Importance

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Abstract

A double jaw latch mechanism for releasably securing a moveable structure to a keeper. The moveable structure may be an aircraft cowling and the keeper may be mounted to an aircraft structure. The double jaw latch includes a handle rotatably mounted to a housing. The handle has an open position, a closed position, and a pre-catch position. The handle is connected to a double jaw assembly which likewise has an open position, a closed position, and a pre-catch position. The double jaw assembly includes a first jaw and a second jaw mounted in pivoted relation for movement to and from each other to engage the keeper. When the double jaw latch is in the open position, the jaws are spaced apart to permit disengagement with the keeper. In the closed position, the jaws are trapped within the housing and rigidly retain the keeper. In the pre-catch position, the jaws are urged together such that the jaws may yield to pressure exerted by the keeper and may accept and retain the keeper, and thereafter securely retain the keeper. The double jaw latch includes a linking mechanism connecting the handle to the double jaw assembly which moves in a generally longitudinal direction for movement of the double jaw assembly. The double jaw latch includes a detent which secure the jaws in the pre-catch position and a sensor pivotally connected to the housing which prevents the latch from closing when the keeper is not engaged.

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First Claim