AU2015268764B2 - A Lock or Latch Set - Google Patents

Abstract

Doc - 9/12/2015 ABSTRACT A lock or latch set for releasably securing a movable structure to a fixed structure. The lock or latch set includes a striking member that is to be mounted to one of the movable 5 structure or the fixed structure; a housing that is to be mounted to the other of the fixed structure or movable structure, the housing having an opening into which the striking member can move; a latch that is mounted within the housing such that a portion of the latch extends into the opening such that the striking member can be moved into the opening and captured between the latch and the housing, and the latch is rotatable from a 10 captured position to a released position in at least a first rotational direction; and a biasing mechanism that is mounted within the housing, and is configured to generate a resisting torque in a second rotational direction that is opposite to the first rotational direction, the resisting torque opposing rotation of the latch from the captured position in the first rotational direction. The latch can rotate from the captured position into the released 15 position, upon application of an applied force to rotate the latch in the first rotational direction, and when the applied force exceeds the resisting torque. Figure 1 to accompany abstract. -1/25 G P 17 11 12 128 Figure.16 ........ 7 3 156 218 73

Description

-1/25

G P

17 11

12

128

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156

218 73

A Lock or Latch Set

Field of the invention The present invention relates to mechanisms for use in a lock or latch set that is for releasably securing a movable structure to a fixed structure. Further, the present invention relates to a lock or latch set that incorporates such a mechanism.

Background to the invention Lock and latch sets are used in a variety of applications for releasably securing a movable structure to a fixed member. In one example, a swinging door fitted within a doorway of a building can be retained in a closed position by a lock or latch set, depending on the level of security required. A lock or latch set for use in this application may include a retractable (sliding) bolt that is mounted on, or within, the door, and a strike plate that is mounted on the door jamb that surrounds the doorway. When the door is brought into the closed position, the bolt engages with the strike plate to prevent the door being opened without a user actuating the lock or latch set.

In an alternative example, a bolt may be mounted on, or within, the door, and a bolt capturing mechanism mounted on the door frame. Again, when the door is brought into the closed position, the bolt engages with the bolt capturing mechanism to prevent the door being opened, until such time as a user actuates the lock or latch set to release the bolt.

Throughout this specification: • "movable structure" is a general term for any swingable, slidable, rollable, or otherwise movable part, such as (but not limited to) doors, gates, windows, drawers, and the like; * "latch set" is a term for a mechanism that retains a movable structure to a fixed frame, or similar structure of a building, and the mechanism can be operated to release the movable structure from a closed position by uninhibited actuation of the mechanism by a user; and * "lock set" is a term for a mechanism that also retains a movable structure to a fixed frame, or similar structure of a building, and the mechanism can be operated to release the movable structure from a closed position and may require a user with possession of a security device (such as a key) to actuate the mechanism.

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Traditional lock and latch sets that have a sliding bolt and that are mounted to a swinging door are often required to translate the movement of the door in a first direction (that is tangential to a rotation circle centred on the hinge axis) to cause the sliding bolt to move in a second direction (that is radial to the hinge axis). The mechanism of such lock or latch sets is exposed to significant loads and can wear, leading to fatigue and/or failure.

Furthermore, such traditional lock and latch sets are susceptible to tampering with a credit-card to release the latch, and gain unauthorized access to the building.

Accordingly, it is desired to address the above, and/or at least provide a useful alternative.

Summary of the invention The present invention provides a lock or latch set for releasably securing a movable structure to a fixed structure, the lock or latch set including: a housing that is to be mounted to one of the fixed structure and the movable structure, the housing having an opening; a striking member that is to be mounted to the other one of the fixed structure and the movable structure such that the striking member is movable, relative to the housing, in a plane to move into and out from within the opening; a latch that is mounted within the housing such that a portion of the latch extends into the opening such that the striking member can be moved into the opening and captured between the latch and the housing, and the latch is rotatable from a captured position to a released position in at least a first rotational direction; and a biasing mechanism that is mounted within the housing, wherein the latch includes a cam surface, and the biasing mechanism provides a force against the cam surface with rotation of the latch to generate a resisting torque in a second rotational direction that is opposite to the first rotational direction, the resisting torque opposing rotation of the latch from the captured position in the first rotational direction, whereby the striking member is moveable, relative to the housing, out from within the opening to cause application of an applied force that rotates the latch in the first rotational direction, from the captured position into the released position, when the applied force exceeds the resisting torque.

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The striking member may be mountable to the other one of the fixed structure and the movable structure such that the striking member is swingable, relative to the housing, in the plane to move into and out from within the opening.

Disclosed herein is a lock or latch set for releasably securing a movable structure to a fixed structure, the lock or latch set including: a striking member that is to be mounted to one of the movable structure or the fixed structure; a housing that is to be mounted to the other of the fixed structure or movable structure, the housing having an opening into which the striking member can move; a latch that is mounted within the housing such that a portion of the latch extends into the opening such that the striking member can be moved into the opening and captured between the latch and the housing, and the latch is rotatable from a captured position to a released position in at least a first rotational direction; and a biasing mechanism that is mounted within the housing, and is configured to generate a resisting torque in a second rotational direction that is opposite to the first rotational direction, the resisting torque opposing rotation of the latch from the captured position in the first rotational direction, whereby the latch can rotate from the captured position into the released position, upon application of an applied force to rotate the latch in the first rotational direction, and when the applied force exceeds the resisting torque.

In at least some embodiments, the latch is also rotatable in the second rotational direction towards the captured position, and the striking member can engage the latch while moving into the opening, which rotates the latch in the second rotational direction into the captured position.

In certain embodiments, the latch is rotatable on an axis that is generally parallel to a plane in which the striking member and housing move relative to one another.

Preferably, the latch includes a rebate, and the striking member locates within the rebate when the striking member is captured between the latch and the housing. Alternatively or additionally, the striking member locates within the rebate when rotating the latch in the first and/or second rotational directions.

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Preferably, the biasing mechanism is adjustable to enable the maximum magnitude of the resisting torque to be adjusted.

The resisting torque is preferably only applied to the latch in a first range of rotational angles of the latch that does not include the released position.

In at least some embodiments, the biasing mechanism is an over-centre mechanism, such that the biasing mechanism can also provide a second resisting torque in the first rotational direction that opposes rotation of the latch from the released position towards the captured position, and whereby the latch can rotate from the released position to the captured position when an applied force is applied to the latch in the second rotational direction that exceeds the second resisting torque.

The second resisting torque is preferably only applied to the latch in a second range of rotational angles of the latch that does not include the captured position.

Preferably, the magnitudes of the resisting torque and the second resisting torque are approximately equal.

In certain embodiments, the latch includes a cam surface, and the biasing mechanism provides a force against the cam surface with rotation of the latch to generate the resisting torque.

Preferably, the biasing mechanism includes: a lobe that has an engagement surface that contacts the cam surface, and a spring that biases the lobe towards the latch, wherein the lobe reciprocates with rotation of the latch.

More preferably, the cam surface causes the lobe to reciprocate linearly with rotation of the latch. The biasing mechanism can also include a guide to constrain the lobe to move linearly and also perpendicularly relative to the latch axis.

In at least some embodiments, the biasing mechanism is configured to allow the lobe to rotate with rotation of the latch.

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Preferably, the spring is a compression spring that is disposed between the lobe and an abutment member, wherein the length of the spring alters with reciprocating movement of the lobe.

The biasing mechanism can also include a guide over which the spring is disposed.

In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism includes a threaded member that co-operates with an internal thread in the abutment member, whereby the compressed length of the spring is adjustable by rotation of the threaded member, which moves the abutment member relative to the lobe.

Also disclosed herein is a lock set for releasably securing a movable structure to a fixed structure, the lock set including: a striking member that is to be mounted to one of the movable structure or the fixed structure; a housing that is to be mounted to the other of the fixed structure or movable structure, the housing having an opening into which the striking member can move; a latch having a locking notch, the latch being mounted within the housing such that a portion of the latch extends into the opening such that the striking member can be moved into the opening and captured between the latch and the housing, and the latch is rotatable between a released position to a captured position; and a locking mechanism that includes: a locking member that is movable between an engaged position in which the locking member extends into the locking notch to block the latch from rotating out of the captured position, and a retracted position in which the locking member is spaced from the latch such that the latch is rotatable; a first biasing member that biases the locking member towards the engaged position; and a hold-back member that is movable between a first position in which the hold back member holds the locking member in the retracted position, and a second position in which the locking member is released to move out of the retracted position.

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In certain embodiments, the locking member is pivotally mounted on a spindle, and the locking member includes a first portion that has a tip that locates within the locking notch when the locking member is in the engaged position.

The locking mechanism can further include: a hub that is rotatably mounted within the housing; and a drive plate that is movable in at least an unlocking direction by rotation of the hub, whereby movement of the drive plate causes the locking member to move towards the retracted position.

Preferably, the first biasing member biases the drive plate in a locking direction, which is opposite to the unlocking direction.

In some embodiments, the locking mechanism further includes a second biasing member that biases the locking member towards the engaged position.

Preferably, the locking member has a second portion on an opposing side of the spindle to the first portion, the second portion is located within a slot in the drive plate, such that the locking member pivots on the spindle with movement of the drive plate.

In some embodiments, the housing includes a first opening, and the locking mechanism further includes: a lock cylinder with a barrel that is rotatable by a user, the lock cylinder being disposed within the housing and is accessible via the first opening; wherein the barrel is connected to the hub, such that the hub rotates with rotation of the barrel.

In some embodiments, the housing includes a second opening, and the hold-back member includes a button head that is accessible via the second opening, whereby a user can press on the button head to move the hold-back member from the first position to the second position.

Preferably, the locking mechanism includes a third biasing member that biases the hold-back member towards the first position.

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In certain embodiments, the hold-back member includes a rebate, and the locking member includes a tooth, whereby when the hold-back member is in the second position and the locking member is displaced from the retracted position, the tooth locates within the rebate to prevent the hold-back member moving out of the second position. Preferably, the tooth is provided in the first portion of the locking member.

Alternatively or additionally, the hold-back member has an end cap that engages with the drive plate when the hold-back member is in the second position to releasably retain the hold-back member in the second position.

In one form, the end cap has a bevelled face, and the drive plate has a slot with a ramped tooth, such that the end cap locates behind the ramped tooth when the hold-back member is in the second position.

In some embodiments, the lock set includes a first sub-assembly that includes the housing within which the latch is mounted, the first housing being mounted on a first side of the fixed structure or movable structure; and a second sub-assembly that includes a second housing that is mounted on an opposing side of the fixed structure or movable structure to the first sub-assembly, the second housing having an outer opening, and the locking mechanism includes: a second lock cylinder with a barrel that is rotatable by a user, the second lock cylinder being mounted within the second housing and being accessible via the outer opening; a secondary hub that is rotatably mounted within the first housing, such that the drive plate is movable in at least an unlocking direction by rotation of the secondary hub; and a connecting shaft that extends between the barrel of the second lock cylinder and the secondary hub, such that the secondary hub rotates with rotation of the barrel of the second lock cylinder.

The first and second housings can be each secured to the fixed or movable structure by fasteners that extend into that structure. Alternatively, the first and second housings can be secured to one another by a first set of fasteners that extend through the fixed structure or movable structure.

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The lock or latch set can further include a third sub-assembly that includes a third housing to be mounted to the movable structure or the fixed structure, and the striking member is secured within the third housing.

In some embodiments, the striking member projects outwardly from the third housing. Preferably, the striking member is mounted on a carrier plate that is secured within the third housing. More preferably, the striking member and carrier plate are configured such that the carrier plate is mountable in two orientations within the third housing such that the striking member can project from within the third housing at two distinct positions.

Preferably, the third sub-assembly is arranged to be mounted on a first side of a movable structure, and the lock or latch set further includes a fourth sub-assembly that includes a fourth housing that is arranged to be mounted on the opposing side of the movable structure. The third and fourth sub-assemblies can be each secured to the movable structure by fasteners that extend into the movable structure. Alternatively, the third and fourth sub-assemblies can be secured to one another by a second set of fasteners that extend through the movable structure.

Preferably, the third sub-assembly includes a mounting plate to which the striking member is to be secured. More preferably, the second set of fasteners also secure the carrier plate to the mounting plate.

In at least some embodiments, the third housing is secured to the mounting plate by a third set of fasteners. Preferably, at least one of the third set of fasteners extends through a side wall of the third housing such that when the striking member is captured by the latch, the first sub-assembly inhibits access to the at least one of the third set of fasteners.

In certain embodiments, the third housing is symmetrical about a plane of symmetry that extends transversely through the third housing. Accordingly, the striking member and carrier plate can be mounted in a first of the two orientations to provide for one of left and right handedness in the lock or latch set, and the striking member and plate can be mounted in a second of the two orientations to provide for the other of right and left handedness in the lock or latch set.

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In certain embodiments, the fourth sub-assembly includes a backing plate that is securable within the fourth housing. In embodiments in which the third and fourth sub assemblies are secured to one another by the second set of fasteners, the backing plate can include internally threaded posts that each receive one of the second set of fasteners.

In some embodiments, at least one of the third and fourth housings include an integral handle portion. Alternatively, at least one of the third and fourth housings is arranged to provide a fascia to which a handle is to be secured.

When the locking member is in its retracted position, the latch can rotate in a first rotational direction that is from the captured position towards the released position, and the lock set can further include a biasing mechanism that is mounted within the first housing, the biasing mechanism being configured to generate a resisting torque in a second rotational direction that is opposite to the first rotational direction, the resisting torque opposing rotation of the latch from the captured position in the first rotational direction, whereby, the latch can rotate out of the captured position and into the released position upon application of an applied force to rotate the latch in the first rotational direction, when the applied force exceeds the resisting torque.

In the description in this specification reference may be made to subject matter which is not within the scope of the appended claims. That subject matter should be readily identifiable by a person skilled in the art and may assist in putting into practice the invention as defined in the presently appended claims.

Brief description of the drawings In order that the invention may be more easily understood, embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1: is a first perspective view of a lock set in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, the lock set being mounted to a gate and gate post; Figure 2: is a second perspective view of the lock set of Figure 1; Figure 3: is a partially transparent perspective view of the lock set of Figure 1;

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Figure 4: is an exploded view of the inner and outer post sub assemblies of the lock set of Figure 1; Figure 5: is an exploded schematic view of the inner post sub assembly of the lock set of Figure 1; Figure 6: is a first perspective view of the inner post sub-assembly of the lock set of Figure 1; Figure 7: is a second perspective view of the inner post sub-assembly of the lock set of Figure 1; Figure 8: is a front view of the inner post sub-assembly of the lock set of Figure 1; Figures 9 to 12: are vertical section views of the inner post sub-assembly, as viewed along the line A-A in Figure 8, showing movement of the biasing mechanism during capture and release of the pin; Figures 13 to 16: are vertical section views of the inner post sub-assembly, as viewed along the line B-B in Figure 8, showing movement of the locking mechanism to lock the pin to the inner housing; Figure 17: is a partially transparent perspective view of the inner and outer handle sub-assemblies of the lock set of Figure 1; Figure 18: is an exploded view of the inner handle sub-assembly of Figure 17; Figure 19: is a partially transparent perspective view of a lock set in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 20: is an exploded view of the inner post sub-assembly of the lock set of Figure 19; Figure 21: is a front view of the inner post sub-assembly of the lock set of Figure 20; and Figures 22a to 25b: are vertical section views of the inner post sub-assembly, as viewed along the lines C-C and D-D in Figure 21, showing movement of the locking mechanism to lock and unlock the pin to the inner housing.

Detailed description

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Figures 1 to 3 show a lock set 10 in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, the lock set 10 being for releasably securing a movable structure to a fixed structure. In Figures 1 and 2, the fixed structure is in the form of a gate post P, and the movable structure is in the form of a gate G. Further, each of the post P and gate G are of a tubular frame construction, and in the Figures only a portion of the post P and gate G are shown. In this example, the gate G is a swinging gate that pivots about a vertical hinging axis, as indicated by double-headed arrow S, to open and close a gateway. The gate G can be releasably secured in a closed position within the gateway by the lock set 10, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. The lock set 10 has inner and outer post sub-assemblies 11, 13 that, in this embodiment, are to be mounted on opposing sides of the gate post P, and further has inner and outer handle sub-assemblies 15, 17 that, in this embodiment, are to be mounted to opposing sides of the gate G.

The lock set 10 includes a striking member, which in this embodiment is in the form of a pin 12, and in this example is mounted to the gate G, as will be described in further detail below. The pin 12 is provided on the inner handle sub-assembly 15 and in this example projects in a direction that is perpendicular to the hinging axis of the gate G, such that the pin 12 travels in an arc, and also within a plane that is perpendicular to the hinging axis.

The inner post sub-assembly 11 includes a first housing 14, and is mounted to the post P. The first housing 14 has an opening 16 into which the pin 12 can move. Within the first housing 14, a latch 18 is mounted such that a portion of the latch 18 extends into the opening 16. The striking member can be moved into the opening 16 and captured between the latch 18 and the housing 14. The latch 18 is rotatable between a captured position and a released position in a first rotational direction, which is towards the released position.

In Figures 1 and 2, the lock set 10 is illustrated with the pin 12 within the opening 16, and the latch 18 in the captured position with the pin 12 positioned between the latch 18 and the first housing 14. When the pin 12 is located between the latch 18 and the first housing 14 with the latch 18 in the captured position (as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2), the pin 12 can be released by rotation of the latch 18 in the first direction.

The latch 18 includes a rebate 20, and the pin 12 locates within the rebate 20 when the pin 12 is captured between the latch 18 and the first housing 14. As will be

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc evident from the Figures, the latch 18 is rotatable on an axis that is generally parallel to a plane in which the pin 12 and first housing 14 move relative to one another. In other words, the latch 18 is rotatable on an axis that is generally parallel to the plane in which the pin 12 moves as it enters and exits the opening 16.

In this particular embodiment, when the latch 18 is also rotatable in a second rotational direction, which is opposite to the first rotational direction. When the pin 12 is away from the opening 16, the latch 18 is to be in the released position. As the pin 12 moves into the opening 16, the pin 12 locates within the rebate 20 and engages the latch 18. With continued movement of the pin 12 into the opening 16, the pin 12 rotates the latch 18 in the second rotational direction, and into the captured position; thus the pin 12 is captured between the latch 18 and the first housing 14. Conversely, when the pin 12 is positioned between the latch 18 and the first housing 14 with the latch 18 in the captured position, movement of the pin 12 out from within the opening 16 causes the pin 12 to rotate the latch 18 in the first rotational direction, and into the released position.

The lock set 10 includes a biasing mechanism that is mounted within the first housing 14. The biasing mechanism is configured to generate a resisting torque in a second rotational direction to oppose rotation of the latch 18 from the captured position towards the released position. However, when a force is applied to rotate the latch 18 in the first rotational direction, and that force is sufficient to exceed the resisting torque, the latch 18 can rotate from the captured position to the released position. In this specification, a force that is applied to the latch is referred to as an "applied force". It will be appreciated that an applied force will cause the latch 18 to rotate where that force is applied against the latch 18 at a point that is spaced from the rotational axis of the latch 18.

The biasing mechanism enables the lock set 10 to be operated in a "passage" mode that does not require an actuator to be worked in order to unlatch the pin 12 to release the gate G. To this end, the lock set 10 can resist force that is, for example, applied to the gate G in a direction to release the pin 12 from the latch 18, up to a pre determined limit. Once the force exceeds the pre-determined limit, the pin 12 is released from the latch 18 and the gate G will be free to open. The biasing mechanism is discussed in further detail below with particular reference to Figures 9 to 12.

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In this particular embodiment, the latch 18 of the lock set 10 includes a locking notch 22, which is shown in Figures 7, and 13 to 16. The lock set 10 also has a locking mechanism that includes a locking member 52, which is movable between an engaged position in which the locking member 52 extends into the notch 22, and a retracted position. The notch 22 is positioned on the latch 18 such that when the latch 18 is in the captured position the notch 22 is aligned to allow the locking member 52 to be in the engaged position. When the locking member 52 is in the engaged position, the locking member 52 is located within the notch 22 to block the latch 18 from rotating in the first rotational position, and thus from rotating out of the captured position. When the locking member 52 is in the released position, the locking member 52 is spaced from the latch 18, and the latch 18 is rotatable between the released and captured positions. The locking mechanism and its function is discussed in further detail below with particular reference to Figures 13 to 16.

As shown most clearly in Figure 4, the first housing 14 includes a backing plate 24, an inner casing 26, and a chassis 28 on which the latch 18 is mounted. The chassis 28 is secured inside the inner casing 26 by fasteners 30. When the first housing 14 is mounted to the gate post P, the backing plate 24 is first secured in abutment against the post P. The chassis 28 and inner casing 26 are then secured to the backing plate 24 via hook 32 at one end of the backing plate 24 that is received in an aperture 34 in the chassis 28, and a pair of threaded screw fasteners 36 that extend through holes in the bottom of the inner casing 26 and engage with internally threaded holes on the backing plate 24.

As shown most clearly in Figures 5, 6, and 9 to 12, the latch 18 includes a cam surface 38. The biasing mechanism provides a force against the cam surface 38 with rotation of the latch 18 to generate the resisting torque. In this embodiment, the biasing mechanism includes a lobe 40, and a spring 42 that biases the lobe 40 towards the latch 18, such that an engagement surface of the lobe 40 contacts the cam surface 38. The lobe 40 reciprocates linearly with rotation of the latch 18. To the end, the chassis 28 includes a guide plate 44 that constrains the lobe 40 so that the lobe 40 can only reciprocate in a direction that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the latch 18.

In this embodiment, the biasing mechanism is adjustable to enable the maximum magnitude of the resisting torque to be adjusted. To this end, the spring 42 extends between the lobe 40 and an abutment member, which in this embodiment is in the form of a support block 46 that is located relative to the lobe 40 by the guide plate 44.

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The position of the support block 46 relative to the chassis 28 can be adjusted by a threaded adjustment screw 48 that engages an internal thread in the support block 46. The head of the adjustment screw 48 is accessible via an opening in the bottom of the inner casing 26. The guide plate 44 prevents rotation of the support block 46 with rotation of the adjustment screw 48. As is evident from the Figures, one end of the spring 42 is located within a channel formation in the lobe 40, and the opposing end of the spring 42 extends over the adjustment screw 48.

The biasing mechanism is configured to allow the lobe 40 to move with rotation of the latch 18 due to friction between the lobe 40 and the cam surface 38. The spring 42 compresses as the lobe 40 moves away from the rotational axis of the latch 18. Accordingly, the force applied by the lobe 40 against the latch 18 at the cam surface 38 varies with the compressed length of the spring 42. The above-described rotation of the lobe 40 reduces friction forces between the lobe 40 and cam surface 38, which can reduce the force required to displace the lobe 40 with rotation of the latch 18. Thus, the effort required to capture/release the pin 12 from the latch 18.

In this embodiment, the biasing mechanism also provides an over-centre mechanism, such that the biasing mechanism can also provide a second resisting torque in the second direction that opposes rotation of the latch 18 from the released position towards the captured position. When an applied force is applied to rotate the latch 18 in the second rotational direction and that applied force exceeds the second resisting torque, the latch 18 can rotate from the released position to the captured position. Thus, the lock set 10 can resist force that is, for example, applied to the gate G in a direction to move the pin 12 into the opening 16 and to be captured by the latch 18, up to a pre-determined limit. Once that force exceeds the pre-determined limit (corresponding with the maximum magnitude of the resisting torque), the latch 18 is rotated to capture the pin 12 between the latch 18 and the housing 14, and the gate G is retained in its closed position.

The cam surface 38 includes a central peak with two troughs to either side. Each of the troughs is arranged on the cam surface 38 such that the lobe 40 rests within one of the troughs when the latch 18 is the released position, and within the other trough when the latch 18 is in the captured position. When the latch 18 is rotated such that the lobe 40 is between the two troughs, the force of the spring 42 urges the latch 18 to rotate towards the nearest of the troughs, relative to the immediate rotational position of the latch 18. In

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc this way, the interaction of the cam surface 38 of the latch 18, the lobe 40, and spring 42 generates the resisting torque and second resisting torque, as previously described.

Furthermore, the presence of the peak in the cam surface 38 profile causes the biasing mechanism to "throw" the latch 18 into each of the released and captured positions. More particularly, in a rotation of the latch 18 from the released position to the captured position, once the latch 18 has rotated past the mid-point in its rotation, the biasing mechanism urges the latch 18 to the captured position. Conversely, in a rotation of the latch 18 from the captured position to the released position, once the latch 18 has rotated past the mid-point in its rotation, the biasing mechanism urges the latch 18 to the released position.

The cam surface 38 profile is such that the magnitude of the resisting torque and the second resisting torque are approximately equal.

As will be appreciated, the biasing mechanism provides the resisting torque over a first range of rotational angles of the latch 18 that does not include the released position. Due to the cam surface 38 profile of this embodiment, the first range of rotational angles extends from the captured position to approximately the mid-point in the latch 18 rotation. Further, the biasing mechanism provides the second resisting torque over a second range of rotational angles of the latch 18 that does not include the captured position. Due to the cam surface 38 profile of this embodiment, the second range of rotational angles extends from the released position to approximately the mid-point in the rotation of the latch 18.

As will be apparent from Figures 9 and 12, in this particular embodiment there is a 900 rotation of the latch 18 between the released and captured positions. Figure 10 shows the biasing mechanism with the latch 18 rotated approximately 10 from the released position towards the captured position. Figure 11 shows the biasing mechanism with the latch 18 rotated approximately 45 from the released position towards the captured position, which is approximately the mid-point between the released and captured positions.

The engagement surface of the lobe 40 is curved. Friction between the engagement surface and the cam surface 38 causes the lobe 40 to rotate during initial rotation of the latch 18 out from either the released or captured positions. As the rotational position of the latch 18 approaches the mid-point between the released and

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc captured positions, friction between the latch 18 and lobe 40 decreases, allowing the lobe 40 to slide along the cam surface 38.

In this embodiment, the lock set 10 also includes a bump stop 50 that is made of resiliently compressible material, such as a rubber, or rubber-like material. The pin 12 can abut the bump stop 50 when the gate G is closed with force.

The adjustment screw 48 can be rotated to alter the effective length of the spring 42, which alters the force required by the latch 18 to move the lobe 40 in a direction that compresses the spring 42. In turn, the maximum magnitude of the resisting torque and second resisting torque can be adjusted. Using the adjustment screw 48, a user can make adjustments to the minimum effort required to capture and release the pin 12.

The components and operation of the locking mechanism of the lock set 10 is shown in further detail in Figures 13 to 16. In this particular embodiment, the locking member 52 is pivotally mounted on a spindle 54. The locking member 52 includes a first portion with a tip 56 that locates in the notch 22 of the latch 18 when the locking member 52 is in the engaged position. As is evident particularly from Figures 13 and 15, when the latch 18 is in the captured position, the notch 22 is positioned such that the locking member 52 can move into the engaged position, which locates the tip 56 within the notch 22. Thus, when the latch 18 is in the captured position and the locking member 52 is in the engaged position, the locking member 52 blocks the latch 18 from rotating out of the captured position.

The locking mechanism further includes a spring 58, and a drive plate 60. In this embodiment, the locking member 52 includes a second portion 62 on an opposing side of the spindle 54 to the tip 56. The second portion 62 is located within a slot in the drive plate 60, such that the locking member 52 pivots on the spindle 54 with reciprocating movement of the drive plate 60 within the first housing 14.

The spring 58 biases the drive plate 60 in a locking direction (which is downward in Figures 13 to 16), which in turn urges the locking member 52 towards the engaged position.

The locking mechanism includes an inner hub 64 that is rotatably mounted within the first housing 14. The inner hub 64 has a projection, and when the inner hub 64 is

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc rotated the projection can bear against the drive plate 60, which moves the drive plate 60 in the unlocking direction (which is upward in Figures 13 to 16). Movement of the drive plate 60 in the unlocking direction causes the locking member 52 to move towards the retracted position.

As shown in Figure 4, the first housing 14 includes a first opening 66, and the locking mechanism further includes a lock cylinder 68 with a barrel that is rotatable by a user upon insertion of a correctly keyed key into the cylinder 68. The lock cylinder 68 is mounted within the first housing 14 and is accessible via the first opening 66. The barrel of the cylinder 68 is connected to the inner hub 64, such that the inner hub 64 rotates with rotation of the barrel.

The locking mechanism includes a hold-back member 70, and the first housing 14 includes a second opening 72 through which a button head 73 of the hold-back member 70 is accessible. The hold-back member 70 is movable between a first position in which the hold-back member 70 holds the locking member 52 in its retracted position, and a second position in which the locking member 52 is released to move out of the retracted position (and towards its engaged position). Figures 13 and 16 show the hold-back member 70 in the first position, and Figures 14 and 15 show the hold-back member 70 in the second position.

The hold-back member 70 includes a rebate 74, and the locking member 52 includes a tooth 76. When the hold-back member 70 is in the second position and the locking member 52 is displaced from the retracted position, the tooth 76 locates within the rebate 74 to prevent the hold-back member 70 moving out of the second position, until such time as the locking mechanism is operated to move the locking member 52 into its retracted position.

The outer post sub-assembly 13 includes a second housing 78 that is mounted on the opposing side of the gate post P to the first sub-assembly 11. The second housing 78 has an outer opening (not shown), and the locking mechanism further includes a second lock cylinder 80 with a barrel that is rotatable by a user upon insertion of a correctly keyed key into the cylinder 80. The cylinder 80 is mounted within the second housing 78 and is accessible via the outer opening. The barrel of the cylinder 80 is connected to an outer hub 82 by a connecting shaft 84 that extends between the barrel of the second lock cylinder 80 and the outer hub 82. Thus, the outer hub 82 rotates with rotation of the barrel

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc of the second lock cylinder 80. Further, the second lock cylinder 80 is operable to cause the drive plate 60 to move in the unlocking direction, in order to move the locking member 52 into the retracted position.

As shown most clearly in Figure 4, the first and second housings 14, 78 are secured to one another by fasteners 86 that extend through the fixed structure or movable structure, in this example through the gate post P.

The operation of the locking mechanism will now be described in further detail, with particular reference to Figures 13 to 16.

Figure 13 illustrates the lock set 10 with the locking mechanism in an "open" setting, in which the locking member 52 is in the retracted position, and the hold-back member 70 is in the first position. In the open setting, the pin 12 can move in and out of the opening 16, with uninhibited rotation of the latch 18 between the released and captured positions, as described previously with reference to Figures 9 to 12. In Figure 13, the pin 12 is spaced from the opening 16, and the latch 18 is in the released position.

Figure 14 illustrates the lock set 10 with the locking mechanism in a "primed" setting, in which the hold-back member 70 is in its second position. The latch 18 is in its released position, ready for rotation into the captured position upon engagement with the pin 12. Compared with Figure 13, the hold-back member 70 has moved into a position that releases the locking member 52 from the retracted position, for example by a user pressing on the button head 73 of the hold-back member. With the locking mechanism in the primed setting, the spring 58 biases the drive plate 60 in the locking direction, and consequently the first portion of the locking member 52 bears against latch 18. The tooth 76 on the locking member 52 is partly within the rebate 74 of the hold-back member 70, and this prevents the hold-back member 70 from moving out of the second position. As will be appreciated, the locking mechanism can be considered to be "primed" because the locking member 52 is biased (by the spring 58 and drive plate 60) towards the engaged position. In other words, the locking mechanism is awaiting rotation of the latch 18 - for instance, on movement of the pin 12 into the opening 16 - to continue movement of the locking member 52 into its captured position.

Figure 15 illustrates the lock set 10 with the locking mechanism in a "locked" setting, in which the latch 18 is in its captured position, and the locking member 52 is in its

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc engaged position. Compared with Figure 14, the pin 12 has moved into the notch 22 and then rotated the latch 18 into its captured position. With rotation of the latch 18 into its captured position, the tip 56 of the locking member 52 locates in the notch 22, and the locking member 52 moves into its engaged position. Thus, the locking member 52 blocks the latch 18 from rotating out of the captured position, and the pin 12 is captured between the latch 18 and the first housing 14.

Figure 16 illustrates the lock set 10 with the locking mechanism returned to the open setting. A key (not shown) has been inserted into the lock cylinder 68 and rotated, which rotates the inner hub 64. The projection on the inner hub 64 pushes the drive plate 60 in the unlocking direction. With sufficient rotation of the inner hub 64, the drive plate 60 moves the locking member 52 into its retracted position. A spring 88 extends between the hold-back member 70 and the chassis 28, and biases the hold-back member 70 towards its first position. Once the locking member 52 has pivoted sufficiently that the tooth 76 is clear of the rebate 74, the biasing force of the spring 88 moves the hold-back member 70 from its second position to its first position. Hence, the locking mechanism is returned to the open setting, and the latch 18 is free to be rotated out of its captured position. In Figure 16, the pin 12 is within the opening 16, and the latch 18 is in the captured position.

As will be appreciated, a key can alternatively be inserted into the second lock cylinder 68 and rotated, which will also rotate the outer hub 82. By this action, the locking mechanism can be operated to move from the locked setting to the open setting.

As will be appreciated, when the locking mechanism is in the open setting, the lock set 10 is also in the passage mode.

Figure 17 shows the inner and outer handle sub-assemblies 15, 17, and Figure 18 shows the components of the inner handle sub-assembly 15 in further detail. The inner handle sub-assembly 17 is to be mounted on the gate G on the same side as the inner post sub-assembly 11 is mounted. Similarly, the outer handle sub-assembly 17 is to be mounted on the gate G on the same side as the outer post sub-assembly 11 is mounted.

The inner handle sub-assembly 15 includes a third housing 200 within which the pin 12 is secured and, in this embodiment, the pin 12 projects outwardly from the third housing 200. Further, the pin 12 is integral with a carrier plate 202 that is secured within the third housing 200. As is evident from Figure 18, the pin 12 and carrier plate 202 are a

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc unitary item. In this particular embodiment, the pin 12 is disposed at one end of the carrier plate 202.

The inner handle sub-assembly 15 includes a mounting plate 204 to which the carrier plate 202 is to be secured. A second set of fasteners 206 secures the carrier plate 202 to the mounting plate 204. The third housing 200 is secured to the mounting plate 204 by a third set of fasteners 208, that extend through a side wall 209 of the third housing 200 such that when the pin 12 is captured between the latch 18 and the first housing 14, the first sub-assembly 11 inhibits access to the side wall 209, and thus to the third set of fasteners 208.

The pin 12 and carrier plate 202 are mountable in two orientations within the third housing 200, such that the pin 12 can project from within the third housing 200 at two distinct positions. To this end, the side wall 209 has two slots 211a, 211b through which the pin 12 can project when mounted within the third housing 200. Each of the two slots 211a, 211b corresponds with one of the two distinct positions.

The third housing 200 is symmetrical about a plane of symmetry that extends transversely through the middle of the third housing 200. The mounting plate 204 is also symmetrical about a plane of symmetry that extends transversely through the middle of the mounting plate 204. The pin 12 and carrier plate 202 can be mounted within the third housing 200 in one of the two distinct positions to provide one of left- or right-handedness to the lock set 10. Rotating the third housing 200 and mounting plate 204 through 180 and mounting the pin 12 and carrier plate 202 in the second of the two distinct positions provides the other of right- or left-handedness to the lock set 10. As will be appreciated from Figures 17 and 18, in this particular embodiment changing the handedness of the lock set 10 as described requires flipping the carrier plate 202 and pin 12 horizontally.

The outer handle sub-assembly 17 includes a fourth housing 210 that is arranged to be mounted on the opposing side of the gate G to the inner handle sub-assembly 15. The inner and outer handle sub-assemblies are to be secured to one another by the second set of fasteners 206 that extend through the gate G. The outer handle sub assembly 17 also includes a backing plate 212 that is securable within the fourth housing 210. The backing plate 212 has a pair of internally threaded posts 214 that each receive one ofthe second set offasteners 206.

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In this embodiment, each of the third and fourth housings 200, 210 includes an integral handle portion 218, 220. The handle portion 218 of the third housing 200 is formed on the opposing side to the side wall 209.

The inner handle sub-assembly 15 can be mounted to either the left or right side of the inner post sub-assembly 11, with the pin 12 appropriately positioned so as to locate within the opening 16 of the inner post sub-assembly 11. Further, the third housing 200 can be appropriately oriented to expose the handle portion 218 for use.

In this particular embodiment, the backing plate 212 is removably mounted within the fourth housing 210. To this end, the fourth housing 210 has a set of tabs 216, and the backing plate 212 has cut-outs that enable the backing plate 212 to be inserted into the fourth housing 210, past the tabs 216 and then slid into position. Once the second set of fasteners 206 have been installed into the threaded posts 214 and tightened, friction forces - between the fourth housing 210 and backing plate 212, and also between the fourth housing 210 and the gate G - prevent the fourth housing 210 being removed from its installed position.

Figures 19 to 25b show a lock set 110 according to a second embodiment. The lock set 110 is substantially similar to the lock set 10 of Figures 1 to 18. In Figures 19 to 25b, the features of the lock set 110 that are substantially similar to those of the lock set 10 have the same reference numeral with the prefix "1".

The lock set 110 has inner and outer post sub-assemblies 111, 113, and further has inner and outer handle sub-assemblies 115, 117. The inner and outer handle sub assemblies 115, 117 have the same components as those of the lock set 10. In particular, the inner handle sub-assembly 115 has a pin 112 that provides a striking member.

The inner post sub-assembly 111 includes a housing 114, a latch 118 and a biasing mechanism, which are the same in form and function as the housing 14, latch 18 and biasing mechanism of the lock set 10.

The principal difference between the lock set 110 and the lock set 10 is that, in the locking mechanism of the lock set 110, the hold back member 170 includes an end cap 190. The end cap 190 is on the opposing end of the hold back member 170 to the

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc button head 173. When the hold-back member 170 is in the second position to releasably retain the hold-back member is the second position, the end cap 190 engages with the drive plate 160. The end cap 190 has a bevelled leading face, and the drive plate 160 has a slot with a ramped tooth, such that the end cap 190 locates behind the ramped tooth when the hold-back member 170 is in its second position.

The locking mechanism of the lock set 110 includes a third spring 192 that provides a rotational biasing force to the locking member 152, which biases the locking member 152 towards its engaged position.

When the lock set 110 is in the primed or locked settings, the cap 190 holds the hold-back member 170 in its second position, and this has the advantage that the locking member 152 does not need to work against the hold-back member 170 to move into the engaged position.

Figures 22a, 22b show the lock set 110 with the locking mechanism in a open setting, and with the latch 114 in its released position. In Figure 22a, the inner hub 164 is in its neutral rotational position within the first housing 114.

Figures 23a, 23b show the lock set 110 with the locking mechanism in a primed setting. Figures 24a, 24b show the lock set 110 with the locking mechanism in a locked setting. Further, figures 25a, 25b show the lock set 110 with the locking mechanism in again in the open setting, but with the latch 114 in its captured position. In Figure 25a, the inner hub 164 is rotated, when compared with Figure 22a, within the first housing 114 such the projection has moved the drive plate 160 in the unlocking direction to cause the locking member 152 to move into the retracted position.

Figures 22a, 23a, 24a, 25a show the lock set 110 in the above described settings when viewed in cross section along line C-C in Figure 21. Similarly, Figures 22b, 23b, 24b, 25b show the lock set 110 in the above described settings when viewed in cross section along line D-D in Figure 21.

The invention has been described by way of non-limiting example only and many modifications and variations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

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In the illustrated embodiments, the lock sets 10, 110 are shown with fixed and movable structures arranged such that the striking member (which in these embodiments is in the form of pins 12, 112) moves in a plane that is horizontal. In some alternative applications and/or alternative embodiments, the lock set can be mounted to fixed and movable structures such the striking member moves in a different planes (including the vertical plane) as it enters the opening in the housing to engage the latch.

It will be appreciated the fixed and movable structures can take any form, and the a gate and gate post of the Figures is a non-limiting example.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not by way of limitation. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention should not be limited by any of the above described exemplary embodiments.

Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

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Claims (11)

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A lock or latch set for releasably securing a movable structure to a fixed structure, the lock or latch set including: a housing that is to be mounted to one of the fixed structure and the movable structure, the housing having an opening; a striking member that is to be mounted to the other one of the fixed structure and the movable structure such that the striking member is movable, relative to the housing, in a plane to move into and out from within the opening; a latch that is mounted within the housing such that a portion of the latch extends into the opening such that the striking member can be moved into the opening and captured between the latch and the housing, and the latch is rotatable from a captured position to a released position in at least a first rotational direction; and a biasing mechanism that is mounted within the housing, wherein the latch includes a cam surface, and the biasing mechanism provides a force against the cam surface with rotation of the latch to generate a resisting torque in a second rotational direction that is opposite to the first rotational direction, the resisting torque opposing rotation of the latch from the captured position in the first rotational direction, whereby the striking member is moveable, relative to the housing, out from within the opening to cause application of an applied force that rotates the latch in the first rotational direction, from the captured position into the released position, when the applied force exceeds the resisting torque.

2. A lock or latch set according to claim 1, wherein the latch is also rotatable in the second rotational direction towards the captured position, and the striking member can engage the latch while moving into the opening, which rotates the latch in the second rotational direction into the captured position.

3. A lock or latch set according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the striking member is to be mounted to the other one of the fixed structure and the movable structure such that the striking member is swingable, relative to the housing, in the plane to move into and out from within the opening.

4. A lock or latch set according to claim 3, wherein the latch is rotatable on an axis that is generally parallel to the plane in which the striking member and housing move relative to one another.

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc

5. A lock or latch set according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the latch includes a rebate, and the striking member locates within the rebate when the striking member is captured between the latch and the housing.

6. A lock or latch set according to claim 5, wherein the striking member is located within the rebate when rotating the latch in the first and/or second rotational directions.

7. A lock or latch set according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the biasing mechanism is adjustable to enable the maximum magnitude of the resisting torque to be adjusted.

8. A lock or latch set according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the biasing mechanism is an over-centre mechanism, such that the biasing mechanism can also provide a second resisting torque in the first rotational direction that opposes rotation of the latch from the released position towards the captured position, and whereby the latch can rotate from the released position to the captured position when an applied force is applied to the latch in the second rotational direction that exceeds the second resisting torque.

9. A lock or latch set according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the biasing mechanism includes: a lobe that has an engagement surface that contacts the cam surface, and a spring that biases the lobe towards the latch, wherein the lobe reciprocates with rotation of the latch.

10. A lock or latch set according to claim 9, wherein the biasing mechanism also includes a guide to constrain the lobe to move linearly and also perpendicularly relative to the latch axis.

11. A lock or latch set according to either claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the spring is a compression spring that is disposed between the lobe and an abutment member, wherein the length of the spring alters with reciprocating movement of the lobe.

35242414 - Marked up descr and claims 1OR(20245402.1).doc