MXPA99006389A - Locking slide latch - Google Patents

Abstract

A locking slide latch (200) comprises components that are easily assembled without the need for separate fasteners or adhesives. A presently preferred latch comprises a housing (211), a pawl (216) received within the housing (211) and an actuating member (213) associated with and slidable relative to the housing for displacing the pawl (216) from an extended position to a retracted position. These components are assembled together without the use of separate fasteners or adhesives, thereby simplifying assembly and allowing for interchangeability of parts to meet varying latch requirements. The latches are preferably manufactured from corrosion resistant materials such as plastics, composites and corrosion resistant metals, and are highly suitable for use in automotive, recreational vehicle and marine applications.

Description

SLIDING BOLT OF BNCLAVEMENT BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to sliding locks for doors, panels and secants. The bolts incorporate an interlocking feature and are resistant to corrosion, making them useful in automotive, recreational vehicle, marine and other applications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREVIOUS TECHNIQUE Various types of sliding locks are known. These locks are inserted into an opening cut from a panel and slide into the plane of the panel to engage a single panel or frame member. Conventional sliding latches are typically not interlocked and can be relatively complex to assemble and susceptible to corrosion. The patents of the U.S.A. Nos. 3,841,674 and 3,850,464 issued to Bisbing et al., Which are hereby incorporated by reference, disclose sliding locks of one piece or two piece construction, which do not include an interlocking feature. The present invention has been developed in view of the above and to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel locking latch bolt. An object of the present invention is to provide a sliding latch comprising a housing, a latch received within at least a portion of the housing and actuating means associated with and slidable with respect to the housing, for moving the latch from an extended position to a retracted position . A further objective of the present invention is to provide a sliding latch comprising a housing, a retainer mounted in the housing for movement between an extended position and a retracted position with respect to the housing, bypass means between the retainer and the housing for moving the retainer in its extended position, actuating means mounted in and slidable with respect to the housing and coupled to the retainer to move the retainer to its retracted position and a locking plug mounted on the actuator means and having a locking member. Another object of the present invention is to provide an interlocking slide latch, comprising components that can be assembled together without the use of conventional fasteners such as screws and adhesives.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an interlocking slide latch that is resistant to corrosion. These and other objects of the present invention will be more readily apparent from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a top view of the portion of a bolt of the present invention. Figure 2 is a bottom view of the body portion of a bolt of the present invention. Figure 3 is a sectional side view of the body portion of a bolt of the present invention. Figure 4 is a top view of a spring member of the present invention. Figure 5 is a side view of a spring member of the present invention. Figure 6 is a top view of an interlocking member of the present invention. Figure 7 is a side sectional view of an interlocking member of the present invention. Figures 8A-F represent an assembly diagram of a bolt of the present invention. Figure 9 is a sectional side view of an assembled latch of the present invention.

Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a bolt according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 is a top plan view of the bolt of Figure 10 and illustrated in a mounted position. Figure 12 is a left side view of the latch of Figure 10. Figure 13 is a right side elevational view of the latch of Figure 10, which is taken on a line 12-12 of Figure 11. Figure 14 is a top plan view of a bolt of Figure 10 taken on line 14-14 of Figure 13. Figure 15 is a perspective view of a bolt according to another embodiment of the present invention., which is shown mounted on a panel in dotted lines. Figure 16 is a top plan view of a latch of Figure 15. Figure 17 is a top plan view of a bolt housing of Figure 15. Figure 18 is a front elevational view of the housing of the Figure 10, the view in rear elevation is an image in the mirror of the one shown.

Figure 19 is a bottom plan view of the housing of Figure 17. Figure 20 is a right side elevation view of the housing of Figure 17. Figure 21 is a left side elevation view of the housing of Figure 17 Figure 22 is a front elevational view of actuator means of the bolt of Figure 15, the rear elevation view is an image in the mirror of the one shown. Figure 23 is a bottom plan view of the actuator means of Figure 22. Figure 24 is a right side elevation view of the actuator means of Figure 22. Figure 25 is a front elevational view of a latch retainer of Figure 15, the rear elevational view is an image in the mirror of that shown. Figure 26 is a top plan view of the retainer of Figure 25. Figure 27 is a right side elevational view of the retainer of Figure 25. Figure 28 is an exploded front elevational view of the latch of Figure 15.

Figure 29 is a sectional front elevational view of the latch of Figure 15, taken on line 29-29 of Figure 16 and in an interlocked position. Figure 30 is a bottom plan view of the latch of Figure 15 shown without a panel and in an interlocked position. Figure 31 is a sectional front elevational view of the latch of Figure 15, taken on line 29-29 of Figure 16 and shown without a panel, the latch of Figure 31 illustrated in a locked position and with the retainer in a retracted position. Figure 32 is a bottom plan view of the latch of Figure 15 shown without a panel and in an unlocked or released position. Figure 33 is a bottom plan view of the latch of Figure 15 shown without a panel and in a released position, with the actuating means sliding to a retracted position and the retainer in a retracted position. Figure 34 is a sectional front elevational view of the latch of Figure 15, taken on line 29-29 of Figure 16 and shown without a panel, the latch of Figure 34 illustrated in a released position and both with the actuating means and the retainer in a retracted position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES The interlocking slide latch of the present invention comprises a body portion serving as a handle, a spring member serving to release the body portion in a closed position when the bolt is installed, and an interlocking member that is rotated in a position preventing opening of the bolt. With reference to the drawings in detail, in which like reference numerals represent similar elements throughout the various views, Figures 1 to 3 show the clamped base member 10 of a preferred bolt of the present invention. The base member 10 includes a handle opening 11 that is adapted to be held by an operator to open the bolt. The base member 10 includes a front surface 12 and a rear surface 13 that is adapted to slide against the panel where the base member is installed. The base member 10 includes a coupling portion 16 adapted to engage a second panel or frame member (not shown) when the bolt is in the closed position. The term "frame member" as used herein is broadly defined to include any structure such as a frame or panel that is capable of being fastened to the panel wherein the sliding lock of the present invention is installed. As shown more clearly in Figure 3, the base member includes end portions 14 and 15 that contact the panel where the bolt is installed (not shown). A pair of yielding fasteners 17a and 17b are located at one end of the base member and are adapted to hold the base member within the cutting portion of the panel, after which the base member is engaged by quick actuation in place on the panel. The base member 10 includes a through hole 18 extending from the front surface 12 to the rear surface 13, which is adapted to receive a rotary interlock plug, as described more fully below. On the rear part 13 of the base member, surrounding the through hole 18 are barbs 19a and 19b and angled recess 20 which serves to hold the spring member when the bolt is assembled as discussed below. The base member 10 can be manufactured in any convenient manner such as plastic or metal. ABS plastic is a particularly preferred material for the base member due to its durability, ease of manufacture, low cost and corrosion resistance. Although the base member 10 is illustrated as a solid piece of material in the sectional view of Figure 3, it is preferred to provide hollow portions in the base member in order to save material and weight costs.

Figures 4 and 5 illustrate a preferred spring member 30 of the present invention. The spring member 30 comprises a generally cylindrical body portion 31, with a dropping spring portion 32 extending therefrom. In a embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the yielding spring portion 32 includes flexible sections 33a and 33b that provide flexure for the spring 32 and serve to bypass the bolt base member in the closed position when the bolt is installed. A relatively stiff portion 34 extends from the flexible sections 33a and 33b of the spring and is adapted to contact the cutting portion of the panel where the bolt is installed. The spring 32 is illustrated in the relaxed position in Figures 4 and 5. When force is applied from right to left in the rigid member 34, flexion occurs in the flexible sections 33a and 33b, allowing the rigid member 34 to move toward the cylindrical body 31 of the spring member. Shoulders 35a and 35b and angled retaining member 36 are located around the periphery of the cylindrical body 31. When assembled, the shoulder members 35a and 35b engage the tines 19a and 19b of the base member 10, and the retaining member in Angle 36 engages the angled recess 20 of the base member 10. This coupling allows the spring member 30 to engage by rapid actuation on the base member 20 without the use of conventional tools or fastening means such as screws or adhesives. In the preferred embodiment, the upper portion of the cylindrical body portion 31 is divided into four quadrants 37 located at 90 ° intervals around the circumference of the cylinder. These divisions allow the quadrant to flex radially inwardly, thereby allowing a locking member to engage by rapid actuation on the upper part of the cylinder 37. As more clearly illustrated in Figure 5, a further radio slot 38 Small is located below the top of the cylinder 37. When assembled, the latch locking member is retained within the slot 38 and rotated therein. The spring member 30 can be fabricated from any convenient material such as plastic or metal. It is preferred to use corrosion resistant materials in the manufacture of the spring member. Acétals are preferred as the preferred plastic for the spring member, with Delrin particularly preferred because of its excellent elasticity and resistance to corrosion, fracture and fatigue. It is also preferred to use a plastic that exhibits only minor changes in mechanical properties against varying ranges of temperature. For example, if a bolt of the present invention is to be subjected to a range of temperatures, it is convenient to use a plastic for the spring member having relatively constant elasticity over the temperature range. As illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the spring member 30 is preferably made from a single piece of material. However, various modifications may be made to the spring member, including the use of separate springs that are secured to the cylindrical member 31. These separate springs may be made of any convenient material such as plastic or stainless steel. Figures 6 and 7 illustrate a preferred interlocking member 50 of the present invention. The locking member 50 includes a ring 51 that is adapted to press fit on the upper portion 37 of the spring member 30 and to rotate in the slot 38. Extending radially outwardly and downwardly from the ring member 51 is a locking finger 52 which is adapted to extend between the rigid member 34 and the cylindrical base 31 of the spring member 30, when the locking member 50 is mounted on the spring member 30. When assembled, the locking finger 52 it can be rotated in position against the rigid portion 34 of the spring member 30, thereby preventing movement of the rigid portion 34 toward the cylindrical body portion 31. The locking member 50 also includes a bar member 53 extending through the diameter of the ring 51. The bar member 53 is adapted to contacting a rotary interlock plug or other drive mechanism as will be more fully described below. The interlocking member 50 can be made of any suitable material having sufficient strength such as metal, plastic or composite material. A particularly preferred material for the interlocking member 50 is a nylon filled with fibers because of its excellent strength and corrosion resistance. Although the presently preferred configuration of the interlocking member 50 is illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, it will be recognized that the locking member can be provided in many different ways that allow bolt locking, when the locking member is rotated from the open position. to a closed one. The preferred slide latch of the present invention also includes a locking plug which extends through the through hole 18 of the base member 10 and contacts the locking member 50 in order to cause rotation thereof. This feature is shown more clearly in Figures 8F and 9. The locking plug 60 can be operated by a key. When the security of the lock is not required, the locking plug 60 can be provided in the form of a generally cylindrical member that is freely rotatable by hand or by a tool driver such as a hexagonal wrench or screwdriver. The locking plug 60 includes projections 61a and 61b which are adapted to contact either side of the bar 53 of the locking member 50 when the bolt is assembled. The rotation of the locking plug 60 causes rotation of the locking member 50 through contact between the projections 61a and 61b and the bar member 53. In the preferred key-operated locking plug, as illustrated in Figure 8F, provide fasteners 62 on one side of the plug. Further, an E-ring 63 is provided in the locking plug 60, which is retractable in the radial direction in order to allow insertion of the locking plug 60 in the hollow cylindrical body portion 31 of the spring member 30. Once seated within of the cylindrical body 31, the ring E spring radially outwards to secure the locking plug inside the cylinder. The components of the locking plug 60 are preferably made from materials such as plastic and non-corrosive metal. In the presently preferred embodiment, the body of the locking plug 60 is made of plastic, while the catches 62 and the ring E 63 are made of brass. This interlocking plug is highly resistant to corrosion. The method for assembling the preferred slide latch of the present invention is illustrated in Figures 8A-G. In Figure 8A, the spring member 30 is oriented relative to the base member 10 as illustrated. The angled recess 20 and tips 19a and 19b are adapted to receive the angled retention member 36 and shoulders 35a and 35b, respectively. As shown in Figure 8B, the angled retaining member 36 is first inserted into the angled recess 20. In Figure 8C, the tips 19a and 19b are engaged by quick action on the shoulders 35a and 35b in order to mount the spring member 30 in the base member 10. This quick-action coupling feature allows for ease of assembly without need for tools or fasteners such as screws or adhesives. As an alternative, the spring member 30 can be attached to the base member 10 by ultrasonic welding. In Figure 8D, the interlocking member 50 is oriented as illustrated for subsequent mounting on the spring member 30. The SI ring of the locking member 50 is engaged by quick actuation on the end 37 of the spring member 30 and settles inside the recessed slot 38. As shown in Figure 8E, when the locking member 50 is mounted, the locking finger 52 can be arranged against the rigid member 34, thereby preventing movement of the rigid member 34 towards the cylindrical base 31 of the spring member 30. If the locking finger 52 is rotates away from contact with the rigid member 34, the rigid member is allowed to move toward the cylindrical base 31 of the spring member 30 against the force of the yielding portion 32 of the spring. In Figure 8F, the locking plug 60 is oriented as illustrated with respect to the base member 10 and then inserted through the through hole 18 into the cylindrical body 31 of the spring member 30. Once fully inserted, as shown in FIG. illustrated in Figure 9, projections 61a and 61b of the locking plug 60 contact the sides of the rod member 53 of the locking member 50. Due to the contact between the projections 61a and 61b and the rod member 53, the rotation of the plug The latching mechanism causes rotation of the locking member 50. When the locking member 50 is in the orientation shown in Figure 9, wherein the locking finger 52 is against the rigid member 34, the latch is in the locked position. When the locking finger 52 is rotated a sufficient amount in any direction, for example 90 °, there is no contact between the locking finger 52 and the rigid member 34, thereby allowing the rigid member 34 to move towards the cylindrical base. 31 of the spring member 30, when sufficient force is applied. Once assembled in the manner shown in Figures 8A-F, the interlocking slide latch of the present invention can be installed in a cutout portion of a panel, in a manner similar to the non-interlocked sliding latches. The installation of these conventional locks is described in US Patents. Nos. 3,841,674 and 3,850,464, previously cited. A fully assembled and installed sliding latch is illustrated in Figure 9. The base member 10 is located in a cutting portion of a panel 70. In the locked position shown in Figure 9, the locking portion 16 of the base member 10 engages a frame member 80 for thereby releasably retaining the panel 70 relative to the frame member 80. As can be seen from the assembly drawings of Figures 8A-F, the slide latch of the present invention can simply be assembled without the Tools use. In addition, fastening means such as screws, rivets and adhesives used in conventional slide locks are not required during the assembly process. The use of separate components for the base member 10, spring member 30, locking member 50 and locking plug 60 allows many variations in the final bolt, depending on the selected components. For example, base member 10 may be provided in various dimensions to allow varying panel thicknesses. In this way, the present bolt can be altered to fit panels with thicknesses less than l to more than 10 mm. It is particularly preferred to provide the sliding locks present in sizes that adjust panels with thickness from about 1.6 to about 6.5 mm. In addition, the end portion 16 of the member 10 can be altered to allow variants of member sizes. In addition, the components of the present sliding latches can be adjusted to provide variable clamping ranges. Therefore, the sliding locks of the present invention are adapted to many variant applications and can be assembled to meet varying design criteria. Another advantage of the present sliding latches is that they can be assembled without separate fasteners or adhesives and can be easily installed in a panel. The interlocking mechanism provided in the sliding latches of the present invention provides several advantages over conventional sliding latches. Typically, sliding bolts are not provided with an interlocking feature. When it is desired to lock a conventional slide bolt, a separate locking mechanism is usually provided in the panel adjacent to the bolt. The sliding latches of the present invention incorporate a locking mechanism directly, thereby providing a simplified installation. A major advantage of the preferred slide locks of the present invention is its resistance to corrosion. The locks are preferably manufactured from corrosion resistant materials such as plastics, thus allowing use in automotive, recreational vehicle and marine applications, where exposure to moisture and other corrosive elements are frequently encountered. In Figures 10 to 14 an interlocking slide latch according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. For reasons of clarity, the portions of the interlocking slide latch according to the present embodiment will be described corresponding to the portions described in relation to the interlocking slide bolt previously described and illustrated in Figures 1 to 9, using the same numerical designations. The interlocking slide latch 100 similar to the previously described interlocking slide latch also comprises as portions thereof, a body portion, a spring member and a locking member. As will be described in more detail below, the primary differences in the interlocking slide latch 100 of that previously described, are the coupling portion 110, spring 130 and locking member 150. The base member 110 in this embodiment as illustrated in FIG. Figure 14 includes a separately operating, detachable coupling portion 116. The base member 110 includes a cavity 136 that is provided within a front surface 162 in which the coupling portion 116 is received. Coupling portion 116 in this embodiment comprises a body 164 generally of rectangular configuration and bypass means connected to body 164, which in this embodiment comprises a leg 166. Leg 166 according to the present embodiment, is generally elongated and connected at one end with the body 164 and with its terminating end which is in spaced spacing from the body 134. The leg 186 suf particularly flexible in operation as will be described in more detail below. The body 164 of the coupling portion 116 includes a slot 168, generally rectangular in this embodiment, which is provided within its upper surface. In addition, a generally square enhancer 170 in configuration is connected to a front surface of the body 164 in which the leg 166 is connected. In addition, two cavities 171 are provided within the upper surface of the body 64, of generally rectangular shape and placed next to each other. to termination ends. Also, as best seen in Figure 13, within the lower surface of the body 164, a slot 172 is provided. The difference in this slot 172 of the slot 168 is that the slot 170 does not extend the full width of the body. 164, but rather ends with an end wall 174 that is proximate the front surface of the body 164 for the purpose described below. The coupling portion 116 can be made of any suitable material; an example is plastic such as polycarbonate. The base member 110 as illustrated in Figures 13 and 14, includes the cavity 176, of generally rectangular configuration in which the coupling portion 116 is received. The cavity 176 is defined by an upper surface 178 and a lower surface 180. In this embodiment, an upper relief 182 is connecting to the upper surface 178, a lower enhancement 184 is connected to the lower surface 180. The upper enhancement 182 in this embodiment is generally rectangular in shape and positioned so as to be received in the slot 168 that is provided within the upper surface of the engaging portion 116. The lower enhancement 184 in this embodiment includes a leverage wall generally ramp and a locking wall substantially perpendicular to the lower surface 180, which operates to retain the coupling portion 116. Specifically, when assembling the coupling portion 116 is positioned such that leg 166 is first received within cavity 176 in member b 110. The slot 168 is received on the top enhancement 182 and the end wall 174 first engages the leverage surface of the lower enhancement 184 and when the end wall 174 is mounted, it is adapted to engage the interlocking surface of the lower enhancement. 184, to prevent the coupling portion 116 from separating from its position within the base member 110. In the assembled position, the leg 166 of the coupling portion 116 engages a rear surface 190 defined by the cavity 176. Specifically, as shown in FIG. coupling portion 116 in operation couples a second panel to a frame member, the engagement portion 116 will move from an extended position in an inward direction toward the base member 110 to a retracted position due to the leg flexing action 166. Similarly, the resilience of the leg 166 operates to return the engaging portion 116 to its original position and to the extended position. when it does not engage the second panel or frame member, such as when the latch is in an open position. The spring member 130 in this embodiment as best seen in Figures 10, 12 and 14, comprises a torsion spring, preferably metal and received within the base member 110 proximate its rear surface 163. Specifically, the body member 110 in this embodiment includes a lip 192, extending approximately half the length of its rear surface 163 and defining a channel 193, generally V-shaped in which the spring member 130 is received. In this embodiment, a torsion spring leg is positioned within the space between the lip 192 and the surface 112 of the base member 110 and the second leg of the torsion spring is received within a slot 194 that is provided within the base member 110 proximate the channel 193. The locking member 150 in this embodiment, as best seen in Figures 10, 13 and 14, comprises an embossment 204 connected to the locking plug 160. In the present embodiment, the overall enhancement 204 It is semicircular in shape and connected to one end of the locking plug 160. In addition, a retaining lug 206 is connected to the locking plug 160 at the opposite end of the lug 204, the purpose of which will be described below. The body member 110 is adapted to receive the locking plug 160 for rotation of the interlocking member 150 corresponding to the rotation of the locking plug 160. In this embodiment, the base member 110 is provided with an upper cavity 210 in which the 204 is received, a central cavity 211 in which the cylindrical body of the locking plug 160 is received and a channel 214, which in this embodiment is at approximately 45 ° in length toward which the retention enhancement 206 is received. Specifically , the end walls of the channel 214, operate to limit the rotation of the locking plug 160 due to its engagement with the retaining lug 206. In the operation of the present embodiment, when in an interlocked position, the locking plug 160 moves such that the lug 204 of the locking member 150 is positioned with part of its radiated portion located proximate the rear surface 163 of the base member 110, and in this position is adapted to butt confine the panel surface formed by the cutting portion, when the base member 110 slides relative to the panel, as illustrated in dotted lines in Figure 11. In an open position, the locking plug 160 is in a position such that the planar portion of the embossment 204 of the locking member 150 is positioned adjacent the back surface 163 of the base member 110, such that the base member 110 can slide relative to the panel where it is mounted. the latch, as illustrated in Figure 10. In this embodiment, the length of the channel 214 is such that when the latching member 150 is in its open position, the rh ethen 206 is placed against an end wall of the channel 214, and when the locking member 150 is in its closed position, the detent liner 206 is placed against the opposite end wall of the channel 214. The combination of locking member and Interlocking plug in this embodiment can be manufactured from any convenient material, an example is plastic such as ABS. The remaining structure and operation of the interlocking slide latch 100 is the same as that previously described in the application and shown in Figures 1 to 9, and for reasons of brevity will not be described further here.

In Figures 15 to 34 there is illustrated a slide latch according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. For reasons of clarity, the portions of the interlocking slide latch according to the present invention, which corresponds to the portions described in relation to the previously described interlocking slide latch embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 14, will be described using the same. numerical designations starting with 200. The interlocking slide latch 200, similar to the previously described interlocking slide latches also comprise as portions thereof, a body portion, a spring member and a latching member. As will be described in more detail below, the primary difference in the interlocking slide latch 200 of the previously described is the configuration of the body portion comprising a base member 210 having a housing 211 and actuator means comprising a member of drive 213, and that no separate spring member is required, but rather is incorporated in a coupling portion or retainer 216. In Figures 15 to 16 there are illustrated top and perspective top views of the interlocking slide bolt 200 that is illustrated mounted on a panel illustrated in dotted lines, and wherein the housing 211 and the actuator member 213 of the base member 210 are illustrated, as well as the retainer 216 shown in dotted lines behind the panel. The housing 211 of the base member 210 is illustrated in Figures 17 to 21. The housing 211 is generally square in shape in this embodiment and includes a flange 215 extending around three sides of the housing 211. Further extending from the side open of the housing 211 where the flange is not present, there are at least one and preferably in this embodiment two substantially flexible tips 217 which as best illustrated in Figures 18 and 20 are connected at one end to a front wall 219 of the housing 211 and its distant end preferably is provided with a series of grooves 221. Also extending from the front wall 219 adjacent the barbs 217 are two extensions of substantially square shape 223, which are more easily seen in Figures 17, 19 and 20. As illustrated in the top plan view of Figure 17, extending into the upper surface of the housing 211 is a cavity in subs form. substantially square 276. Also within the cavity 276 is provided at least one and preferably two channels or perforations of generally square shape 225, adjacent to the front wall 219 that are formed by portions of the front wall 219, opposite side wall portions. 227 connected to the front wall 219 and a generally L-shaped end wall 229 connected at one end to the front wall 219 and its second end to a side wall 227. Also adjacent to the perforations 225 is a partition wall 231 which is extends between the side walls 227 and having a substantially cylindrical portion 233 that bisects the partition wall 231. Also adjacent and connected to the partition wall 231 is a bottom wall 235 that also connects to the side walls 227. As best illustrated in Figure 21, the bottom wall 235 ends adjacent an opening 237 that is substantially rectangular in configuration, which is purposefully It is oriented with a rear wall 239. As best seen in Figure 17, preferably a portion of the rear wall 239 is slightly curved in the direction of the front wall 219 starting at the flange 215 and inwardly to the bottom wall 235. As best illustrated in Figures 18 and 19, the substantially cylindrical portion 233 that dissects the divider wall 231, preferably has a substantially cylindrical opening 241 extending within its bottom end and preferably ending adjacent to its top end., which is the end closest to the flange 215. Also, in this embodiment as best illustrated in FIG. 18 in dotted lines, the rear wall 239 defines a generally radiated V-shaped cavity 243 adjacent the flange 215. drive means or actuating member 213 in this embodiment, are illustrated in Figures 22 to 24. As shown in the front elevation view of Figure 22, the actuator member 213 is generally S-shaped having a first portion substantially planar 251, a second substantially planar portion 253 and a connecting portion 255. In this embodiment, the connecting portion 255 includes, within its outer surface, a slightly inward radius adjacent to the second portion 253. In addition, extending from a bottom surface of the second portion 253, preferably is at least one raised 257. As illustrated in the bottom plan view of Figure 23, the 257 enhancement in this mode generally has a C shape formed by a rear wall and two side walls. Also as illustrated in Figure 22, and the elevation view of the right side of Figure 24, the elevation 257 in this embodiment has a bottom surface that ramps inwardly in one direction from its front end toward a rearward end of the body. 257, which is the end closest to the first position 251. Also, as seen more easily in Figures 23 and 24, extending from a bottom surface of the first position 251 is at least one in this mode of preference two 259 enhancements having a substantially square configuration of preference. Also, as best illustrated in Figures 22 and 24, extending from the bottom surface of the first portion 251 is a body portion 261 that is substantially square in this embodiment connected both to the bottom surface of the first portion. 251 as the inner surface of the connecting portion 255. Also, as illustrated in Figure 23, preferably the body portion 261 is included with a through opening which in this embodiment is defined by a substantially circular opening 263 that is provided in an upper surface of the first portion 251 and ending with an irregularly shaped opening 265, which extends through the bottom surface of the first portion 251. In this embodiment, the irregularly shaped opening 265 is constituted by a series of recesses alternating inwards and outwards that extend around the circumference. The engaging portion or retainer 216 in this embodiment is illustrated in Figures 25 to 27. The retainer 216 includes, as its portions, a body 267 and bypass means, comprising in this embodiment, at least one and preferably two legs generally resilient 269 connected to the body 267. As best illustrated in Figure 26, the two generally resilient legs 239 each are generally radiated in configuration and connected at one end to an inner wall 271 of the body 267 of the retainer 216. In this way , the two generally resilient legs 239 are in combination with substantially U-shaped. Further, the body 267 of the retainer 216 also includes at least one cavity 273 which in this embodiment extends completely through the retainer 216 and is generally rectangular in configuration and positioned adjacent the bypass means 269. As best illustrated in Figure 25, the retainer 216 further includes a latching portion 275. Similar As previously described, each of the housing 211, the actuating member 213 and the retainer 216 are preferably manufactured from corrosion resistant materials such as plastics, for example ABS or acetal. The assembly of the interlocking slide bolt 200 will now be described. As illustrated in Figure 28, the retainer 216 and the drive member 213 each are inserted into the housing 211. In particular, the retainer 216 is assembled by inserting the bypass means 239 into the opening 237 provided in the rear wall 239. The actuator member 213 is assembled by inserting the second portion 253, first into the cavity 276 of the housing 211 and then into the interior. of the housing cavity 237 within the rear wall 239, which is preferably adjacent the retainer 216, such that the elevation 257 of the actuating member 213 will be received within the opening 273 that is provided in the retainer 216, in the shape illustrated in Figure 29. It has been found that assembly is most easily accomplished by first inserting the retainer 216 in such a way that the two generally resilient legs 269 engage the partition wall 231 of the housing 211, followed by insertion. the second portion 253 of the actuating member 213 within the remaining space between the retainer 216 and the accommodating cavity 237. As illustrated in the view in FIG. In section section of Figure 29, which is taken on line 29-29 of Figure 16, the interaction between the elevation 257 of the actuating member 213 and the opening 273 of the retainer 216, operate as displacement coupling means to connect the portions relative to each other and as described below, to move or move the detent between an extended position and a retracted position. The interlocking means in this embodiment is illustrated in Figure 29, which comprises the locking plug 260 and the locking member 250. The locking plug 260 is received within and extends through the openings 263 and 265 within the portion of body 261 of the actuating member and receiving the locking member 250 for rotation. Similar to that previously described, the locking plug 260 can be operated by a key, as illustrated in Figures 15 and 16. In this embodiment, the locking plug 260 preferably includes a generally cylindrical portion and adjacent to its distal end. the key opening, of irregular shape, which in this embodiment corresponds to the series of portions lowered inwardly and outwardly from the opening 265. In this way, the installation of the locking plug 260 is regulated by the position of the end In addition, in this embodiment, preferably the locking member 250 includes a through opening corresponding in configuration with the configuration of the distal end of the locking plug 260, so that the mounting of the locking member 250 on the distal end of the locking plug 260 is also regulated in order to depend r of the recessed portions of the locking plug 260. In the present embodiment, preferably the interlocking member 250 is mounted on the locking plug 260, after both the locking plug has been inserted into the openings 263 and 265 of the latch. drive member 213 and drive member 213 is seated within housing 211. Locking member 250 is then clamped over the locking plug 260 by a retaining clip 262, which snaps onto a slot provided within of the remote end of the locking plug 260. The operation of the locking slide bolt 200 according to the present embodiment will now be described. As illustrated in Figure 29, the housing 211 is mounted within the opening in the panel P, such that the lower portion of the flange 215 is placed abutting an upper surface of the P panel. shows, preferably as the housing 211 is mounted, the tips 217 are adapted to contact the edge of the opening in the panel P to initially flex the tips 217 inwardly with the tips 217 and then flexing back to their original position when mounted and the knurled ends 221 are preferably placed adjacent the edge of the panel opening which has the effect of assisting in holding the bolt in its assembled position. Fig. 29 illustrates the locking latch bolt 200 in an interlocked position with the latch member 250 rotated so as to be placed adjacent and preferably confining butt., the inner surface of the front wall 219 of the housing 211. In this manner, the sliding movement of the actuating member 213 is avoided to maintain the locked position of the device, for example when it is held against a frame or other corresponding member. In Figure 30, both a bottom plan view of the locking slide latch 200 is illustrated when in the locked position shown in Figure 29 and illustrating the position of the locking member 250 relative to the front wall 219 of the housing 211. Furthermore, in this embodiment, preferably when the latching slide latch 200 is in the latched position, the lugs 259 within the actuator member 213 are placed adjacent and preferably abutting a substantially L-shaped wall lid. , as illustrated in Figure 30. Although not shown, preferably, the lugs 259 and the L-shaped end walls 229 will also maintain the same relationship when the locking member 250 is rotated to its released or unlocked position, in order to define a maximum amount of sliding movement of the actuating member 213 when moving in a retracted position that is in one direction n to the retainer 216. As will be described in more detail below, the relationship of the lugs 259 and the connecting wall 255 of the actuator member 213, together with the L-shaped walls 229 of the housing 211 define limit means for In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 30, in this embodiment, the lower surface of the first portion 251 of the actuating member preferably runs against the lugs 223 of the housing 211 in accordance with FIG. drive member 213 is subjected to sliding movement relative to housing 211. Similar to the previously described locking latch bolt 100, a feature of the latching slide latch 200 is that the latch 216 can move between its extended and retracted positions, when the bolt both in its positions locked as liberated. Figure 31 illustrates the locking slide latch 200 in an interlocked position, as illustrated in Figures 29 and 30, and with the panel P moving in a direction of the arrow 281 in a closed position against a frame S. As illustrated, the retainer 216 includes a ramped end of its locking portion 275 that engages the frame F as the panel P moves to the closed position. The coupling between the retainer 216 and the frame F forces the retainer 216 from its extended position in a direction towards its retracted position, as the panel P continues its movement towards the closed position. Figure 31 illustrates the retainer 216 in a fully retracted position, with the rear end wall 287 of the lug 257 in engagement with the rear end surface 289 of the opening 273. In this embodiment, the amount of displacement of the retainer 216 on a The longitudinal axis between its fully retracted and fully extended positions depends on a diameter of the opening 273 between the two opposite end surfaces 289 and 291, as compared to a diameter of the elevation 257 between the opposite end walls 287 and 293. For example , in Figure 29 a fully retracted position of the retainer 219 is illustrated in which the front end wall 293 of the lug 257 is in engagement with the front end surface 291 of the opening 273 and in Figure 31, when in the position fully extended, the opposite rear end wall 287 of the embossing 257 engages the rear end surface 289 of the aperture 273. In this embodiment, The diameter of the opening 273 is larger than the diameter of the relief 257. Although not shown, when the panel P moves to the closed position, the retainer 216 moves further beyond the frame F and back to its extended position due to the derivation of the two generally resilient legs 269. In Figure 30 the position of the two generally resilient legs 269 is illustrated in dotted lines when the retainer 216 is in its extended position . Figure 32 illustrates in a bottom plan view of the bolt 200 with the locking member 250 rotated to the released position away from the end wall 219 of the housing 211. In the bottom plan view of Figure 33 and the view in front section of Figure 34, the locking latch 200 is illustrated when the actuating member 213 is moved by an operator in the direction of the arrow 291 to slide relative to the housing 211 to a fully retracted position, to retract the retainer 216 from the frame F to of panel P moving in the direction of arrow 293 from its closed position to its open position. As shown in Figure 34, the engagement between the front end wall 293 of the lug 257 with the front end surface 291 of the opening 273, allows the retraction movement of the retainer 216 as the actuating member 213 is caused to slide. in its retracted position. As illustrated in dotted lines in Figure 33, retraction of the retainer 216 occurs against the bypass of the generally resilient legs 269, resulting in the legs 269 being slightly compressed and extended in a direction of opposite side walls 227 of the housing 211. The energy stored in the generally resilient legs 269, when in the position of Figure 33 will function to force both the retainer 216 and the actuating member 213 back to their original positions shown in Figure 32, when the operator releases contact with bolt 200. Alternately, when bolt 200 is in an interlocked position shown in Figure 31, and with only retainer 216 in an extended position, the energy stored within the generally resilient legs 269 will work to force the retainer 216 back towards the retracted position when it is released from the frame F. In addition, another characteristic of the present invention is that there are limit means for regulating the amount of sliding displacement that may occur with the actuating member 213 between its retracted and extended positions. In the present embodiment, the limit means are illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 33. In FIG. 32, the lugs 259 of the actuator member 213 are in engagement with the L-shaped walls 229 of the housing 211, when the actuator member 213 drive 213 is in its fully retracted position. In Figure 33, the connecting portion 255 of the actuating member 213 defines a stop engaging the L-shaped walls 229 of the housing 211, when the actuating member 213 is in its fully extended position. In view of the foregoing, it will be understood that there are several advantages to the interlocking slide latch 200. One advantage is that the latch is separated from the latch body and can move independently of the latch body independently of the latched position, which in operation it allows a panel to close abruptly, even when the bolt is locked. Another advantage is that the housing forms a frame for the drive member and detent to slide in the interior, however, the housing itself never moves relative to the panel once it is installed. In this way, when the bolt is in an interlocked position, only the movement of the actuating member is restricted with respect to the housing. Yet another advantage of the present invention is that the retainer includes bypass means in the form of two resilient legs which provide the two functions both to move the retainer only to its extended position when the bolt is engaged and also to move both the retainer and drive member to its retracted positions when the bolt is released. Accordingly, no separate spring member is required within the bolt.

While the present invention is described in terms of the preferred embodiments, many modifications and variations are possible. For example, various spring configurations may be employed instead of the described spring member and the generally resilient legs. In addition, the functions of the spring member and the rotary locking member may be combined through the use of a unitary rotating member which in one orientation acts as a spring to bypass the bolt to the closed position and in another orientation acts as a limb member. interlocking to prevent movement of the bolt. Accordingly, it is understood that the foregoing description of the present invention is susceptible to considerable modifications, changes and adaptations by those skilled in the art and that said modifications, changes and adaptations are intended to be considered within the scope of the present invention. it is stable by the appended claims.

Claims (41)

1. CLAIMS 1.- A sliding latch, characterized in that it comprises: (a) a base member having means for installation in an opening in a panel and for sliding with respect to the panel for releasably retaining the panel with respect to a frame member, the base member has at least a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion defines an upper surface that terminates by a flange having upper and bottom portions and when installing the second portion is received inside and extends through the opening of panel and the bottom portion of the flange is placed adjacent to an upper surface of the panel proximate its opening; (b) spring means mounted on the base member to derive the base member toward engagement with the frame member; and (c) interlocking means rotatably mounted on the base member, wherein the base member has mounted locking means, is installed in the panel opening with the locking means being rotatable at least in a position that substantially prevents the The base member slides relative to the panel, in order to maintain the bolt in a clamped position.
2. 2. The sliding bolt according to claim 1, characterized in that the base member and the spring means comprise means for connecting the spring member to the base member without the use of separate fasteners or adhesives independent of connection to the panel and the frame.
3. 3. The sliding bolt according to claim 1, characterized in that the spring means are adjusted by rapid action on the base member.
4. 4. The sliding bolt according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking means comprise a locking plug rotatable in contact with the rotatable locking member.
5. 5. The sliding bolt according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking means in a first position are rotated to contact the spring means to substantially prevent the base member from sliding with respect to the panel.
6. 6. The sliding bolt according to claim 5, characterized in that the locking means are adapted to rotate in a second position wherein the locking means does not contact the spring means to allow the base member to slide relative to the panel .
7. 7. The sliding bolt according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking means in a first position are rotated in such a way that the locking means are adapted to couple the panel to substantially prevent the base member from sliding with respect to the panel.
8. 8. - The sliding bolt according to claim 7, characterized in that the locking means are adapted to rotate in a second position wherein the locking means does not contact at least initially the panel to allow the base member to slide relative to the panel.
9. 9. The sliding bolt according to claim 1, characterized in that the base member includes an opening and a retainer derived within the opening.
10. 10. The sliding bolt according to claim 9, characterized in that it also comprises means for keeping the seal inside the opening of the base member.
11. 11. A sliding bolt characterized in that it comprises: (a) a clamping base member adapted for installation in a panel and for sliding with respect to the panel to releasably retain the panel with respect to the frame member; a spring member mounted on a base member having a generally cylindrical body portion and a spring portion extending therefrom; (c) an interlocking member that is rotatably mounted on the spring member and adapted to rotate in a position that substantially prevents the base member from sliding relative to the panel; (d) a locking plug disposed at least partially within the cylindrical body portion of the spring member contacting the locking member, wherein rotation of the locking plug causes rotation of the locking member.
12. 12. The sliding bolt according to claim 11, characterized in that the base member and the spring member comprise means for mounting the spring member to the base member without the use of separate fasteners or adhesives.
13. 13. The sliding bolt according to claim 11, characterized in that the spring portion of the spring member comprises at least one flexible section and at least one rigid section that is adapted to contact the panel where the base member is installed.
14. 14. The sliding bolt according to claim 13, characterized in that the locking member comprises a locking finger that extends radially outwardly from and, which is adapted to rotate in a position between the rigid section of the spring portion. and the cylindrical body portion, so as to substantially prevent movement of the rigid section towards the cylindrical body portion.
15. 15. The sliding bolt according to claim 11, characterized in that the locking member is engaged by rapid actuation in the cylindrical body portion of the spring member.
16. 16. The sliding bolt according to claim 11, characterized in that the locking plug requires a key for rotation.
17. 17. The sliding bolt according to claim 11, characterized in that the base member, spring member, locking member and locking plug are made of corrosion resistant materials.
18. 18. The sliding bolt according to claim 11, characterized in that the base member, spring member, locking member and locking plug are assembled together without the use of separate fasteners or adhesives.
19. 19. A sliding bolt adapted for a panel and for locking the panel in a frame, the sliding bolt is characterized in that it comprises: (a) a base member adapted for installation in the panel and for sliding with respect to the panel for releasably holding the panel with respect to a frame member; (b) a branched detent mounted on the base member for movement between an extended position and a retracted position with respect to the base member; (c) a spring member mounted on the base member; (d) a rotatable locking plug which is mounted on the base member and having a locking member, wherein upon installing the base member with the panel, rotation of the locking plug causes rotation of the locking member between a locked position , which substantially prevents the base member from sliding relative to the panel and a released position where the base member slides relative to the panel.
20. 20. A sliding bolt according to claim 19, characterized in that the derived retainer is movable between the retracted position and the extended position, when the locking member is in the locked position and the released position, where according to the panel and the frame is locked together when the locking member is in the locked position and the released position, the detent comes into contact with the frame moving the detent from the extended position to the retracted position, with the retainer moving back to the extended position when the panel and the frame are connected together.
21. 21. - A sliding bolt according to claim 20, characterized in that it further comprises means between the derived retainer and the base member for retaining the derived retainer in a position mounted on the base member.
22. 22. A sliding latch according to claim 21, characterized in that the derived retainer includes a body and a generally resilient leg extending from the body and engaging the base member.
23. 23. A sliding bolt according to claim 22, characterized in that it also comprises limit means between the locking plug and the base member for controlling a quantity of rotation of the locking plug between defined limits.
24. 24. A sliding bolt according to claim 23, characterized in that the limit means comprise a guide member connected to the locking plug and a lower end distal to the elevation, with the guide member being received inside a channel in the base member, the channel has at least opposite end walls.
25. 25. A sliding bolt according to claim 19, characterized in that the spring member comprises a torsion spring.
26. 26. - A sliding bolt adapted to mount on a first member for locking a first member with a second member, the sliding bolt is characterized in that it comprises: a housing adapted to mount on the first member, locking means comprising a retainer received inside the minus one portion of the housing for sliding movement between extended and retracted positions relative to the housing; actuating means associated with and slidable with respect to the housing for moving the detent from the extended position to the retracted position and displacement means for sliding movement of the detent with respect to the housing and the actuating means, whereby when the retainer comes into contact with the second When the first and second members interlock together, the detent will slide from the extended position toward the retracted position, such that the retainer can move past the second member and back into the extended position for locking.
27. 27. A sliding bolt according to claim 26, characterized in that the bolt further includes means for bypass between the retainer and the housing, to derive the seal to an extended position.
28. 28. - A sliding latch according to claim 27, characterized in that the bypass means comprise at least one generally resilient leg extending from the retainer.
29. 29. A sliding latch according to claim 28, characterized in that the bypass means comprise two generally resilient legs connected to an end surface of the retainer, whereby the two generally resilient legs in combination have a substantially U-shaped shape. .- A sliding bolt according to claim 26, characterized in that it includes coupling means between the actuating means and the retainer to move the detent from the extended position to the retracted position before actuation of the actuating means. 31.- A sliding bolt according to claim 30, characterized in that the actuator means comprise a generally elongate drive member and the coupling means comprise at least one extension extending from a lower surface of the actuator member and received in an opening within the retainer, whereby the retainer is moved from the extended position to the retracted position by sliding movement of the actuating member. 32. A sliding bolt according to claim 26, characterized in that it also comprises locking means mounted rotatably on the actuating means and adapted to rotate at least in a position that substantially prevents the actuating means from sliding relative to the housing for this way to keep the sliding bolt in a clamped position. 33.- A sliding bolt according to claim 32, characterized in that the locking means in the first position are rotated in such a manner that the locking means is adapted to couple the housing to substantially prevent the drive means from sliding relative to the housing. 34. A sliding bolt according to claim 33, characterized in that the locking means comprise a locking plug having a locking member, wherein the rotation of the locking plug causes rotation of the locking member between a locked position that substantially prevents the actuator means from slipping relative to the housing and a released position wherein the actuator means slides relative to the housing, wherein the detent is movable between the retracted position and the extended position when the locking member is in an interlocked position and the released position. 35.- A sliding bolt according to claim 26, characterized in that it also comprises limit means between the actuating means and the housing for limiting the sliding movement of the actuating means with respect to the housing. 36.- A sliding bolt according to claim 35, characterized in that the limit means comprise at least one extension extending from a lower surface of the actuating means and reside within a channel inside the housing and a stop that extends from the lower surface of the actuator means to a spacing spaced from the relief and out of the channel. 37.- A sliding bolt adapted to mount in an opening in a first member and to lock a second member, the sliding bolt is characterized in that it comprises: a housing having a body, a shore and means for mounting the substantially fixed housing within of the first member opening; a detent connected to the housing for movement between an extended position and a retracted position with respect to the housing; bypass means between the detent and the housing for moving the detent to its extended position, - actuator means connected and slidable with respect to the housing and coupled to the detent, to move the detent to its retracted position; a locking plug mounted on the actuator means and having a locking member wherein when mounting the sliding bolt on the first member, rotation of the locking plug causes rotation of the locking member between a latched position which substantially prevents the actuating means slide relative to the housing and a released position wherein the actuating means slides relative to the housing; and means of movement between the detent and the actuating means for moving the detent relative to the housing and the actuating means between the extended position and the retracted position, when the locking member is both in the locked position and in the released position. 38.- A sliding bolt according to claim 37, characterized in that the housing body includes front and rear walls, opposite side walls, a bottom wall and at least one resilient tongue extending from the body of the housing for fitting assembly. by quick coupling the housing within the opening of the first member, and wherein the housing flange includes a generally opposite upper surface and spaced apart from the bottom wall, with the flange including a cavity within the upper surface and ending by the lower wall, and wherein the front wall of the body includes an opening extending into the cavity and ending with a middle wall, wherein the retainer defines a detent body positioned within the opening within the front wall and that has the means of derivation at one end that engages the body of the retainer and a second end that couples the wall to me. day of accommodation. 39.- A sliding bolt according to claim 38, characterized in that the retainer includes a body and at least one opening inside the body and the actuator means comprise a generally elongate drive member having at least one enhancement, wherein the means The displacement elements comprise the at least received enhancement within at least one opening, with each of the enhancement and the opening being of a diameter defined on the longitudinal axis and the defined diameter of the opening is larger than the defined diameter of the enhancement on the longitudinal axis. 40. A sliding bolt according to claim 37, characterized in that the bypass means comprise at least one generally resilient leg extending from the body of the retainer and engaging the housing. 41.- A sliding bolt according to claim 37, characterized in that it also comprises limit means between the actuator means and the housing, to limit the sliding movement of the actuator means, wherein the limit means comprise at least one elevation that it extends from the actuator means and receives into a channel of the housing and a stop extending from the lower surface of the actuator means to a spacing spaced from the relief and out of the channel.