Mechanical latch locking detection sensors
First Claim
1. A sensor for determining when a latch for securing an engine cowl of an aircraft is secured, the sensor comprising:
- a) a resonant circuit for transmitting a status signal when the latch is in a secured state, wherein the resonant circuit includes a capacitor having a first plate configured to be connected to a hook of the latch and a second plate configured to be connected to a pin of the latch, wherein the first and second plates are in closely aligned proximity when the latch is secured, and are out of closely aligned proximity when the latch is open; and
b) means operatively connected to the resonant circuit for conveying status information of the latch to a location remote from the latch based on the status signal.
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Accused Products
Abstract
The invention provides a sensor for determining when a latch for securing an engine cowl on an aircraft is secured by detecting the proximity of a latch hook and a latch pin. The sensor includes a resonant circuit configured and adapted to transmit a status signal when the latch is in a secured state. The sensor also includes a means for conveying status information of the latch to a location remote from the latch based on the status signal, the conveying means being operably connected to the resonant circuit. The invention also provides a method of determining when a latch is open or secured by detecting the proximity of a latch hook and a latch pin.
61 Citations
8 Claims
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1. A sensor for determining when a latch for securing an engine cowl of an aircraft is secured, the sensor comprising:
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a) a resonant circuit for transmitting a status signal when the latch is in a secured state, wherein the resonant circuit includes a capacitor having a first plate configured to be connected to a hook of the latch and a second plate configured to be connected to a pin of the latch, wherein the first and second plates are in closely aligned proximity when the latch is secured, and are out of closely aligned proximity when the latch is open; and b) means operatively connected to the resonant circuit for conveying status information of the latch to a location remote from the latch based on the status signal. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
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Specification