Preloadable vector sensitive latch

The invention relates to a preloadable vector-sensitive latch which automatically releases when the force vector from a latch member reaches a specified release angle. In addition, it contains means to remove clearance between the latched members and to preload the latch to prevent separation at angles less than the specified release angle. The latch comprises a triangular main link (77), a free link (74) connected between a first corner of the main link and a yoke member (72), a housing (82), and an actuator (71) connected between the yoke member and the housing. A return spring bias means (70) connects the main link to a portion of the housing. A second corner of the main link is slidably and pivotally connected to the housing via a slot (81) in a web portion of the housing. The latch housing has a rigid docking ring (79) alignable with a mating locking ring (75) which is engageable by a locking roller (78) journalled on the third corner of the triangular main link.