Tool operated channel latch
AssigneeHartwell Corporation
InventorThomas John HELSLEY
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The present disclosure includes a tool operated channel latch used to secure a panel against a structure. The latch includes a bracket which mounts to a movable panel and includes an actuating mechanism to open and close the latch. A bolt is pivotably retained relative to the bracket for engaging against the structure closed by the panel. A lock assembly is carried on the actuator to engage a link which is movably coupled with both the bolt and the actuator. The lock assembly includes extending portions to engage at least one corresponding opening of the link. The link provides an over center toggle condition to retain the latch in a locked position until intentionally actuated by an operator.
Claims10
A latch assembly comprising:
- a bracket for use to attach the latch assembly to a structure;
- a bolt pivotably carried on a portion of the bracket;
- an actuator pivotably carried on a portion of the bracket and spaced from the bolt;
- a link pivotably connected at a first end to the actuator and at a second end to the bolt, the link configured to rotate the bolt relative to the bracket during rotation of the actuator between a locked position and an unlocked position;
- and
- a lock assembly carried on the actuator and configured for selective rotation relative to the actuator;
- wherein the at least one link is formed to include an opening positioned, sized, and dimensioned for engagement by a corresponding protruding portion on the lock assembly when the actuator is in the locked position.
A method of latching comprising:
- providing a mounting bracket for attachment to a structure;
- providing a bolt pivotally carried on the mounting bracket;
- providing an actuator pivotally carried on the bracket and spaced from the bolt;
- providing a link pivotably connected at a first end to the actuator and at a second end to the bolt, the link configured to rotate the bolt relative to the bracket during rotation of the actuator between a locked position and an unlocked position;
- providing a lock assembly carried on the actuator;
- and
- engaging a protruding portion of the lock assembly with an opening in the link when the actuator is in the locked position to selectively hold the actuator in the locked position.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.