Variable position lock actuator

A lock for a gliding panel, the lock comprising:

• an actuator,
• a latch assembly, and
• a flexible coupling for connecting the actuator to the latch assembly, the flexible coupling comprising a male member comprising a semi-spherical base and an outwardly protruding knuckle portion that extends outward from the base, the base comprising an annular surface that encircles the knuckle, the knuckle being pivotally and frictionally captured in a cylindrical socket of a female member without a structural element connecting the knuckle to the socket, the knuckle comprising an outer periphery, the socket surrounding the outer periphery of the knuckle, the female member further comprising an outer rim defining an opening for the cylindrical socket, the outer rim abuttingly engaging the annular surface of the base of the male member when the male and female members are pivoted with respect to each other, the female member being connected the actuator, the male member being connected to the latch assembly, wherein rotation of the actuator resulting in rotation of the male and female members and the latch assembly, the male member further being able to pivot with respect to the female member.