LOCK WITH DEVICE TO SOFTEN THE RETURN OF A HANDLE TO ITS REST STATE

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lock in which a bolt (2) comprises a latch bolt (20) partially housed in a casing (1) inserted into a door leaf. The latch bolt (20), when extracted from the casing (1), can be inserted into a seat (30) of a counter-casing inserted into the door jamb. A control ratchet (4) functionally coupled to the bolt (2) allows the latch bolt (20) to retract into the casing (1) following the action of a handle actuator, by rotating about an axis (R1) from a rest position to an active position, against elastic return means (5). During a return movement of the ratchet (4), a lever-type projection (41) of the ratchet (4) or a predetermined portion of the lock integral with the housing (1) couples directly with a linear damper (6), causing damping of the movements of the ratchet (4) and the handle actuator. (Shorthand figure: Figure 2)

Description

Title of the invention: LOCK WITH DEVICE FOR MITIGATING THE RETURN OF A HANDLE TO ITS STATE REST technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a lock with a device for dampening the return of the handle to its resting state. Previous art

[0002] Locks normally comprise a housing, which can be inserted into a cutout in the door leaf, and a strike plate (or escutcheon) which can be inserted into a cutout in the door jamb or in an additional door leaf. A lock, equipped with a latch bolt at one end, is movable between a retracted position within the housing, in which the latch bolt is inside the housing, and a partially extended position, in which the latch bolt is extended from the housing and, when the door leaf is closed against the jamb or against the corresponding second door leaf, is inserted into a corresponding seat in the strike plate (or escutcheon). The engagement of the latch bolt in the corresponding seat results in mechanical relocking and prevents the door from being opened simply by pushing on the door leaf.In addition to the mechanical relocking action, some locks may also provide a key-operated mechanism that allows the bolt itself to be locked in a partially extended position, which can only be released by activating the key. There are also other types of locks in which this locking mechanism is activated by a separate, independent locking bolt. Generally, various types of locks exist, all of which, in at least one configuration, allow the bolt and latch to be retracted by the action of a handle or knob, thus disengaging the mechanical relocking and allowing the door leaf to be opened.The retraction of the latch bolt is generally achieved by means of a rotating control ratchet, connected to the handle (or knob) and functionally linked to the lock so that, by rotating, it moves the lock itself, retracting the latch bolt. The handle (or knob) is usually equipped with a return spring which, when the handle is lowered (or the knob is turned), retracts the latch bolt and opens the door leaf. Once the door is open, when the handle (or knob) is released, the spring causes the handle (or knob) to automatically return to its initial position. This movement, if not manually controlled by the user, causes [further action / sound / noise]. an impact of the handle (or button) at the end of its travel, with a consequent annoying noise and, in the long term, with possible deterioration of the mechanism.

[0003] To solve this problem, solutions are known in which a cam is associated with the handle pin outside the lock housing. When the handle is returned to its rest position by the spring, this cam interacts with a damping element also located outside the lock housing. This solution, illustrated for example in publication JP 2015 31070 A, requires additional space relative to the lock and is cumbersome. Furthermore, it is not optimized in terms of the number of components involved, requiring several components in addition to those of the lock itself. Description of the invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to remedy the disadvantages mentioned above by providing a lock with a device to dampen the return of the handle to its rest state, which makes it possible to minimize the spaces required for the lock-handle assembly, by limiting to a minimum the number of elements required.

[0005] These goals and others, which will become more evident upon reading the following description, are achieved, in accordance with the present invention, by a lock with a device for mitigating the return of the handle to its rest state having structural and functional characteristics in accordance with the annexed independent claims, other embodiments of the invention being identified in the annexed and corresponding dependent claims. Brief description of the drawings

[0006] The invention is explained in more detail below with the aid of the drawings, which represent a purely illustrative and non-limiting embodiment. - Figure 1 is a side view of a lock according to the invention, complete with a housing and a strike plate. The control ratchet and the linear damper are shown in the state corresponding to the rest position of the handle actuator (not shown). - Fig.1A illustrates a front view of the housing of Fig.1, cut along the section line AA of Fig.1. - Fig.1B represents an enlarged detail of the section of Fig.1A. - Fig. 2 is a side view of the case shown in Fig. 1 (with a (side surface removed to illustrate the interior, with a dotted rectangle indicating a detail), the lock in a partially extended position and the latch bolt extended from the housing. The control ratchet and linear damper are shown in the state corresponding to the rest position of the handle actuator (not shown). Figure [Fig. 2A] illustrates the detail of Figure [Fig. 2] duly enlarged. Figure 3 is a view of the housing of Figure 1 similar to that of Figure 2, with the lock in an intermediate position between the partially extended and retracted positions, where the latch bolt is only partially withdrawn from the housing. The control ratchet and linear damper are shown in a state corresponding to a handle actuator position (not shown) intermediate between the rest and active positions. Figure [Fig. 3A] illustrates the detail of Figure [Fig. 3] duly enlarged. Figure 4 is a view of the housing of Figure 1, similar to that of Figures 2 and 3, with the lock in its retracted position, in which the latch bolt is inside the housing. The control ratchet and linear damper are shown in a state corresponding to the active position of the handle actuator (not shown). Figure [Fig. 4A] illustrates the detail of Figure [Fig. 4] duly enlarged. Figure 5 illustrates the housing of Figure 1 in both a side view (similar to that of Figure 1) and a front view (similar to that of Figure 2), partially cut along the BB cutting line. The control ratchet and linear damper are shown in a state corresponding to the active position of the handle actuator (not shown). [Fig.5A] represents an enlarged detail of the section of [Fig.5] along line BB. Fig. 5B represents a detailed cross-section of the housing of Fig. 5 using the CC plane of Fig. 5 (cross-section plane also shown in the detail of Fig. 4A). Figure 6 is a view of the housing of Figure 1, similar to that of Figures 2 to 4, with the lock in its retracted position, in which the latch bolt is inside the housing. The control ratchet and linear damper are shown in a state corresponding to a handle actuator position (not shown) intermediate between the rest and active positions, specifically in this case when the handle actuator returns to its rest position after retracting the latch bolt. Figure [Fig. A] illustrates the detail of Figure [Fig. 6] duly enlarged. Figure 7 illustrates, in a view similar to that of Figure 1, a housing equipped with a different embodiment of the elements for the stop and the positioning of the linear damper within the housing. A detail is indicated by DI. Figure [Fig.7A] illustrates detail DI of [Fig.7]. Figure 8 illustrates the housing of Figure 7 in a view similar to that of Figure 2, highlighting the positioning of the linear damper and showing a detail of it. Figure [Fig. 8A] illustrates the detail of Figure [Fig. 8] duly enlarged. Figure 9 illustrates a detail of the section in plane DD of Figure 7 and Figure 8A. Figure 10 illustrates a detail of the section in plane FF of Figure 7 and Figure 8A. Fig. 11 illustrates a detail of the section in plane EE of Fig. 7 and Fig. 8A. Figure 12 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a linear damper used in the lock which is the subject of the invention. Figure 13 shows a side view of a lock according to the invention, complete with a housing and a strike plate or counter-housing, in which the housing has a recessed side surface to illustrate its interior and a dotted rectangle indicates a detail. The control ratchet and linear damper are shown in the state corresponding to the rest position of the handle actuator (not shown). The lock is in its partially extended position, and the latch bolt is extended from the housing. Figure 14 illustrates the detail of Figure 13, duly enlarged. Figure 14 also represents the detail illustrated in Figure 17, duly enlarged. Fig. 14A represents section CC of Fig. 14. Figure 15 shows the housing of Figure 13, with the lock in an intermediate position between the partially extended and retracted positions, where the lock is only partially drawn from the housing. The control ratchet and linear damper are shown in a state corresponding to a handle actuator position (not shown) intermediate between the rest and active positions. Figure [Fig. 15A] illustrates the detail of Figure [Fig. 15] duly enlarged. Fig. 15B represents section BB of Fig. 15A. Figure 16 is a view of the housing of Figure 13, similar to that of Figures 13 and 15, with the lock in its retracted position, in which the latch bolt is inside the housing. The control ratchet and linear damper are shown in a state corresponding to the active position of the handle actuator (not shown). [Fig. 10A] illustrates the detail of [Fig. 16] duly enlarged. Fig. lôB represents section AA of Fig. lôA. Fig. lôC represents section DD of Fig. lôA. - Fig. lôD represents section EE of Fig. lôA. - Fig. 17 is a view of the case of Fig. 13, with the lock in its retracted position, in which the latch bolt is inside the housing. The control ratchet and linear damper are shown in a state corresponding to the rest position of the handle actuator (not shown), when the handle actuator has already returned to its rest position after retracting the latch bolt. The detail highlighted inside the dotted rectangle in [Fig. 17] is illustrated in [Fig. 14]. Embodiments of the invention

[0007] With reference to the figures, a lock with a device for dampening the return of the handle to its rest position comprises a housing 1 which is situated in its plane of extension between two of its parallel faces 10a, 10b. These parallel faces 10a, 10b of the housing 1 are positioned at a predetermined distance from each other. The housing 1 can be inserted into a corresponding cutout in a door leaf with its two faces 10a, 10b parallel to the plane of extension of the door leaf. The door leaf and the cutout for the housing 1 are not shown in the figures.

[0008] The lock further comprises a bolt 2 equipped with a latch bolt 20 at one end. The bolt 2 is housed in the casing 1 and is movable between a first retracted position, in which the latch bolt 20 is in the casing 1, and a second partially extended position in which the latch bolt 20 is extended from the casing 1. The first retracted position of the bolt 2 is illustrated in particular in Figures 4, 5, 6, 14, 17. The second partially extended position of the bolt 2 is illustrated in particular in Figures 1, 2, 7, 8, 13. Figures 3, 15 show a position of the bolt 2 intermediate between the first retracted position and the second partially extended position.

[0009] The lock includes a strike plate or escutcheon 3 which can be inserted into a corresponding cutout in a door jamb or an additional door leaf. In the figures, the door jamb (or additional door leaf) and the corresponding cutout are not shown. The strike plate or escutcheon 3 is equipped with a seat 30 for the insertion of the latch bolt 20 when it is extracted from the housing 1. This insertion is obviously possible when the door leaf and the jamb (or additional door leaf) are positioned relative to each other such that, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 13, the housing 1 and the outer housing or escutcheon 3 are aligned with each other, with the bolt 2 (and the corresponding latch bolt 20) in front of the seat 30 of the outer housing or escutcheon 3.

[0010] The lock includes a control ratchet 4 housed inside the casing 1. The control ratchet 4 is equipped with a seat 40 for the insertion of a pin of a handle actuator. The handle actuator (not shown in the figures) could The control pawl 4 is housed inside the housing 1 and rotates about an axis of rotation RI that is perpendicular to the two faces 10a and 10b of the housing 1. When the handle actuator is mounted, this axis of rotation is shared by the control pawl 4 and the handle actuator spindle. The control pawl 4 can rotate relative to the housing 1 about the axis of rotation RI between a first rest position for the handle actuator and a second active position for the handle actuator. The first rest position for the handle actuator is illustrated in particular in Figures 1, 2, 2A, 7, 8, 13, 14, 14A, and 17.

[0011] The control pawl 4 is functionally coupled to the latch bolt 2. This functional coupling controls the movement of the bolt 2 between its first retracted position and its second partially extended position. This functional coupling also controls some or all of the possible modes of movement of the bolt 2 between its first retracted position and its second partially extended position. The coupling functionality between the control pawl 4 and the bolt 2 is generally defined and modified based on one or more lock configurations.In general, the lock can adopt one or more configurations, possibly by selectively activating said one or more configurations by means of respective devices (for example, a key selector or similar), or by automatic determination of the configuration following the mutual interaction of one or more elements within the lock itself. The coupling between the control ratchet 4 and the bolt 2 generally depends on the configurations that the lock can adopt.

[0012] A first variant of the lock can provide a coupling such that the bolt 2 is constantly held under the influence of the control pawl 4. A rotation of the control pawl 4 in a given direction always produces a corresponding movement of the bolt 2: a first direction of rotation brings the bolt 2 into a retracted position inside the housing 1, while a second direction of rotation, opposite to the first direction of rotation, brings the bolt 2 into a partially extended position from the housing 1 (and, consequently, engages the latch bolt 20 in the seat 30 of the strike plate or escutcheon 3). In this case, all configurations of the lock are such that the movement of the control pawl 4 from the first rest position to the second active position produces the retraction of the latch bolt 20 into the housing 1.In this type of lock, a stable locking of the door leaf by key lock (which prevents the door from being opened by simply turning the handle) can only occur with the help of an additional lock operated by the key.

[0013] A second variant of the lock can provide a coupling such that the lock 2 is under The influence of the control pawl 4 is limited to one of its two directions of rotation around the axis RI, specifically the direction it takes towards the retracted position within the housing 1, while a rotation of the control pawl 4 in the opposite direction leaves the latch 2 undisturbed. Therefore, in this second lock variant, there may exist conditions (or configurations) of the lock itself in which, once the latch 2 has been retracted the first time, further movements of the handle actuator do not cause further movement of the latch 2, which remains in its retracted position, unless the operation of other lock components intervenes. In this second variant, in fact, the lock typically includes means for resetting the latch 2 that return the latch 2 from the retracted position to the partially extended position and that are not necessarily activated by the handle actuator.A first type of resetting means includes an elastic return device (in particular a spring) acting on the bolt 2 to hold it in the partially extended position. In this case, by rotating the control pawl 4 around the axis RI in the direction that brings the bolt 2 from the second partially extended position to the first retracted position, the handle actuator is subjected to an elastic force that loads the elastic return device. Once the handle actuator is released by the user, the load acquired by the elastic return device returns the bolt 2 to the second partially extended position. A second type of resetting means operates as follows. The latch bolt 20 of the bolt 2 may include a magnet. An additional magnet is placed inside the seat 30 of the strike plate or strike plate 3.The polarities of the two magnets are such that, when the door leaf containing the housing 1 is aligned with the strike plate or escutcheon 3 located on the door jamb (or on the additional door leaf), the magnetic fields exert an attractive force on each other, causing the latch bolt 20 to be drawn out of the housing 1 and inserted into the seat 30 of the strike plate or escutcheon 3, thus triggering the subsequent re-engagement of the bolt 2. A compression spring 21 may be provided in the housing 1 which, when the bolt 2 is in its first retracted position, holds the bolt 2 itself in the same position. In particular, the compression spring 21 may be in a relaxed state when the bolt 2 is in its first retracted position and in a compressed state when the bolt 2 moves to its second partially retracted position.The force of the compression spring 21 can be calibrated such that only a certain intensity of magnetic attraction overcomes the resistance due to the compression of the spring 21 itself, allowing the lock 2 to be reset to the partially extended position. In this way, it is possible to reset the lock 2 only when the latch bolt is positioned in front of the seat. 30 in the counter-case or strike plate 3 (a condition in which the magnetic field of attraction between the magnet in the seat 30 and the magnet on the latch bolt 20 is of a higher intensity and therefore allows this resetting movement). The figures illustrate, purely by way of example and without limitation, this latter type of resetting device. In particular, in Figures 1, 2, 7, 8, 13, which illustrate the second partially extended position of the bolt 2, the compression spring 21 is shown in the compressed state, while in Figures 4, 5, 6, 16, 17, which illustrate the first retracted position of the bolt 2, the compression spring 21 is shown in the extended state.Figures 3, 15 illustrate an intermediate position of the lock 2, where the magnetic attraction between the magnet on the latch bolt 20 and the magnet in the counter-case or strike plate 3 extracts the latch bolt 20 itself from the case 1 and, consequently, the spring is in a partially compressed state.

[0014] The known modes of operational coupling between the control pawl 4 and the lock 2 in the various operating configurations of the different types of locks (in particular those briefly described above) are common knowledge to those skilled in the art. They may include various different technical solutions which lead, when using the lock, to the definition and possible selection of different configurations of the lock itself. These different solutions are within the grasp of those skilled in the art and are equivalent to the objective of the present invention.

[0015] For the purpose of the present invention, there must exist at least one condition (or configuration) of the lock in which the passage of the control ratchet 4 from the first rest position to the second active position produces the retraction of the latch bolt 20 into the housing 1, without excluding the possibility that more than one of these conditions or configurations may exist (up to, at most, the possibility of having a situation analogous to that of the first variant of the lock described above: in all the configurations or conditions of the lock, the passage of the control ratchet 4 from the first rest position to the second active position produces the retraction of the latch bolt 20 into the housing 1).In the lock, which is the subject of the invention, the control pawl 4 is functionally coupled to the bolt 2 such that, at least in a predetermined state of the lock, the movement of the control pawl 4 from the first rest position to the second active position causes the latch bolt 20 to retract into the housing 1. The movement from the first rest position to the second active position is counteracted by elastic return means 5, which act so that the control pawl 4 tends to return to the first rest position. The elastic return means 5 preferably comprise a spring generating a restoring torque around the axis of rotation RI of the control pawl 4. Preferably, said spring is a torsion spring acting on the control pawl 4. The torsion spring, in turn, comprises a first... end 50 opposite the walls of the housing 1 and a second end 51 opposite a portion of the control pawl 4. The movement of the latch 2 between the first retracted position and the second partially extended position takes place in the extension plane of the housing 1 and along a median axis SI thereof. The control pawl 4 is positioned next to the latch 2 between the median axis SI along which the latch 2 moves and a first lateral wall 1 of the housing 1 which extends parallel to the median axis SI and joins together a second 11b and a third 1 the lateral walls of the housing 1. The second lateral wall 11b of the housing 1 comprises a first face 10a of the two parallel faces 10a, 10b of the housing 1. The third lateral wall 1 the of the housing 1 comprises a second face 10b of the two parallel faces 10a, 10b of the housing 1.

[0016] The lock includes a linear damper 6 placed: - in the housing 1, said linear damper also being in the space near the lock 2 between the median axis SI along which the lock 2 moves and the first lateral wall 1 of the housing 1, or - inside housing 1 and fixed on control ratchet 4.

[0017] The linear damper 6 in turn comprises a first fixed part 6a and a second part 6b which can be moved linearly relative to the first fixed part 6a between a corresponding position of maximum length of the linear damper 6 and a corresponding position of minimum length of the linear damper 6.

[0018] A first part 6a which is fixed with respect to the walls 1la, 11b, 1le, 1Id of the housing 1 in a predetermined position inside the housing 1 itself (figures 1 to 11) corresponds to the linear damper 6 placed in the housing 1, said linear damper also being in the space next to the lock 2 between the median axis SI along which the lock 2 moves and the first lateral wall 1la of the housing 1.

[0019] A first fixed part 6a, fixed on the control ratchet 4 ([Fig. 13]), corresponds to the linear damper 6 placed inside the housing 1 and fixed on the control ratchet 4. The fixing of the linear damper 6 to the control ratchet 4 is obtained by means of the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 (figures 13 to 17).

[0020] The damping action of the linear damper 6 corresponds itself to the relative movement of the second mobile part 6b with respect to the first fixed part 6a in the first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length.

[0021] The linear damper 6 can exert its damping action when stretched, in which case the relative movement of the second movable part 6b with respect to the first fixed part 6a from the corresponding position of minimum length to that The maximum length corresponds to the damping action of the linear damper 6 itself. In this case, the first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length to which the damping action of the linear damper 6 itself corresponds is that of the elongation of the linear damper 6 itself.

[0022] The linear damper 6 can exert its damping action when shortened, in which case the relative movement of the second moving part 6b with respect to the first fixed part 6a from the position of maximum length to that of minimum length corresponds to the damping action of the linear damper 6 itself. In this case, the first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length corresponding to the damping action of the linear damper 6 itself is that of the shortening of the linear damper 6 itself.

[0023] Preferably, the relative movement of the second movable part 6b with respect to the first fixed part 6a in said first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length of the linear damper 6 is the relative movement of the second movable part 6b with respect to the first fixed part 6a from the corresponding position of maximum length to that of minimum length of the linear damper 6 itself (therefore, it is clearly the shortening movement of the linear damper 6). The figures represent by way of example, but not exclusively, an embodiment having this preferred feature.

[0024] The linear damper can be of the hydraulic or gas type. The relative movement of the second movable part 6b with respect to the first fixed part 6a is of the linear telescopic type. During the movement in the direction from the corresponding position of maximum length of the linear damper 6 to its position of minimum length, one of the two parts 6a, 6b can re-enter into the other 6b, 6a.

[0025] Reset means (for example, one or more springs) may be provided which, at the end of the damping action, spontaneously return the linear damper 6 to the configuration in which it can operate again. In particular, in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the reset means may be provided to return the two parts 6a, 6b of the linear damper 6 from the corresponding position of minimum length to that of maximum length. As schematically illustrated in [Fig. 12], the linear damper 6 may comprise a sleeve 61, inside which a piston 62 slides. The piston 62 is connected to a rod or stub 63 which slides in a slot in the sleeve 61. A stop head 64 may be provided at the end of the rod or rod 63 which is distal to the piston 62. The sleeve 61 can be the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6, while the piston 62 and the rod or stalk 63 (possibly with the thrust head 64 at the end of the rod or stalk 63) can be the second moving part 6b of the linear damper 6. The configuration of the linear damper 6 could, however, also be the reverse. In particular: - with the linear damper 6 placed in the housing 1, said linear damper also being in the space next to the lock 2 between the median axis SI along which the lock 2 moves and the first lateral wall 1la of the housing 1 (Figures 1 to 11), the rod or shaft 63 (optionally also by means of the stop head 64) could be fixed to one, or to several, of the walls 1a, 11b, 1le, 1Id of the housing 1, to represent the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6, while the sleeve 61 could be left movable (optionally in a guide) relative to said walls and, consequently, become the second movable part 6b of the linear damper 6. In this latter case, the part 65 of the sleeve 61 distal to the end of the rod or shaft 63 opposite the piston 62 can be configured as an additional stop head, - with the linear damper 6 placed inside the housing 1 and fixed on the control ratchet 4 (figures 13 to 17), the rod or shaft 63 (optionally also by means of the stop head 64) could be fixed on the control ratchet 4, to represent the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6, while the sleeve 61 could be left movable (optionally in a guide) relative to the control ratchet 4 and, consequently, become the second movable part 6b of the linear damper 6. In this latter case, the part 65 of the sleeve 61 distal to the end of the rod or shaft 63 opposite the piston 62 can be configured as an additional stop head.

[0026] In the figures, an embodiment in which the linear damper 6 has a sleeve representing its first fixed part 6a and a rod or spool (with a stop head) representing its second moving part 6b is explicitly illustrated (in the form of an illustrative, but not limiting, example).

[0027] With reference to Figures 1 to 11, a lever-type protrusion 41 is formed in one piece on the control pawl 4 which, during the rotational movement of the control pawl 4 from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means 5, is directly coupled to the second part 6b of the linear damper 6 determining its movement relative to the first fixed part 6a in said first of two directions between the corresponding position The weight of the maximum and minimum lengths, and consequently the damping action, has a mitigating effect on the movement of the control ratchet 4 and the corresponding handle actuator from the second active position to the first rest position. In this way, once the user has acted on the handle actuator and thus on the control ratchet 4, allowing the latter to move from the first rest position to the second active position by retracting the latch bolt 20 into the housing 1 together with the lock 2 and simultaneously loading the elastic return means 5, the user can release the handle actuator itself without fear of it producing a noisy and / or harmful impact while it returns (automatically, due to the action of the elastic return means 5) to the first rest position.During the rotation of the control pawl 4 around the rotation axis RI from the second active position to the first rest position of the handle actuator, a first section can be provided where the lever-type protrusion 41 of the control pawl 4 is temporarily decoupled from the second part 6b of the linear damper 6, in order to meet and couple with it during the movement. Advantageously, the lever-type protrusion 41 of the control pawl 4 remains directly coupled, at its end 42, to the second part 6b of the linear damper 6. In this way, it is also possible to avoid any slight noise due to contact between parts of the lever-type protrusion 41 and parts of the second part 6b of the linear damper 6.In the case where the first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length, to which corresponds the damping action of the linear damper 6 itself, is that of the elongation of the linear damper 6 itself, the direct coupling between the lever-type protrusion 41 and the second moving part 6b of the linear damper 6 determines a tensile action on the linear damper 6. The coupling in this case can be a grip between a free end of the lever-type protrusion 41 and a corresponding free end of the moving part 6b of the linear damper 6.In the case where the first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length which corresponds to the damping action of the linear damper 6 itself is that of the shortening of the linear damper 6 itself, the direct coupling between the lever-type protrusion 41 and the second moving part 6b of the linear damper 6 determines a compressive action on the linear damper 6. In this case, the coupling can be a stop or a contact between a free end of the lever-type protrusion 41 and a corresponding free end of the moving part 6b of the linear damper 6. In particular, the lever-type protrusion 41 during the rotational movement of the control pawl 4 from the second active position to the first rest position. Due to the action of the elastic return means 5, it comes into direct contact with the second part 6b of the linear damper 6, determining its movement relative to the first part 6a from the corresponding position of maximum length to that of minimum length, and consequently the damping action, with a damping effect on the passage of the control pawl 4 and the corresponding handle actuator from the second active position to the first rest position. Preferably, the lever-type protrusion 41 of the control pawl 4 has, at its free end 42, a rounded surface to approximate a shape that is at least cylindrical or spherical, to facilitate contact between said free end 42 and an end 60b of the second movable part 6b of the linear damper 6, which, in the position of maximum length of the linear damper 6, is distal relative to the first fixed part 6a thereof.For the sake of simplicity, the distal end 60b of the second movable part 6b of the linear damper 6, which, in the maximum length position of the linear damper 6, is distal to its first fixed part 6a, will now be referred to simply as the "distal end 60b of the second movable part 6b". Thanks to the shape of the end 42 of the lever-type protrusion 41, continuous and unobstructed contact between the free end 42 of the lever-type protrusion 41 and the distal end 60b of the second movable part 6b is facilitated. This occurs even when the linear damper 6 is fixed and positioned in a specific direction. In particular, the rotational movement of the control pawl 4 (and the corresponding lever-type protrusion 41) does not affect the distal end 60b of the second moving part 6b due to the curvature of the free end 42.In the embodiment illustrated by way of example in Figures 1 to 11, the free end 42 of the lever-type protrusion 41 is formed by a structure 43 of a suitable shape (for example: at least partially cylindrical or spherical in the part intended to contact the distal end 60b of the second movable part 6b). This structure 43 may be formed as a part on the lever-type protrusion 41, or by adding a relevant element, for example an insert. Again in the embodiment illustrated by way of example in figures 1 to 11, the distal end 60b of the second movable part 6b is the stop head 64 at the end of the rod or shaft 62 distal to the piston 62. Advantageously, the distal end 60b of the second movable part 6b can also be made with a rounded surface in contact with the free end 42 of the lever-type protrusion 41.

[0028] Figures 13 to 17 explicitly illustrate (by way of illustrative, but not limiting, example) an embodiment in which the linear damper 6 has a sleeve, representing its first fixed part 6a, and a rod or stalk (with a stop head), representing its second movable part 6b, with the first fixed part 6a fixed on the ratchet 4. With reference to said figures 13 to 17, during the rotational movement of the control ratchet 4 from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means 5, the second movable part 6b of the linear damper 6 couples directly to a predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with the housing 1 and internal thereto, determining its movement (of the second part 6b itself) relative to the first fixed part 6a in said first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length and consequently the damping action, with an attenuating effect on the passage of the control ratchet 4 and the corresponding handle actuator from the second active position to the first rest position.In this way, once it has acted on the handle actuator and therefore on the control ratchet 4, to allow the latter to move from the first rest position to the second active position by retracting the latch bolt 20 into the housing 1 together with the lock 2 and at the same time loading the elastic return means 5, the user can release the handle actuator itself without fear of it producing a noisy and / or harmful impact while it returns (automatically, due to the action of the elastic return means 5) to the first rest position.Again with reference to Figures 13 to 17, during the rotation of the control pawl 4 around the rotation axis RI from the second active position to the first rest position of the handle actuator, a first section can be provided where the second moving part 6b of the linear damper 6 is temporarily decoupled from the predetermined part 9 of the lock, which is integral with and internal to the housing 1, in order to meet and couple with it during the movement. Advantageously, the second moving part 6b of the linear damper 6 remains directly coupled, with one end (distal to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6) to the predetermined part 9 of the lock, which is integral with and internal to the housing 1.In this way, it is also possible to avoid any slight noise due to contact between parts of the end of the second moving part 6b (distal to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6) and the predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1. Again, with reference to Figures 13 to 17, in the case where the first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length corresponding to the damping action of the linear damper 6 itself is that of the elongation of the linear damper 6 itself, the direct coupling between the end of the second moving part 6b (distal to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6) and the predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1 determines a tensile action on . the linear damper 6. In this case, the coupling can be a connection between a free end of the second moving part 6b (distal to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6) and a corresponding free end formed on the predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1. In the case where the first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length corresponding to the damping action of the linear damper 6 itself is that of the shortening of the linear damper 6 itself, the direct coupling between the end of the second moving part 6b (distal to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6) and the predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1 determines a compressive action on the linear damper 6.In this case, the coupling can be a stop or a contact between a free end of the second moving part 6b (distal to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6) and a corresponding free end made on said predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with the housing 1 and internal to it.In particular, the second moving part 6b of the linear damper 6, during the rotational movement of the control pawl 4 from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means 5, comes into direct contact with said predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with the housing 1 and internal thereto, determining its movement (of the second part 6b itself) relative to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 from the corresponding position of maximum length to that of minimum length and consequently the damping action, with a damping effect on the passage of the control pawl 4 and the corresponding handle actuator from the second active position to the first rest position.Again with reference to Figures 13 to 17, preferably, the second moving part 6b of the linear damper 6, during the rotational movement of the control pawl 4 from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means 5, remains directly coupled, with its distal end relative to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6, to the predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1. In this way, it is also possible to avoid any slight noise due to contact between parts of the end of the second moving part 6b (distal relative to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6) and the predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1.Again with reference to Figures 13 to 17, preferably the end of the second movable part 6b of the linear damper 6, which is distal to the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 itself, has a rounded surface to approximate a shape that is at least cylindrical or spherical, to facilitate the . contact between said free end and said predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1. Again with reference to Figures 13 to 17 (and always meaning that said end of the second movable part 6b of the linear damper 6, which – particularly in the maximum length position of the linear damper 6 – is distal to the first fixed part 6a thereof, will simply be referred to as the “distal end of the second movable part 6b”), thanks to the shape of the distal end of the second movable part 6b, permanent and unblocking contact between said distal end of the second movable part 6b and said predetermined part 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1 is facilitated. This occurs even when the linear damper 6 is fixed and positioned in a certain direction.In particular, the rotational movement of the control pawl 4 (and, consequently, of the distal end of the second moving part 6b) does not affect the predetermined portion 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1, thanks to the curvature of the distal end of the second moving part 6b. The distal end of the second moving part 6b is formed by a suitable shape (for example, at least partially cylindrical or spherical in the portion intended to contact the predetermined portion 9 of the lock integral with and internal to the housing 1). This shape can be formed as a part on the distal end of the second moving part 6b, or by adding a suitable element, for example, an insert.Again in the embodiment illustrated by way of example in figures 13 to 17, the distal end of the second movable part 6b is the stop head 64 at the end of the rod or shaft 62 distal to the piston 62.

[0029] With reference to Figures 1 to 17, the lock preferably comprises a selective coupler 7 for the control pawl 4 and the bolt 2. This selective coupler 7 represents a particular mode for the operational coupling between the control pawl 4 and the bolt 2. The selective coupler 7 has a first configuration in which the movement of the control pawl 4 from the first rest position to the second active position causes the latch bolt 20 to retract into the housing 1, and a second configuration in which this movement has no influence on the position of the latch bolt 20. The movement of the selective coupler 7 from the first to the second configuration, and vice versa, is implemented by a key selector (not shown). In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the selective coupler 7 is in the form of a movable slide guided within the housing 1.The selective coupler 7 is movable back and forth along a first predetermined axis between a first position where the selective coupler 7 is in the first configuration and a second position, opposite to the first, where the selective coupler 7 is in the second configuration. The . The switching of the selective coupler 7 from its first to its second position and vice versa is implemented by the key selector (not shown) when it produces the corresponding switch from the first configuration of the selective coupler 7 to the second configuration and, respectively, vice versa. In its second position (corresponding to its second configuration), the selective coupler 7 has no part that could interfere with the moving parts of the control pawl 4, in particular with a branch 44 of the latter intended to abut against the selective coupler 7 itself. This condition is not illustrated in the figures. In its first position (corresponding to its first configuration), the selective coupler 7 can abut against its stop surface by the branch 44 of the control pawl 4, which rotates around the axis of rotation RI in its movement from the first rest position to the second active position.This condition is illustrated in the figures. When the stop is reached by the branch 44 and with the continuation of the movement from the first rest position to the second active position of the control ratchet 4 which rotates around the axis of rotation RI, the selective coupler 7 is moved to its third position, different from the first two and in the movement towards which its coupling (for example with inclined planes) with the lock 2 produces the retraction of the latch bolt 20 into the housing 1.

[0030] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 11, in which the linear damper 6 is stably associated with the internal walls of the housing 1 in a predetermined position defined inside the housing 1 itself, the housing 1 includes elements for the stop and positioning of the linear damper 6 to determine said stable association with the internal walls of the housing 1. Preferably, these stop and positioning elements are defined by sheet portions of predetermined thickness obtained by cutting and / or bending and / or shaping portions of the walls of the housing 1.

[0031] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 13 to 17, in which the linear damper 6 is fixed to the control pawl 4, said predetermined portion 9 of the lock integral with the housing 1 comprises at least one stop element 90 of the second movable part 6b of the linear damper 6. Preferably, this at least one stop element 90 is defined by sheet portions of predetermined thickness obtained by cutting and / or bending and / or shaping portions of the walls of the housing 1. The predetermined portion 9 of the lock integral with the housing 1 may comprise, if desirable or necessary for interaction with a specific shape of the end of the movable part 6b distal to the fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6, a plurality of stop elements 90.Additional 90 stop elements can also be defined by parts of sheet of predetermined thickness obtained by cutting and / or bending and / or shaping parts of the walls. of case 1.

[0032] In general, with reference to all the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 17, the housing 1 can be made of sheet metal from which these sheet portions can be easily obtained. The housing 1 can be made of two half-shells, one of which comprises the first face 10a of the housing 1 and the other comprises the second face 10b of the housing 1. Side walls of the housing 1 corresponding to its thickness between faces 10a and 10b can be obtained on one or both of the two half-shells. In the latter case, these side walls of the housing 1 corresponding to its thickness between faces 10a and 10b can be obtained by overlapping and / or juxtaposing their portions which are supported by each of the two half-shells.

[0033] The housing 1 includes a fourth side wall 1 Id perpendicular to the first side wall 1 of the housing 1 and also assembling together said second 11b and said third 11c side walls of the housing 1.

[0034] With specific reference to the embodiments illustrated in Figures 13 to 17, in which the linear damper 6 is fixed to the control pawl 4, the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 is housed in a seat 41 formed on one side of the control pawl 4. This seat 41 can, for example, be a partially open (or semi-cylindrical) cylindrical seat for the insertion of the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6. Preferably, the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 in turn has a cylindrical part that can be inserted into the seat 41. In the embodiment of the linear damper 6 shown in particular in [Fig. 12], when said first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 is the sleeve 61, said cylindrical part that can be inserted into the seat 41 is the sleeve 61 itself. In the embodiment of the linear damper 6 shown in particular in the [Fig.

[12] , where said first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 is the end of the rod or shaft 63 of the piston 62 distal to the piston 62 itself, said cylindrical part may be a cylindrical enlargement of the same end of the rod or shaft 63 of the piston 62 distal to the piston 62 itself. Advantageously (to minimize or prevent any slippage or movement of the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 relative to the control pawl 4 on which it is fixed), a ring 42 is arranged on the control pawl 4 to retain the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6.

[0035] With specific reference to figures 13 to 17, in one embodiment of the stop element 90 (specifically illustrated in figures 14, 14A, 15, 15A, 15B, 16, 16B), said stop element 90 comprises a first part of sheet 110c of the third side wall 1 cut out and folded towards the inside of the housing 1.

[0036] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 11, in which The linear damper 6 is stably attached to the internal walls of the housing 1 in a predetermined position defined within the housing 1 itself. These stop and positioning elements comprise a first portion of a sheet 1lOd of the fourth lateral wall 1Id, which projects from the latter into the interior of the housing 1, providing support for the first fixed portion 6a of the linear damper 6 and defining the spatial orientation of a lengthening-shortening line L of the linear damper 6 (see in particular Figures 2, 2A, 3, 3A, 4, 4A, 6, 6A, 8, 8A). The spatial orientation of the lengthening-shortening line L of the linear damper 6 can be horizontal or inclined.In particular, in the latter case, the first part of the sheet 1 lOd of the fourth side wall 1 Id protrudes from it into the inside of the inclined plane housing 1, providing support for the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 and defining a predetermined inclination of the lengthening-shortening line L of the linear damper 6.

[0037] In a first embodiment of the stop and positioning elements (illustrated in Figures IB, 2, 2A, 3, 3A, 4, 4A, 5, 5A, 5B, 6, 6A), said first part of sheet 1 lOd of the fourth side wall 1 Id has a free edge 11 Id from which a curved protrusion 112d protrudes, at least partially enveloping the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 and holding the latter against the third side wall 1 le of the housing 1 to which the second face 10b of the housing 1 belongs.

[0038] In a second embodiment of the stop and positioning elements (specifically illustrated in Figures 7, 7A, 8, 8A, 9, 10, 11), said stop and positioning elements also include a first sheet portion 110c of the third side wall 1 cut out and bent inwards into the housing 1 on the opposite side of the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 relative to the first sheet portion 110d of the fourth side wall 11d and holding the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 against said first sheet portion 110d of the fourth side wall 11d (the first sheet portion 110d, in this case, does not provide the curved protrusion 112d of the embodiment described previously).Again, as illustrated in Figures 7, 7A, 8, 8A, 9, 10, 11, said stop and positioning elements also include a first part of sheet 110b of the second side wall 11b cut and folded inwards towards the housing 1 to butt, in particular with its free edge 111b, against the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 on the opposite side of the third side wall 1 of the housing 1 and to hold the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 against said third side wall 1 of the housing 1. Again, for the embodiment illustrated in Figures 7, 7A, 8, 8A, 9, 10, 11, preferably, in addition, the linear damper 6 is placed in the housing 1 at the junction between the first wall. lateral 1 of the housing 1 and the fourth lateral wall 1 Id of the housing 1, perpendicular to it and also assembling together said second 11b and said third 11c lateral walls of the housing 1. In this case, in addition, said stop and positioning elements also include a second part of sheet 111c of the third lateral wall 1 the cut and folded towards the inside of the housing 1 to form a projection of the first fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 on the opposite side of said fixed part 6a of the linear damper 6 with respect to the junction between the first lateral wall 1 of the housing 1 and the fourth lateral wall 1 Id of the housing 1, preferably by making it butt against the internal walls of the housing 1 at said junction.

[0039] Even in general, in the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 11, in which the linear damper 6 is stably associated with internal walls of the housing 1 in a predetermined and defined position inside the housing 1 itself, regardless of the method and conditions of positioning the linear damper 6 in the housing 1 (in particular the blocking of its first fixed part 6a), the linear damper 6 can be placed in the housing 1 at Injunction between the first side wall 1a of the housing 1 and the fourth side wall 1d of the housing 1, perpendicular to the latter and also assembling together said second 11b and said third 11c side walls of the housing 1.

[0040] Generally, and preferably, the fourth lateral wall 1 Id is the one distal to the latch bolt 20. The proximal position of the latch bolt could also be chosen. In the figures and embodiments illustrated by way of example, the housing 1 comprises: - the second side wall 11b and the third side wall 1 le which form the wide sides of the case 1 (and include the faces 10a, 10b of the latter), - the first side wall 1 la, the fourth side wall 1 Id, a fifth side wall 1 le, opposite the first 1 la, and a sixth side wall 1 If, opposite the fourth 1 Id, which together contribute to forming the thickness of the case 1 between the two faces 10a, 10b.

[0041] When, as in the figures, the fourth side wall 1 Id is distal to the latch bolt 20, the sixth side wall 1 If is proximal to the latch bolt and provides a through hole for the passage of the latch bolt 20. The fourth side wall 1 Id and the sixth side wall 1 If are connected to each other at their ends respectively by the first side wall 1 la and the fifth side wall 1 le, to form a lateral perimeter of the housing 1 which surrounds the two faces 10a, 10b. On the sixth side wall 1 If, frontally and towards the counter-housing or strike plate 3, a cover element 12 of the sixth side wall 1 If can be provided, also equipped with a respective through hole for the passage of the latch bolt 20.

[0042] On the front part of the counter-case or strike plate 3, facing the case 1, a respective cover element 31 can be provided, equipped with a respective through hole allowing the latch bolt 20 to enter the seat 30 of the counter-case or strike plate 3.

[0043] The invention has important advantages. The space required for the functional components of the door is reduced compared to the prior art, making it possible at the same time to reduce the number of components required for the movement of the handle actuator, by integrating them into elements that are already placed inside the lock housing and not outside.

[0044] The invention thus conceived is susceptible to numerous modifications and variations, all of which are within the scope of the inventive concept which characterizes it.

Claims

1. Claims Lock with a device for mitigating the return of a handle to its rest state, comprising: - a housing (1) which is established in its extension plane between two of its parallel faces (10a, 10b) placed at a predetermined distance from each other and can be inserted into a corresponding cutout obtained in a door leaf with its two faces (10a, 10b) parallel to the extension plane of the door leaf, - a lock (2) equipped with a latch bolt (20) at one end and housed in the housing (1) movable between a first retracted position, in which the latch bolt (20) is in the housing (1), and a second partially extracted position in which the latch bolt (20) is extracted from the housing (1), - a counter-case or strike plate (3) which can be inserted into a corresponding cutout made in a door jamb or in an additional door leaf and equipped with a seat (30) for inserting the latch bolt (20) when the latter is extracted from the case (1), - a control pawl (4) equipped with a seat (40) for the insertion of a pin of a handle actuator and housed inside the housing (1) in rotation about an axis of rotation (RI) perpendicular to the two faces (10a, 10b) of the housing (1) and which, when the handle actuator is mounted, is an axis of rotation shared by the control pawl (4) and the pin of the handle actuator, the control pawl (4) being capable of rotating relative to the housing (1) about the axis of rotation (RI) between a first rest position for the handle actuator and a second active position for the handle actuator, the path from the first rest position to the second active position taking place against the action of elastic return means (5) acting so that the control pawl (4) tends to be returned to the first rest position, the control pawl (4) being functionally coupled to the lock (2) such that, at least in a predetermined state of the lock, the passage of the control pawl (4) from the first rest position to the second active position produces the retraction of the latch bolt (20) into the housing (1), the lock being characterized in that, in combination: - the movement of the lock (2) between the first retracted position and the second partially extracted position takes place in the extension plane of the housing (1) and along a median axis (SI) thereof, - the control pawl (4) is placed next to the lock (2) between the median axis (SI) along which the lock (2) moves and a first side wall (11a) of the housing (1) which extends parallel to the median axis (SI) and assembles together a second (11b) and a third (11c) side walls of the housing (1), the second side wall (11b) of the housing (1) comprising a first face (10a) of the two parallel faces (10a, 10b) of the housing (1), the third side wall (11c) of the housing (1) comprising a second face (10b) of the two parallel faces (10a, 10b) of the housing (1), - the lock comprises a linear damper (6) placed inside the housing (1) and comprising a first fixed part (6a) and a second part (6b) movable linearly relative to the first fixed part (6a) between a corresponding position of maximum length of the linear damper (6) and a corresponding position of minimum length of the linear damper (6), with the relative movement of the second part (6b) movable relative to the first fixed part (6a) in a first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length corresponding to the damping action of the linear damper (6) itself, the linear damper (6): - being placed in the housing (1), said linear damper also being in the space next to the lock (2) between the median axis (SI) along which the lock (2) moves and the first side wall (11a) of the housing (1), the first part fixed (6a) being fixed relative to the walls (11a, 11b, 11e, 11d) of the housing (1) in a predetermined position inside the housing (1) itself, a lever-like protrusion (41) being obtained as a part on the control pawl (4) which, during the rotational movement of the control pawl (4) from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means (5), couples directly to the second part (6b) of the linear damper (6), determining its movement relative to the first fixed part (6a) in said first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length and consequently the damping action, with an attenuating effect on the passage of the control pawl (4) and the corresponding handle actuator from the second active position to the first rest position,or having the first fixed part (6a) fixed on the control pawl (4), during the rotational movement of the control pawl (4) from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means (5), the second movable part (6b) of the linear damper (6) coupling directly with a predetermined part (9) of the lock secured to the housing (1) and internal to it, determining its movement relative to the first fixed part (6a) in said first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length and consequently the damping action, with an attenuation effect on the passage of the control pawl (4) and the corresponding handle actuator from the second active position to the first rest position.,

2. Lock according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a selective coupler (7) of the control pawl (4) to the lock (2), having a first configuration in which the passage of the control pawl (4) from the first rest position to the second active position produces the retraction of the latch bolt (20) in the housing (1) and a second configuration in which said passage has no influence on the position of the latch bolt (20).

3. Lock according to claim 2, characterized in that the transition of the selective coupler (7) from the first to the second configuration, and vice versa, is implemented by a key selector.

4. Lock according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the elastic return means (5) comprise a spring, in particular a torsion spring generating a return torque around the axis of rotation (RI) of the control pawl (4).

5. Lock according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the relative movement of the second movable part (6b) with respect to the first fixed part (6a) in said first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length of the linear damper (6) is the relative movement of the second movable part (6b) with respect to the first fixed part (6a) from the corresponding position of maximum length to that of minimum length of the linear damper (6) itself.

6. Lock according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the linear damper (6): - is placed in the housing (1), said linear damper also being in the space next to the lock (2) between the median axis (SI) along which the lock (2) moves and the first side wall (11a) of the housing (1), the first fixed part (6a) being fixed relative to the walls (11a, 11b, 11e, 11d) of the housing (1) in a predetermined position inside the housing (1) itself, a lever-like protrusion (41) being obtained as a part on the control pawl (4) which, during the rotational movement of the control pawl (4) from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means (5), couples directly to the second part (6b) of the linear damper (6),determining its movement relative to the first fixed part (6a) in said first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length and consequently the damping action, with an attenuation effect on the passage of the control pawl (4) and the corresponding handle actuator from the second active position to the, first rest position, - is stably associated with the internal walls of the housing (1) in a predetermined position defined inside the housing (1) itself.

7. Lock according to claim 6, characterized in that the housing (1) comprises elements for the stop and positioning of the linear damper (6) to determine said stable association with the internal walls of the housing (1).

8. Lock according to claim 7, characterized in that these stop and positioning elements are defined by parts of sheet of predetermined thickness obtained by cutting and / or folding and / or shaping parts of the walls of the housing (1).

9. Lock according to claim 8, characterized in that: - the housing (1) comprises a fourth side wall (11d) perpendicular to the first side wall (11a) of the housing (1) and also joining together said second (11b) and said third (11c) side walls of the housing (1), - said stop and positioning elements comprise a first sheet portion (110d) of the fourth side wall (11d) which projects therefrom towards the inside of the housing (1) providing support to the first fixed part (6a) of the linear damper (6) and defining the orientation in a space of a line (L) of elongation-shortening of the linear damper (6), said first sheet portion (110d) of the fourth side wall (11d) having a free edge (111d) from which a curved protrusion (112d) projects,at least partially enveloping the first fixed part (6a) of the linear damper (6) and holding the latter against the third side wall (11e) of the housing (1) to which the second face (10b) of the housing (1) belongs.,

10. Lock according to claim 8, characterized in that: - the housing (1) comprises a fourth side wall (lld) perpendicular to the first side wall (11a) of the housing (1) and also assembling together said second (11b) and said third (11c) side walls of the housing (1), - said stop and positioning elements comprise a first sheet portion (110d) of the fourth side wall (11d) which projects therefrom towards the inside of the housing (1) providing support to the first fixed part (6a) of the linear damper (6) and defining the orientation in a space of a line (L) of elongation-shortening of the linear damper (6), - said stop and positioning elements also comprise a first sheet portion (110c) of the third side wall (11c) cut and folded towards the inside of the housing (1) on the opposite side of the first fixed part (6a) of the linear damper (6) with respect to the first sheet portion (110d) of the fourth side wall (11d) and holding the first fixed part (6a) of the linear damper (6) against said first sheet portion (110d) of the fourth side wall (lld).

11. Lock according to claim 10, characterized in that said stop and positioning elements further comprise: - a first sheet portion (110b) of the second side wall (11b) cut and folded towards the inside of the housing (1) to abut, in particular with its free edge (111b), against the first fixed portion (6a) of the linear damper (6) on the opposite side of the third side wall (11c) of the housing (1) and to hold the first fixed portion (6a) of the linear damper (6) against said third side wall (11c) of the housing (1).

12. Lock according to claim 11, characterized in that: - the linear damper (6) is placed in the housing (1) at the junction between the first side wall (11a) of the housing (1) and a fourth side wall (11d) of the housing (1) perpendicular thereto and also assembling together said second (11b) and said third (11c) side walls of the housing (1), - said stop and positioning elements also comprise a second sheet portion (111c) of the third side wall (11c) cut and folded towards the inside of the housing (1) to form a stop projection of the first fixed portion (6a) of the linear damper (6) on the opposite side of said fixed portion (6a) of the linear damper (6) with respect to the junction between the first side wall (11a) of the housing (1) and the fourth side wall (11d) of the housing (1) preferably sending it into abutment against the internal walls of the housing (1) in correspondence with said junction.

13. Lock according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the first sheet portion (1 lOd) of the fourth side wall (1 Id) projects therefrom towards the inside of the housing (1) at an inclined plane, providing support to the first fixed portion (6a) of the linear damper (6) and defining a predetermined inclination of the line (L) of elongation-shortening of the linear damper (6).

14. Lock according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that: - the lever-like protrusion (41) during the rotational movement of the control pawl (4) from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means (5), comes directly into contact with the second part (6b) of the linear damper (6), determining its movement relative to the first fixed part (6a) in said first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length, - the lever-like protrusion (41) of the control pawl (4) has, at its free end (42), a rounded surface to approximate a shape which is at least cylindrical or spherical, to facilitate contact between said free end (42) and an end (60b) of the second movable part (6b) of the linear damper (6) which, in the maximum length position of the linear damper (6), is distal with respect to the first fixed part (6a) thereof.

15. Lock according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the lever-type protrusion (41) of the control pawl (4) always remains directly coupled, with its end (42), to the second part (6b) of the linear damper (6).

16. Lock according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the linear damper (6) is placed in the housing (1) at the junction between the first side wall (11a) of the housing (1) and a fourth side wall (11d) of the housing (1) perpendicular thereto and also assembling together said second (11b) and said third (11c) side walls of the housing (1).

17. Lock according to claim 16, characterized in that the fourth side wall (1 Id) is distal to the latch bolt (20).

18. Lock according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: - the linear damper (6) has the first fixed part (6a) fixed on the control pawl (4), during the rotational movement of the control pawl (4) from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means (5), the second movable part (6b) of the linear damper (6) coupling directly with a predetermined part (9) of the lock integral with the housing (1) and internal to it, determining its movement relative to the first fixed part (6a) in said first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length and consequently the damping action, with an attenuation effect on the passage of the control pawl (4) and the corresponding handle actuator from the second active position to the first rest position,- the second movable part (6b) of the linear damper (6) during the rotational movement of the control pawl (4) from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means (5), comes directly into contact with said predetermined part (9) of the lock secured to the housing (1) and internal to it, determining its movement relative to the first fixed part (6a) in, said first of two directions between the corresponding position of maximum length and that of minimum length.

19. Lock according to claim 18, characterized in that the second movable part (6b) of the linear damper (6) during the rotational movement of the control pawl (4) from the second active position to the first rest position due to the action of the elastic return means (5), always remains directly coupled, with a distal end relative to the first fixed part (6a) of the linear damper (6), to said predetermined part (9) of the lock secured to the housing (1) and internal to it.

20. Lock according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that the second movable part (6b) of the linear damper (6) has, at a free end distal to the first fixed part (6a) of the linear damper (6), a rounded surface to approach a shape at least cylindrical or spherical, to facilitate contact between said free end and said predetermined part (9) of the lock secured to the housing (1) and internal to it.

21. Lock according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that the first fixed part (6a) of the linear damper (6) is housed in a seat (41) obtained on one side of the control pawl (4).

22. Lock according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that a ring (42) is provided on the control pawl (4) to retain the first fixed part (6a) of the linear damper (6).

23. Lock according to any one of claims 18 to 22, characterized in that said predetermined part (9) of the lock secured to the housing (1) comprises at least one stop element (90) of the second movable part (6b) of the linear damper (6).

24. Lock according to claim 23, characterized in that this at least one stop element (90) is defined by parts of sheet of predetermined thickness obtained by cutting and / or folding and / or shaping parts of the walls of the housing (1).

25. Lock according to claim 24, characterized in that said stop element (90) also comprises a first sheet portion (110c) of the third side wall (11c) cut and folded towards the inside of the housing (1).

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