CA2123308C - Magnetic latch - Google Patents

Abstract

A magnetic latch includes a first member (301) having a protrusion and a second member (305) engaging the protrusion prevent the first member (301) and the second member (305) from sliding relatively to one another. The second member includes a first magnet (230) to attract the first member (301) and a first solid non-magnetic member (319a) located inside a cavity of the first magnet (230) to enhance attraction between the first member (301) and the second member (305), The second member (305) can be provided with a backing plate (315a) to facilitate a magnetic flux path from the magnet to the magnet aperture. The second member (305) can also include a second magent to attract the first member (301) and a second solid non-magnetic member locat-ed between the first magnet (230) and the second magnet. A third solid non-magnetic member can be provided on the outer peri-phery of the magnets. This design provides a latch with stronger holding power,

Description

f,....,~ w0 94/06319 PCT/US~I'_'/10446 ~~~3~08 MAGNETIC hATCH
HaGkground of the Invention The invention is directed to a magnetic latch. More specifically, the invention is directed to a magnetic latch which is stronger and more environmentally resistant than conventional magnetic latches.
Magnetic latches use magnetic force to hold two objects together. U.S. Patent Nos. 4,021,891 issued to Morita on May 10, 1977, No. 4,453,294 issued to Morita on June 12, 2984, No. 4,455,719 issued to Morita on June 26, 1984, No. 4,700,436 issued to Morita on October 20, 1987, No. 4,458,396 issued to Aoki on July 10, 1984, No. 2,812,203 issued to Scholten on November 5, 1957, No.
3,372,443 issued to Daddona on March 12, 1968, and No. 3,618,174 issued to Schainholz on November 9, ...~, .;
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1971 disclose examples of conventional magnetic latches. U. S. Patent No. 2, 884, 698 issued to Wtlrsch on May 5, 1959 discloses a magnetic holding device for holding two pieces of metal together.
The latching strength of these conventional latches limits their utility. The latching strength of these latches may be increased by increasing the size of the latch. However, as the size of the latch increases, the usefulness of the latch in many applications decreases due to the bulkiness of the latch. In addition, larger latches are more expensive to~inanufacture, thereby reducing the cost effectiveness of larger latches.
Another disadvantage of these conven~cional magnetic latches is their unsuitability for use in a harsh environment. Generally, these conventional latches contain numerous cracks and crevices which collect caustic materials which corrode the latch parts and degrade its effectiveness. In a salt-air environment, the crevices in these conventional latches collect salt.and other corrosive materials which ultimately corrode the latch parts. Thus, using these conventional latches to hold sails in place would be ineffective. Similar problems occur when using magnetic latches in a caustic chemical environment, for example, when using magnetic latches to seal protective clothing. Even the environment of a washing machine will cause most prior art magnetic latches to rust, limiting their usefulness on garments.

~~ 'r WO 94/06319 PCTlUS92/10446 ~12330~
Many of. the potential applications for magnetic latches require that the latch be resistive to lateral force. Thereforer magnetic attachment devices which do not resist lateral force, such as the device disclosed in the X698 patent cited above, are unsuitable for such applications.
=~u~nary of the Invention It is an object of the invention, therefore, to provide a magnetic latch whieh has a strong latching force as compared with conventional latches similar in sire.
It is another object of the invention to provide a magnetic latch which is smaller in overall size than conventional latches having the same latching force.
Another object of the invention to provide a magnetic latch which is thinner than conventional latches having tha same latching force.
A further object of the invention is to provide a latch which can withstand water and/or caustic environments.
Xet another object of the invention is to provide a magnetic latch which resists lateral force.
According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a magnetic latch having a ffirst member and a second member. The first member includes magnetically attractable material. The first and/or second members include a mechanism for WO 94/06319 PCT/US92/10'~'''~
preventing the lateral movement of the first member relative to the second member when said first and second members are latched together. The s a i d second member includes a first magnet to attract the first member, wherein the first magnet defines therein a cavity. The second member also includes a first solid non-magnetic member arranged inside of the cavity to enhance attraction between said first member and said second member. A solid insulating member can be located on an inner periphery of the magnet cavity, and further solid non-magnetic members can be arranged on an outer periphery of the magnet or elsewhere ~as described below. In a preferred embodiment the solid insulating member is in the shape of an open-ended cylinder.
The magnet and the solid insulating member may be integrally bonded together to resist corrosion. For certain applications the latch components are not bonded together.
According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a magnetic latch which includes a first member having a protrusion and a second member engaging the protrusion to prevent the first member and the second member from sliding relatively to one another. The second member includes first and second magnets to attract the first member. A solid insulating member is located between the first magnet and the second magnet to enhance attraction between the first member and the second member.
The first magnet and the solid insulating member are integrally bonded together and the second magnetic and the solid insulating member are integrally bonded together. In certain applications the components are not integrally bonded together.
The provision of two or more concentric magnets, separated by solid insulating members, allows for reversal of the polarity of the magnets from magnet to magnet, further increasing the latching strength.
Therefore, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a magnetic latch, comprising:
a first member including magnetically attractable material; and a second member including:
a magnet to attract said first member, said magnet defining a cavity;
a substantially rigid, non-magnetic member arranged inside of said cavity and positioned proximate to the inner surface of said magnet, and acting as a means for enhancing the surface of said magnet, and acting as a means for enhancing the magnetic attraction between said first and second members, said first member being matingly engagable with said second member, and said first and second members including means for preventing the lateral movement of the first member relative to the second member when said first and second members are latched together.
Also in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a magnetic latch comprising:
a) a first member including magnetically attractable material, said first member comprising flexible4 material;
b) a second member including:
a magnet having a first surface positioned adjacent said first member when said latch is in a closed position so as to attract said first member, said magnet defining a hole therethrough;
1) a backing plate attached to a second surface of said magnet opposite said first surface;
_5_ 2) a central projection extending from said backing plate through at least a portion of the length of said hole defined within said magnet, said central projection being separated by a spacing from the inner surface of the magnet defining said hole; and 3) a solid non-magnetic member positioned within said spacing; and c) said first and second members including means for substantially preventing lateral movement of said first member relative to said second member when said first and second members are latched together.
Further in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a magnetic latch comprising' a) a first member including magnetically attractable material, said first member comprising flexible material;
b) a second member including:
a magnet having a first surface positioned adjacent said first member when said latch is in a closed position so as to attract said first member, said magnet defining a hole therethrough;
1) a backing plate attached to a second surface of said magnet opposite said first surface;
2) a central projection extending from said backing plate through the length of said hole defined within said magnet and having a surface substantially coplanar with the first surface of said magnet, said central projection being separated by a spacing from the inner surface of the magnet defining said hole;
3) a solid non-magnetic member in the form of a waterproof protective layer substantially filling the entire spacing between the magnet inner surface and the central projection;
4) an additional non-magnetic member forming a waterproof protective layer encapsulating substantially the entire first surface of said magnet and the coplanar surface of said projection; and -5a c) said first and second members including means for substantially preventing lateral movement of said first member relative to said second member when said first and second members are latched together.
Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description.
Brief Description of the Drawings The invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the drawings, wherein:
Figure 1 illustrates a cross section of a first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 illustrates a cross section of the second member of the Figure 1 preferred embodiment;
Figure 3 illustrates a plan view of the second member of the Figure 1 preferred embodiment;
Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the second member of the Figure 1 preferred embodiment;
Figures 5A, 5B and 5C illustrate modifications of the second member of the Figure 1 preferred embodiment;
-5b-WO 94/06319 PCT/US92/10 ~' ~~~3~~J8 Figures 6A-6G illustrate construction details of a modification of the Figure 1 preferred embodiment;
Figures 7A-7I illustrates cross sections of other modifications of the first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figures 8A-8E illustrates cross sections of yet further modifications of the first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figures ~ 9A and 98 show additional modifications of the first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 10 illustrates a cross sectional, view of another modification of the first embodiment of the invention;
Figure 11 illustrates one technique for making an alternate form of the Figure 1 preferred embodiment;
Figure 12A illustrates a perspective view of the second member of the latch in a second preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figures 128 and 12C illustrate perspective views of modifications of the second member of the Figure 12A preferred embodiment;
Figure 12D is a cross section of the first member of the latch f or use in the second embodiment of the invention as illustrated in Figures 12g and 12C;
Figures 12E and 12F illustrated a modification of the embodiment of Figures 12C and 12D;

!'~'~'~\ WO 94/06319 2 ~, 2 3 3 0 8 pGTJUS92J10446 Figure 13 illustrates a cross section of a third preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 14 illustrates a cross section of a fourth preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 15 illustrates a cross section of a fifth preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 16 illustrates a cross section of a sixth preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 17 illustrates a cross section of a seventh preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 18 illustrates a cross section of an eighth preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 19 illustrates a cross section of a ninth preferred embodiment of~the invention; and Figure 20 illustrates a cross section of a tenth preferred embodiment of the invention.
Dg,~a>>ed Descristion of the Preferred Embodiments Figure 1 illustrates, in cross section, a first preferred embodiment of a magnetic latch according to the invention. As illustrated in Figure 1, the magnetic latch includes a first, or male, member 100 and a second, or female, member 200. When the magnetic latch is unlatched, the first member 100 and the second member 200 are separated. When the magnetic latch is latched, the first member 100 and the second m~mber 200 are connected together as illustrated in Figure 1.
The first member 100 is generally planar in shape and is magnetically attractable. For example, ..._.,-...e...e.ne.~.»,.,~,m.,sre._.aaa<..wvxuraa.~..s~sea~.ax~anW::~.,::.y~,...;.1'fh dS.,~:~.~4\U'~.v~,~,teC.?.\iENl~ilC;~Sl~ ..~:.u.'a2;,".y'~5..~.:~1'u.\~s ~'!i~:~.~:~ .;">.,:. . ~;,v' . ... .

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it may be formed from a ferromagnetic material such as iron or an iron-based material. The first member 100 has a protruding segment 110 positioned at the center of the first member. Although, ~ the protruding segment 110 is shown integral with the remaining portions of the first member 100, it may be separately formed and connected thereto. In most embodiments, it is important that at least this protruding segment 110 be magnetically attractable 10' although generally the entire first member will be magnetically attractable e.g., made of a ferromagnetic material. Protruding segment 110 engages the second member 200 to prevent the first member and the second member from moving radially (sliding) relatively to one another - in the plane of the view of Figure 1, to prevent movement in the positive and negative x directions as indicated by the arrows.
Figures 2, 3, and 4 illustrate the construction of second member 200, with the first member 100 removed for clarity. Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of second member 200. Figure 3 is a top, or plan, view of second member 200. Figure 4 is a perspective view of second member 200 partially in section. As seen in Figure 1, and more particularly in Figures 2-4, the second member comprises a center section 222, made, for example, from a ferromagnetic material, a magnet 230 having an aperture centrally located therein, and a first segment 240 made of a magnetically insulating .
material. The first segment 240 is a ring like _g_ v'~ WO 94/06319 PCT/US92/10446 :. .
~12~308 member, positioned within the magnet aperture against the inner periphery of the magnet 230, and separates the magnet 230 from the central section 222. There may also optionally be provided a second section 250 also made of a magnetically insulating material. The second section 250 is also a ring like member and surrounds the outer periphery of the magnet 230. A backing plate 280, made of ferromagnetic material for example, is provided to concentrate magnetic flux from the magnet into the magnet aperture to increase the overall attractive power of the latch. Additionally, the backing plate 280 may serve to secure the magnet 230 and segments , 240 and 250. A central portion 281 of the backing 13 plate is aligned with the aperture in the magnet 230. The backing plate may have a rim 280a as illustrated. The magnet 230, first segment 240, center section 222 and second segment 250 may be pressure fit within the housing defined by the backing plate 280 and rim 280a. When the latch is in a closed position as illustrated in Figure 1, the protruding segment 110 and the center section 222 contact or come into proximity with one another, and the bottom surface of the plate-like member of first member 100 contacts or comes into proximity with the surface of magnet 230.
Preferably, grotruding segment 110 is made of a non-resilient material so that it will not bind to the first segment 240 upon insertion therein. Most preferably, the protruding segment is fabricated as -g-WO 94/06319 PCT/US92/ll'''""~
a single, unitary member and may be integral with the first member 100.
It is readily apparent that many variations of the first embodiment as illustrated in Figures 1 4 may also possible. For example, although these figures show that the first segment 240 is in the shape of an open-ended cylinder (top end open) with a circular cross section, it is apparent that the aperture defined within the magnet 230 may be of oval cross section or any other shape with the first segment 240 being of any shape adapted to fit within . the aperture, and with the center section 222 being of any shape adapted to fit within the first segment 240.
Further, while the first segment 240 has been illustrated as extending through the entire longitudinal length of the hole defined by the magnet 230, it may extend only from the bottom thereof and up to a point where its top surface ;s co-extensive with the top surface of the center section 222 as shown in Figure 5A. In such a case, the first segment 240 may have a tapered top surface as illustrated in Figure 5A or may be untapered (flat) .
Further, the magnet aperture need not be positioned centrally in the magnet, but could be off-center and still exhibit the enhanced magnetic attractiveness characteristic of the invention. In such a case protruding segment 110 would likely be off-center as well in a manner comparable to the positioning of the aperture. However, it is not .-s .: ~ ~;, . ,ag.. . .,. ::., . . . . .
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''.. WO 94/06319 PCf/US92/10446 absolutely necessary for closure of the latch that the protruding segment 110 have a longitudinal symmetry axis coincident with the symmetry axis of the aperture, especially where different cross sectional shapes are used for the protruding segment and the aperture.
An additional modification may take the form of a change in the shape of the latch as a whole.
While the first embodiment of Figures 1-4 show a l0 generally circular shape, the latch can be formed in any shape necessary to suit a particular application. For example, the latch can be rectangularly shaped in which case first segment 240 may be in the shape of an open-ended rectangle. In general, first segment 240 can be shaped in the shape of any open-ended polygon.
Another modification involves altogether deleting center section 222. In this embodiment, segment 110 of the first member 100 is preferably long enough to go all the way through the aperture in magnet 230 so as to be positioned closely adjacent to or in contact with the canter portion 281 of backing plate 280 when the latch is closed, thus maximizing the holding power of the latch. In this case, the first segment 240 extends the full longitudinal length of the magnet aperture thus separating and substantially completely filling the space between the protruding segment 110 and the inner surface of the magnet aperture. This modification of the first embodiment is shown in Figure 5H. However, in soma embodiments, adequate "e .~ v , , . ; a~ .n ~. ~. ; s-.
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holding Bower is developed through other points of contact (e. g. the outer periphery of magnet 230), and protruding segment 110 need not extend all the way through aperture 230.
It is also apparent that the length of the center section 222 may extend through the longitudinal length of the aperture of the magnet 230 so as to just contact the protruding segment 110 when the latch is closed (latched), as in Figure 1, or it may alternately be spaced slightly therefrom but still closely adjacent thereto. The abutment or close positioning of these two members when the latch is closed assist in maintaining a strong closure force. Segments 240 and 250 concentrate magnetic force produced by magnet 230 into localized areas in and around the second member 200 to enhance the attractive force between first member 100 and second member 200. More specifically, the first segment 240 focuses magnetic faux toward the center of the latch, in the aperture in magnet 230, either through center section 222 or through the center portion 281 of backing plate 280, or through both.
In this connection it is useful to minimize the amount of magnetically insulating material in the flux paths through center section 222 and center portion 281 to maximize the latching force.
In most embodiments of the invention, the positioning of the first segment 240 in combination with the protruding segment 110 and the center 3.0 section 222 is such as to substantially fill the aperture when the first and second members 100 and i~~'~ WO 94/06319 PGT/US92/10446 200 respectively are in the latched position. A
clearance which may be quite small is provided to permit the protruding segment 110 to slide longitudinally within the aperture defined by the interior walls of the first segment 240. In most embodiments, as for example in Figure 1, substantially the entire space between the outer surface of the protruding segment 110 and the inner surface of the magnet 230 defining the magnet aperture is occupied by the first segment 240.
Likewise, substantially the entire space between the outer surface of the center section 222 and the inner surface of the magnet 230 defining the magnet aperture is occupied by the first segment 24o which extends continuously across the entire inner surface of the magnet defining the magnet aperture. Such a positioning of the first segment 240 enhances the attracti~re power of the latch as compared to devices in which there exists an air space between the protruding member 110 and the inner surface of the magnet defining the magnet aperture.
Second segment 250 reduces the fringe field which would normally exist outside of the outer perimeter of the magnet and concentrates the magnetic lines of force so that they have a higher density in the region at and above the perimeter itself, namely, in the region indicated by number 277 in Figure 2, and in the rim 280a when such are provided.
The net effect of these two segments, or rings, whether a given embodiment contains one, the WO 94/06319 PGT/US92/1P~~~~~~~
'~~~~~~g other or both, is to enhance the latching force for a given size magnet. Since the latching force is enhanced over comparably dimensioned latches not made in accordance with the invention, the overall size of the inventive latch can be made smaller in size, either the radial (i. e. , cross sectional area) extent or thickness or a combination of both. A
smaller size latch constitutes a distinct advantage over existing latches of larger size in enabling wider application of the latch such that it may be employed for use in items of clothing and the like.
Moreover, since magnetic force is concentrated in the central and peripheral regions .of the magnet 230, the attraction between the first member and the second member is minimized when the first and second members are not properly lined up, and is maximized when they are in alignment.
The embodiment, thus, provides a latch which has a stronger latching force for a given latch size or, alternatively, allows the use of a smaller latch in an application which requires a particular latching force.
Tn the first preferred embodiment, center section 222 may be constructed from an iron-based .
material and may be a permanent magnet integral with or dig ~ inct from magnet 230. The center section 222 can be formed from other ferromagnetic materials as well. The specific materials used for constructing the backing glate 280 and rim 280a depend on the particular application, but in general they will be made of a ferromagnetic material. In some _____~_-~.~__~_..~.....,o.....e..,.Y,.....,r...s"..~-. m,.., .sc~vtswx;iW
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''~ °~~ WO 94/06319 PCf/US92/10446 applications, however, particularly where the rim 280a is utilized, the center section 222 and even the protruding segment 110 need not be ferromagnetic. Most preferably, the insulating effects between the backing plate 280, rim 280a and the magnet 230 are minimized, for example, by having them be in close contact, so as not to interfere with the passage of magnetic flux from the magnet 230 to the backing plate 280. The backing plate 280 l0 and rim 28oa may be constructed from corrosion resistant material such as stainless steel. Other materials are also possible for use in the backing plate. Preferably, these other materials readily conduct magnetic flux or at least are not flux insulators.
The segments 240 and 250 are made of any solid material which does not readily conduct magnetic flux. Such materials will be termed non-magnetic materials, or alternatively, magnetically insulating materials. Segments fabricated from such non-magnetic materials provide the latch with an enhancad magnetic attractive force in localized regions of the latch. Preferably, at least the segment 240 is made of non-resilient material. The use of non-resilient material permits fabrication of the latch with a defined and fixed clearance between the protrusion 110 and the inner surface of the segment 240. The clearance is sufficient to permit facile and non-binding movement of the protrusion 110 within the cavity defined within the segment 240. Most preferably, the segment 240 may be made ,., ", ~ ::_:. . ~~'~
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~~.233~8 of a single non-resilient material. The single non-resilient material may preferably be fabricated as an integral, unitary structure. By way of example, and not by way of limitation, the segments 240 and 250 may be formed from a composition containing zinc or tin, and a carrier such as a ceramic material or a polymer. The presence of small amounts of ferromagnetic material or responsiveness, such as the use of nickel, in the insulating material does not negatively impact functioning of the latch in an appreciable way.
Figure 5A illustrates a further modification of the Figure 1 embodiment and includes a tapered first segment 240 and a fastener 285 having prongs 286. The prongs are a non-limiting example of a suitable fastening mechanism to attach the second member to an element desired to be fastened, such as an article of clothing, handbag, etc. A similar fastener, not shown, can be secured to the first member 100 to secure it to a different portion of the article desired to be fastened. Figure 5A also shows a rivet 288 passing through an aperture in the center section 222 to secure the center section 222, backing plate 280 and fastener 285 together.
Further, a waterproof film, as for example an epoxy, may be used to completely encapsulate the second member 200 and its fastener 285 to provide a corrosive resistent fastening element. The film is only partially shown in Figure 5A and designated by the number 290. However, it is understood that the film envelopes the entire second member 200 and <~~~ WO 94/06319 PCT/US92/1044b fastener 285 and penetrates the recess defined by the magnet 230 to provide a water tight, corrosion resistance structure. A similar film may be used to cover the first member 100. Further, this waterproof film may be used to encapsulate the second and/or first members of all of the embodiments of the invention. As a non-limiting example, the waterproof film 290 is also partially shown in Figure 2.

Figure 5C illustrates yet another modification 'of the Figure 1 first embodiment in which the protruding segment 110 has a diameter so as to just fit within the magnet aperture of magnet .

230 and makes contact, upon closure of the latch, with the top surfaces of both the center section 222 and the first segment 240. In this case, substantially all of the space between the projecting segment 110 and the inner surface of the magnet 230 defining the magnet aperture is occupied (upon latch closure) either by the projecting segment 110 or the combination of the center section 222 and first segment 240. A small clearance between segment 110 and magnet 230 (not shown) may also be provided to make possible easier mating of the first and second members.

Figure 6A illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of second member 200. In Figure 6A, magnet ' 230 and second segment 250 are secured to backing glate 280 using an adhesive 292 layer; however, any other fastening technique can be used to secure the backing plate 280. For example, instead of an WO 94/063t9 PCT/US92/lt~;~""~

adhesive layer, these elements may be secured by friction in a close mechanical fit or they may by held in place by magnetic attraction or a combination of mechanical fit and magnetic attraction. Alternately, locking projections or tabs may be provided on rim 280a or a retaining cover member can be provided, fitting over the face of the magnet 230 and engaging lockingly with rim 280a -or the corner between rim 280a and backing plate 280. One or more rivets as in Figure 5A may also be utilized. Many other fastening mechanisms will readily be apparent to one of skill in the art.
Figure 6A also illustrates a variation of the Figure 1 preferred embodiment. In this variation, the magnet 230 is covered with a solid, protective covering member 260 made, for example, of ceramic or other solid magnetically insulating material. The covering member 260 extends over most of the surface area of. magnet 230 but does not extend over the 2o portion defining the. opening of the magnet cavity.
Thus, the covering member 260 does not substantially interfere with the magnetic attraction through the central aperture of the magnet 230. A portion of magnet 230 not covered forms an outer'rim section 270. Pratective covering member 260 not only serves to protect the magnet from physical mechanical ' damage, but also serves to minimizes the attractive force between first member 100 and second member 200 when the first and second members are not lined up properly for latching. It is only by properly ", WO 94/06319 PGT/US92/10446 aligning the first and second members that the high magnetic attractive forces will be experienced between the first and second members. In this manner, the covering member 260 assists in the attachment process since the protruding segment 110 of the first member 100 can easily slide over the surface of covering member 260 with minimal attraction to magnet 230 until the protruding segment 110 is proximate to the center of the aperture in magnet 230 and thus near the center section 222 of the second member 200. Covering members 26o may be secured by means of adhesive and/or force fit into place or secured by any other suitable means.
Alternatively, as shown in Figure 68, the covering member 260 may extend over the entire uppermost surface of the magnet 230, and magnetic engagement is achieved primarily through the aperture of the magnet 230. As shown in Figure 6C, the covering member 260 may be formed,integral with the second segment 250 so as to enhance corrosive resistant properties of the latch. In yet another modification, the covering member 260 may extend over the entire upper face of the second member 200 and serves as the retaining cover member referred to above. This modification is shown in Figure 6D
wherein the covering member 260 has a lip and is pressure fit over the rim 280a of the second member 200. Yet a further modification is shown in Figure 6E in which the covering member 260 has a side extension 260a which extends over the rim 280a and WO 94/06319 PCT/US92/10~'"'"
2~233~8 onto the back of the backing plate 28o and is secured by tabs 260b or similar means adapted to grip the bottom surface of the backing plate 280.
Figure 6F is similar to Figure 6E but has the rim 280a omitted. In Figure 6G, the rim 280a is omitted and the covering member 260, its side extension 260a and the second segment 250 are all integrally formed. The side extension and second segment are indicated by the designation 260a/250.
In Figures 6A-6G, the backing plate 280 is shown secured to fastener 285 via an adhesive layer 294. The fastener 285 is only partially shown, but is similar to that illustrated in Figure 5A.
The various cover members shown in Figures 6A-6G, are pre°erably made of magnetically insulating material; however, materials which are magnetically attractable to a greater or lesser degree can also be used. If magnetically attractable materials are employed in the construction of the covering member 260, it is desirable to provide them with a smooth outer surface to facilitate sliding of projection 110 over the surface of second member 200 during the process of aligning the closure.
In all of the modifications shown in Figures 6A-6G, a water proof sealant may be applied as in the case of Figure 5A.
Still further modifications of the first embodiment of the invention are shown in Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7A is similar to Figure 1 but omits the rim 280a of the backing plate 280. Further, an "... .~. ,. . .
.,.. ,. ~x .~ : :~ ~ . -;~ :,, . _. .
~tt'r"W;,...._..,;,...>5'L~?WaL43'3iSFa'~~1:S;.~t~'L'9~~~,~":'k'ra°4L~,0 ea..~~V"".'~'i_. , w, :::;:~'e:..~, ....:,z.:''~\a,:.z.;~:...~"a.,..''~a_.
:;..... .:w2.. . ,.. " ;i~:.: ... ..:.r~a;, ".,..,, ""'i WO 94/06319 PCT/US92/10446 adhesive layer 292 is shown between the backing plate 280, magnet 230, first segment 240, second segment 250 and center section 222. Figure 7H is similar to that of Figure 7A but includes a ring member 130 on the first member 100. Figure 7C is similar to that of Figure 7A omits the second segment 250. Figure 7D is similar to that of Figure 7C but includes the ring member 130 on the first member 100. The embodiment of Figure 7E is similar to that shown in Figure 1 except that the top portions of the rim 280a and second segment 250 extend upward to be coextensive with the top surface of first member 100. In this case the diameter of first member is smaller than in Figure 1 so that the first member 100 fits within the inner periphery of ~e second segment 250. In Figure 7F, the top portion of the rim 280a is coextensive with the top of the first member 100, but the second segment 250 has a top portion which ands below first member 100 .

2o In this case, the diameter of the first member 100 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the rim 280a.

Figure 7G is similar to Figure 1 but shows the first member having a ring member 130 fitting over and surrounding the rim 280a. The ring member 130 as well as the protruding segment 110 (Fig.i) may generically be termed a "protrusion."

Figure 8A shows an alternate modification of the first embodiment of the invention in which the first member 100 does not have the protruding segment 110 and in which the center section 222 as ,.,"~ .
v."\ y, ~ ';~ ~... , O.'vs . 4w .e.,~ v \ . ,. , t 7 , ..y.y. ..y~..,,....;,y~. :. ~ '! ' " ! 'i .
,~ r !...A. .,~ i . ! : ' :': !! . , s, ~, f ~..'~:' S~'~ ~~zka~. .s, 1... :~...~..,.! ...!': ._ .~. fir.. ,. ~. .W_ , v. '. ,. ~a 'Siv >. ~e ,, ~ :: i at.._...L..!_n._..d~le:lvfi.~.~sss.s.~s~ 1.~~'n.!cl~_..,.,. '~'~'~
...l~lc.'i~:a,n.. ,;..#, ,..,!i. ~, .... .,~ .., . ,..v ,;.,..!". . ~ ,~ :-:

WO 94/06319 PCT/US92lil~'''r'~'.
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21~3~08 well as the first segment 240 extend upwardly so as to be coextensive with the top surface of the magnet 230. Instead of the protruding segment 110, the first member 100 contains a ring member 130 which is set into a shoulder formed in the top portion of the rim 280a. Alternately, as shown in Figure 88, the ring member 130 can fit over the outer periphery of the rim 28 0a . Further, the f first member 100 may f it within the inner periphery of second segment 250, as shown in Figure 8C, or may fit within the inner periphery of the rim 280a as shown in Figure 8D. In Figures 7C, 7F, 7G and 8C-D, the means for preventing sliding movement of the first and second members relative to one another is achieved via the positioning of the first member within the inner periphery of either the rim 280a or the second segment 250 of the second member 200.
Figure 8E illustrates yet another modification of the Figure 1 embodiment in which both a protruding segment 110 as wall as a ring member 130 are utilized as a means for securing the first and second members from relative sliding (transverse) movement with respect to one another.
Figures 9A and 9B show yet another modification of the first embodiment of the invention. In Figure 9A, first member 100 does not have a protruding member 110 but rather has an aperture therethrough. The center section 222 of the second member 200 extends through the aperture of the first member 100 thereby providing a means ~'AWS7vi,,A~AiIVk~C~~~.'~7sl~SS'~Su,'ki'a~_~'~"._S~LS1.~!d;.:w~~?tk;t:~t:~.'dJ.
\iV.7.':1V5~:'i~., a~~1\~iY.4 .t!.'W,'.~,.: . ?wvx, :..~~~e.»r;:~s.'~a;ili.;;s ~!5, .'.~.:'r>.: ..,~ , ..

~" ~'j WO 94/06319 PGT/US92/1044b for securing the first and second members against lateral (radial) movement relative to one another.
In Figure 9B, the first segment 240 as well as the center section 222 extend through the aperture in the first member 100.
Depending upon the specific application, the first member can contain only the protruding segment 110 as illustrated in Figure 1, only ring member 130 as illustrated in Figures 8A and 88, or both protruding segment 110 and ring member 130, as illustrated in Figure 8E.
In various embodiments of the invention, center section 222, first segment 240, magnet 230, and second segment 250 arp integrally bonded together to eliminate cracks aid crevices in which caustic materials would otherwise accumulate. This integrally bonded structure can be achieved by gluing these members together in a manner such that the glue fills any void spaces between the various elements.
Alternatively, Figure l0 illustrates yet another modification of the first embodiment of the invention in which in which a first member 301 is shown disposed above a second mating member 305.
The first member 301 may be composed of a flexible material, and further may b~e composed of a flexible material made of a plastic having magnetic particles embedded therein. Such magnetic material is commonly used in refrigerator magnets in which the thin flexible surface is stamped with the suppliers advertisement. The first member 301 made in this WO 94/06319 PCT/US92/t'''°~~6 fashion permits the magnetic snap to be suitable for use on clothing where it is desired for the snap to withstand repeated washing and/or dry cleaning operations. Flexibility in such situations inhibits cracking or breaking of the first member. The second member 305 includes magnet 230 as in the previous embodiments, but includes backing plate 315a and center section 315b, which may be integrally formed. The entire second member is now shown with an outer protective film 319, such as an epoxy layer which not only serves the function of the waterproof film 290 of Figures 2 and 5A, but also includes the first magnetically insulating materia1~240 of, for example, Figure 1, and/or may also optionally serve the function of the protective covering layer 260, depending on its thickness and composition. The portion of the protective film 319 disposed between the center section 315b and the magnet 23o is designated by the number 319a.
Further, the top surface o! the center section 315b may be coated with a thinner layer of the protective film as shown at 319b. The layers 319, 319a and 319b may be integrally formed with one another and form a single continuous waterproof protective layer. This embodiment of the invention is advantageous for applications where the latch may be subject to contamination by particulate matter, since it eliminates crevices where magnetically-attractable debris might collect.

...:, _<. " . .,~,.~
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;°'''~WO 94/06319 PC'f/US92/10446 ~1~3~~8 The latch can be manufactured by a wide variety of fabrication techniques. A multi-stage injection molding process,illustrated in Figure 11, can be used to form an integrally bonded second member 200. In this figure, a four stage injection molding process is employed to fabricate the latch.
It is understood that Figure 11 illustrates only one of many possible techniques to manufacture the latch.
In Figure 11, step 1, a mold is formed by slides 962, 964, 966, and 968; bottom portion 940;
and top partions 910, 920, and 930. A space 980 is defined by these boundaries.
In step 2, magnetic material is injected into space 980 to form magnet 230. The magnetic material is subsequently subjected to a magnetic field to line-up the poles of the magnet in the desired direction.
In step 3, slides 962, 964, 966, and 968 are withdrawn as indicated by the arrows in step 3 of Figure 1l. The voids left after the slides have been withdrawn are then filled with insulating material to form segments 240 and 250. Finally, in step 4 of Figure 11, boundaries 910, 920, 930, and 940 are withdrawn. The process illustrated in Figure 11 thus ensures that center section 2x2, solid insulating first segment 240, magnet 230, and solid insulating second segment 250 are integrally bonded together without any cracks and crevices. It is noted that in Figure 11 the magnet 230 and center section 222 are integrally formed as one piece in WO 94/06319 PCT/US92/1!'a~~'~

the molding process. While such an integral construction is preferable in the molding operation, discrete elements may likewise be employed, as in Figures 1-9. It is understood that in embodiments of the invention in which the magnet 230 and center section 222 are integral with one another, the magnet 230 does not have an aperture therethrough.
In such a case, the magnet may be said to have a ~
cavity therein in which both the center section 222 1o and the first segment 240 are positioned. The term "cavity" is generic to all embodiments and modifications of the invention and is intended to include both a through-hole (aperture, and also a recess.
Figure 12A illustrates a second member 300 of a sedond preferred embodiment of the invention. The second member 300 of Figure 12A is used with the first member 100 illustrated in Figure 1. The second member of the second preferred embodiment 2 0 includes a first magnet 3 3 0 ( corresponding to magnet 230 of Figure 2j, a segment 340 of solid insulating material (corresponding to first segment 240 of Figure '2), a center section 322 (corresponding to section 222 of Figure 2) and an outer segment 350 of solid insulating material (corresponding to second segment 250 of Figure 2). In addition, the Figure 12A embodiment includes a second magnet 331 which is separated from magnet 330 by a segment of solid magnetically insulating material 341. An adhesive layer 392 shown greatly enlarged may be used to secure the magnets and segments to a backing plate . . .. , . ".. ,. ...".. ~ . ~.
e~umaa~wr~n ..W ~"wxv.evWMYIISICW Y~i.6, i~~..Cls~o......i4'1('a01.41~5NT.f<'t aa._.W .Slil~Sip:":i~~"k.2121.bT~"'v('l~~~'~tW9A~iy~a>_4W ~.'~v4 W ~-'1.3T....
~a,~'~i~~ a . .u. . ,n t\ .

f ~~ WO 94/06319 PGT/US92/10446 ~~.~3308 380 having a rim 380a. Dividing the magnet up into various sections separated by solid magnetically insulating material further enhances the latching force of the magnetic latch by further concentrating magnetic force in localized areas. When the second member 20o illustrated in Figure 4 is compared with a similarly sized second member 300 illustrated in Figure 12A, the Figure 12A second preferred embodiment has a greater latching force.
It is understood that section 322 and magnets 330 and 331 may be integral with one another or may be discretely formed. Further, any two of these elements may be integrally formed with the third being discrete.
Figure 12H illustrates a modification of the Figure 12A preferred embodiment. In Figure 12B, a g=oove 393 is provided with the magnetically insulating material 341. The groove serves to coogerate with a ridge 140 of the first member 100 as illustrated in Figure 12D to assist in the alignment and securing of the first and second members. The position of the groove need not be within the region of the magnetically insulating material 341.
Figure 12C shows a modification of the embodiment of Figure 12H wherein the magnetically insulating material 341 is omitted and the magnet 330 occupies the entire space between the first segment 240 and the second segment 250. Groove 393 3o is cut into the magnet 330 and cooperates with the ridge 140 of the first member 100 as shown in Figure WO 94/06319 PGT/US92/lr~.'~" ~6 21~33Q8 , 12D. In a modification to this embodiment as shown in Figures 12E and 12F, the center section 322 may be formed to extend to the tog surface of the first segment 34o so as to be coextensive with the top surface of the magnet 330. In such a case, the protruding segment 110 is omitted as in Figure 12F.
Further, the first member may also include a ring member as in ring member 130 of Figure 78.
Yet a further modification is illustrated in Figures 7H and 7I which are similar to the embodiments of Figures 7F and 7G respectively but wherein the second segment 250 is omitted. In Figure 7I, the ring member 130 may also be omitted.
Figure 13 illustrates a third preferred embodiment. The Figare 13 embodiment is similar to the Figure 12A embodiment with corresponding elements identified by a number in the 400~s, with the same tens and units value as in Figure 12A. In the third preferred embodiment, the polarities of first magnet 430 and second magnet 431 are reversed with respect to each other to increase the attraction force. Also, in the Figure 13 embodiment, center section 422 has the same depth as the depth of first magnet 430 and second magnet 431, i.e., it is coextensive therewith. In this -embodiment, the first member 100 would have the form of that shown in Figure 8B.
Figure 14 illustrates a fourth preferred embodiment, with corresponding elements in the 500~x. The Figure 14 embodiment is similar to the Figure 13 embodiment except that in the Figure 14 _2~_ ..\' w , .. ~, . ._ . ; S '...' , .. ....yy. .ice ~y ,.,., ....;'iCA,','~l':i '" 'y~ .. '~'t!7.:..', ,- -ss . -. , ~~ ~ ~r,~ .; , ;.<r;~. . ~.
'.~."..v4 ,. , a . , . ~-. . . , .-i''t~: ~. . , ., v. ~'~.a . .. .v ":i.
~i r ,-. a, .., . ~e ..~.Y~
.~1,'~1, ~. t...~~\ l .,S"_. "i ~ .. ~ 6 t. \R.. . iV., s, W -F ~, ,ViV, :~...'.~'Att~..~~",! :...,L.k~,s'~., a.,._'~~r;'.:'~'e~.,\. ..,"~'t~ _ s~~ .
..., :' ~s, . ,.a , ., a ..\.~.:..~, . ..~ ~.1 , ~. "~~: .. > , .. . . .. _ ..
, . . . . . .

embodiment center section 522 is recessed. The first member 100 could now take several forms such as those shown in Figures 1, 7C, 7D and 7E.
Figure 15 illustrates 'a fifth preferred embodiment, with corresponding elements in the 600's. The Figure 15 embodiment includes four magnets 630, 631, 632 and 633. Use of multiple magnets further increases the available latching farce. In Figure 15, the polarities of adjacent magnets are reversed to further increase the latching force.
Figure 16 illustrates a sixth preferred embodiment which is similar to the Figure 15 fifth preferred embodiment, with corresponding elements in the 700~x, except that the polarities are not reversed.
Figure 17 illustrates a seventh preferred embodiment which is similar to the Figure 13 third preferred embodiment with corresponding elements in the 800's except that the polarities of the magnets are not reversed.
Although the invention has been described with respect to certain preferred embodiments, it is understood that various modifications and improvements to the invention may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.
For example, the surfaces of the magnets) can be curved rather than flat as illustrated in Figures 18, 19, and 20. In these figures number in the 900's, 1000, and 1100 series have been used _2g_ WO 94/06319 PCf/US92/If" ''~

respectively to identify the corresponding elements as in previous figures. Moreover, the surfaces of the magnets in Figures 7-9 and 12-20 may be covered with a covering member similar to covering member 260 of Figure 6A so as to leave a small perimeter of the outer magnet uncovered or as in Figures 68-6G so as to completely cover all the magnet upper surfaces. For the multi-magnet embodiments of Figures 12-20, the covering member may cover soma or 1o all or the solid magnetically insulating members.as well (for example both members 341 and 350 or only member 341 of Figure 12A) or only the magnet portions, leaving the solid magnetically insulating ~. members exposed.
It is noted that the magnets utilized in the embodiments described above may be fabricated using any conventional technique including the use o!
plastics having magnetic particles embedded therein.
For example, perman~nt magnets made of hard magnetic powder of ferrite, alnico, rare-earth etc. may be solidified with a synthetic resin and then magnetized.
It is further noted that the fasteners and their associated prongs as shown in Figures 5 and 6 may be used in all of the embodiments and are shown as non-limiting examples of a mechanism to attach the magnetic latch to the desired'article, e.g., handbag, article of clothing etc. Other potential fastening means include various types of riveting means, holes in the closure (housing) or an embedded or integral loop provided to facilitate attachment ..

.,., r"'vvWO 94/06319 PCT/US92/10446 by sewing, hook-and-eye means, adhesives of various types, and various other fastening means know to those skilled in the art.
In all of the embodiments described above, a water proof sealing layer (as in Figure 5A) may be employed to prevent corrosion of the various latch components.

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Claims (24)

The embodiments of the present invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:

1. A magnetic latch, comprising:
a first member including magnetically attractable material; and a second member including:
a magnet to attract said first member, said magnet defining a cavity;
a substantially rigid, non-magnetic member arranged inside of said cavity and positioned proximate to the inner surface of said magnet, and acting as a means for enhancing the surface of said magnet, and acting as a means for enhancing the magnetic attraction between said first and second members, said first member being matingly engagable with said second member, and said first and second members including means for preventing the lateral movement of the first member relative to the second member when said first and second members are latched together.

2. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 1, wherein said latch is waterproof.

3. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 1 or 2, wherein said first member comprises flexible material.

4. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 3, wherein said first member is flexible.

5. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 1, wherein said second member has a curved surface facing said first member.

6. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 1, wherein said magnet has a surface, facing said first member, which is at least partially covered with a solid, protective covering member.

7. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 6, wherein said magnet surface is substantially completely covered by said solid, protective covering member.

8. A magnetic latch as recited in claim l, wherein said second member further includes:
an additional magnet to attract said first member;
and an additional solid non-magnetic member arranged between said magnet and said additional magnet.

9. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 8, wherein the polarity of said first magnet is reversed with respect to the polarity of said additional magnet.

10. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 1 or 8, wherein said second member further includes:
a further solid non-magnetic member arranged on the outer periphery of said second member and acting as a means for further enhancing magnetic attraction between said first member and said second member.

11. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 1 or 8, wherein said second member further comprises a backing plate.

12. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 10, wherein said second member further comprises a backing plate.

13. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 5 or 8, wherein said first member comprises flexible material.

14. A magnetic latch comprising:
a) a first member including magnetically attractable material, said first member comprising flexible4 material;

b) a second member including:
a magnet having a first surface positioned adjacent said first member when said latch is in a closed position so as to attract said first member, said magnet defining a hole therethrough;

1) a backing plate attached to a second surface of said magnet opposite said first surface;

2) a central projection extending from said backing plate through at least a portion of the length of said hole defined within said magnet, said central projection being separated by a spacing from the inner surface of the magnet defining said hole; and 3) a solid non-magnetic member positioned within said spacing; and c) said first and second members including means for substantially preventing lateral movement of said first member relative to said second member when said first and second members are latched together.

15. A magnetic latch is recited in claim 14, wherein said second member is waterproof.

16. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 14 further comprising a waterproof protective layer substantially encapsulating said second member.

17. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 15 or 16, wherein said first member is waterproof.

18. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 14, wherein said central projection extends through the entire length of said hole defined within said magnet and has a surface substantially coplanar with the first surface of said magnet.

19. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 18, wherein said second member is waterproof.

20. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 18, further comprising a waterproof protective layer substantially encapsulating said second member.

21. A magnetic latch is recited in claim 19 or 20, wherein said first member is waterproof.

22. A magnetic latch as recited in any of claims 14, 15, 18 or 19, wherein said magnet has a curved surface facing said first member.

23. A magnetic latch comprising a) a first member including magnetically attractable material, said first member comprising flexible material;
b) a second member including:
a magnet having a first surface positioned adjacent said first member when said latch is in a closed position so as to attract said first member, said magnet defining a hole therethrough;
1) a backing plate attached to a second surface of said magnet opposite said first surface;
2) a central projection extending from said backing plate through the length of said hole defined within said magnet and having a surface substantially coplanar with the first surface of said magnet, said central projection being separated by a spacing from the inner surface of the magnet defining said hole;
3) a solid non-magnetic member in the form of a waterproof protective layer substantially filling the entire spacing between the magnet inner surface and the central projection;
4) an additional non-magnetic member forming a waterproof protective layer encapsulating substantially the entire first surface of said magnet and the coplanar surface of said projection; and c) said first and second members including means for substantially preventing lateral movement of said first member relative to said second member when said first and second members are latched together.

24. A magnetic latch as recited in claim 14 or 23, wherein said first member is flexible.