37.
  • the latch member 20 may be configured with a single locking protrusion, or more than the pair of locking protrusions. Accordingly, in alternative ways, the number of locking protrusions included in the latch member 20 may be varied based on constructional and operational requirements of the latch assembly 100, and based on overall dimension of the utility module 200 and the locking unit 16.
  • Figs. 14A and 14B illustrate a perspective views of the utility module 200 in a first locked condition 22 (also referred to as the ‘first locking condition’). Further, Figs. 15A and 15B illustrate front views of the utility module 200 in the first locked condition 22. Operation of the latch assembly 100 is now described with reference to Figs. 14 and 15. Initially, when the lid 10 is operated from an open position to a closing position, i.e. when the lid 10 is released from an open position onto the body 11 of the utility module 200, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 slide over the first locking tab 18 and reside in the gap 21 between the pair of locking tabs 18, 19. That is, top surfaces 56, 57 (see Fig.
  • the lid 10 gets temporarily locked with the body 11, which is referred to as the first locking condition 22.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 have a slightly upward inclination (shown in Figs. 17 and 19).
  • the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 having a slightly downward inclination shown in Figs. 17 and 19.
  • Such complementary configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 facilitate firm engagement therebetween.
  • such complementary inclined configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 ensure firm engagement between the top surfaces 56, 57 (see Fig. 1 IB) of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 against the lower surface 45 of the first locking tab 18.
  • the top surfaces 56, 57 (see Fig. 11B of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 may have a frictional engagement (frictional locking) against the lower surface 45 of the first locking tab 18.
  • Fig. 16 illustrates a side perspective view of the utility module 200 in the first locking condition 22.
  • Figs. 17A-17C illustrate sectional views of the utility module 200 in the first locking condition 22, with the sections taken along planes X-X, Y-Y and Z-Z, respectively, depicted in Fig. 15 A.
  • the lid 10 is configured to be in partial engagement with the body 11 such that an angular gap 29 (see Fig. 16) is defined between the lid 10 and the body 11, at a front portion 30 of the utility module 200.
  • the lid 10 is only temporarily locked with the body 11, and the utility module 200 is not secured/sealed.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are configured to slide over the second locking tab 19 and reside below the second locking tab 19.
  • the elastic tongue 14 is moved below the second locking tab 19, to be biased against a lower surface 39 see Fig. 13E of the second locking tab 19.
  • the complementary inclined configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 ensure firm engagement between the top surfaces 56, 57 (see Fig.
  • the latch member 20 may be manipulated into the locked position 12 by application of pushing force (the latch member 20 is pushed towards the body 11).
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 gets engaged with the second locking tab 19.
  • the lid 10 gets securely locked with the body 11, which is referred to as the second locking condition 23.
  • the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 have a slightly upward inclination (shown in Figs. 17 and 19).
  • the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 having a slightly downward inclination.
  • Such complementary configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 facilitate firm engagement therebetween.
  • such complementary inclined configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 ensure firm engagement between the top surfaces 56, 57 of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 against the lower surface 39 of the second locking tab 19.
  • the top surfaces 56, 57 of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 may have a frictional engagement against the lower surface 39 of the second locking tab 19.
  • FIG. 18 illustrates a side perspective view of the utility module 200 in the second locking condition 23 (also referred to as the ‘second locked condition’).
  • Figs. 19A-19C illustrate sectional views of the utility module 200 in the second locking condition 23, with the sections taken along planes P-P, Q-Q and R-R, respectively, depicted in Fig. 15B.
  • the Figs. 20A and 20B illustrate a close-up view of the latch assembly 100 in a bottom perspective view and a top perspective view.
  • the lid 10 is configured to be in full engagement with the body 11 such that a bottom edge 31] of the lid 10 is in parallel engagement with a top edge 32 of the utility module 200.
  • FIGs. 21 and 22 illustrate another example [referred to as the second configuration hereinafter] of the latch assembly 100 of the present disclosure, in a front perspective view and rear perspective view, respectively.
  • the second configuration of the latch assembly 100 includes a latching unit 40 pivotally connectable to the lid 10.
  • the latching unit 40 includes a plurality of latch members 20 [two latch members depicted in the Figure] pivotally connectable to the lid 10.
  • the latching unit 40 includes a connecting rod 41 coupled to each of the plurality of latch members 20.
  • the latching unit 40 further includes a releasable locking unit 16 that is configured similar to the locking unit 16 of the previous example.
  • Fig. 23 illustrates another example (referred to as the third configuration hereinafter) of the latch assembly 100 of the present disclosure, in a front perspective view.
  • the third configuration includes a handle 42 coupled to the connecting rod 41.
  • the handle 42 is configured to rotate the connecting rod 41 by a predetermined angle, to correspondingly bias each of the plurality of latch members 20 between the locked position 12 and the unlocked position 13. Rest of the features of the third configuration have similar configuration and operation as that of the features of the first and second configurations.
  • Fig. 24 illustrates another example of the utility module 200 (referred to as the fourth configuration hereinafter) including the latching assembly 100 illustrated in Fig. 23.
  • Fig. 25 illustrates a sectional view of the utility module 200, with the section taken along the plane T-T shown in Fig. 24.
  • the fourth configuration includes the latch assembly 100 that is illustrated and described with reference to Figs.
  • the fourth configuration further includes the handle 42 of the third configuration.
  • the handle 42 is coupled to the connecting rod 41.
  • the handle 42 is configured to manipulate the connecting rod 41, for the connecting rod 41 to be rotated by a predetermined angle. Rotational displacement of the connecting rod 41 correspondingly biases each of the plurality of latch members 20 between the locked position 12 and the unlocked position 13. Rest of the features of the third configuration have similar configuration and operation as that of the features of the first and second configurations.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)

Abstract

A utility module and a latch assembly (100) for releasably coupling a lid (10) with a body (11) of the utility module, the latch assembly comprising: a latch member (20) defined with an elastic tongue (14) and a pair of locking protrusions (36, 37); and a locking unit (16) including a pair of locking tabs (18, 19) defining a gap (21) therebetween, wherein, when the lid (10) is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions (36, 37) being configured to slidably engage with one of the pair of locking tabs (18) and reside in the gap (21), temporarily locking the lid (10) with the body (11) in a first locking condition, and wherein, when a force is applied on the lid (10), the pair of locking protrusions (36, 37) being configured to slidably engage with the other one of the pair of locking tabs (19) and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs (19), securely locking the lid (10) in a second locking condition with the body (11).

Description

A UTILITY MODULE AND A LATCH ASSEMBLY
TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD
The present disclosure is directed to a container and more specifically to a utility module comprising a body and a lid pivotally connectable to the body. The disclosure is further directed to a latch assembly for releasably coupling the lid to the body of the utility module.
The term 'utility module ' is used in the present disclosure in its broad meaning and is meant to denote a variety of articles, such as storage containers, travel luggage, tool boxes, organizers, compacted work benches, cable storage, tools (e.g. hand tools, power generators and power sources), communication modules, carrying platforms, locomotion platforms, etc., of any shape and size, and wherein the utility module includes a latch assembly for releasably coupling the lid to the body of the utility module.
The term 'latch assembly' as used herein denotes a set of components of the utility module for releasably coupling the lid to the body of the utility module.
BACKGROUND
WO2017191628 relates to a utility module and a utility assembly including more than one utility module. The utility module includes a body, lid pivotally coupled to the body and locking latch disposed in register with a locking latch arresting location. The locking latch is arrested by corresponding locking latch arresting location, in a locked condition. The locking latch and the locking latch arresting location are disposed at a front portion of the respective utility module. The locking latch is configured for displacement in a direction substantially normal to a respective face of a utility module. Furthermore, the locking latch is spring biased and configured for normally projecting from a face of the utility module. The document further relates to a coupling mechanism for detachably attaching two or more utility modules to one another, utility assembles, mobile carriers and other attachable modules and articles.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
A first aspect of the disclosure concerns a latch assembly for releasably coupling a lid with a body of a utility module. The latch assembly includes at least one latch member pivotally connectable to the lid. The at least one latch member being configured to be operated between a locked position and an unlocked position. The at least one latch member is defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the at least one latch member facing the lid. The latch assembly further includes a locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module. The locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween. When the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, and wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition. When a force is applied on the lid, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the at least one latch member is operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the pair of locking tabs include a first locking tab extending outwardly from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the first locking tab and the second locking tab have different protruding lengths, and wherein the protruding length of the first locking tab is shorter than protruding length of the second locking tab.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the lid being configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the lid being configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module. According to a configuration of the first aspect, in the second locking condition, the bottom edge of the lid rests on the top edge of the utility module.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the at least one latch member includes an upper portion pivotally connectable to the lid, a lower portion engageable with the body, and an intermediate portion connecting the upper portion and the lower portion.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the lower portion of the at least one latch member.
According to another configuration of the first aspect, the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the intermediate portion of the at least one latch member.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the at least one latch member is configured to be biased momentarily away from the body of the utility module, during sliding of the inwardly slanted portion of the pair of locking protrusions over the pair of locking tabs.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the at least one latch member is configured to be accommodated in the locking portion, in the second locking condition.
According to a configuration of the first aspect, the elastic tongue is biased against the lower surface of the second locking tab, in the second locking condition.
A second aspect of the disclosure concerns a latch assembly for releasably coupling a lid with a body of a utility module. The latch assembly includes a latching unit pivotally connectable to the lid. The latching unit includes a plurality of latch members pivotally connectable to the lid of the utility module. The plurality of latch members being configured to be operated between a locked position and an unlocked position. Each of the plurality of latch members is defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the plurality of latch members facing the lid. A connecting rod is coupled to each of the plurality of latch members. The connecting rod is configured to simultaneously bias the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position, upon biasing of at least one of the plurality of latch members. A releasable locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module. The releasable locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween, wherein, when the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition. When a force is applied on the lid, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the plurality of latch members being operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, the pair of locking tabs include a first locking tab extending from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab is defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, the first locking tab and the second locking tab have different protruding lengths, and wherein the protruding length of the first locking tab is shorter than protruding length than the second locking tab.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, the latch assembly includes a handle coupled to the connecting rod, the handle being configured to rotate the connecting rod by a predetermined angle, to correspondingly bias each of the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position. According to a configuration of the second aspect, the lid is configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, the lid is configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, wherein in the second locking condition, the bottom edge of the lid rests on the top edge of the utility module.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, the plurality of latch members include an upper portion pivotally connectable to the lid, a lower portion engageable with the body, and an intermediate portion connecting the upper portion and the lower portion.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the lower portion of the plurality of latch members.
According to another configuration of the second aspect, the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the intermediate portion of the plurality of latch members.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, the plurality of latch members are configured to be biased momentarily away from the body of the utility module, during sliding of the inwardly slanted portion of the pair of locking protrusions over the pair of locking tabs.
According to a configuration of the second aspect, the plurality of latch members are configured to be accommodated in the locking portion, in the second locking condition. According to a configuration of the second aspect, the elastic tongue is biased against the lower surface of the second locking tab, in the second locking condition.
A third aspect of the disclosure concerns a utility module. The utility module includes a body; a lid pivotally articulated to a top back edge of the body; and a latch assembly being configured to releasably secure the lid to a top front edge of the body, the latch assembly including: at least one latch member pivotally connectable to the lid, the at least one latch member being configured to be operated between a locked position and an unlocked position, and the at least one latch member defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the at least one latch member facing the lid; and a releasable locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module, the releasable locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween, wherein, when the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, and wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition, and wherein, when a force is applied on the lid, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the at least one latch member is operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
According to a configuration of the third aspect, the pair of locking tabs include: a first locking tab extending outwardly from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
According to a configuration of the third aspect, the lid is configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module. According to a configuration of the third aspect, the lid is configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
According to a configuration of the third aspect, the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
According to a configuration of the third aspect, each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
A fourth aspect of the disclosure concerns another example of a utility module. The utility module includes: a body; a lid pivotally articulated to a top back edge of the body; and a latch assembly being configured to releasably secure the lid to a top front edge of the body, the latch assembly including: a latching unit pivotally connectable to the lid, the latching unit including: a plurality of latch members pivotally connectable to the lid of the utility module, the plurality of latch members being configured to be operated between an locked position and an unlocked position, and each of the plurality of latch members defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the plurality of latch members facing the lid; and a connecting rod coupled to each of the plurality of latch members, the connecting rod configured to simultaneously bias the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position, upon biasing of at least one of the plurality of latch members; and a releasable locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module, the releasable locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween, wherein, when the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition, and wherein, when a force is applied on the lid, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the plurality of latch members being operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
According to a configuration of the fourth aspect, the pair of locking tabs include a first locking tab extending from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
According to a configuration of the fourth aspect, the utility module includes a handle coupled to the connecting rod, the handle being configured to rotate the connecting rod by a predetermined angle, to correspondingly bias each of the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position.
According to a configuration of the fourth aspect, the lid is configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
According to a configuration of the fourth aspect, the lid being configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
According to a configuration of the fourth aspect, the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
According to a configuration of the fourth aspect, each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig- 1 is a top perspective view of a utility module, according to an example of the present disclosure; Fig- 2 is a side view of Fig. 1;
Fig- 3 is a rear perspective view of the Fig. 1;
Fig. 4A is another rear perspective view of the Fig. 1;
Fig. 4B is a closeup view of a rear portion outlined in Fig. 4A;
Fig- 5 is a front perspective view of the Fig. 1;
Fig. 6 is another front perspective view of the Fig. 1, however, with the utility module being in a first locking condition;
Fig. 7 is yet another front perspective view of the Fig. 6;
Fig. 8A illustrates a front perspective view of a latch member of the utility module ofFig. 1;
Fig. 8B illustrates a rear perspective view of the latch member of the Fig. 8A;
Fig. 9 illustrates a top perspective view of a lid of the utility module of the Fig. 1;
Fig. 10A illustrates another front perspective view of the latch member of Figs. 8 A and 8B;
Fig. 10B illustrates another rear perspective view of the latch member ofFig. 10A;
Figs.llA-llD illustrate different rear perspective views of the latch member of Figs. 10A and 10B;
Fig. HE illustrates a side perspective of the latch member ofFig. 11;
Fig. 12 illustrates another front perspective views of the utility module of the Fig. 1;
Fig. 13A illustrates a close up view of the region ‘S’ outlined in Fig. 12;
Fig. 13B-13E close up views of a locking unit of the utility module of the Fig. 12;
Figs. 14A-14B illustrate perspective views of the utility module ofFig. 1 in a first locked condition;
Figs 15A-15B illustrate front views of the utility module of Figs. 14A and 14B, respectively;
Fig. 16 illustrates a side perspective view of the utility module ofFig. 14A;
Figs 17A-17C illustrate sectional views of the utility module in the first locking condition, with the sections taken along planes X-X, Y-Y and Z-Z, respectively, depicted in Fig. 15 A;
Fig. 18 illustrates a side perspective view of the utility module of Fig. 1 in a second locking condition; Figs. 19A-19C illustrate sectional views of the utility module, with the sections taken along planes P-P, Q-Q and R-R, respectively, depicted in Fig. 15B;
Figs. 20A-20B illustrate a close-up view of the latch assembly of the utility module of the Fig. 1, in respective bottom perspective view and top perspective view;
Fig. 21 illustrates another example of the latch assembly for the utility module of the Fig. 1, in a front perspective view;
Fig. 22 illustrates another example of the latch assembly for the utility module of the Fig. 1, in a rear perspective view;
Fig. 23 illustrates yet another example of the latch assembly for the utility module of the Fig. 1, in a front perspective view;
Fig. 24 illustrates another example of the utility module including the latching assembly illustrated in the Fig. 23; and
Fig. 25 illustrates a sectional view of the utility module of the Fig. 24, with the section taken along the plane T-T.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
Reference is now being made to Figs. 1 to 5, directed to a first configuration of a utility module of the present disclosure. For sake of convenience, the utility module is exemplified as containers or receptacles configured to hold articles such as, but not limited to, tools, equipment, electronic products, and the like. Accordingly, the utility module is illustrated as a tool caddy in an exemplary manner. Further, it is to be appreciated that the utility module can be of any type, shape, or size, as discussed hereinabove and as will be exemplified below.
Attention is first directed to Fig. 1, illustrating the utility module generally designated 200. The utility module 200 includes a body 11 and is configured with a lid 10 constituting a top face of the utility module 200. Fig. 2 illustrates the utility module 200 in a side view, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer A in the Fig. 1. Further, Figs. 3 and 4 illustrate rear perspective views of the utility module 200, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer B in the Fig. 1. Specifically, while Fig. 4A illustrates a rear perspective of the utility module 200, the Fig. 4B illustrates a closeup view of a rear portion 46 of the utility module 200. Furthermore, Fig. 5 illustrate a front perspective view of the utility module 200, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer C in the Fig. 1.
As illustrated in the Figs. 1 to 5, the lid 10 is pivotally attached and securely articulated to the to the body 11. As can be seen in the Fig. 5, the lid 10 is pivotally articulated to a top back edge 43 of the body 11. While it is illustrated that the lid 10 is pivotally articulated to the top back edge 43 of the body 11, it is to be appreciated that the lid 10 can be pivotally articulated to a top right or left edge of the body 11 as well. However, for illustration purpose, it is depicted as to be pivotally articulated to the top back edge 43 of the body 11. Referring to Fig. 4A, a top rear portion of the body 11 is configured with flanges 47 extending therefrom, in an upward direction. Similarly, a bottom rear portion lid 10 is also configured with flanges 48 extending therefrom, in a downward direction. The flanges 47 of the body 11 and the flanges 48 of the lid 10 are configured to have complementary profiles, for facilitating engagement therebetween. Each of the flanges 47, 48 is defined with an aperture at an end portion thereof. In an engaged condition of the flanges 47, 48 (with the apertures aligned in-line), an elongate member, such as a hinge rod, is passed through the apertures defined in each of the flanges 47, 48, to pivotally couple the lid 10 to the body 11. However, the lid 10 may be pivotally articulated to the body 11 of the utility module 200, through any other suitable pivoting arrangement that is deemed suitable, based on operational requirements of the utility module 200.
Fig. 6 illustrates another front perspective view of the utility module 200, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer C in the Fig. 1. The utility module 200 includes a latch assembly generally designated as 100 and outlined in the Figure 6. As described earlier, the term 'latch assembly' as used herein denotes a set of components of the utility module 200, that are configured for articulation to one another (i.e., having engagement with each other), for releasably coupling the lid 10 to the body 11 of the utility module. In the examples of utility module illustrated in the Figures of the present disclosure, the latch assembly 100 is configured to releasably secure the lid 10 to a top front edge 44 see Fig. 5 of the body 11.
Referring to Fig. 7 which illustrates yet another front perspective view of the utility module 200, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer C in the Figure 1. Referring now to Figs. 6 and 7, the latch assembly 100 includes at least one latch member 20. While the example of the utility module 200 illustrated in the Figures includes two latch members 20, such depiction should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. It is to be appreciated that in some examples the lid 10 may be releasably secured to the top front edge 44 of the body 11 by a single latch member 20. The two latch members 20 of the utility module 200, as depicted in the Fig. 7, may be configured to be coupled to each other by a coupling member such as, but not limited to, a connecting rod and the like. Alternatively, the two latch members 20 may be operated independent of each other, without any coupling/connection therebetween.
Reference is now made to Figs. 8A and 8B which illustrate a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of the latch member 20, when viewed in directions depicted by pointers D and E in Fig. 7. The latch member 20 is pivotally articulated to the lid 10 in a manner such that the latch member 20 is operable between a locked position 12 and an unlocked position 13. The term ‘locked position’ as used herein refers to the state of the latch member 20, in which the latch elements are engaged with corresponding catch or arresting members (i.e. locking tabs 18, 19) of the latch assembly 100. The locked position 12 is generally designated as 12 and is as shown in Fig. 14. The term ‘unlocked position’ as used herein refers to the state of the latch member 20, in which the latch elements are disengaged (positioned away) from corresponding catch or arresting members (i.e. locking tabs 18, 19) of the latch assembly 100. The unlocked position 13 is generally designated as 13 and is as shown in Fig. 2.
Fig. 9 illustrates a top perspective view of the lid 10, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. Further, the Figs. 10A and 10B illustrate another front perspective view and another rear perspective view of the latch member 20, when viewed in directions depicted by pointers D and E in Fig. 7.
As illustrated in the Figs. 9 and 10, the latch member 20 includes an upper portion 33 pivotally connectable to the lid 10, a lower portion 34 configured to be engageable with the body 11, and an intermediate portion 35 connecting the upper portion 33 and the lower portion 34. The upper portion 33 includes a pivoting stem 55. The pivoting stem 55 is configured to facilitate pivotally connecting the latch member 20 to the lid 10. The pivoting stem 55 may also include a through aperture defined therein. The through aperture may be configured to accommodate at least a portion of a connecting rod that may be employed to connect two or more latch members 20 of the latching assembly 100. As can be seen in the Fig. 9, the front portion of the lid 10 is defined with slots 49, 50 configured to accommodate the upper portion 33 of the latch member 20, for facilitating pivotal articulation of the latch member 20 to the lid 10.
Referring to Figs. 11A-11D illustrating different rear perspective views of the latch member 20, when viewed in direction depicted by pointer E in the Fig. 7. As shown in Figs. 11A-11D, the latch member 20 is defined with an elastic tongue 14 and a pair of locking protrusions 36, 37. Each of the elastic tongue 14 and the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are configured to extend rearwardly from the lower portion 34 of the at least one latch member 20. Each of the elastic tongue 14 and the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 protrude in a rearward direction R (see Fig. 6). Further, each of the elastic tongue 14 and the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 protrude from a major surface 15 of the latch member 20 facing the lid 10.
In another example, the elastic tongue 14 and the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 may be configured to extend rearwardly from the intermediate portion 35 of the at least one latch member 20.
Referring to Figs. 11A-11D, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue 14. The pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue 14. That is, while a first locking protrusion 36 is positioned on a first side of the elastic tongue 14 (on right side from the viewer/reader perspective), a second locking protrusion 37 is positioned on a second side of the elastic tongue 14 (on left side from the viewer/reader perspective)]. Further, each of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 is defined with an inwardly slanted portion 38A, 38B (see Fig. 1 ID). Each of the inwardly slanted portions 38A, 38B include a pocket 53, 54 defined therein.
Further, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are separated from the elastic tongue 14 with a space defined therebetween. In some examples, the major surface 15 of the latch member 20 is defined with strengthening ribs 51. The strengthening ribs 51 extend from the upper portion 33 lower portion 34 of the latch member 20, and delimit the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 on the major surface 15. The major surface 15 is also defined with a cut-out 52 at a base of the elastic tongue 14. Although the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and elastic tongue 14 protrude from the common major surface 15, base portions of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and elastic tongue 14 are separate and distinct. An end portion of the elastic tongue 14 is defined with a bulge that is substantially trapezoidal shaped. As illustrated in the Figs. 11A-11D, the elastic tongue 14 has a trapezoidal profile defined pair of slanting portions separated by a flat portion in the middle. The pair of slanting portions include an inwardly slanting portion (slanting towards the major surface 15) and an outwardly slanting portion (opposite to the inwardly slanting portion), that are separated by the flat portion on the middle.
Further, the strengthening ribs 51 restrict movement of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 (in up and down directions), and hence behave as fixed members (nonflexible). However, the elastic tongue 14 is configured to be flexible, and has a certain degree of movement (in up and down direction), whereby behaving as a flexible member. Further, Fig. HE illustrates a side perspective of the latch member 20. As illustrated in the Fig. HE, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are slightly longer in length than the elastic tongue 14.
Turning now to Fig. 12 which illustrates another front perspective views of the utility module 200, when viewed from direction depicted by pointer C in the Fig. 1. Referring to Fig. 12, the latching assembly 100 includes a locking unit 16. The term ‘locking unit’ as used herein denotes a set of components/features of the utility module 200, that are configured to facilitate locking and unlocking of the latch member 20 with the body 11 of the utility module 200. Fig. 13 A illustrates a close up view of the region ‘S’ outlined in Fig. 12. The locking unit 16 is defined in a locking portion 17 of the body 11 of the utility module 200. The locking portion 17 is a cavity (or an arresting space) defined in a top front portion of the body 11, as depicted in the Fig. 13 A. The locking unit 16 includes at least a pair of locking tabs 18, 19. The pair of locking tabs 18, 19 are defined with a gap 21 therebetween.
Reference is made to Figs. 13B-13E, which are close-up views of the locking unit 16, in different viewpoints. Referring to Figs. 13A-13E, the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 include a first locking tab 18 extending or protruding outwardly from a top surface 24 of the body 11. The first locking tab 18 defined with a first inclined portion 25 and a first vertical portion 26. The pair of locking tabs 18, 19 further includes a second locking tab 19 extending or protruding outwardly below and along a vertical axis A-A of the first locking tab 18. As an example, the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 extend away from the storage space of the utility module 200. The second locking tab 19 is defined with a second inclined portion 27 and a second vertical portion 28. The pair of locking tabs 18, 19 have a shape that resembles a parallelogram that is cut into half. The pair of locking tabs 18, 19 may also have a wedge shaped profile. The first locking tab 18 and the second locking tab 19 have different protruding lengths. As can be seen in the illustrative example, the protruding length of the first locking tab 18 is shorter than protruding length of the second locking tab 19. Further, the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 having a slightly downward inclination shown in Figs. 17 and 19 to facilitate firm engagement with the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37.
It is to be noted that while in the examples of the utility module 200 described hereinabove and hereinafter, the locking unit 16 includes at least a pair of locking tabs 18, 19 and construction, operation of the latch assembly 100 is described in the context of the pair of locking tabs 18, 19. However, it is to be appreciated that the locking unit 16 may be configured with more than one pair of locking tab 18, 19. Accordingly, in alternative ways, the number of pairs of locking tabs 18, 19 included in the locking unit 16 may be varied based on constructional and operational requirements of the latch assembly 100, and based on overall dimension of the utility module 200 and the locking unit 16. In some alternate configurations, the locking unit 16 may include two pair of locking tabs or three pair of locking tabs or more pairs of locking tabs.
Referring back to Figs. 11A-11D, the inwardly slanted portion 38A, 38B of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 is configured to slide over first locking tab 18 and the second locking tab 19. The pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 have a slightly upward inclination (shown in Figs. 17 and 19) to facilitate firm engagement with the pair of locking tabs 18, 19. As illustrated in the Fig. HE, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are slightly longer in length than the elastic tongue 14. However, length of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 cannot be substantially longer than the length of the elastic tongue 14, as such construction may lead to interference during operation of the latch member 20. The length of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 can be configured in a manner that is suitable for the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 to engage firmly with the pair of locking tabs 18, 19. Such configuration ensures that the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 slide over the first locking tab 18 and the second locking tab 19. Particularly, the inwardly slanted portion 38A, 38B are configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion 25 of the first locking tab 18 and the second inclined portion 27 of the second locking tab 19. The at least one latch member 20 is configured to be biased momentarily away from the body 11 (from an inward/locked position 12 to the outward/unlocked position 13) of the utility module 200, during sliding of the inwardly slanted portion 38 of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 over the pair of locking tabs 18, 19. As described earlier, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are slightly longer in length than the elastic tongue 14. Such shorter length of the elastic tongue 14 coupled with the lengthier configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37, ensures that the elastic tongue 14 is pulled away from the first locking tab 18 and the second locking tab 19, to avoid interference, during sliding of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 over the pair of locking tabs 18, 19.
It is to be noted that while in the above described examples of the utility module 200, the latch member 20 includes the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and construction, operation of the latch assembly 100 is described in the context of pair of locking protrusions 36, 37. However, it is to be appreciated that the latch member 20 may be configured with a single locking protrusion, or more than the pair of locking protrusions. Accordingly, in alternative ways, the number of locking protrusions included in the latch member 20 may be varied based on constructional and operational requirements of the latch assembly 100, and based on overall dimension of the utility module 200 and the locking unit 16.
Figs. 14A and 14B illustrate a perspective views of the utility module 200 in a first locked condition 22 (also referred to as the ‘first locking condition’). Further, Figs. 15A and 15B illustrate front views of the utility module 200 in the first locked condition 22. Operation of the latch assembly 100 is now described with reference to Figs. 14 and 15. Initially, when the lid 10 is operated from an open position to a closing position, i.e. when the lid 10 is released from an open position onto the body 11 of the utility module 200, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 slide over the first locking tab 18 and reside in the gap 21 between the pair of locking tabs 18, 19. That is, top surfaces 56, 57 (see Fig. 11B) of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 is biased against a lower surface 45 of the second locking tab 19. Simultaneously, the elastic tongue 14 is moved below the first locking tab 18, to be biased against the lower surface 45 (see Fig. 13E) of the first locking tab 18. Particularly, the bulged end portion of the elastic tongue 14 is biased against the lower surface 45 of the first locking tab 18. In such state of engagement between the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37, the elastic tongue 14 and the first locking tab 18, the lid 10 gets temporarily locked with the body 11, which is referred to as the first locking condition 22.
Further, as described hereinabove, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 have a slightly upward inclination (shown in Figs. 17 and 19). Similarly, the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 having a slightly downward inclination shown in Figs. 17 and 19. Such complementary configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 facilitate firm engagement therebetween. Accordingly, such complementary inclined configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 ensure firm engagement between the top surfaces 56, 57 (see Fig. 1 IB) of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 against the lower surface 45 of the first locking tab 18. In one example implementation, the top surfaces 56, 57 (see Fig. 11B of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 may have a frictional engagement (frictional locking) against the lower surface 45 of the first locking tab 18.
Fig. 16 illustrates a side perspective view of the utility module 200 in the first locking condition 22. Further, Figs. 17A-17C illustrate sectional views of the utility module 200 in the first locking condition 22, with the sections taken along planes X-X, Y-Y and Z-Z, respectively, depicted in Fig. 15 A. In the first locking condition 22, the lid 10 is configured to be in partial engagement with the body 11 such that an angular gap 29 (see Fig. 16) is defined between the lid 10 and the body 11, at a front portion 30 of the utility module 200. In the first locking condition 22, the lid 10 is only temporarily locked with the body 11, and the utility module 200 is not secured/sealed.
Further, when a force is applied on lid 10 (with the utility module 200 being in first locked condition 22), the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 are configured to slide over the second locking tab 19 and reside below the second locking tab 19. Simultaneously, the elastic tongue 14 is moved below the second locking tab 19, to be biased against a lower surface 39 see Fig. 13E of the second locking tab 19. In such condition, there may exist a slight gap between the top surfaces 56, 57 of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the lower surface 39 of the second locking tab 19. The complementary inclined configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 ensure firm engagement between the top surfaces 56, 57 (see Fig. 11B) of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 against the lower surface 39 of the second locking tab 19. Thereafter, the latch member 20 may be manipulated into the locked position 12 by application of pushing force (the latch member 20 is pushed towards the body 11). In such locked position 12, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 gets engaged with the second locking tab 19. In such state of engagement between the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37, the elastic tongue 14 and the second locking tab 19, the lid 10 gets securely locked with the body 11, which is referred to as the second locking condition 23.
As described hereinabove, the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 have a slightly upward inclination (shown in Figs. 17 and 19). Similarly, the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 having a slightly downward inclination. Such complementary configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 facilitate firm engagement therebetween. Accordingly, such complementary inclined configuration of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 and the pair of locking tabs 18, 19 ensure firm engagement between the top surfaces 56, 57 of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 against the lower surface 39 of the second locking tab 19. In one example implementation, the top surfaces 56, 57 of the pair of locking protrusions 36, 37 may have a frictional engagement against the lower surface 39 of the second locking tab 19.
Reference is now made to Fig. 18 which illustrates a side perspective view of the utility module 200 in the second locking condition 23 (also referred to as the ‘second locked condition’). Further, Figs. 19A-19C illustrate sectional views of the utility module 200 in the second locking condition 23, with the sections taken along planes P-P, Q-Q and R-R, respectively, depicted in Fig. 15B. The Figs. 20A and 20B illustrate a close-up view of the latch assembly 100 in a bottom perspective view and a top perspective view. In the second locking condition 23, the lid 10 is configured to be in full engagement with the body 11 such that a bottom edge 31] of the lid 10 is in parallel engagement with a top edge 32 of the utility module 200. In the second locking condition 23, the elastic tongue 14 is biased against the lower surface 39 of the second locking tab 19. In the second locking condition 23, the bottom edge 31 of the lid 10 rests on the top edge 32 of the body 11 of the utility module 200, and the lid 10 gets securely locked with the body 11. Further, in the second locking condition 23, the one latch member 20 is configured to be accommodated in the locking portion 17, with a substantially flush engagement. Figs. 21 and 22 illustrate another example [referred to as the second configuration hereinafter] of the latch assembly 100 of the present disclosure, in a front perspective view and rear perspective view, respectively. The second configuration of the latch assembly 100 includes a latching unit 40 pivotally connectable to the lid 10. The latching unit 40 includes a plurality of latch members 20 [two latch members depicted in the Figure] pivotally connectable to the lid 10. The latching unit 40 includes a connecting rod 41 coupled to each of the plurality of latch members 20. The plurality of latch members
20 is configured to be operated between the locked position 12 and the unlocked position 13, and have same configuration as that of the latch member 20 of the previous examples illustrated described with reference to Figs. 1-20. The connecting rod 41 is configured to simultaneously bias the plurality of latch members 20 between the locked position 12 and the unlocked position 13, upon biasing of at least one of the plurality of latch members 20. The latching unit 40 further includes a releasable locking unit 16 that is configured similar to the locking unit 16 of the previous example.
Fig. 23 illustrates another example (referred to as the third configuration hereinafter) of the latch assembly 100 of the present disclosure, in a front perspective view. In addition to the features included in the second configuration, the third configuration includes a handle 42 coupled to the connecting rod 41. The handle 42 is configured to rotate the connecting rod 41 by a predetermined angle, to correspondingly bias each of the plurality of latch members 20 between the locked position 12 and the unlocked position 13. Rest of the features of the third configuration have similar configuration and operation as that of the features of the first and second configurations. Reference is now made to Fig. 24 which illustrates another example of the utility module 200 (referred to as the fourth configuration hereinafter) including the latching assembly 100 illustrated in Fig. 23. Further, Fig. 25 illustrates a sectional view of the utility module 200, with the section taken along the plane T-T shown in Fig. 24. The fourth configuration includes the latch assembly 100 that is illustrated and described with reference to Figs.
21 and 22, while rest of the features are similar in configuration as that of the utility module 200 described and illustrated in Figs. 1-20. In addition to the above, the fourth configuration further includes the handle 42 of the third configuration. The handle 42 is coupled to the connecting rod 41. The handle 42 is configured to manipulate the connecting rod 41, for the connecting rod 41 to be rotated by a predetermined angle. Rotational displacement of the connecting rod 41 correspondingly biases each of the plurality of latch members 20 between the locked position 12 and the unlocked position 13. Rest of the features of the third configuration have similar configuration and operation as that of the features of the first and second configurations.

Claims

CLAIMS:
1. A latch assembly for releasably coupling a lid with a body of a utility module, the latch assembly comprising: at least one latch member pivotally connectable to the lid, the at least one latch member being configured to be operated between a locked position and an unlocked position, and the at least one latch member defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the at least one latch member facing the lid; and a locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module, the locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween, wherein, when the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, and wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition, and wherein, when a force is applied on the lid, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the at least one latch member is operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
2. The latch assembly of claim 1, wherein the pair of locking tabs includes: a first locking tab extending outwardly from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
3. The latch assembly of claim 2, wherein the first locking tab and the second locking tab have different protruding lengths, and wherein the protruding length of the first locking tab is shorter than protruding length of the second locking tab.
4. The latch assembly of claim 1, wherein the lid being configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
5. The latch assembly of claim 1, wherein the lid being configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
6. The latch assembly of claim 5, wherein in the second locking condition, the bottom edge of the lid rests on the top edge of the utility module.
7. The latch assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one latch member comprises an upper portion pivotally connectable to the lid, a lower portion engageable with the body, and an intermediate portion connecting the upper portion and the lower portion.
8. The latch assembly of claim 7, wherein the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the lower portion of the at least one latch member.
9. The latch assembly of claim 7, wherein the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the intermediate portion of the at least one latch member.
10. The latch assembly of claim 8 or 9, wherein the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
11. The latch assembly of claim 10, wherein each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
12. The latch assembly of claim 11, wherein the at least one latch member is configured to be biased momentarily away from the body of the utility module, during sliding of the inwardly slanted portion of the pair of locking protrusions over the pair of locking tabs.
13. The latch assembly of claim 1 , wherein the at least one latch member is configured to be accommodated in the locking portion, in the second locking condition.
14. The latch assembly of claim 1, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against the lower surface of the second locking tab, in the second locking condition.
15. A latch assembly for releasably coupling a lid with a body of a utility module, the latch assembly comprising: a latching unit pivotally connectable to the lid, the latching unit comprising: a plurality of latch members pivotally connectable to the lid of the utility module, the plurality of latch members being configured to be operated between a locked position and an unlocked position, and each of the plurality of latch members defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the plurality of latch members facing the lid; and a connecting rod coupled to each of the plurality of latch members, the connecting rod configured to simultaneously bias the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position, upon biasing of at least one of the plurality of latch members; and a releasable locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module, the releasable locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween, wherein, when the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition, and wherein, when a force is applied on the lid, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the plurality of latch members being operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
16. The latch assembly of claim 15, wherein the pair of locking tabs comprise: a first locking tab extending from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
17. The latch assembly of claim 16, wherein the first locking tab and the second locking tab have different protruding lengths, and wherein the protruding length of the first locking tab is shorter than protruding length than the second locking tab.
18. The latch assembly of claim 15, comprises a handle coupled to the connecting rod, the handle being configured to rotate the connecting rod by a predetermined angle, to correspondingly bias each of the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position.
19. The latch assembly of claim 15, wherein the lid being configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
20. The latch assembly of claim 15, wherein the lid being configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
21. The latch assembly of claim 20, wherein in the second locking condition, the bottom edge of the lid rests on the top edge of the utility module.
22. The latch assembly of claim 15, wherein the plurality of latch members comprises an upper portion pivotally connectable to the lid, a lower portion engageable with the body, and an intermediate portion connecting the upper portion and the lower portion.
23. The latch assembly of claim 22, wherein the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the lower portion of the plurality of latch members.
24. The latch assembly of claim 22, wherein the elastic tongue and the pair of locking protrusions is configured to extend rearwardly from the intermediate portion of the plurality of latch members.
25. The latch assembly of claim 23 or 24, wherein the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
26. The latch assembly of claim 25, wherein each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
27. The latch assembly of claim 26, wherein the plurality of latch members are configured to be biased momentarily away from the body of the utility module, during sliding of the inwardly slanted portion of the pair of locking protrusions over the pair of locking tabs.
28. The latch assembly of claim 15, wherein the plurality of latch members are configured to be accommodated in the locking portion, in the second locking condition.
29. The latch assembly of claim 15, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against the lower surface of the second locking tab, in the second locking condition.
30. A utility module, comprising: a body; a lid pivotally articulated to a top back edge of the body; and a latch assembly being configured to releasably secure the lid to a top front edge of the body, the latch assembly comprising: at least one latch member pivotally connectable to the lid, the at least one latch member being configured to be operated between a locked position and an unlocked position, and the at least one latch member defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the at least one latch member facing the lid; and a releasable locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module, the releasable locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween, wherein, when the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, and wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition, and wherein, when a force is applied on the lid, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the at least one latch member is operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
31. The utility module of claim 30, wherein the pair of locking tabs includes: a first locking tab extending outwardly from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
32. The utility module of claim 30, wherein the lid being configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
33. The utility module of claim 30, wherein the lid being configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
34. The utility module of claim 30, wherein the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
35. The utility module of claim 34, wherein each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
36. A utility module, comprising: a body; a lid pivotally articulated to a top back edge of the body; and a latch assembly being configured to releasably secure the lid to a top front edge of the body, the latch assembly comprising: a latching unit pivotally connectable to the lid, the latching unit comprising: a plurality of latch members pivotally connectable to the lid of the utility module, the plurality of latch members being configured to be operated between an locked position and an unlocked position, and each of the plurality of latch members defined with an elastic tongue and a pair of locking protrusions, each protruding in a rearward direction from a major surface of the plurality of latch members facing the lid; and a connecting rod coupled to each of the plurality of latch members, the connecting rod configured to simultaneously bias the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position, upon biasing of at least one of the plurality of latch members; and a releasable locking unit defined in a locking portion of the body of the utility module, the releasable locking unit includes at least a pair of locking tabs defining a gap therebetween, wherein, when the lid is operated from an open position to a closing position, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with at least one of the pair of locking tabs and reside in the gap, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of at least one of the pair of locking tabs, temporarily locking the lid with the body in a first locking condition, and wherein, when a force is applied on the lid, the pair of locking protrusions being configured to slidably engage with other one of the pair of locking tabs and reside below the other one of the pair of locking tabs, wherein the elastic tongue is biased against a lower surface of the other one of the pair of locking tabs, and wherein the plurality of latch members being operable from the unlocked position to the locked position securely locking the lid in a second locking condition with the body.
37. The utility module of claim 36, wherein the pair of locking tabs comprise: a first locking tab extending from a top surface of the body, the first locking tab defined with a first inclined portion and a first vertical portion; and a second locking tab extending outwardly below and along a vertical axis of the first locking tab, the second locking tab defined with a second inclined portion and a second vertical portion.
38. The utility module of claim 36, comprises a handle coupled to the connecting rod, the handle being configured to rotate the connecting rod by a predetermined angle, to
T1 correspondingly bias each of the plurality of latch members between the locked position and the unlocked position.
39. The utility module of claim 36, wherein the lid being configured to be in partial engagement with the body in the first locking condition defining an angular gap between the lid and the body, at a front portion of the utility module.
40. The utility module of claim 36, wherein the lid being configured to be in full engagement with the body in the second locking condition, with a bottom edge of the lid being in parallel engagement with a top edge of the utility module.
41. The utility module of claim 36, wherein the pair of locking protrusions extend substantially parallel to the elastic tongue, and wherein one of the pair of locking protrusions is configured to be positioned on either side of the elastic tongue.
42. The utility module of claim 41, wherein each of the pair of locking protrusions is defined with an inwardly slanted portion being configured to be slidable over the first inclined portion of the first locking tab and the second inclined portion of the second locking tab.
PCT/IL2024/050620 2023-06-28 2024-06-25 A utility module and a latch assembly Pending WO2025004035A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US202363523762P 2023-06-28 2023-06-28
US63/523,762 2023-06-28

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2025004035A1 true WO2025004035A1 (en) 2025-01-02

Family

ID=91853709

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IL2024/050620 Pending WO2025004035A1 (en) 2023-06-28 2024-06-25 A utility module and a latch assembly

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2025004035A1 (en)

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100012538A1 (en) * 2007-02-15 2010-01-21 Keter Plastic Ltd. Tool box
US20110155613A1 (en) * 2009-06-29 2011-06-30 Tts Tooltechnic Systems Ag & Co. Kg Stackable Container Assembly with Reciprocal Locking of the Stacked Containers
US20150190919A1 (en) * 2014-01-03 2015-07-09 Yuu Ching Plastics Corp. Tool box
WO2017191628A1 (en) 2016-05-02 2017-11-09 Keter Plastic Ltd. Utility assembly and coupling mechanism

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100012538A1 (en) * 2007-02-15 2010-01-21 Keter Plastic Ltd. Tool box
US20110155613A1 (en) * 2009-06-29 2011-06-30 Tts Tooltechnic Systems Ag & Co. Kg Stackable Container Assembly with Reciprocal Locking of the Stacked Containers
US20150190919A1 (en) * 2014-01-03 2015-07-09 Yuu Ching Plastics Corp. Tool box
WO2017191628A1 (en) 2016-05-02 2017-11-09 Keter Plastic Ltd. Utility assembly and coupling mechanism

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US11981019B2 (en) Tool container storage system
US20240101316A1 (en) Tool storage system
US20250296735A1 (en) Tool Storage
EP3947176B1 (en) Module articulation system
US20240278416A1 (en) Connection structure of module, storage box and storage box assembly
EP4183528A1 (en) Storage system
EP3492226B1 (en) Tool container system
CN113574724A (en) Electric device
WO2025004035A1 (en) A utility module and a latch assembly
WO2023230852A1 (en) Locking connecting device and combined container
US20250011038A1 (en) Utility module and connectivity system therefor
GB2245251A (en) Collapsible containers
CN214446251U (en) Tool box and handheld tool set with same
CN222523179U (en) Stacking device
WO2025141574A1 (en) Bin organizer and locking mechanism therefor
EP4570439A1 (en) Work platform for stackable storage system
CN119654216A (en) Toolbox System
CN117184613A (en) Locking device and combined container
CN118025631A (en) Stackable storage container with quick release attachment
GB2211400A (en) Step device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 24739732

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 324445

Country of ref document: IL