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Door locking mechanism

  • US 7,959,196 B2
  • Filed: 10/27/2008
  • Issued: 06/14/2011
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/30/2003
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A door locking system comprising:

  • an assembly facing an inside surface of an attached door, and including a latching structure, the latching structure defining a recess facing away from the inside surface of the door when the door is in a closed position;

    a force-generating member coupled to the door for applying a force against the assembly to urge the door to an open position; and

    a latch member movably connected to the door for engagement with the latching structure to keep the door closed, the latch member comprising;

    a distal coupling element adapted and configured to fit within the recess of the latching structure; and

    a proximal connecting element adapted and configured to connect to a handle on the door, wherein actuation of the handle moves the distal coupling element into or out of alignment with the latching structure;

    whereinapplication of the force creates an engagement force between the latching structure of the assembly and the latch member of the door to keep the door latched, and release of the force decreases the engagement force, allowing disengagement of the latch member from the latching structure when the handle is actuated.

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