Importance

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Abstract

A latch actuator mechanism (10) having a housing (18) in which is mounted a lever (40 ) that engages a carrier member (54) that surrounds a spindle (66). The spindle includes a radial projection (74) that engages a recess (60) in the carrier member (54) such that as the lever (40) is pivoted, it linearly displaces the carrier member which in turn bears upon the projection (74) to rotate the spindle (66). The spindle is connected to a latch (16) that extends transversely to the axis of the spindle and is actuated for engagement and disengagement to strike (82). The preferred latch mechanism includes an elongated latch case (88) mounted transversely on the spindle (66), the latch having a retractor member (96) mounted for linear displacement longitudinally within the case and a latch bolt head (114) adapted for a projected and a withdrawn position relative to the case. An annular, semi-circular hub (92) is affixed to the spindle within the case for converting the rotational motion of the spindle into a linear displacement of the retractor member, whereby the bolt head may be drawn to its retracted position. A spring member (112) interposed between the forward portion of the retractor member and the hub provides a forward bias on the retractor member such that upon release of the latch actuating force on the spindle, the retractor and bolt head will automatically return to the forward, or engaged position.

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First Claim