Patent attributes
A latch with a unique nesting toggle linkage that extends and retracts a hook via movement of an actuation handle. The linkage links have U-shaped lateral cross sections with a central channel into which the respective links nest when the latch is closed to minimize the overall volume of the latch. The links fold toward each other while closing to reduce the latch's overall length when fully closed. The components of the latch are arranged so that the center of gravity of the latch is positioned in front of a mounting pin; therefore, in applications where the latch swings in the vertical plane, the hook will necessarily hang downwardly away from the keeper when the latch is open. Optionally, a keeper detector prevents the actuation handle from closing if the keeper has not been first captured in the mouth of the hook. A rod-and-cylinder slide mechanism may be employed between the hook body and the mounting pin.
