Meanwhile, a new improved latch

is being fabricated for the V-berth under-bunk storage bins.

More in August There's always a better way and for the wooden latch design it would be even better if it were self-locking. More latches are needed anyway for the storage compartments. The redesign involves lengthening the casing to accommodate an end stopper and a stainless steel folded leaf spring that pushes the slider in the locked position.

The scrap plank is routed into a C-channel; end blocks twice the required width are glued at proper distances.

Slider is tested against the folded leaf spring to measure distance of throw.

The end blocks are cut at their centers so each piece has a stopper for the spring.

The button is glued on the slider and the button slot (which determines the travel distance of the slider) is cut in the hatch cover. The latch assembly will be screwed onto the cover.