Latch, latching systems and methods for temporarily associating objects using a magnetic retention feature

Abstract

Latches, latch arrangements and related methods for temporarily associating two objects, each having one part of a magnetic catch retention arrangement. Latches according to various embodiments of the invention have matable first and second housings wherein the first housing defines a primary recess and the second includes a primary protrusion that is receivable by the primary recess. A biased, displaceable catch of one housing selectively retains the other housing when the two housings are in a mated condition. The magnetic catch retention arrangement becomes functional after sufficient user displacement of the catch; upon sufficient differential movement of the housings, the magnetic catch retention arrangement no longer has sufficient effect to overcome the catch bias. Upon initial re-association of the housing parts, the catch is physically displaced but not sufficiently to permit operative interaction between it and the magnetic catch retention arrangement, thereby allowing the catch to reengage the opposing housing upon complete association.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.