NZ740152A - Improved Rim Latch for Attachment to a Movable Barrier - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention relates to a lock assembly 1 including a bolt 5 which is movable relative to a housing 3 on operation of an inner actuator 6. The lock assembly 1 includes a lock mechanism that when active renders the inner actuator inoperable, and also includes an outer actuator in the form of a key operated cylinder lock. operated cylinder lock.

Description

Improved Rim Latch for Attachment to a Movable Barrier This invention relates to a lock assembly for mounting to a movable barrier such as a door or gate. The lock assembly includes a bolt movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and at least an inner actuator, such as a turn knob or the like, for moving the bolt towards a retracted position. The invention is particularly suitable for use with a surface mounted lock assembly, often referred to as a rim lock assembly, and it will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention with reference to this particular application. It should be appreciated however that the invention may have other applications.

Background of Invention A rim lock assembly will generally include a housing that is attachable to a face of the door, and a bolt movable from an extended position to a retracted position.

The bolt is movable on an inner side of the door generally by operation of an inner turn knob or lever (hereinafter turn knob). The operation of the turn knob can be controlled by an inner (hereinafter first) key operated cylinder lock interacting with a lock mechanism within the housing. On an outer side of the door the bolt can be moved to a retracted position generally only by operating an outer (hereinafter second) key operated cylinder lock or the like.

It can be desirable for the second key operated cylinder lock to also interact with the lock mechanism. More specifically the lock assembly may be installed in an environment where it is desirable that operating the second key operated lock to retract the bolt, also adjusts the condition of the lock mechanism to unlock or permit operation of the inner turn knob. One such environment is the front door to a house whereby once the occupier has operated the second key operated cylinder lock and gained access, it might be inconvenient for them to have to also unlock the lock mechanism to operate the inner turn knob. This functionality can also reduce the likelihood of the occupier being inadvertently locked in the premises.

However there are other environments where this functionality is not desirable. One such environment is where the lock assembly is installed on a gate or <filename> other movable barrier where an unauthorised user can gain access to either side of the moveable barrier. In this environment it may be preferable that the lock mechanism remain locked even after operation of the second key operated lock. It may also be preferable for the lock mechanism to remain locked even after operation of the inner turn knob.

The coding of the first key operated cylinder lock will generally involve some form of tumbler arrangement, which can be adjusted when the lock assembly is being installed. The installer will need to remove the first key operated cylinder lock from the housing in order to achieve this adjustment. Access to the first key operated cylinder lock is from the rear of the housing and involves some level disassembly/removal of the various components of the lock assembly. This disassembly is often performed on site and can result in misplacing of the components of the lock assembly and considerable time consumed by the installer.

The bolt may take the form of a latch bolt with the lock assembly including a biasing means biasing the bolt towards the extended position. Where the lock assembly is installed on a hinged door the latch bolt head will include a bevelled leading surface to ramp over a strike plate located on the door jab as the door closes.

The bevel on the latch bolt head must be oriented to face the door jamb regardless of whether the door is to open outwardly or inwardly. This generally involves disassembly of the lock assembly to separate the bolt from first actuator and possibly the lock mechanism. Again this disassembly is often performed on site and can result in misplacing of the components of the lock assembly and considerable time consumed by the installer.

The bolt may be in the form of a latch bolt which is urged towards an extended position under the action of a biasing spring. When the door is moved from an open position to a closed position, the latch bolt will automatically latch the door to hold it in a closed position. Opening the door from the inner side can be achieved by rotating the turn knob, and from the outer side by rotating the key in the cylinder lock.

Where the door was closed unintentionally, thereby shutting the person outside the door, it can be frustrating have to find and use a key to reopen the door from the outside. Furthermore it can be problematic if the only key is on the inside of the door, which would result in the user being locked out. <filename> The rim lock assembly may also include an indicator member to provide a visual indication of the condition of the rim lock assembly as locked or unlocked. The indicator member may be as simple as a coloured plate that is visible through an opening in the housing. The indicator plate may be located on an element of the lock mechanism that is movable relative to the housing on adjustment of the lock mechanism. One element of the lock mechanism is a detent which is movable to a position in which it provides a physical impediment to the rotation of the turn knob.

The applicant is aware of at least one rim lock assembly that has the indicator member located on the detent so as to be visible through the opening in the acting condition. Locating the indictor member on the detent, that is visible through an opening in the housing can render the detent vulnerable to tampering from outside the housing It would be preferable to provide a lock assembly that was less vulnerable to tampering.

A reference herein to a patent document or other matter which is given as prior art is not to be taken as an admission that that document or matter was, in Australia, known or that the information it contains was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of any of the claims.

Summary of the Invention According to this invention there is provided a lock assembly for use with a door, the lock assembly including a housing for positioning adjacent to an inner surface of the door which houses a bolt, the bolt being movable relative to the housing between an extended position and a retracted position, a bolt biasing means for urging the bolt towards the extended position, a first actuator that is rotatable by hand at front of the housing about an actuator axis, the first actuator being operable to move the bolt from the extended position towards the retracted position, a lock mechanism within the housing that when in an active condition renders the first actuator inoperable, a second actuator operable from a rear of the housing to move the bolt from the extended position towards the retracted position, the second actuator including a key operated cylinder lock, hereinafter referred to as the second key operated cylinder lock. <filename> According to one preferred aspect of the invention the lock assembly includes an indicator mechanism including an indicator member that is movable relative to the housing between a visible position and an obscured position in which it is visible and obscured from outside the housing respectively, the indicator member being movable from the visible position to the obscured position as a result of adjustment of the lock mechanism from the active condition to the inactive condition, and movable independently of adjustment of the lock mechanism from the visible position towards the obscured position without adjusting the condition of the lock mechanism. This preferred arrangement reduces the ability for the lock mechanism to be tampered from outside the housing with indicator mechanism. The indicator mechanism may include an indicator biasing means which urges on the visual indicator member and it is preferred that it urges the visual indicator member towards the visible position. The indicator mechanism preferably includes a shuttle that is movable between a first position and a second position, and a shuttle biasing means that urges the shuttle towards the first position, wherein the shuttle interacts between the lock mechanism and the visual indicator member. It is further preferred that the interaction of the shuttle with the lock mechanism is such that the shuttle is movable from the first position towards the second position on adjustment of the lock mechanism from the inactive condition to the active condition. The shuttle may move in any suitable manner however it is preferred that it move linearly between the first position and the second position. It is preferred that the indicator biasing means applies a first force on the biasing member and the shuttle biasing means applies a second force on the shuttle, whereby the second force is in a direction opposite to the first force. It is further preferred that the second force is greater than the first force. It is still further preferred that the indicator member moves linearly between the visible position and the obscured position. It is still further preferred that the indicator member moves in a direction between the visible position and the obscured position that is parallel with a direction of movement of the bolt between the extended position and the retracted position. It is preferred that the housing includes an aperture whereby the indicator member is visible through the aperture when in the visible position, however the aperture may be located elsewhere on the lock assembly including for example in the turn knob or lever.

According to another preferred aspect of this invention the lock assembly <filename> includes a retention means that when in an inoperable condition does not inhibit the movement of the bolt from the retracted position and when in an operable condition inhibits the movement of the bolt from the retracted position by the urging of the bolt biasing means while permitting the movement of the bolt from the retracted position towards the extended position on rotation of the first actuator, a selector means that interacts with the retention means and is adjustable between a selected condition and an unselected condition in which the retention means is rendered inoperable and operable respectively. This preferred aspect allows the installer to select the retention function when installing the lock, if required. The first actuator is preferably rotatable between a first position and a second position which corresponds with the bolt adopting the extended position and retracted position respectively, whereby the retention means when in the operable condition interacts with the first actuator when the first actuator has been rotated to the second position so as to inhibit rotation of the first actuator to the first position. It is preferred that the lock assembly includes an actuator biasing means for urging the first actuator towards the first position. It is preferred that the retention means when in an operable condition applies a retention force to the first actuator that exceeds an actuator biasing force being produced by the actuator biasing means. It is further preferred that the bolt biasing means applies a bolt biasing force which combines with the actuator biasing force urging the first actuator towards the first position, wherein the retention force when the retention means is in the operable condition exceeds the combination of the bolt biasing force and the actuator biasing force to inhibit movement of the bolt. The retention means preferably includes a retention member that pivots about a retention axis when the retention means adjusts between the operable condition and the inoperable condition.

The retention member may include a projection and the inner actuator includes a shoulder that engages with the projection when the retention means is in the operable condition and does not engage with the projection when the retention means is in the inoperable condition. The retention member may have a fixed end proximate the retention axis and a free end spaced from the retention axis with the projection being located at or near the free end. It is preferred that the retention member is formed from a resilient material so as to urge the projection on the retention member towards engagement with the shoulder. The selector means preferably includes a selector member that pivots about a selector axis when the selector means adjusts between the selected condition and the unselected condition. The selector member is <filename> preferably movable in the direction of the selector axis to move between a fixed position and a pivotable position, whereby the selector member must be in the pivotable position in order to adjust the selector means between the selected condition and the unselected condition, and the selector means includes a selector biasing member for biasing the selector member towards the fixed position. The selector member includes a cam surface that engages the retention means when the retention means is in the inoperable condition.

According to another preferred aspect of this invention the lock assembly includes a lock release mechanism that this selectable so that when in a selected condition interacts the operation of the second actuator with the lock mechanism so that operation of the second actuator adjusts the condition of the lock mechanism from the active condition to an inactive condition, and when the lock release mechanism is in an unselected condition does not interact the operation of the second actuator with the lock mechanism. This preferred aspect allows the installer to select the lock release function when installing the lock assembly if it is desirable given the environment in which the lock assembly is installed. The second actuator preferably includes a rotatable member that is rotatable about the actuator axis to cause movement of the bolt from the extended position towards the retracted position, whereby the lock release mechanism includes a release member that is associated with the rotatable member when the lock release mechanism is in the selected condition. The rotatable member may take any form and in one form it is a cam that is rotatable about the actuation axis to cause liner movement of the bolt. It is preferred that the bolt includes a bolt head and a bolt body with the bolt body formed with a shoulder, the cam being formed with a projection that engages the shoulder when moving the bolt, however the cam and the bolt body may interact in other arrangements. It is preferred that the release member is positioned on the cam when the lock release mechanism is in the selected condition, and located in radially inwardly of the projection on the cam, however the release member may be located elsewhere on the cam. The lock assembly preferably includes a backing plate that is attachable with the housing, the backing plate being configured to accommodate the rotatable member so as to allow rotation relative thereto. A lock assembly preferably includes a first limiter that is associated with the backing plate and interacts with the rotatable member to limit the extent of rotation of the rotatable member in one <filename> direction of rotation. The first limiter may take any suitable form including the form of a screw and the backing plate is configured with a threaded aperture so that the first limiter can be detachably fastened to the backing plate to selectively limit the extent of rotation of the rotatable member. The lock mechanism preferably includes a drive member that is movable within the housing when the lock mechanism adjusts between the inactive condition and the active condition, and at least one detent that is movable within the housing on movement of the drive member when the lock mechanism adjusts between the inactive condition and the active condition, wherein the drive member and the at least one detent are configured to interact with each other so that movement of the drive member causes relative movement of the at least one detent. It is further preferred that the drive member includes an abutment that interacts with the lock release mechanism when the lock release mechanism is in the selected condition. The lock assembly may include a first key operated cylinder lock that is operable from an inner side of the housing to adjust the condition of the lock mechanism. The lock assembly preferably includes a cylinder cam that is rotatable on operation of the first key operated cylinder lock and engages the drive member to move the drive member within the housing. The lock assembly also preferably including a second limiter that is associated with the drive member and interacts with the cylinder cam to limit the extent of rotation of the cylinder cam. The second limiter preferably interacts with the cylinder cam and the drive member so as to permit a key inserted into the first cylinder lock to be release only when the lock mechanism is in the active condition. The second limiter may be in the form of a screw and the drive member is configured with a threaded aperture so that the second limiter can be detachably fastened to the drive member to selectively limit the extent of rotation of the cylinder cam.

According to a further preferred aspect of the invention the lock assembly includes the first actuator having a detachable portion located on an outer side of the housing. The detachable portion may be for any suitable purpose however it is preferred that the lock assembly a first key operated cylinder lock operable at the front of the housing for adjusting the lock mechanism between the active condition and an inactive condition, wherein the detachable portion of the first actuator forms part of a turn knob or hand lever, and detachment of the detachable portion permits the first key operated cylinder lock to be removed at the front of the housing. Where the lock <filename> assembly includes a backing plate that in use is fastened to the inner surface of the door, the backing plate is configured for attachment with the housing, whereby the detachable portion is inhibited from being detached when the backing plate is attached to the housing. The first actuator may include an inner portion located on an inner side of the housing which is detachably fastened with the detachable portion, whereby the detachable portion can be detached from the inner portion only when the housing is detached from the backing plate. The inner portion may be configured with at least one aperture there through, the first actuator also including at least one fastening member for each aperture in the inner portion respectively for fastening the detachable portion to the inner portion, whereby access to the at least one fastening member is permitted when the housing is detached from the backing plate. Where the lock mechanism includes the drive member within the housing that is adjustable when the lock mechanism adjusts between the active condition and the inactive condition it is preferred that the drive member obstructs access to unfastening the at least one fastening member when the lock mechanism is in the inactive condition and does not obstruct access to unfastening the at least on fastening member when the lock mechanism is in the active condition. The first actuator may include an intermediate portion between the inner portion and the detachable portion which is configured to interact with an annular bearing surface of the housing. It is preferred that the intermediate portion is configured to mate with the detachable portion in either a first orientation or a second orientation, whereby the position of the detachable portion relative to the intermediate portion is adjusted through 180º when adjusting between the first orientation and the second orientation. It is further preferred that the intermediate portion is configured to drivingly mate with the detachable portion so that rotation of the detachable portion about the actuator axis causes the intermediate portion to rotate about the actuator axis. The intermediate portion may include a lug spaced from the actuator axis that is engaged by the detachable portion to drivingly mate. The intermediate portion may also includes an aperture therein to accommodate the first key operated cylinder lock, the aperture is configured relative to a shape of the first key operated cylinder lock to inhibit rotation of the first key operated cylinder lock relative to the intermediate portion. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 44 to 50 wherein the first actuator includes a cam that is rotatable about the actuation axis, the cam having an aperture for accessing to unfasten the said at least on fastening member. It is preferable that the at least one <filename> fastener remains captured with the inner portion when the detachable portion is detached.

According to a further preferred aspect of the invention the lock assembly the bolt includes a bolt frame that moves within the housing and a latch bolt head that protrudes from the housing when the bolt is in the extended position, the orientation of the latch bolt head relative to the bolt frame being adjustable through 180º a backing plate that in use is fastened to the surface of the door, the backing plate being configured for attachment with the housing, whereby the adjustment of the orientation of the latch bolt head relative to the bolt frame is inhibited when the backing plate is attached to the housing. This preferred aspect allows the installer to adjust the orientation of the bolt head so that the lock assembly can be installed or inwardly opening or outwardly opening depending upon where it is installed.

It is preferred that the latch bolt head is attached with the bolt frame by a fastening member, whereby access to the fastening member is inhibited when the backing plate is attached to the housing. The fastening member is preferably located within the housing when the bolt is in the extended position so as to inhibit access to the fastening member when the lock assembly is in use. The bolt frame may include a tab and the latch bolt head includes a recess to accommodate the tab. It is preferred that the bolt frame includes an aperture formed therein with a shoulder at the periphery of the aperture for interacting with the first actuator. It is further preferred that the bolt frame moves rectilinearly within the housing when the bolt adjusts between the extended position and the retracted position.

The lock assembly according to any one of the preferred aspects of the invention preferably includes a first key operated lock operable from an inner side of the housing for adjusting the condition of the lock mechanism between the active condition and the inactive condition. The key operated lock is preferably a cylinder lock, including a casing and a barrel movable relative to the casing when a correctly coded key is inserted in a keyway of the barrel. The barrel may be movable by rotating relative to the casing, however the barrel may alternatively be depressed relative to the casing. It is also preferred that the second key operated cylinder lock, including a casing and a barrel movable relative to the casing when a correctly coded key is inserted in a keyway of the barrel. The barrel may be movable by rotating <filename> relative to the casing, however the barrel may alternatively be depressed relative to the casing.

The lock assembly according to any one of the preferred aspects of the invention preferably includes the lock mechanism having at least one detent member that is movable relative to the inner actuator on adjustment of the lock mechanism between the active condition and the inactive condition. The at least one detent is may move in any direction including radially relative to the axis on adjustment of the lock mechanism from the active condition to the inactive condition. It is preferred that the at least one detent protrudes beyond an outer surface of the actuator and the at least one detent engages with a relatively fixed part of the housing when lock mechanism is in the active condition. Where the lock mechanism includes the drive member it preferably interacts with the at least one detent and is movable linearly relative to the housing on adjustment of the lock mechanism between the active condition and the inactive condition. It is further preferred that the least one detent is captured with the drive member so that movement of the drive member in one direction causes the at least one detent to protrude out from an outer surface of the actuator, and movement of the drive member in the opposite direction causes the at least one detent to retract back behind the outer surface of the actuator. The housing includes a further relatively fixed part that is engaged by the at least one detent when the inner actuator has been rotated to move the bolt to the retracted position and the lock mechanism is adjusted to the active condition so as to lock the bolt in the retracted position. It is further preferred that the at least one detent includes two detents on opposed sides of the inner actuator, at least one of which is captured for movement with the drive member.

It is preferred that the bolt includes a bevelled leading face, and it is further preferred that the lock assembly is a rim lock assembly.

A preferred embodiment of a lock assembly will be herein after described in greater detail by reference to the accompanying drawings. The detailed description and drawings are merely illustrative of how the invention might be put into effect so that the specific form and arrangement of the various features, as described and illustrated is not to be understood as limiting on the invention. <filename> Brief Description of Drawings Figure 1 is a diagrammatic isometric view of a preferred embodiment of the lock assembly when installed according to this invention.

Figure 2 is an exploded isometric view of a preferred embodiment of the lock assembly according to the invention configured for the lock release mechanism to adopt the selected condition.

Figure 3 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly with at least the backing plate removed to reveal the bolt in an extended position.

Figure 4 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly from Figure 3 with the bolt moved to retract a position on operation of the outer cam.

Figure 5 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly with the backing plate removed to reveal the bolt in an extended position.

Figure 6 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly from Figure 5 with the bolt moved to a retracted position on operation of the inner cam.

Figure 7 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly with the backing plate and bolt removed to reveal the lock mechanism in an active condition.

Figure 8 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly from Figure 7 with the lock mechanism having been adjusted by the outer cam to adopt an inactive condition.

Figure 9 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly with a backing plate and bolt removed to reveal the locking mechanism in an active condition, and a middle portion of the drive member shown as transparent to reveal the cylinder cam.

Figure 10 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly from Figure 9 with the lock mechanism having been adjusted to an inactive condition on operation of a cylinder cam.

Figure 11 is the exploded isometric view from Figure 2 in reverse orientation. <filename> Figure 12 is an exploded isometric view of a preferred embodiment of the lock assembly according to the invention configured for the lock release mechanism to adopt the unselected condition.

Figure 13 is the exploded isometric view from Figure 12 in reverse orientation.

Figure 14 illustrates the rear elevation view from Figure 9 with a second limiter installed, with a lower portion shown as transparent to reveal the cylinder lock.

Figure 15 illustrates a cross section through XV-XV of Figure 14.

Figure 16 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly with backing plate attached to the housing and the first limiter installed.

Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view through XI-XI of Figure 9.

Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view through XII-XII of Figure 10.

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 18 with the indicator member being tampered with.

Figure 20 is the exploded isometric view from Figure 11 with an alternate form of hand grip element.

Figure 21 is the exploded isometric view from Figure 11 with an alternate form of hand grip element.

Figure 22 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly with the backing plate removed.

Figure 23 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly with the backing plate removed and the bolt in an extended position.

Figure 24 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly from Figure 15 with the latch bolt head detached from the latch bolt frame.

Figure 25 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly from Figure 16 with the latch bolt head rotated through 180 . <filename> Figure 26 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly with at least the backing plate removed and the latch frame illustrated as transparent to show the bolt in the extended position and a retention means in an inoperable condition.

Figure 27 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly from Figure 14 with the inner actuator rotated to retract the bolt.

Figure 28 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly from Figure 14 with the retention means in an operable condition.

Figure 29 is a rear elevation view of the lock assembly from Figure 16 with the inner actuator rotated to retract the bolt, and retained in this position by interacting with the retention means.

Detailed Description Figure 1 illustrates a lock assembly 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention when installed on a door 2. The lock assembly includes a housing 3 which is attached to an inner side of the door and positioned adjacent a free edge 4 of the door 2. The lock assembly 1 includes a bolt 5 which projects to one side of the housing 3 when the bolt 5 is in an extended position as shown. The housing 3 is positioned relative to the edge 4 of the door 2 so that when the bolt 5 is in the extended position it is capable of interacting with a strike (not shown) which in use is fixed on a door jam (not shown) for retaining the door 2 in a closed position.

The lock assembly 1 includes an inner actuator 6 and an outer actuator 7 each of which is operable in a manner that will be described later in the specification, for moving the bolt 5 from the extended position as shown towards a retracted position. The inner actuator 6 illustrated includes a turn knob 8 which is rotatable about an actuation axis X-X so as to retract the bolt 5. The turn knob 8 illustrated can be substituted by a lever handle (not shown) if preferred. In contrast the outer actuator 7 illustrated is in the form of a key operated cylinder lock 9 which includes a barrel 10 being rotatable relative to a casing 11 about the actuation X-X, on insertion of appropriately coded key 12. The lock assembly illustrated in Figure 1 may be described as a rim lock assembly. <filename> Figure 1 also illustrates the housing 3 having an aperture 13 positioned proximate the bolt 5. Whilst the location of the aperture 13 may vary from that as illustrated, to be located for example on the turn knob 8, the function of the aperture is to provide a viewing window through which an indicator member 14 (see Figure 2) can be made visible.

Referring now to Figure 2, which illustrates a specific form of the outer actuator 7 including the cylinder lock casing 11 with a tumbler bible 15 orientated substantially vertically. A tail bar 16 is positioned to engage with a barrel 10 of the cylinder lock 9. The length of a tail bar 16 may vary from that illustrated depending upon the thickness of the door 2 (See Figure 1) to which the lock assembly 1 is installed. When installed the tail bar 16 extends through a central aperture 17 formed in a backing plate 18 to engage with an outer cam 19 which is rotatable about the actuator axis X-X (see Figure 1) on rotation of the tail bar 16.

It should be noted from Figure 2 that the outer cam 19 includes an axially extending projection 20 spaced radially from the centre of the outer cam 19. This projection 20 is positioned to interact with the bolt 5, or more specifically the bolt frame 21 when moving the bolt 5 between the extended and retracted positions. The interaction of the projection 20 with the frame 21 is more clearly illustrated in greater detail with reference to Figures 3 and 4 which illustrate a rear view of the lock assembly 1 partially assembled. The backing plate 18 and the majority of the outer cam 19 removed. However, the projection 20 is visible. Figure 3 illustrates the bolt 5 in the extended position relative to the housing 3, being urged towards this position by a bolt torsion spring 21 having a free end engaging behind a head 22 of the bolt 5.

The bolt head 22 is connected to the bolt frame 21 and has an internally formed shoulder 23 positioned adjacent the projection 20. When comparing Figure 4 with Figure 3 it is to be understood that the outer cam 19 has been rotated in an anti- clockwise direction to move the projection 20 through an arc which results in movement of the bolt 5 to the retracted position against the urging of the bolt torsion spring 21. The bolt 5 is considered to be in a retracted position when the bolt head 22 is within the housing 3, as can be seen in figure 4.

The assembly and operation of the inner actuator 6 will now be explained firstly with reference to Figure 2. The inner actuator 6 includes the turn knob 8 which <filename> is illustrated in the form of a turn knob assembly including a hand grip element 25, an outer bearing plate 26, and an inner bearing plate 27. The outer bearing plate 26 and the inner bearing plate 27 are positioned on opposed sides of the lock housing 3, and are secured in this position by four screws 28 which locate in appropriately spaced apertures 29, 30 formed in the inner bearing plate 27 and outer bearing plate 26 respectively. The finger grip element 25 is formed with screw flutes 78 (see Figure 11) internally thereof for engagement with the four screws 28 so as to retain the finger grip element 25 adjacent the outer bearing plate 26. The outer bearing plate 26 also includes a radially extending channel 31 to receive the finger grip element 25 therein, so as to facilitate transferring any rotational force applied by the user on the finger grip element 25 through the outer bearing plate 26 to rotate the inner bearing plate Figure 2 also the inner actuator 6 also including an inner cam plate 32 which is spaced from the inner bearing plate 27 in Figure 2 by a drive member 33.

The function of the drive member 33 will be explained later in the specification. The inner cam plate 32 is attached to the inner bearing plate 27 by four screws 34 (only three of which are visible), so that rotation of the turn knob assembly 25, 26, 27 results in rotation of the inner cam plate 32. It can be appreciated from Figure 2 that the inner cam plate 32 is formed with a radially spaced projection 35 which is positioned to interact with the shoulder 23 on the bolt frame 21. The purpose of this engagement is described in greater detail with reference to Figures 5 and 6.

Figure 5 illustrates the rear view of the lock assembly 1, similar to Figure 3 with the outer cam plate 19 removed. The bolt 5 is shown in the extended position, urged towards that position by the bolt torsion spring 24. The turn knob 8, (see Figure 1), is in the horizontal position, whereby the projection 35 is spaced from the shoulder 23. When comparing Figures 5 and 6 it can be appreciated that rotation of the inner cam plate 32 causes the projection 35 to engage the shoulder 23 causing the bolt 5 to retract from the extended position illustrated in Figure 5 to the retracted position illustrated in Figure 6.

The lock assembly 1 according to the invention includes a lock mechanism, that when in an active condition the inner actuator is rendered inoperable for retracting the latch bolt 5 from the extended position. The preferred elements of and <filename> method for achieving this as illustrated in Figure 2 include the drive member 33 that is positioned between the inner cam plate 32 and inner bearing plate 27 in conjunction with an upper detent 36 and a lower detent 37. The drive member 33 includes an upper ramp surface 38 and a lower ramp surface 39 for driving an upper detent 36 and lower detent 37 in a radial direction respectively on movement of the drive member 33 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the actuator axis X-X. The drive member 33 is moved as a result of engagement and rotation by either the outer cam plate 19 or the inner cylinder cam 40. This engagement and movement is more clearly illustrated in Figures 7 to 11.

Figure 7 illustrates a rear view of the lock assembly 1 with the backing plate 18, bolt 5, inner cam 32 and part of the outer cam 19 (see all in Figure 2) removed. The lock mechanism is shown in Figure 7 in an active condition. The internal configuration of the housing 3 is formed with an annular bearing wall 41 which intermittently surrounds the inner bearing plate 27 defining a space within which the inner bearing plate 27 can rotate when the lock mechanism is in the inactive condition. The annular bearing wall 41 is formed with an upper recess 42 and a lower recess 43 configured to accommodate a portion of the upper detent 36 and lower detent 37 respectively when the lock mechanism is in an active condition. This prevents retraction of the bolt 5 by rotation of the inner cam 32.

Figure 7 also illustrates a central projection 44 of the outer cam plate 19 (see also Figure 2), having a pair of opposed bores, with each bore accommodating a leg 79 of a lock release 80 (See Figure 2). The lock release member 80 forms part of lock release mechanism that is considered to be in a selected condition when the release member 80 is located with its legs 79 in the opposed bores of the outer cam plate 19. Rotation of the outer cam plate 19 causes either one of the legs 79 to engage a block 81 (see also Figure 11) on a rear surface of the drive member 33 to adjust the condition of the lock mechanism. For example, rotation of the outer cam plate 19 in an anti-clockwise direction from the position shown in Figure 7 will cause the lower leg 79 to engage the block 81 as illustrated in Figure 8. That rotation causes the drive member 33 to move to the left. This movement of the drive member 33 results in retraction of the lower detent 37 as a knob 45 (see Figure 7) on the lower detent 37 slides along the lower ramp surface 39, whilst the upper detent 36 slides along the upper ramp surface 38 to move free of the upper recess 36. With the upper <filename> detent 37 and lower detent 37 in these positions the inner turn knob 8 (see Figure 1) is free to rotate to retract the bolt 5, and the lock mechanism is considered to be in the inactive condition. It ought to be appreciated that rotation of the outer cam plate 19 in a clockwise direction from the position illustrated in figure 8, can result in the drive member 33 moving back to the right hand position as illustrated in figure 7.

Accordingly this allows the outer actuator 7 to operate to adjust the condition of the lock mechanism from an unlocked condition to a locked condition.

Referring now to Figure 9 which again illustrates the lock mechanism in the active condition similar to the arrangement illustrated in Figure 7, however illustrating the cylinder cam 40, interacting with the drive member 33. The upper detent 36 and lower detent 37 are located in the upper recess 42 and lower recess 43 respectively resulting from the location of the drive member 33 relative to inner bearing plate 27.

Figure 9 illustrates the surface formation 46 on the inner cam designed to interact with opposed abutments 47, 48 of the drive member 33, to adjust its position relative to the inner bearing plate 27. In contrast Figure 10 illustrates the cylinder cam 40 being rotated, by rotation of a barrel 49 (see Figure 2) of the inner cylinder lock 50, by an appropriately coded key 51. This adjusts the position of the upper detent 36 and lower detent 37 relative to the upper recess 42 and lower recess 43 respectively. Once the upper detent 36 and lower detent 37 are in the position illustrated in Figure 10, the lock mechanism is considered to be in an inactive condition, whereby the inner actuator 6 (See Figure 1) is free to rotate to retract the bolt 5.

It is an aspect of the lock assembly 1 that the lock release mechanism be selectable whereby in a selected condition the outer actuator 7 can interact with the lock mechanism so that operation of the outer actuator 7 adjusts the condition of the lock mechanism from the active condition to the inactive condition, and when the lock release mechanism is in an unselected condition 15 does not interact the operation of the outer actuator 7 with the lock mechanism. The preferred arrangement of this aspect is achieved by removing or adding the lock release member 80 from the lock assembly when the lock assembly is being installed.

Where the lock assembly 1 is provided with the lock release member 80 attached to the outer cam plate 19, the outer cam plate 19 must be first detached from the backing plate 18 to gain access to the lock release member 80. It can be <filename> appreciated from Figure 13 that the outer cam plate 19 includes a short shaft 89 which is locatable in the central aperture 17 of the backing plate 18. The central aperture is formed with a keyway 90 which is more clearly illustrated in Figure 16 that is shaped to accommodate a lug 91 on the shaft 89 when the outer cam plate 19 is oriented into a particular position relative to the backing plate 18. It ought to be appreciated that in all other orientations the lug 91 is not aligned with the keyway 90 and thereby the outer cam plate 19 is captured by the outer backing plate 18. When the outer cam plate 19 is detached from the backing plate 18 the lock release member 80 can be detached and thereby lock release mechanism is considered to be in an unselected condition. As a result, the legs 79 will be unable to interact with the block 81 (see also Figure 7).

When the lock release mechanism is in an unselected condition it is preferred that operation of the inner cylinder lock 50 be controlled so that removal of the key 51 from the inner cylinder lock 50 can only be achieved once the lock mechanism is returned to the active condition. This function is achieved in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 13 by including a limiter 92(hereinafter referred to as a second limiter) in the form of a screw for attachment to the drive member 33. The screw 92 extends through the rear surface of the drive member 33 when the lock mechanism is in the active condition so as to be positioned adjacent a leg 93 of the inner cam 19 (see Figure 14). Figure 14 illustrates the drive member 33 with a portion of the rear surface thereof removed to reveal the leg 93. This arrangement can be also appreciated from Figure 15 where it can be noted that the screw 92 overlaps with an arc of movement of the leg 93. It should be noted that the key 51 can only be inserted and removed into the inner cylinder lock 50 when the leg 93 of the cylinder cam 40 is in the specific orientation illustrated in Figure 14. As this corresponds to the orientation whereby tumblers (not shown) in the inner cylinder lock 50 are aligned to release the key 51. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the orientation can only be achieved by returning the drive member 33 to the position as illustrated in Figure 14 which corresponds to the lock mechanism adopting the active condition.

Figure 12 also illustrates a screw 94 located between the backing plate 18 and furniture plate 95. The screw is intended for fastening in a threaded aperture 96 formed in the backing plate 18, which screw 94 can also be seen in Figure 16. When <filename> the screw 94 is attached to Figure 16 illustrates the backing plate 18 in this manner it acts as a limiter, hereinafter referred to as a first limiter, for limiting the degree of rotation of the outer cam plate 19 relative to the backing plate 18. It can be appreciated from Figure 13 that the outer cam plate is formed with a shoulder 97 that interacts with the screw when attached to the backing plate 18, so as to prevent rotation of the outer cam in a clockwise direction.

The lock assembly allows for the installer to select, on site, whether to activate a lock release function or not. The use of limiters to encourage the user operate the lock in a certain manner provides further useful advantages.

Referring now again to Figure 2 which illustrates the rectangular shaped aperture 13 in the housing 3 through which the indicator member 14 is visible when the lock mechanism is in an active condition. When the lock assembly 1 is assembled, the aperture 13 is occupied by a transparent window 52. The indicator member 14 forms part of an indicator mechanism which also includes a shuttle 53.

The indicator member 14 and shuttle 53 are each biased in opposite directions by an indicator biasing spring 54 and a shuttle spring 55 respectively. Figure 17 illustrates the lock assembly in cross section with the lock mechanism in the active condition.

When the lock mechanism is in this active condition, the indicator member 14 is positioned over the aperture 13 so as to be visible therethrough. The indicator member 14 is urged towards this position by an indicator biasing spring 54. Figure 17 also illustrates the drive member 33 including a nose portion 56 abutting the shuttle 53. The shuttle 33 is retained in a right-hand position compressing the shuttle spring In contrast Figure 18 illustrates the lock mechanism in the inactive condition. It can be seen in Figure 18 that the indicator member 14 has been moved laterally relative to the aperture 13 so as to no longer be visible therethrough. This is achieved by the shuttle 53 being biased towards a left-hand position by the shuttle biasing means 55, once the drive member 33 has been moved from the position illustrated in Figure 17 to the position as illustrated in Figure 18. The shuttle biasing spring 55 is capable of applying a force to the shuttle 53, and indirectly to the indicator member 14 which is greater than the force applied by the indicator biasing spring 54 to the indicator member 14. <filename> Figures 17 and 18 also illustrate a ball detent acting between the drive member 33 and the inner bearing plate 27. The force produced by the ball detent 57 is greater than the force acting on the shuttle 53 from the shuttle spring 55 so as to prevent movement of the drive member 33 under the influence of the shuttle spring Referring now to Figure 19, which illustrates the lock assembly 1 in cross- section with the lock mechanism in an active condition. The drive member 33 is in the right-hand position moving the shuttle 53 to compress the shuttle spring 55. The indicator member 14 however is being tampered with by, for example, a screw driver 58 or the like. However it can be appreciated from Figure 19 that movement of the indicator member 14 in this manner does not result in adjustment of the lock mechanism from the active condition. Instead the indicator member 14 separates from the shuttle 53 without adjusting the position of the drive member 33.

It ought to be appreciated from the foregoing that configuring the indicator member 14 to move independently of adjustment of the lock mechanism from the visible position to the obscured position reduces the vulnerability of the lock mechanism to circumvention by tampering.

The lock assembly, as previously described with reference to Figures 2 and 11 includes a hand grip element 25 which is detachable by releasing the fasteners 28. This facilitates interchangeability of the hand grip element 25 from the turn knobs illustrated in Figures 2 and 11, to a short lever version as illustrated in Figure 20 and a long lever as illustrated in Figure 21. It also allows for inner cylinder lock 50 to be removed at the front of the housing 3 whilst a substantial portion of the lock assembly remains assembled. It can be appreciated from Figure 2 that the outer bearing plate 26 (referred to as the intermediate portion in the claims), is formed with a central aperture 82 configured to accommodate the inner cylinder lock. More specifically, the central aperture 82 includes an elongate portion shaped to accommodate a bible 83 of the inner cylinder lock 51 so as to inhibit rotation of the cylinder lock 51 relative to the outer bearing plate 26. Furthermore, the central aperture 82 is configured to accommodate the inner cylinder lock 50 in either one of the two orientations adjusted through 180 . <filename> Figure 2 also illustrates the housing 3 being formed with an annular bearing surface 84 to positively locate the outer bearing plate 26. It is preferred that the hand grip element 25 be configured to interact with the outer bearing plate 26 so that rotation of the hand grip element 25 about the actuator axis causes the outer bearing plate 26 to rotate about the actuator axis X-X. This is achieved by not only the fasteners 28, but also by a lug formed on the outer bearing plate 26 positively locating within a recess 86 (see Figure 11) of the hand grip element 25. Still furthermore, this interaction is facilitated by the hand grip element 25 positively locating within radially extending channel 31.

It is preferred that access to the fastening members to unfastening the hand grip element 25 be limited. More specifically, the housing 3 must be detached from the backing plate 28 before access can be gained. Furthermore, as can be appreciated by comparing Figures 7 and 8 access to the fastening members 28 is inhibited when the drive member 33 is in the inactive condition (Figure 8), and permitted when the drive member 33 is in the active condition (Figure 7). It is also preferred that the fastening members 28 remain captured within the housing once the hand grip element 25 has been unfastened. In this regard, Figure 22 illustrates the fastening members being retained within the housing 3 by their location behind the inner cam 32. Clearly other arrangements for capturing the fastening members 28 within the housing 3 are possible.

The lock assembly according to another aspect of the invention includes a latch bolt head 87 that is adjustable relative to the bolt frame. Figure 2 illustrates the latch bolt head 87 detached from the bolt frame 21. Figure 23 illustrates the bolt 5 in an extended position. When the bolt is in the extended position, a fastener is accessible through an aperture 89 formed in the cover plate 90. Once the latch bolt head 87 is detached from the frame 21 (see Figure 24), it can be rotate through 180 (see Figure 25) and re-attached to the bolt frame 21. This allows for adjustment of the orientation of the bevel on the latch bolt head relative to the bolt frame 21 when adjusting between an inwardly opening and an outwardly opening door. It ought to be appreciated that access to the fastener 88 is prevented when the housing 3 is attached to the backing plate 18. <filename> The lock assembly as hereinbefore described is configured to facilitate relatively simple adjustments of its functionality without compromising on its security.

Referring now to Figure 26, which illustrates the lock assembly 1 with the bolt 5 in the extended position and the inner actuator 6, or the inner cam 32 forming part of the inner actuator 6, in the first position. The inner cam 32 is formed with a shoulder 72 (see also Figure 2), which is illustrated slightly clockwise of a 12 o' clock position. In contrast Figure 27, illustrates the inner actuator 6 having been rotated to the second position, to thereby more the bolt 5 to the retracted position, and it can be noted that the shoulder 72 on the inner actuator 6 has been rotated in the anti- clockwise direction to just clockwise of a 9 o'clock position. It ought to be appreciated that by comparing Figures 26 and 27, that the inner actuator 6 is free to rotate between the first position and the second position to move the bolt 5 between the extended position and the retracted position respectively. More specifically the shoulder 72 on the inner actuator 6 is not inhibited in its movement by the retention member 60. Figures 26 and 27, illustrate the retention means 59 in an inoperable condition. This is achieved by a cam surface 73 on the selector member 62 engaging a free end 74 of the retention member 60 to move a projection 75 on the retention member 60 out of the path of movement of the shoulder 72 of the inner actuator 6.

The selector member 62 is retained in the position illustrated in Figures 26 and 27, by the projection 69 adjacent the head 68 of the selector member 62 locating in a left- hand semi-circular portion of the oblong aperture 67 in the intermediate frame member 63.

Referring now to Figure 28, whereby the selector member 62 has been rotated through 180 so that the projection 69 on the head 68 is keyed into a right- hand semi-circular portion of the oblong aperture 67. The head 68 of the selector member 62 must first be depressed against the action of the selector biasing means 70 (see also Figure 2), to dislodge the projection 69 from the oblong aperture 67 before this rotation can occur. It ought to be appreciated from Figure 28, that this rotation of the selector member 62 disengages the cam surface 73 from the free end 74 of the retention member 60, and with the retention member 60 biased it will rotate about the retention axis Y-Y towards the inner actuator 6. This now locates the projection 75 on the retention member 60 in the path of movement of the shoulder 72 on the inner actuator 6 so that as the inner actuator 6 is rotated from the first position <filename> illustrated in Figure 28, to the second position as illustrated in Figure 29, the shoulder 72 on the inner actuator 6 locates behind the projection 75 on the retention member 60. As the inner actuator 6 is retained in this second position, this in turn retains the bolt 5 in the retracted position against the operation of the bolt torsion spring 24, and actuator biasing means 71 (see Figure 2).

It is preferred however, that the shoulder 72 on the inner actuator 6 and projection 75 on the retention member 60 interact in such a manner so, notwithstanding the retention means 59 being in an operable condition, a user may apply sufficient force to the inner actuator 6 to rotate the inner actuator 6 from the second position illustrated in Figure 29, to the first position illustrated in Figure 28. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 28 and 29, this is achieved as a result of relatively curved surfaces on the projection 75 of the retention member 60 and shoulder 72 on the inner actuator 6. In conjunction with a biasing force produced by the coil spring 76 formed at the fixed end of the retention member 60. Whilst it is preferred that the retention member 60 is formed from a resilient material a separate biasing means may be included to urge the retention member 60. However, this functionality may be achieved by other means.

If the user needs to do more than just inhibit movement of the bolt 5 from the retract position, the inner actuator 6 can be locked in the second position. It can be noted from the lock assembly illustrated in Figure 26, or more clearly illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, that the housing includes a side recess 77 formed in a relatively fixed part of the housing 3 which can be engaged by the upper detent 36 when the inner actuator is rotated to the second position, and when the lock mechanism is adjusted to the active condition. It ought to be appreciated that when the lock assembly is in this condition rotation of the inner actuator 6 is prevented, and thereby movement of the bolt 5 from the retracted position to the extended position is also prevented.

It ought to be appreciated from the foregoing that the lock assembly 1 as hereinbefore described provides a useful option for the lock installer to select whether a retention function is operable or inoperable when installing the lock. Furthermore, the ability of the user to override the retention means 59, without having to adjust the condition of the lock mechanism is a further advantage. <filename> Various alteration and/or additions may be introduced into the lock assembly as hereinbefore described without departing from the spirit or amber of the invention. <filename> The

Claims (72)

claims defining the invention 1. are as follows

1. A lock assembly for use with a door, the lock assembly including a housing for positioning adjacent to an inner surface of the door which houses a bolt, the bolt being movable relative to the housing between an extended position and a retracted position, a bolt biasing means for urging the bolt towards the extended position, a first actuator that is rotatable by hand at front of the housing about an actuator axis, the first actuator being operable to move the bolt from the extended position towards the retracted position, a lock mechanism within the housing that when in an active condition renders the first actuator inoperable, a second actuator operable from a rear of the housing to move the bolt from the extended position towards the retracted position, the second actuator including a key operated cylinder lock, hereinafter referred to as the second key operated cylinder lock.

2. A lock assembly according to claim 1 including an indicator mechanism including an indicator member that is movable relative to the housing between a visible position and an obscured position in which it is visible and obscured from outside the housing respectively, the indicator member being movable from the visible position to the obscured position as a result of adjustment of the lock mechanism from the active condition to the inactive condition, and movable independently of adjustment of the lock mechanism from the visible position towards the obscured position without adjusting the condition of the lock mechanism.

3. A lock assembly according to claim 2 wherein the indicator mechanism includes an indicator biasing means which urges on the visual indicator member.

4. A lock assembly according to claim 3 wherein the indicator biasing means urges the visual indicator member towards the visible position.

5. A lock assembly according to claim 3 or 4 wherein the indicator mechanism includes a shuttle that is movable between a first position and a second position, and a shuttle biasing means that urges the shuttle towards the first <filename> position, wherein the shuttle interacts between the lock mechanism and the visual indicator member.

6. A lock assembly according to claim 5 wherein the interaction of the shuttle with the lock mechanism is such that the shuttle is movable from the first position towards the second position on adjustment of the lock mechanism from the inactive condition to the active condition.

7. A lock assembly according to claim 5 or 6 wherein the shuttle moves linearly between the first position and the second position.

8. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 7 wherein the indicator biasing means applies a first force on the biasing member and the shuttle biasing means applies a second force on the shuttle, whereby the second force is in a direction opposite to the first force.

9. A lock assembly according to claim 8 wherein the second force is greater than the first force.

10. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 9 wherein the indicator member moves linearly between the visible position and the obscured position.

11. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 10 wherein the indicator member moves in a direction between the visible position and the obscured position that is parallel with a direction of movement of the bolt between the extended position and the retracted position.

12. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 11 wherein the housing includes an aperture whereby the indicator member is visible through the aperture when in the visible position.

13. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims including a retention means that when in an inoperable condition does not inhibit the movement of the bolt from the retracted position and when in an operable condition inhibits the movement of the bolt from the retracted position by the urging of the bolt biasing means while permitting the movement of the bolt from the retracted position towards the extended position on rotation of the first <filename> actuator, a selector means that interacts with the retention means and is adjustable between a selected condition and an unselected condition in which the retention means is rendered inoperable and operable respectively.

14. A lock assembly according to claim 13 wherein the first actuator is rotatable between a first position and a second position which corresponds with the bolt adopting the extended position and retracted position respectively, whereby the retention means when in the operable condition interacts with the first actuator when the first actuator has been rotated to the second position so as to inhibit rotation of the first actuator to the first position.

15. A lock assembly according to claim 14 wherein the lock assembly includes an actuator biasing means for urging the first actuator towards the first position.

16. A lock assembly according to claim 15 wherein the retention means when in an operable condition applies a retention force to the first actuator that exceeds an actuator biasing force being produced by the actuator biasing means.

17. A lock assembly according the claim 16 wherein the bolt biasing means applies a bolt biasing force which combines with the actuator biasing force urging the first actuator towards the first position, wherein the retention force when the retention means is in the operable condition exceeds the combination of the bolt biasing force and the actuator biasing force to inhibit movement of the bolt.

18. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 17 wherein the retention means includes a retention member that pivots about a retention axis when the retention means adjusts between the operable condition and the inoperable condition.

19. A lock assembly according to claim 18 wherein retention member includes a projection and the inner actuator includes a shoulder that engages with the projection when the retention means is in the operable condition and does not engage with the projection when the retention means is in the inoperable condition. <filename>

20. A lock assembly according to claim 19 wherein the retention member has a fixed end proximate the retention axis and a free end spaced from the retention axis with the projection being located at or near the free end.

21. A lock assembly according to claim 20 wherein the retention member is formed from a resilient material so as to urge the projection on the retention member towards engagement with the shoulder.

22. A lock assembly according to any one claims 13 to 21 wherein the selector means includes a selector member that pivots about a selector axis when the selector means adjusts between the selected condition and the unselected condition.

23. A lock assembly according to claim 22 wherein the selector member is movable in the direction of the selector axis to move between a fixed position and a pivotable position, whereby the selector member must be in the pivotable position in order to adjust the selector means between the selected condition and the unselected condition, and the selector means includes a selector biasing member for biasing the selector member towards the fixed position.

24. A lock assembly according to claim 23 wherein the selector member includes a cam surface that engages the retention means when the retention means is in the inoperable condition.

25. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims including a lock release mechanism that this selectable so that when in a selected condition interacts the operation of the second actuator with the lock mechanism so that operation of the second actuator adjusts the condition of the lock mechanism from the active condition to an inactive condition, and when the lock release mechanism is in an unselected condition does not interact the operation of the second actuator with the lock mechanism.

26. A lock assembly according to claim 25 wherein the second actuator includes a rotatable member that is rotatable about the actuator axis to cause movement of the bolt from the extended position towards the retracted position, whereby <filename> the lock release mechanism includes a release member that is associated with the rotatable member when the lock release mechanism is in the selected condition.

27. A lock assembly according to claim 26 wherein the rotatable member is a cam that is rotatable about the actuation axis to cause liner movement of the bolt.

28. A lock assembly according to claim 27 wherein the bolt includes a bolt head and a bolt body with the bolt body formed with a shoulder, the cam being formed with a projection that engages the shoulder when moving the bolt.

29. A lock assembly according to claim 28 wherein the release member is positioned on the cam when the lock release mechanism is in the selected condition, and located in radially inwardly of the projection on the cam.

30. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 26 to 29 including a backing plate that is attachable with the housing, the backing plate being configured to accommodate the rotatable member so as to allow rotation relative thereto.

31. A lock assembly according to claim 30 including a first limiter that is associated with the backing plate and interacts with the rotatable member to limit the extent of rotation of the rotatable member in one direction of rotation.

32. A lock mechanism according to claim 31 wherein the first limiter is in the form of a screw and the backing plate is configured with a threaded aperture so that the first limiter can be detachably fastened to the backing plate to selectively limit the extent of rotation of the rotatable member.

33. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 25 to 32 wherein the lock mechanism includes a drive member that is movable within the housing when the lock mechanism adjusts between the inactive condition and the active condition, and at least one detent that is movable within the housing on movement of the drive member when the lock mechanism adjusts between the inactive condition and the active condition, wherein the drive member and the at least one detent are configured to interact with each other so that movement of the drive member causes relative movement of the at least one detent. <filename>

34. A lock assembly according to claim 33 wherein the drive member includes an abutment that interacts with the lock release mechanism when the lock release mechanism is in the selected condition.

35. A lock assembly according to claim 33 or 34 including a first key operated cylinder lock that is operable from an inner side of the housing to adjust the condition of the lock mechanism.

36. A lock assembly according to claim 35 including a cylinder cam that is rotatable on operation of the first key operated cylinder lock and engages the drive member to move the drive member within the housing.

37. A lock assembly according to claim 36 including a second limiter that is associated with the drive member and interacts with the cylinder cam to limit the extent of rotation of the cylinder cam.

38. A lock assembly according to claim 37 wherein the second limiter interacts with the cylinder cam and the drive member so as to permit a key inserted into the first cylinder lock to be release only when the lock mechanism is in the active condition.

39. A lock assembly according to claim 38 wherein the second limiter is in the form of a screw and the drive member is configured with a threaded aperture so that the second limiter can be detachably fastened to the drive member to selectively limit the extent of rotation of the cylinder cam.

40. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first actuator has a detachable portion located on an outer side of the housing.

41. A lock assembly according to claim 40 including a first key operated cylinder lock operable at the front of the housing for adjusting the lock mechanism between the active condition and an inactive condition, wherein the detachable portion of the first actuator forms part of a turn knob or hand lever, and detachment of the detachable portion permits the first key operated cylinder lock to be removed at the front of the housing. <filename>

42. A lock assembly according to claim 40 or 41 including a backing plate that in use is fastened to the inner surface of the door, the backing plate being configured for attachment with the housing, whereby the detachable portion is inhibited from being detached when the backing plate is attached to the housing.

43. A lock assembly according to claim 42 wherein the first actuator includes an inner portion located on an inner side of the housing which is detachably fastened with the detachable portion, whereby the detachable portion can be detached from the inner portion only when the housing is detached from the backing plate.

44. A lock assembly according to claim 43 wherein the inner portion is configured with at least one aperture there through, the first actuator also including at least one fastening member for each aperture in the inner portion respectively for fastening the detachable portion to the inner portion, whereby access to the at least one fastening member is permitted when the housing is detached from the backing plate.

45. A lock assembly according to claim 43 or 44 wherein the lock mechanism includes a drive member within the housing that is adjustable when the lock mechanism adjusts between the active condition and the inactive condition wherein the drive member obstructs access to unfastening the at least one fastening member when the lock mechanism is in the inactive condition and does not obstruct access to unfastening the at least on fastening member when the lock mechanism is in the active condition.

46. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 43 to 45 wherein the first actuator includes an intermediate portion between the inner portion and the detachable portion which is configured to interact with an annular bearing surface of the housing.

47. A lock assembly according to claim 46 wherein the intermediate portion is configured to mate with the detachable portion in either a first orientation or a second orientation, whereby the position of the detachable portion relative to <filename> the intermediate portion is adjusted through 180º when adjusting between the first orientation and the second orientation.

48. A lock assembly according to claim 46 or 47 wherein the intermediate portion is configured to drivingly mate with the detachable portion so that rotation of the detachable portion about the actuator axis causes the intermediate portion to rotate about the actuator axis.

49. A lock assembly according to claim 48 wherein the intermediate portion includes a lug spaced from the actuator axis that is engaged by the detachable portion to drivingly mate.

50. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 46 to 49 wherein the intermediate portion includes an aperture therein to accommodate the first key operated cylinder lock, the aperture is configured relative to a shape of the first key operated cylinder lock to inhibit rotation of the first key operated cylinder lock relative to the intermediate portion.

51. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 44 to 50 wherein the first actuator includes a cam that is rotatable about the actuation axis, the cam having an aperture for accessing to unfasten the said at least on fastening member.

52. A lock assembly according to claims 44 to 51 wherein the at least one fastener remains captured with the inner portion when the detachable portion is detached.

53. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the bolt includes a bolt frame that moves within the housing and a latch bolt head that protrudes from the housing when the bolt is in the extended position, the orientation of the latch bolt head relative to the bolt frame being adjustable through 180º a backing plate that in use is fastened to the surface of the door, the backing plate being configured for attachment with the housing, whereby the adjustment of the orientation of the latch bolt head relative to the bolt frame is inhibited when the backing plate is attached to the housing. <filename>

54. A lock assembly according to claim 53 wherein the latch bolt head is attached with the bolt frame by a fastening member, whereby access to the fastening member is inhibited when the backing plate is attached to the housing.

55. A lock assembly according to claim 54 wherein the fastening member is located within the housing when the bolt is in the extended position.

56. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 53 to 55 wherein the bolt frame includes a tab and the latch bolt head includes a recess to accommodate the tab.

57. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 53 to 56 wherein the bolt frame includes an aperture formed therein with a shoulder at the periphery of the aperture for interacting with the first actuator.

58. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 53 to 57 where in the bolt frame moves rectilinearly within the housing when the bolt adjusts between the extended position and the retracted position.

59. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims including a first key operated lock operable from an inner side of the housing for adjusting the condition of the lock mechanism between the active condition and the inactive condition.

60. A lock assembly according to claim 59 wherein the key operated lock is a cylinder lock, including a casing and a barrel movable relative to the casing when a correctly coded key is inserted in a keyway of the barrel.

61. A lock assembly according to claim 60 wherein the barrel is movable by rotating relative to the casing.

62. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims claim wherein the second key operated cylinder lock, including a casing and a barrel movable relative to the casing when a correctly coded key is inserted in a keyway of the barrel.

63. A lock assembly according to claim 62 wherein the barrel is movable by rotating relative to the casing. <filename>

64. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the lock mechanism includes at least one detent member that is movable relative to the inner actuator on adjustment of the lock mechanism between the active condition and the inactive condition.

65. A lock assembly according to claim 64 wherein the at least one detent is movable radially relative to the axis on adjustment of the lock mechanism from the active condition to the inactive condition.

66. A lock assembly according to claim 65 wherein the at least one detent protrudes beyond an outer surface of the actuator and the at least one detent engages with a relatively fixed part of the housing when lock mechanism is in the active condition.

67. A lock assembly according to claim 66 wherein the lock mechanism includes a drive member that interacts with the at least one detent and is movable linearly relative to the housing on adjustment of the lock mechanism between the active condition and the inactive condition.

68. A lock assembly according to claim 67 wherein the least one detent is captured with the drive member so that movement of the drive member in one direction causes the at least one detent to protrude out from an outer surface of the actuator, and movement of the drive member in the opposite direction causes the at least one detent to retract back behind the outer surface of the actuator.

69. A lock assembly according to claim 67 or 68 wherein the housing includes a further relatively fixed part that is engaged by the at least one detent when the inner actuator has been rotated to move the bolt to the retracted position and the lock mechanism is adjusted to the active condition so as to lock the bolt in the retracted position.

70. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 64 to 69 wherein the at least one detent includes two detents on opposed sides of the inner actuator. <filename>

71. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the bolt includes a bevelled leading face.

72. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the lock assembly is a rim lock assembly. <filename>