US Patent 9297169 Self-locking mechanism and paneling

A self-locking paneling system is provided and includes: a panel defining a void therein and a pin positioned within the void; another structure configured to connect with the panel, the other structure comprising a receptacle; and a magnet positioned on at least one of the receptacle and the pin. When the panel and the other structure are positioned together, the pin is configured to move from a retracted position from within the void to an extended position to engage the receptacle using magnetic force produced by the magnet. The self-locking paneling system can be used for raised-flooring systems.