Door latch actuator

US5474342A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• Jerry R. Smith · Columbus, US
• John N. Hick · Aurora, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 4, 1993
• Grant date: Dec 12, 1995
• Expiry date: Aug 4, 2013

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T292/699
• WIPO field: Civil engineering
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

A door latch actuator is adapted for use in association with a bolt receiver which is to be engaged by a latch bolt of latch bolt assembly on a door mounted for movement between a first door position and a second door position. The latch bolt assembly includes a latch bolt having a distal end which slideably moves between an extended state and a retracted state. In the extended state, the latch bolt assembly is operative to engage a bolt receiver to retain the door at the first door position in a secured condition. Broadly, the door latch actuator comprises an actuator element and a driver. The actuator element is disposed in proximity to the distal end of the latch bolt when the door is at the first door position in the secured condition and moves between a first actuator position and a second actuator position. In the first actuator position, the actuator element allows the distal end of the spring latch bolt to engage a bolt receiver in the extended state. When moved into the second actuator position, the actuator element displaces the spring latch bolt from the extended state to the retracted state causing the door to be in an unsecured condition at the first door position so t…