Importance

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Abstract

A static bi-stable mechanical latch comprises a latch member pivotally mounted to a frame and rotatable between an opened-position stop and a closed-position stop. The latch member includes a first arm having a hooked end and a magnetic mass mounted thereon, and a second arm having a latch coil and a soft magnetic mass mounted thereon. The second arm is also provided with a tang or bump. The actuator is provided with an angular protuberance and a tip which is captured by the hooked end of the latch member when the actuator arm is positioned so that the head is in the landing zone and the latch member is in the closed position. The pivot point of the latch member is positioned so the angular protuberance of the actuator arm engages the tang or bump when the actuator is moving towards the landing zone and is in a preselected position close to or in the landing zone. A magnet assembly comprising at least one mounted permanent magnet is positioned with respect to the actuator coil so as to allow control of the actuator position by controlling electric current passing through the actuator coil and with respect to the latch coil so as to apply a torque to rotate the latch member by passing current through the latch coil. The magnet assembly is configured and positioned such that its magnetic field force attracts both magnetic masses. Depending on the rotational position of the latch member, one force prevails over the other.

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First Claim