Latch assembly and access member system

Abstract

The latch assembly (10a, 10b) comprises a base structure (12), an elongated latch slider (14a, 14b) including a slider mechanism (62a, 62b) and slidable between a free position (18) and a latched position (40), an electromechanical actuator (72), and a locking device (26) including locking elements (74a, 74b) movable by the actuator between an unlocked position (92) and a locked position (96) for engaging the slider mechanism to prevent movement of the latch slider from the latched position to the free position, the locking device further comprising a drive mechanism (76) driven by the actuator, the locking element comprising a driven mechanism (86) arranged to contact and be driven by the drive mechanism, and a base clearance (98) between the locking element and the base structure is less than a drive clearance (104) between the drive mechanism and the driven mechanism.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to latch assemblies. More particularly, a latch assembly is provided that includes an elongated latch slider and a locking device for locking the latch slider. [Background technology]

[0002] Latch assemblies are often used to keep different types of doors locked. The latch assembly includes a base structure and a latch slider that can extend from the base structure for sliding movement. A grip is typically used to manually slide the latch slider between a free (unlatched) position and a latched position. The latch assembly may further include an electronic locking device to lock the latch slider in the latched position.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 1,512,498, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, discloses a latch assembly including a main latch, an elongated latch slider including a protruding lug, a motor, and a head. The latch slider is provided with a protruding lug that engages with the head when the head is in a locked position. By rotating the head to an unlocked position, the protruding lug of the latch slider can pass by the head to allow the latch slider to slide to a position where it is no longer received in the door frame opening. Summary of the Invention

[0004] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved latch assembly.

[0005] It is a further object of the present invention to provide an improved access member system that includes a latch assembly.

[0006] These objects are achieved by a latch assembly as set forth in the accompanying claims 1, 7, 12, 15, 19 and 23, and by an access member system as set forth in the accompanying claim 32.

[0007] The present invention is based on the recognition that by limiting the movement of the locking element relative to a base structure within the latch assembly and providing play between the driving mechanism and the driven mechanism upstream of the locking element, the risk of an impact on the latch slider damaging the actuator can be reduced or eliminated.

[0008] The present invention is further based on the recognition that by providing a latch assembly with a locking element for locking the latch slider in a latched position by cooperation between a locking element side and a stop surface of a slider mechanism on the latch slider, and by providing an angle between the locking element side and the stop surface, the risk of jamming of the locking element can be reduced.

[0009] The present invention is further based on the recognition that by providing a latch assembly with a locking device for locking the latch slider in a latched position, and by providing a latch hole in the latch slider and a base hole in the base structure, redundant locking functionality is possible, for example, so that the latch slider can be locked by passing the shackle of a padlock through the latch hole and base hole.

[0010] The present invention is further based on the recognition that by providing a latch assembly having a locking device including a locking element that contacts an upper surface of the latch slider in the locked position, the time it takes for the locking element to move from the unlocked position to the locked position can be used as an indication of the position of the locking element in place of a dedicated sensor.

[0011] The present invention is further based on the recognition that the safety of the latch assembly is improved by providing a latch assembly having a latch slider with an opening for engagement by a slider mechanism of the latch slider, through which a protective element of the base structure extends, and by protecting the locking element.

[0012] The present invention is further based on the recognition that by providing a latch assembly with a rotatable locking element that is rotatably supported on one side by an actuator and on the opposite side by a support structure, the latch assembly will be made more robust.

[0013] According to a first aspect, there is provided a latch assembly comprising: a base structure; an elongated latch slider including a slider mechanism and slidable relative to the base structure along a latch axis between a free position and a latched position; an electromechanical actuator and a locking device including a locking element movable by the actuator between an unlocked position where the locking element allows movement of the latch slider between the free position and the latched position and a locked position where the locking element engages with the slider mechanism to prevent movement of the latch slider from the latched position to the free position; the locking device further comprising a drive mechanism driven by the actuator; the locking element comprising a driven mechanism arranged to contact and be driven by the drive mechanism; and a base clearance between the locking element and the base structure is smaller than a drive clearance between the drive mechanism and the driven mechanism.

[0014] When the latch slider is in the latched position and the locking element is in the locked position, the slider mechanism may be forced into contact with the locking element when the latch slider is pushed from the latched position toward the free position. Therefore, the locking element may be referred to as a blocker. When the latch slider is in the latched position, the locking element may be located between the actuator and the slider mechanism along the latch axis.

[0015] If the latch assembly is tampered with by applying force to the latch slider, the slider mechanism may be forced into contact with the locking element. However, because the base clearance is smaller than the drive clearance, any forces applied to the latch slider are absorbed by the base structure, which stops the locking element, before these forces are transmitted to the actuator by the locking element. Therefore, the design of the latch assembly prevents shock loads (forces and torques) applied to the latch slider from damaging the actuator. As used herein, clearance may be defined as the maximum distance between adjacent surfaces of mating parts.

[0016] The base structure may include a main latch. Alternatively or additionally, the base structure may include a first guide member and a second guide member. In this case, the locking element may be located between the first guide member and the second guide member, for example, in a direction parallel to the latch axis.

[0017] The locking element may be made from a metal, such as steel, or from reinforced plastic.Alternatively or additionally, at least the first and second guide members may be made from a metal, such as steel, or from reinforced plastic.

[0018] The slider mechanism can be a protrusion, such as a protruding tab, that projects upward from the top surface of the latch slider.

[0019] The base clearance may be substantially parallel to the latch axis or parallel to the latch axis.

[0020] The locking element may be rotatable about the actuator axis, and the drive clearance may be a circumferential clearance relative to the actuator axis.

[0021] The actuator axis may be substantially parallel to the latch axis or may be parallel to the latch axis.

[0022] The locking element may be rotatable about the actuator axis.

[0023] According to a second aspect, there is provided a latch assembly comprising: a base structure; an elongated latch slider including a slider mechanism and slidable relative to the base structure along a latch axis between a free position and a latched position; an electromechanical actuator and a locking device including a locking element movable by the actuator between an unlocked position where the locking element allows movement of the latch slider between the free position and the latched position and a locked position where the locking element engages with the slider mechanism to prevent movement of the latch slider from the latched position to the free position; the slider mechanism comprising a stop surface; and the locking element comprising a locking element side surface that faces the stop surface when the latch slider is in the latched position and the locking element is in the locked position, the locking element side surface and the stop surface being inclined relative to each other.

[0024] If the locking element side surface and the stop surface were parallel and in contact with each other, the frictional force resisting movement of the locking element would be relatively high. Instead, by providing an angle between the locking element side surface and the stop surface, the frictional force resisting movement of the locking element can be significantly reduced. This allows the locking element to move from the locked position to the unlocked position even when a force is applied to the latch slider toward the free position so that the stop surface is pressed against the locking element side surface. This reduces the risk of actuator jamming due to friction. As a further advantage, the rating of the locking device, such as its power output or size, can be reduced.

[0025] The locking element side and the stop surface can each be flat. The latch assembly can provide, for example, a point contact or a line contact between the locking element side and the stop surface. For example, a corner of the locking element side can contact the stop surface (or vice versa) to provide a point contact, or an edge of the locking element side can contact the stop surface (or vice versa) to provide a line contact.

[0026] The locking element side and stop surface may form a V-shape. The V-shape may face outward from the actuator, for example, outward from the actuator axis.

[0027] The locking element side can be perpendicular to the latch axis, in which case the stop surface can be non-perpendicular to the latch axis. Alternatively, the stop surface can be perpendicular to the latch axis, in which case the locking element side can be non-perpendicular to the latch axis.

[0028] The locking element side surface and the stop surface may for example be inclined at least 2° and / or less than 20°, such as at least 3° and / or less than 10°, for example 5°, relative to one another.

[0029] According to a third aspect, there is provided a latch assembly comprising: a base structure; an elongated latch slider including a slider mechanism and slidable relative to the base structure along a latch axis between a free position and a latched position; an electromechanical actuator and a locking device including a locking element movable by the actuator between an unlocked position where the locking element allows movement of the latch slider between the free position and the latched position, and a locked position where the locking element engages with the slider mechanism to prevent movement of the latch slider from the latched position to the free position; wherein the latch slider comprises a latch hole and the base structure comprises a base hole, the latch hole and the base hole being arranged to simultaneously receive a shackle of a padlock therethrough.

[0030] When a shackle or similar locking member passes through the latch hole and base hole, the latch slider is prevented from moving relative to the base structure along the latch axis. The latch hole and base hole allow for redundant and more versatile locking functionality of the latch assembly, thus improving the user experience.

[0031] The latch hole and the base hole may be positioned to receive the shackle therethrough when the latch slider is in the latched position. The latch hole and the base hole may be aligned when the latch slider is in the latched position.

[0032] Alternatively, the latch hole and base hole may be positioned to receive the shackle therethrough when the latch slider is in the free position, in which case the latch hole and base hole may be aligned when the latch slider is in the free position.

[0033] The latch slider may include a gripping portion, and in this case, the latch hole may be provided in the gripping portion.

[0034] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a latch assembly comprising: a base structure; an elongated latch slider including a slider mechanism and slidable relative to the base structure along a latch axis between a free position and a latched position; an electromechanical actuator and a locking device including a locking element movable by the actuator between an unlocked position where the locking element allows movement of the latch slider between the free position and the latched position and a locked position where the locking element engages with the slider mechanism to prevent movement of the latch slider from the latched position to the free position; wherein the latch slider has an upper surface, the slider mechanism protrudes above the upper surface, and the locking element contacts the upper surface in the locked position.

[0035] For example, if the actuator is an electric motor, an increase in the motor's current may indicate when the locking element has been driven against the stop. Because the slider mechanism protrudes above the upper surface, the first distance traveled by the locking element from the unlocked position to contact the slider mechanism is shorter than the second distance traveled by the locking element from the unlocked position to the locked position. The first and second times for the locking element to travel the first and second distances, respectively, may be determined, for example, by testing. If the locking element travel time corresponds to the first time, it may be concluded without a dedicated sensor that the actuator was commanded to move the locking element to the locked position but the locking element was stopped by the slider mechanism because the latch slider was not properly positioned along the latch axis. In this case, a human user may be able to push the latch slider from the free position to the latched position. A warning may then be issued by the locking device. On the other hand, if the locking element travel time corresponds to the second time, it may be concluded without a dedicated sensor that the locking element successfully reached the locked position.

[0036] The features of the latch assemblies according to each of the first to fourth aspects may be combined in any manner, for example the latch assemblies according to each of the first to fourth aspects may be the same.

[0037] The locking element may be L-shaped. If the locking element is rotatable about an actuation axis, the actuation axis may be located at one end of the L-shape and the opposite end of the L-shape may be configured to contact the top surface.

[0038] The locking device may include a button, in which case the locking device may be configured to operate an actuator to move the locking element from an unlocked position to a locked position in response to manual actuation of the button. For example, actuation of the button may activate a switch in a control system of the locking device.

[0039] The locking element may be rotatable between the unlocked and locked positions. As one possible alternative, the locking element may be linearly movable between the unlocked and locked positions.

[0040] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a latch assembly comprising: a base structure; an elongated latch slider including a slider mechanism and slidable relative to the base structure along a latch axis between a free position and a latched position; an electromechanical actuator and a locking device including a locking element movable by the actuator between an unlocked position where a locking element allows movement of the latch slider between the free position and the latched position and a locked position where the locking element engages with the slider mechanism to prevent movement of the latch slider from the latched position to the free position; wherein the latch slider has an opening containing the slider mechanism; and the base structure has a protective element extending through the opening to protect the locking element.

[0041] The protective element protects the locking element, increasing the latch assembly's resistance to lock picking. For example, the protective element makes it much more difficult to access the locking element for tampering using a steel wire or similar element. The locking element can pass through the opening and contact the protective element in the locked position.

[0042] Furthermore, the design of the latch assembly according to the fifth aspect allows the locking element to move a relatively short distance between the unlocked and locked positions, and therefore the latch assembly is energy efficient.

[0043] The features of the latch assembly according to the fifth aspect may be combined with any of the features of the first to third aspects.

[0044] The opening may include a slot extending parallel to the latch axis. In these cases, the protective element may be located within the slot. The protective element may move within the slot relative to the latch slider as the latch slider moves between the free position and the latched position.

[0045] The base structure may comprise a base plate. In these cases, the protective element may be a flange protruding from the base plate. The protective element may be integrally formed with the base plate.

[0046] The locking element may be rotatable about the actuator axis.

[0047] The base structure may include a gap between the body section of the base plate and the protection element. In these cases, the locking element may include a substantially flat or planar locking element end surface that is substantially parallel or parallel to the actuator axis. Furthermore, in these cases, the locking element end surface may face the gap when the locking element is in the locked position. Thus, when a lock-picking element is caught in the gap, the lock-picking element only contacts the flat surface of the locking element, making lock picking more difficult.

[0048] The locking element may be drop-shaped. A wide section of the drop-shaped element may engage with the slider mechanism. If the locking element is rotatable about the actuator shaft, the actuator shaft may be disposed in the narrow section of the drop-shaped element.

[0049] The base plate may be made from sheet material, such as sheet metal.

[0050] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a latch assembly comprising: a base structure; an elongated latch slider including a slider mechanism and slidable relative to the base structure along a latch axis between a free position and a latched position; an electromechanical actuator and a locking device including a locking element rotatable by the actuator about the actuator axis between an unlocked position where the locking element allows movement of the latch slider between the free position and the latched position, and a locked position where the locking element engages with the slider mechanism to prevent movement of the latch slider from the latched position to the free position; wherein the base structure comprises a support structure arranged to support rotation of the locking element about the actuator axis, and the actuator and support structure are located on either side of the locking element.

[0051] The support structure provides counter support for the locking element in addition to the support provided by the actuator. Due to the support structure, the locking element is made much more resistant to torque acting on the locking element about an axis transverse to the actuator axis. Furthermore, the support structure can protect the actuator because it absorbs loads acting on the locking element. Examples of sources of loads acting on the locking element may include attempts to tamper with the latch assembly and forcible use of the latch assembly.

[0052] The features of the latch assembly according to the sixth aspect may be combined in any way with any of the features of the first to fifth aspects.

[0053] The locking element may comprise a locking element shaft concentric with the actuator axis, in which case the support structure may support the locking element shaft.

[0054] The base structure may comprise a housing. In these cases, the support structure may be locked to the housing. Alternatively, the support structure may be constituted by a wall of the housing.

[0055] The housing may be molded, for example, from plastic. Alternatively or additionally, the support structure may comprise a support plate. Locking the support plate within the molded housing improves the rigidity of the support structure without complicating the molding process for the housing.

[0056] The support plate may be oriented transverse to the actuator axis.

[0057] The base structure may comprise a base plate, and in these cases the support structure may be supported by the base plate.

[0058] The base structure may further include a locking element chamber that at least partially accommodates the locking element. In these cases, the base structure may include at least one closed chamber. Furthermore, in these cases, the actuator may be accommodated in one of the at least one closed chamber. Furthermore, in these cases, each closed chamber may be sealed relative to the locking element chamber.

[0059] The support structure may be housed in the locking element chamber.

[0060] According to a seventh aspect, there is provided an access member system including the latch assembly according to any one of the first to fifth aspects and an access member. In this case, the base structure may be fixed to the access member. The access member system may further include a frame. The access member may be movable relative to the frame, such as by rotational or linear movement. The access member may be a door leaf or a window.

[0061] Further details, advantages, and aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0062] [Figure 1]10A and 10B are schematic front perspective views of the latch assembly when the latch slider is in a free position; [Figure 2] 1A and 1B are schematic front perspective views of the latch assembly when the latch slider is in a latched position; [Figure 3] 1A and 1B schematically depict a front view of an access member system including a latch assembly. [Figure 4] 1 shows a schematic front view of a padlock. [Figure 5] 1A and 1B are schematic perspective views of a latch slider; [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are schematic partial perspective views of a base plate of a latch assembly; [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are schematic representations of rear views of the latch assembly; [Figure 8] 10A and 10B schematically represent a block diagram of a locking device of a latch assembly. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are schematic representations of perspective, partial cross-sectional views of a latch assembly when a locking element of the latch assembly is in an unlocked position; [Figure 10] 1A and 1B schematically represent a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a latch assembly when a locking element is in a locked position. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are schematic representations of a partial cross-sectional side view of a latch assembly when a locking element is in a locked position; [Figure 12] 1 shows a perspective view of an actuator of a locking device. [Figure 13] 1A and 1B schematically represent a perspective view of a locking element. [Figure 14] 2A and 2B are schematic representations of a partial cross-sectional front view of a drive mechanism of a locking device and a driven mechanism of a locking element; [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are schematic perspective front views of a further example latch assembly including a latch slider and a base plate; [Figure 16] 17 is a schematic perspective front view of the latch slider of FIG. 16. [Figure 17] 16 is a schematic partial perspective front view of the base plate of FIG. 15. [Figure 18]16A and 16B are schematic perspective end views of the base plate of FIG. 15; [Figure 19] 16 schematically represents a partial cross-sectional end view of the latch assembly of FIG. 15; [Figure 20] 16 schematically illustrates a partial perspective rear view of the latch assembly of FIG. 15; [Figure 21] 16A and 16B are schematic perspective side views of the locking element of the latch assembly of FIG. 15; [Figure 22] 16A and 16B are schematic perspective front views of the components of the latch assembly of FIG. 15; [Figure 23] 16 schematically represents a partial cross-sectional perspective front view of the latch assembly of FIG. 15; [Figure 24] 16 schematically represents a partial cross-sectional perspective end view of the latch assembly of FIG. 15; [Figure 25] 1 is a schematic representation of a perspective front view of a removal tool according to an example; [Figure 26] 26 schematically illustrates a perspective rear view of the removal tool of FIG. 25. [Figure 27] 10A and 10B schematically represent a perspective front view of a removal tool according to a further example; [Figure 28] 28 is a schematic perspective rear view of the removal tool of FIG. 27. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0063] In the following, a latch assembly is described that includes an elongated latch slider and a locking device for locking the latch slider. The same or similar reference numbers are used to indicate the same or similar structural features.

[0064] FIG. 1 schematically depicts a front perspective view of an example latch assembly 10a. The latch assembly 10a comprises a base structure 12 and an elongated latch slider 14a. The latch slider 14a is movable relative to the base structure 12 along a latch axis 16. In FIG. 1, the latch slider 14a is in a free position 18. As can be inferred from FIG. 1, the latch slider 14a in this example defines a longitudinal axis that is concentric with the latch axis 16.

[0065] The base structure 12 in this particular non-limiting example includes a base plate 20a and a housing 22. The base plate 20a can be secured to the access member by a front bolt 24. The housing 22 is secured to the base plate 20a by, for example, a rear bolt.

[0066] The latch assembly 10a further includes a locking device 26. In this example, the locking device 26 is housed within the housing 22. The latch assembly 10a in this example further includes an optional button 28.

[0067] The latch slider 14a of this example includes a top surface 30 and a slot 32a that extends parallel to the latch axis 16. The latch slider 14a of this example further includes a gripping portion 34, which here is parallel to and offset from the top surface 30. The gripping portion 34 is configured to be grasped by the fingers of a human user.

[0068] The latch slider 14a in this example further includes a latch hole 36. The latch hole 36 is provided in the gripping portion 34 here. The base structure 12 in this example further includes a base hole 38. In this example, when the latch slider 14a is in the free position 18, the latch hole 36 is offset from the base hole 38 along the latch axis 16.

[0069] 2 is a schematic front perspective view of the latch assembly 10a. In FIG. 2, the latch slider 14a is in a latched position 40. Thus, the latch slider 14a is movable along the latch axis 16 relative to the base structure 12 between a free position 18 and the latched position 40. In the latched position 40, a latch end 42 of the latch slider 14a protrudes from the base structure 12 to engage, for example, a seat on a frame.

[0070] In this example, when the latch slider 14a is in the latched position 40, the latch hole 36 is aligned with the base hole 38 along the latch axis 16. To lock the latch slider 14a in the latched position 40, a shackle of a padlock can be passed through each of the latch hole 36 and the base hole 38.

[0071] 3 is a schematic representation of a front view of an example access member system 44. Access member system 44 includes latch assembly 10a.

[0072] The access member system 44 includes a frame 46 and a door leaf 48 that is movable relative to the frame 46. The door leaf 48 is an example of an access member. Here, the frame 46 is mounted to a wall 50. The door leaf 48 in this example is a corrugated door leaf and is rotatable relative to the frame 46 via hinges 52. The latch assembly 10a is secured to the door leaf 48, for example, by engaging the front bolts 24 that pass through the base plate 20a with respective nuts on the inside of the door leaf 48. When the latch assembly 10a is secured to the door leaf 48, the base structure 12 is secured to the door leaf 48. In FIG. 3, the latch slider 14a is in the latched position 40, engaging with a striker 54 in the frame 46. The door leaf 48 is thereby locked.

[0073] 4 schematically illustrates a front view of padlock 56. Padlock 56 includes body 58 and shackle 60. Padlock 56 in this example may be used to lock latch slider 14a in latched position 40 as described above.

[0074] Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of the latch slider 14a, which can be seen to include two slots 32a that are aligned with and offset along the latch axis 16.

[0075] Additionally, the latch slider 14a includes a slider mechanism 62a, illustrated here as a protruding tab, that projects upward from the top surface 30. The slider mechanism 62a includes a stop surface 64 that faces the gripping portion 34. The entire latch slider 14a shown in FIG. 5 can be formed from a single sheet of metal, such as steel.

[0076] 6 is a schematic partial perspective view of the base plate 20a. The base structure 12, here the base plate 20a, includes a first guide member 66 and a second guide member 68. The housing 22 of the base structure 12, the base plate 20a, the first guide member 66, and the second guide member 68 are thus fixed to one another. The first guide member 66 and the second guide member 68 are aligned with and offset along the latch axis 16. The base plate 20a may be made of steel.

[0077] The first guide member 66 and the second guide member 68 are illustrated here as flanges of the base plate 20a bent upward from adjacent regions 69 of the base plate 20a. The base plate 20a further includes a notch 71 between the first guide member 66 and the second guide member 68. The base plate 20a further includes two circular recesses 73: one at the junction between the first guide member 66, the notch 71, and the region 69, and another at the junction between the second guide member 68, the notch 71, and the region 69. Each circular recess 73 extends through the base plate 20a.

[0078] Figure 7 schematically depicts a rear view of the latch assembly 10a. Two rear bolts 70 are visible in Figure 7. Each rear bolt 70 engages with a unique slot 32a.

[0079] 8 is a schematic block diagram of the locking device 26. The locking device 26 includes an electric motor 72 and a locking element 74a driven by the motor 72. The motor 72 is an example of an electromechanical actuator.

[0080] The locking device 26 further includes a drive mechanism 76. The drive mechanism 76 may be fixed to an actuator shaft 78 of the motor 72. Alternatively, the locking device 26 may include a transmission 80, such as a gearbox, that is driven by the actuator shaft 78. In this case, the drive mechanism 76 may be fixed to a transmission shaft 82 of the transmission 80. In either case, the drive mechanism 76 is driven by the motor 72.

[0081] In this example, the locking element 74a is rotatable about an actuator axis 84. The locking element 74a in this example includes a driven mechanism 86. The driven mechanism 86 is arranged to contact the driving mechanism 76 and be driven by it.

[0082] The locking device 26 further includes a control system 88, such as a printed circuit board (PCB), configured to control the operation of the motor 72. The locking device 26 may further include an energy storage device 90, such as one or more batteries, for electrically powering the control system 88.

[0083] 9 schematically depicts a partial cross-sectional perspective view of latch assembly 10a. In FIG. 9, locking element 74a is in unlocked position 92, and latch slider 14a is in latched position 40. When locking element 74a is in unlocked position 92, a user can move latch slider 14a along latch axis 16 (here, below locking element 74a) between latched position 40 and free position 18, for example, by squeezing grip 34.

[0084] 9, the locking element 74a is located between the first guide member 66 and the second guide member 68 along the latch axis 16. In this example, the actuator axis 84 is parallel to the latch axis 16. Furthermore, when the latch slider 14a is in the latched position 40, the locking element 74a is located between the motor 72 and the slider mechanism 62a.

[0085] The locking element 74a includes a locking element side 94. The locking element 74a in this example is L-shaped and made of steel. The actuator shaft 84 is located at one end of the L-shape.

[0086] 10 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of the latch assembly 10a, in which the locking element 74a is in the locked position 96 and the latch slider 14a is in the latched position 40.

[0087] To lock the latch assembly 10a, a user can push the latch slider 14a from the free position 18 to the latched position 40 when the locking element 74a is in the unlocked position 92 and then press the button 28 to command the motor 72, for example, via the control system 88, to drive the locking element 74a from the unlocked position 92 to the locked position 96. Alternatively, the latch assembly 10a may be locked by providing a lock command to the control system 88 from an external device (not shown).

[0088] To unlock the latch assembly 10a, a user can provide credentials to the control system 88. If the credentials are authorized, the control system 88 commands the motor 72 to drive the locking element 74a from the locked position 96 to the unlocked position 92. The user can then push the latch slider 14a from the latched position 40 to the free position 18, for example, where it is disengaged from the strike 54.

[0089] In the locked position 96, the locking element 74a blocks movement of the latch slider 14a from the latched position 40 to the free position 18. Furthermore, when the locking element 74a is in the locked position 96 and the latch slider 14a is in the latched position 40, the locking element side surface 94 faces the stop surface 64. If the latch slider 14a moves toward the free position 18 (to the left in FIG. 10 ), the locking element 74a blocks the latch slider 14a by engaging with the slider mechanism 62a. In this manner, the locking element 74a engages with the slider mechanism 62a to prevent movement of the latch slider 14a from the latched position 40 to the free position 18.

[0090] In this example, in locked position 96, locking element 74a contacts upper surface 30 with the end of its L-shape opposite actuator shaft 84. Therefore, the rise in current to motor 72 after an expected time can be used as an indicator of when locking element 74a has reached locked position 96, as opposed to using a dedicated sensor. Furthermore, if locking element 74a is stopped by slider mechanism 62a as it moves toward locked position 96, the current to motor 72 will rise sooner than expected. Therefore, the condition when slider mechanism 62a is located between first guide member 66 and second guide member 68 can also be detected based on the rise in current to motor 72, without the use of a sensor.

[0091] In this example, the locking element 74a also contacts the base plate 20a in the locked position 96. Due to the circular recess 73 shown in Figure 6, it is ensured that the locking element 74a reaches the bottom of the notch 71 when it contacts the base plate 20a.

[0092] FIG. 11 schematically depicts a partial cross-sectional side view of the latch assembly 10a when the locking element 74a is in the locked position 96 and the latch slider 14a is in the latched position 40. As shown, the locking element 74a is tightly constrained between the first guide member 66 and the second guide member 68. FIG. 11 illustrates a base clearance 98 between the locking element 74a and the first guide member 66 and the second guide member 68. The base clearance 98 is the sum of the play (if any) on each side of the locking element 74a relative to the respective first guide member 66 and second guide member 68. The base clearance 98 is here parallel to the latch axis 16.

[0093] If the latch slider 14a is forced to move from the latched position 40 toward the free position 18, the stop surface 64 contacts the locking element side surface 94 and pushes the locking element 74a out. However, due to the tight containment of the locking element 74a between the first guide member 66 and the second guide member 68, and due to the greater play between the driving mechanism 76 and the driven mechanism 86, the force on the latch slider 14a does not damage the motor 72.

[0094] FIG. 11 further illustrates that the locking element side 94 and the stop surface 64 are angled relative to one another. The locking element side 94 and the stop surface 64 form a V-shape that faces outward from the actuator axis 84. In this example, the locking element side 94 is perpendicular to the latch axis 16, and the stop surface 64 is angled 5° relative to the locking element side 94. Due to the angled stop surface 64, frictional forces impeding movement of the locking element 74a are reduced. For example, the angled relationship between the locking element side 94 and the stop surface 64 allows for low-friction point contact between them as the locking element 74a moves from the unlocked position 92 to the locked position 96. This reduces the risk of jamming the motor 72.

[0095] 12 shows a schematic perspective view of the motor 72. The drive mechanism 76 is illustrated here as a protruding cross with a number of teeth 100, here four teeth 100.

[0096] 13 schematically depicts a perspective view of locking element 74a. Driven mechanism 86 has a shape that substantially matches the shape of driving mechanism 76. Driven mechanism 86 is illustrated here as a concave cross shape with a plurality of channels 102. Each channel 102 is positioned to receive one of the teeth 100.

[0097] 14 schematically represents a partial cross-sectional front view of the drive mechanism 76 and the driven mechanism 86. As shown, a drive clearance 104 exists between the drive mechanism 76 and the driven mechanism 86, here between each pair of teeth 100 and associated channels 102. In the illustrated position of the drive mechanism 76, the drive clearance 104 is the sum of the play on each side of each tooth 100 relative to the associated channel 102. When the tooth 100 is in driving contact with the side of the channel 102, the drive clearance 104 is the play on the opposite side of each tooth 100 relative to the contact side. In either case, the drive clearance 104 is here a circumferential clearance relative to the actuator shaft 84.

[0098] The drive clearance 104 is greater than the base clearance 98, for example at least 20% greater, for example at least 50% greater. Thus, if the latch slider 14a is pushed from the latched position 40 toward the free position 18 when the locking element 74a is in the locked position 96, the base clearance 98 is closed before a force is transmitted by the locking element 74a to the motor 72. In this manner, the motor 72 is protected from abuse.

[0099] 15 schematically depicts a perspective front view of latch assembly 10b. Latch assembly 10b differs from latch assembly 10a by including latch slider 14b and base plate 20b. Access member system 44 may alternatively include latch assembly 10b.

[0100] 16 is a schematic perspective front view of latch slider 14b. Latch slider 14b includes opening 13. In this example, opening 13 includes slot 32b and slider mechanism 62b. Slot 32b is elongated and oriented parallel to latch axis 16. Slider mechanism 62b extends from slot 32b across latch axis 16. Thus, opening 13 in this example is L-shaped, with slot 32b and slider mechanism 62b each forming a portion of opening 13.

[0101] FIG. 17 schematically illustrates a partial perspective front view of the base plate 20b, and FIG. 18 schematically illustrates a perspective end view of the base plate 20b. Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18 together, the base plate 20b includes a protective element 11. The protective element 11 protrudes from the base plate 20b. The entire base plate 20b shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 can be formed from a single sheet of metal, such as steel. The protective element 11 is illustrated here as a flange bent downward from the body section 47 of the base plate 20b. A gap 23 is formed between the protective element 11 and the body section 47. The base plate 20b in this example also includes a chamfered edge 27 next to the protective element 11.

[0102] 19 is a schematic partial cross-sectional end view of latch assembly 10b. As shown in FIG. 19, protection element 11 extends through opening 13. Protection element 11 thereby protects lock element 74b, making lock picking more difficult. Protection element 11 is located within slot 32b.

[0103] In this example, the locking element 74b contacts the protection element 11 in the locked position 96. Therefore, the rise in current to the motor 72 after an expected time can be used as an indicator of when the locking element 74b has reached the locked position 96, as opposed to using a dedicated sensor. Furthermore, if the locking element 74b is stopped by the latch slider 14b as it moves toward the locked position 96, the current to the motor 72 will rise sooner than expected. Therefore, the condition when the slider mechanism 62b is not aligned with the locking element 74b, i.e., when the latch slider 14b is not in the latched position 40, can also be detected based on the rise in current to the motor 72 without the use of a sensor.

[0104] 19, locking element 74b only needs to be positioned above upper surface 30 to assume the unlocked position 92. Thus, the angular distance of locking element 74b between the unlocked position 92 and the locked position 96 is relatively short, less than the angular distance of locking element 74a between the unlocked position 92 and the locked position 96 relative to actuator shaft 84. Thus, latch assembly 10b has energy-efficient operation.

[0105] Locking element 74b in this example includes a flat locking element end face 25. Locking element end face 25 is here oriented parallel to actuator axis 84.

[0106] In the locked position 96 of the locking element 74b, the locking element end face 25 faces the gap 23. A lock-picking element potentially caught through the gap 23 will thereby contact the flat locking element end face 25, making lock picking more difficult.

[0107] 20 is a schematic partial perspective rear view of the latch assembly 10b. It can be inferred from FIG. 20 that the protection element 11 moves within the slot 32b in the reference coordinate system of the latch slider 14b when the latch slider 14b moves between the free position 18 and the latched position 40. The slider mechanism 62b also includes a stop surface 64. In the same manner as described in connection with FIG. 11, the locking element side surface 94 and the stop surface 64 can be inclined relative to each other.

[0108] FIG. 21 schematically illustrates a perspective side view of a locking element 74b. As illustrated, the locking element 74b of this example includes a locking body 29 and two locking element shafts 21a and 21b. The locking element shafts 21a and 21b are concentric with the actuator axis 84. The locking body 29 of this example is substantially drop-shaped. The drop-shaped shape of the locking element 74b reduces the risk of the locking element 74b getting stuck in the slider mechanism 62b. The locking element shaft 21b includes a driven mechanism 86 arranged to contact and be driven by the driving mechanism 76.

[0109] FIG. 22 schematically illustrates a perspective front view of the motor 72, the locking element 74b, and the support plate 15. The support plate 15 is an example of a support structure. The support plate 15 is oriented transverse to the actuator axis 84. On one side of the lock body 29, the locking element 74b is rotatably supported about the actuator axis 84 by the engagement between the motor 72 and the locking element shaft 21b. On the opposite side of the lock body 29, the locking element 74b is rotatably supported about the actuator axis 84 by the engagement between the support plate 15 and the locking element shaft 21a. This provides dual support for the locking element 74b. This dual support significantly improves the robustness of the locking element 74b. FIG. 22 further illustrates that the support plate 15 in this example includes a notch 43.

[0110] FIG. 23 is a schematic, partial cross-sectional perspective front view of the latch assembly 10b. FIG. 23 illustrates an example of the arrangement of the motor 72 and locking element 74b within the housing 22. The housing 22 in this example includes two closed chambers 17a and 17b and a locking element chamber 19 therebetween. The closed chambers 17a and 17b are sealed against the locking element chamber 19 to prevent water from entering either of the closed chambers 17a and 17b. To further prevent water from entering, one or more gaskets (not shown) may be provided between the base plate 20b and the door leaf 48, for example, laterally outward of the latch slider 14b relative to the latch shaft 16. The locking element 74b is housed in the locking element chamber 19. The motor 72 is housed in the closed chamber 17a. A power source, such as a battery, may be housed in the closed chamber 17b. Alternatively, the closed chambers 17a and 17b may be formed by a common closed chamber.

[0111] The housing 22 includes two walls 39a and 39b that define the locking element chamber 19. The housing 22 further includes a bar 45 extending between the walls 39a and 39b. The locking element shaft 21b passes through the wall 39b and is sealed to the wall 39b and the base plate 20b by a generally U-shaped gasket 31. The support plate 15 is positioned adjacent to the wall 39b. The support plate 15 can be locked to the housing 22 by inserting the support plate 15 into the housing 22 from below, so that the support plate 15 is received in the track 41 of the housing 22 and the bar 45 is received in the notch 43 of the support plate 15, and by fastening the base plate 20b to the housing 22. In this regard, the motor 72, locking element 74b, and support plate 15 shown in FIG. 22 may be inserted into the housing 22 as a package.

[0112] The locking element 74b may alternatively be rotatably supported within the wall 39. In this case, the support plate 15 may be omitted.

[0113] Figure 24 schematically depicts a partial cross-sectional perspective end view of latch assembly 10b. As shown in Figure 24, when base plate 20b is secured to housing 22, chamfered edge 27 of base plate 20b prevents support plate 15 from falling through base plate 20b. Support plate 15 is thus supported on base plate 20b.

[0114] FIG. 25 schematically illustrates a perspective front view of the removal tool 33a, and FIG. 26 schematically illustrates a perspective rear view of the removal tool 33a. The removal tool 33a includes a plurality of bushings 35 and a guide structure 37a. The guide structure 37a defines an unambiguous position for the removal tool 33a relative to the latch assembly 10a or 10b, where the bushings 35 are aligned with the front bolt 24. Thus, the removal tool 33a can be used to position the front bolt 24. Instead of calling a locksmith, an inexperienced user can remove the latch assembly 10a or 10b by aligning the guide structure 37a with the latch assembly 10a or 10b and drilling the front bolt 24 through the bushings 35. The removal tool 33a may be used in conjunction with a corrugated door leaf 48.

[0115] 27 and 28 are schematic perspective front and rear views of the removal tool 33b, respectively. The removal tool 33b may be used in conjunction with a flat door leaf 48.

[0116] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to what has been described above. For example, it will be understood that the dimensions of parts may be varied as needed. Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention be limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. a base structure (12); an elongated latch slider (14b) including a slider mechanism (62b) and slidable relative to the base structure (12) along a latch axis (16) between a free position (18) and a latched position (40); a locking device (26) including an electromechanical actuator (72) and a locking element (74b) movable by the actuator (72) between an unlocked position (92) in which the locking element (74b) allows movement of the latch slider (14b) between the free position (18) and the latched position (40) and a locked position (96) in which the locking element (74b) engages the slider mechanism (62b) to prevent movement of the latch slider (14b) from the latched position (40) to the free position (18); A latch assembly (10b) comprising: the latch slider (14b) has an opening (13) containing the slider mechanism (62b); the base structure (12) includes a protection element (11) extending through the opening (13) and protecting the locking element (74b); Latch assembly (10b).

2. 2. The latch assembly (10b) of claim 1, wherein the opening (13) includes a slot (32b) extending parallel to the latch axis (16), and the protective element (11) is located within the slot (32).

3. 3. The latch assembly (10b) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the base structure (12) comprises a base plate (20b), and the protection element (11) is a flange protruding from the base plate (20b).

4. The latch assembly (10b) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the locking element (74b) is rotatable about an actuator axis (84).

5. 5. The latch assembly (10b) of claim 3, wherein the base structure (12) comprises a gap (23) between a body portion (47) of the base plate (20b) and the protection element (11), and the locking element (74b) comprises a substantially flat locking element end face (25) substantially parallel to the actuator axis (84), the locking element end face (25) facing the gap (23) in the locked position (96) of the locking element (74b).

6. The latch assembly (10b) of claim 3 or 5, wherein the base plate (20b) is made from sheet material.

7. a base structure (12); an elongated latch slider (14a, 14b) including a slider mechanism (62a, 62b) and slidable relative to the base structure (12) along a latch axis (16) between a free position (18) and a latched position (40); a locking device (26) including an electromechanical actuator (72), and locking elements (74a, 74b) movable by the actuator (72) between an unlocked position (92) in which the locking elements (74a, 74b) allow movement of the latch sliders (14a, 14b) between the free position (18) and the latched position (40), and a locked position (96) in which the locking elements (74a, 74b) engage the slider mechanisms (62a, 62b) to prevent movement of the latch sliders (14a, 14b) from the latched position (40) to the free position (18); A latch assembly (10a, 10b) comprising: The locking device (26) further includes a drive mechanism (76) driven by the actuator (72), the locking elements (74a, 74b) comprising a driven mechanism (86) arranged to contact and be driven by the driving mechanism (76); a base clearance (98) between the locking elements (74a, 74b) and the base structure (12) is less than a drive clearance (104) between the drive mechanism (76) and the driven mechanism (86); Latch assembly (10a, 10b).

8. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 7, wherein the base clearance (98) is substantially parallel to the latch axis (16).

9. 9. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 7 or 8, wherein the locking element (74a, 74b) is rotatable about an actuator axis (84).

10. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 9, wherein the drive clearance (104) is a circumferential clearance relative to the actuator shaft (84).

11. 11. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 9 or 10, wherein the actuator axis (84) is substantially parallel to the latch axis (16).

12. a base structure (12); an elongated latch slider (14a, 14b) including a slider mechanism (62a, 62b) and slidable relative to the base structure (12) along a latch axis (16) between a free position (18) and a latched position (40); a locking device (26) including an electromechanical actuator (72), and locking elements (74a, 74b) movable by the actuator (72) between an unlocked position (92) in which the locking elements (74a, 74b) allow movement of the latch sliders (14a, 14b) between the free position (18) and the latched position (40), and a locked position (96) in which the locking elements (74a, 74b) engage the slider mechanisms (62a, 62b) to prevent movement of the latch sliders (14a, 14b) from the latched position (40) to the free position (18); A latch assembly (10a, 10b) comprising: the slider mechanism (62a, 62b) has a stop surface (64); the locking elements (74a, 74b) have locking element sides (94) that face the stop surfaces (64) when the latch sliders (14a, 14b) are in the latched positions (40) and the locking elements (74a, 74b) are in the locked positions (96); the locking element side surface (94) and the stop surface (64) are inclined relative to each other; Latch assembly (10a, 10b).

13. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 12, wherein the locking element side (94) is perpendicular to the latch axis (16).

14. 14. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the locking element side surface (94) and the stop surface (64) are inclined at least 2 degrees and / or less than 20 degrees relative to one another.

15. a base structure (12); an elongated latch slider (14a) including a slider mechanism (62a) and slidable relative to the base structure (12) along a latch axis (16) between a free position (18) and a latched position (40); a locking device (26) including an electromechanical actuator (72) and a locking element (74a) movable by the actuator (72) between an unlocked position (92) in which the locking element (74a) allows movement of the latch slider (14a) between the free position (18) and the latched position (40), and a locked position (96) in which the locking element (74a) engages the slider mechanism (62a) to prevent movement of the latch slider (14a) from the latched position (40) to the free position (18); A latch assembly (10a) comprising: the latch slider (14a) includes a latch hole (36), the base structure (12) includes a base hole (38), and the latch hole (36) and the base hole (38) are arranged to simultaneously receive a shackle (60) of a padlock (56) therethrough; Latch assembly (10a).

16. 16. The latch assembly (10a) of claim 15, wherein the latch hole (36) and the base hole (38) are positioned to receive the shackle (60) therethrough when the latch slider (14a) is in the latched position (40).

17. 17. The latch assembly (10a) of claim 15 or 16, wherein the latch hole (36) and the base hole (38) are aligned when the latch slider (14a) is in the latched position (40).

18. 18. The latch assembly (10a) of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the latch slider (14a) comprises a gripping portion (34), and the latch hole (36) is provided in the gripping portion (34).

19. a base structure (12); an elongated latch slider (14a) including a slider mechanism (62a) and slidable relative to the base structure (12) along a latch axis (16) between a free position (18) and a latched position (40); a locking device (26) including an electromechanical actuator (72) and a locking element (74a) movable by the actuator (72) between an unlocked position (92) in which the locking element (74a) allows movement of the latch slider (14a) between the free position (18) and the latched position (40), and a locked position (96) in which the locking element (74a) engages the slider mechanism (62a) to prevent movement of the latch slider (14a) from the latched position (40) to the free position (18); A latch assembly (10a) comprising: The latch slider (14a) has an upper surface (30); The slider mechanism (62a) projects above the upper surface (30); the locking element (74a) contacts the upper surface (30) in the locked position (96); Latch assembly (10a).

20. The latch assembly (10a) of any one of claims 7 to 19, wherein the locking element (74a) is L-shaped.

21. 21. The latch assembly (10a) of any one of claims 7 to 20, wherein the locking device (26) comprises a button (28), and the locking device (26) is configured to actuate the actuator (72) to move the locking element (74a) from the unlocked position (92) to the locked position (96) in response to manual actuation of the button (28).

22. 22. The latch assembly (10a) of any one of claims 7 to 21, wherein the locking element (74a) is rotatable between the unlocked position (92) and the locked position (96).

23. a base structure (12); an elongated latch slider (14a, 14b) including a slider mechanism (62a, 62b) and slidable relative to the base structure (12) along a latch axis (16) between a free position (18) and a latched position (40); a locking device (26) including an electromechanical actuator (72), and locking elements (74a, 74b) rotatable by the actuator (72) about an actuator axis (84) between an unlocked position (92) in which the locking elements (74a, 74b) allow movement of the latch sliders (14a, 14b) between the free position (18) and the latched position (40), and a locked position (96) in which the locking elements (74a, 74b) engage the slider mechanisms (62a, 62b) to prevent movement of the latch sliders (14a, 14b) from the latched position (40) to the free position (18); A latch assembly (10a, 10b) comprising: the base structure (12) comprises a support structure (15) arranged to support rotation of the locking elements (74a, 74b) about the actuator axis (84); the actuator (72) and the support structure (15) are located on either side of the locking elements (74a, 74b); Latch assembly (10a, 10b).

24. 24. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 23, wherein the locking element (74a, 74b) comprises a locking element shaft (21a) concentric with the actuator axis (84), and the support structure (15) supports the locking element shaft (21a).

25. 25. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 23 or 24, wherein the base structure (12) comprises a housing (22), and the support structure (15) is locked to the housing (22).

26. 26. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 25, wherein the housing (22) is molded.

27. 27. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the support structure (15) comprises a support plate.

28. 28. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 27, wherein the support plate is oriented transverse to the actuator axis (84).

29. 29. A latch assembly (10a, 10b) according to any one of claims 23 to 28, wherein the base structure (12) comprises a base plate (20a, 20b), and the support structure (15) is supported by the base plate (20a, 20b).

30. 30. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein the base structure (12) further comprises a locking element chamber (19) that at least partially houses the locking element (74a, 74b), the base structure (12) comprises at least one closing chamber (17a, 17b), the actuator (72) is housed in one of the at least one closing chamber (17a, 17b), and each closing chamber (17a, 17b) is sealed to the locking element chamber (19).

31. 31. The latch assembly (10a, 10b) of claim 30, wherein the support structure (15) is housed in the locking element chamber (19).

32. 32. An access member system (44) comprising the latch assembly (10a, 10b) of any one of claims 1 to 31 and an access member (48), wherein the base structure (12) is secured to the access member (48).

Images