US Patent 8382168 Magnetic latch mechanism

A latch with dual rotary magnets is disclosed. The latch is particularly suited for releasably securing dual doors of a compartment in the closed position. Each rotary magnet helps secure in a closed position a respective door that is provided with a magnetic insert. Hook-like rotary pawls that rotate with the magnets provide for mechanical securing of the doors in the closed position. The latch is provided with a safety feature that makes the latch resistant to opening in the event that the vehicle in which the latch is installed is involved in a collision.