Bob Bittner later came out with a version that inspired our version of his "Shark Latch". We credit both of them for this design and for trying to overcome the shortcomings of the plans latch retention system that has contributed to several canopy opening adventures.

Shown below is a one-off prototype we will be loaning out to get some feedback on it. Not shown is the micro-switch and the actuator cable for emergency back seat release. In the last picture you can see the piece of wire clipped on to hold the jaws open, normally the cable would feed down through the hole and be secured in the brass standoff.