einrastet

Einrastet is a German term used to describe the action or state of a mechanism snapping or latching into a fixed position. It derives from the verb einrasten, meaning to latch, snap, or engage in place. In technical contexts, einrastet denotes that a component has moved into a defined, locked position and remains there until a deliberate release act is performed.

In practice, einrastet is achieved through detents, latches, catches, or slots that create a positive engagement. A detent—often spring-loaded—engages with a groove, notch, or groove-like feature to provide a stable hold and, in many cases, tactile or audible feedback when the position is reached. The design aims for repeatable, unambiguous positions and secure retention under expected loads.

Applications of the concept span a wide range of fields. In mechanical engineering and product design, it appears in snap-fit assemblies, battery compartments, and docking connectors. In automotive and aerospace systems, latching mechanisms ensure doors, panels, or switches stay in defined positions during operation. In consumer electronics, many housings and connectors rely on einrastet behavior to hold parts together securely while allowing easy release when needed.

Etymology and related terms: einrasten combines prefix ein- with rasten (to rest or snap). Related concepts include Rast (detent), Rastverriegelung (detent locking), and Verriegelung (locking). In English-language technical writing, terms such as detent, latch, and snap-fit are commonly used to describe analogous mechanisms.