Dog&Drive is a manufacturer of folding-stairs for car boots, based outside of Cologne, Germany. The development of the boarding application followed occasions in which Dog&Drive founder Karl-Heinz Kamlage watched animals struggling to haul themselves in and out of vehicles at his wife’s veterinary clinic.
Southco’s Micro Rotary Latch (R4), is housed within the carbon-fibre structure of the application. With the Bowden cable being narrow in diameter and flexible, the parts are fed through the carbon material at the precise points.
Southco’s intended locking solution is said to provide a precise system which means the operator can move from either side of the vehicle and accomplish the same end result, regardless of which handle is used to move the stair from its closed position. The selected actuator (AC-50) allows for operation, as the ergonomic handle is integrated within the step, meaning the user can then grab the top of the step, and at the same time actuate the handle with full control. The squeezing action of the actuator pulls the Bowden cable tightly, which then applies a pull-force to the junction box that connects to two mechanical micro rotary latches. Having two rotary latches ensures the safe latching and stability of the step within the frame.
These micro rotary latches are claimed to require little installation space and have a light operating force, meaning that the end user does not need to slam the stairs into a closed position.
The mechanism also includes an integrated rubber bumper to eliminate noise, as well as having no visible mechanical components.
Having a junction box in the middle also allows for minor adjustments to the system without having to alter Bowden cables. This allows for synchronous release which ensures both sides of the step are disengaged at the same time and prevents twists in the mechanics.
