FASTENERS & SEALING
JOINING FORCES Case study exploring the development of engineered latching for enhanced usability “We were looking to improve the
functionality and design of our handle and locking mechanism,” explains Christoph Oster, project management R&D, Memmert. “We needed a system that was innovative, easy to use and a lock that provided consistent, reliable performance. It was also important that the door had a smooth push lock system, which minimised vibration that could potentially effect the loading when locking and unlocking.” When handling sensitive elements in
a laboratory environment, accessibility and usability of the equipment is crucial. Therefore Memmert sought a latching solution that would allow the user to access the interior of the oven without having to use their hands to open the door. However, the latching mechanism was still required to prevent the door from opening accidentally. “The usability of the latch was a vital
Memmert sought to improve the functionality and design of the handle and locking mechanism on its latest generation of laboratory oven
I
n today’s highly industrialised and automated world, with increased focus on equipment security and operator safety, the user experience in terms of a human’s interaction
with a product or appliance has gained tremendous importance. When Memmert, a leading
manufacturer of industrial and laboratory thermal ovens, was searching for a reliable as well as ergonomically friendly latching solution for its latest generation of appliance, it worked with Southco, a manufacturer of latches, hinges and fasteners, to develop a locking mechanism that has improved the oven’s quality as well as efficiency.
THE CHALLENGE The previous generation of Memmert appliances incorporated a multipoint latching system into the outer main door, which sealed the door panel against leakage and contamination and helped to maintain constant temperatures. When working with highly
sensitive items, such as blood samples and hazardous chemicals, the end user must have the confidence to deliver accurate results, ensuring there is no probability of contamination. This created the need for a latching system that delivered the necessary level of compression without comprising the aesthetic design or user experience.
element, we needed to create a system that was easy to open and close regardless of whether this is with one hand, knee, etc., which comes in handy during daily laboratory use and gives flexibility in usable height,” says Oster.
THE SOLUTION The concept for the latch was based on Southco’s R5 Draw Latch – a heavy-duty mechanism chosen for its high tensile load, concealed installation and proven functionality in industrial applications. However, in addition to functionality,
the latch also needed to fit a restricted space within the application, without compromising the aesthetic design or the end user experience. Memmert worked alongside Southco’s engineering team to develop a completely bespoke product that met all these design requirements. The latch design incorporated over- centre locking functionality, ensuring
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