Latch Assembly Infinite Backset Adjustment Low Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch assemblies require significant torque for operation, posing challenges for users like the elderly, and offer limited adjustability for the backset measurement, making installation complex and unforgiving to door preparation.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with an infinite backset adjustment mechanism and a blocking/unblocking mechanism that reduces the torque required for operation, allowing the bolt to pivot freely when the door is opened, and includes a floating latch actuator and elongated slide opening for adjustable installation without predetermined backset measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the bolt is actively pushed and pulled between extended and retracted positions, then the latch can be reliably actuated, but significant torque is required which poses challenges for certain users
Solution Approach 1:
The latch arm is designed to dynamically change its position and function based on the bolt's state. When the bolt is extended, the latch arm blocks its movement. When the bolt is retracted, the latch arm moves to permit free movement. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to switch between preventing and allowing motion, reducing the torque needed for operation while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch arm acts as an intermediary element between the bolt and the external environment. It mediates the bolt's movement by blocking it when extended and permitting it when retracted. This intermediary mechanism allows indirect actuation of the latch, reducing the direct torque requirement on the bolt while ensuring reliable latching and unlatching operations.
2Ease of manufacture
If existing latch assemblies use fixed backset dimensions, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but adjustability is limited making installation complex and unforgiving to door preparation
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly incorporates a movable latch arm that can dynamically adjust its position along the bolt's path. This dynamic component allows the effective backset to be adjusted without changing the physical dimensions of the latch housing, providing adaptability while maintaining simple manufacturing of the housing itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the fixed housing, the movable latch arm, and the bolt. This segmentation allows the housing to be manufactured with fixed dimensions for simplicity, while the movable latch arm provides the necessary adjustability. The separation of functions enables ease of manufacture for the main structure while maintaining adaptability through the movable component.
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly is provided where a latch bolt is moveable to open and close a door by unblocking pivotal movement of the latch bolt. Turning a door knob or door handle does not directly result in a corresponding retraction of the latch within a sleeve, but rather unblocks the bolt to freely pivot away from a latched position. In some embodiments, the latch assembly may include a sleeve that allows for a backset to be infinitely adjusted relative to an aperture of the sleeve. In some embodiments, the latch assembly may further include a dead latch to provide additional security against forced entry.