Adjustable Latch Assembly for Knob and Lever Handle Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch assemblies are limited in their ability to accommodate different handle configurations and adjustable backset distances, necessitating separate assemblies for knob and lever handles and fixed backset dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with a cam blocker that allows selective rotation direction control and an adjustable backset, enabling compatibility with both knob and lever handles and accommodating various backset positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a latch assembly is designed for a specific handle type (knob or lever) and fixed backset, then the assembly structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the adaptability to different handle configurations and backset distances is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cam blocker is designed to be movable between different positions (first position allowing bidirectional cam rotation, second position allowing unidirectional cam rotation). This dynamic reconfiguration enables the same latch assembly to accommodate both knob handles (requiring bidirectional rotation) and lever handles (requiring unidirectional rotation), thereby improving adaptability without requiring multiple different latch assemblies
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly incorporates a universal design where the cam mechanism can serve multiple functions depending on the cam blocker position. The same cam and cam blocker structure provides both knob configuration (freely rotatable in both directions) and lever configuration (blocked in one direction) modes, making a single latch assembly universal for different handle types and backset distances
2Reliability
If separate latch assemblies are used for knob and lever handles, then each assembly is optimized for its specific handle type, but the quantity of parts and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of separate knob-specific and lever-specific latch assemblies into a single unified design. By integrating the cam blocker mechanism that can be positioned to accommodate either handle type, the patent eliminates the need to stock and install different latch assemblies for different handle configurations, thereby reducing the quantity of parts while maintaining reliable operation for both knob and lever handles
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed backset dimensions are used, then the manufacturing precision is easier to maintain, but the adaptability to different door backset distances is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bolt is designed with adjustable positioning capability along the cam rotation axis. This dynamic adjustment feature allows the bolt to be repositioned to accommodate different backset distances (such as 2-3/8 inches or 2-3/4 inches) while maintaining proper engagement with the strike plate, thereby providing adaptability to different door configurations without requiring multiple fixed-backset latch assembly variants
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly includes a bolt selectively moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. A cam blocker is included and positionable in different configurations. In one configuration, the cam blocker allows the bolt to move towards the retracted position with actuation of a handle in two different rotational directions. In another configuration, the cam blocker allows the bolt to move towards the retracted position with actuation of the handle in only one rotational direction. The latch assembly is also adjustable between at least two different backset distances.