U.S. patent number RE38,832 [Application Number 10/292,575] was granted by the patent office on 2005-10-18 for dual-function locks and sub-assemblies therefor.
Invention is credited to Randy L. Thwing.
United States Patent |
RE38,832 |
Thwing |
October 18, 2005 |
Dual-function locks and sub-assemblies therefor
Abstract
A dual-function lock in accordance with the invention has an
axis-defining lock sub-assembly including first and second axially
aligned rotator members having confronting first end faces and
oppositely facing second end faces. The sub-assembly has a
lost-motion recess and an anchor recess on one confronting face and
one recess-engaging member extending from another confronting face
to permit lock function selection by placing the recess-engaging
member into a particular recess. Alternative dual-function lock
sub-assemblies include a unitary rotator bolt and a companion
actuator. The rotator bolt has a release-mechanism-engaging portion
and an actuator-engaging portion. While a first section of the
actuator-engaging portion permits limited lost-motion between the
rotator bolt and a companion actuator, a second section prevents
lost-motion. The lock function can be selectively determined by
placing the companion actuator into the desired first or second
section of the actuator-engaging portion.
Inventors: |
Thwing; Randy L. (Las Vegas,
NV) |
Family
ID: |
22859011 |
Appl.
No.: |
10/292,575 |
Filed: |
November 12, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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Reissue of: |
228900 |
Jan 11, 1999 |
06145356 |
Nov 14, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
70/389; 70/371;
70/379R; 70/384; 70/51 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E05B
9/084 (20130101); E05B 17/04 (20130101); E05B
67/24 (20130101); E05B 11/00 (20130101); E05B
63/0065 (20130101); Y10T 70/774 (20150401); Y10T
70/7768 (20150401); Y10T 70/7661 (20150401); Y10T
70/487 (20150401); Y10T 70/7706 (20150401) |
Current International
Class: |
E05B
17/00 (20060101); E05B 17/04 (20060101); E05B
9/08 (20060101); E05B 67/00 (20060101); E05B
67/24 (20060101); E05B 9/00 (20060101); E05B
63/00 (20060101); E05B 11/00 (20060101); E05B
011/00 () |
Field of
Search: |
;70/31,38A-38R,39,51,372,379A,379R,380,381,389,DIG.42 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Other References
Medeco Catalog Page, Product No. 51-500-XX, 1979. .
Medeco Catalog Page, Product No. 51-510-XX, 1979. .
Best Lock Corporation, Catalog Section 4, 1989 (p. 4.19). .
Two sheets of drawings Fig. 1-Fig. 7. .
Technitips, Helpful Hints from Fellow Locksmiths, Oct. 6, 1992 (p.
9). .
MasterLock Catalog pp. 7, 11-13 and 17-18 (undated)..
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Primary Examiner: Barrett; Suzanne Dino
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Alix, Yale & Ristas, LLP
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A dual-function lock sub-assembly for use with locks of the type
having a lock cylinder and a release mechanism, said sub-assembly
comprising: an axis-defining first rotator component having an
actuator-engaging portion at a first end thereof, said first
component also having an opposite second end and being rotatable
about an axis; a second rotator component having a
release-mechanism-engaging portion at a first end thereof for
controlling movement of the release-mechanism, said second
component having an opposite second end and being adjacent to and
axially aligned with said first component for rotation about said
rotation axis; wherein said second ends of said components confront
one another, wherein said second confronting end of one of said
first and second components has lost-motion and anchoring recesses
which are radially offset from said rotation axis, and wherein said
second confronting end of the other of said first and second
components has a recess-engaging member which is configured such
that said recess-engaging member can be received within one of said
lost-motion and anchoring recesses; and an actuator for connecting
said actuator-engaging portion of said first rotator component to
the lock cylinder, said actuator transferring rotational motion
about said axis from the lock cylinder to said first component upon
rotation of the lock cylinder so that when said recess-engaging
member is received in said lost-motion recess, rotational motion of
said actuator results in limited lost-motion between .[.said
actuator and.]. said first component .Iadd.and said second
component .Iaddend.and when said recess-engaging member is received
in said anchoring recess, said .[.actuator.]. .Iadd.first component
.Iaddend.is .[.rotatable.]. .Iadd.positively .Iaddend.coupled to
said .[.first.]. .Iadd.second .Iaddend.component.
2. The dual-function lock sub-assembly of claim 1 wherein said
actuator comprises a pair of elongated protrusions extending from
said first end of said first rotator component in a direction which
is substantially parallel to said axis, said protrusions being
disposed on opposite sides of said axis.
3. the dual-function lock sub-assembly of claim 1 wherein said
actuator comprises a generally blade-shaped tailpiece which can be
received within said actuator-engaging portion of said first
rotator component.
4. The dual-function lock sub-assembly of claim 1 further
comprising a torsion spring, said torsion spring resiliently
biasing said second rotator component and being coiled about at
least a portion of said first rotator component.
5. A dual-function padlock capable of repeated conversion between
key-retaining and non-key-retaining lock functions, said padlock
comprising: a padlock body; a shackle which is at least partially
disposed within the padlock body; at least one movable
shackle-release-mechanism to selectively release/retain said
shackle; a rotatable lock cylinder at least partially mounted
within the padlock body and defining a rotation axis; an actuator
which rotates about said rotation axis in response to rotation of
at least part of said cylinder; and a function-determinative
rotator bolt mounted within the padlock body for rotation about
said axis, said rotator bolt including a first end having a
release-mechanism-engaging portion for controlling movement of said
shackle-release-mechanism, said rotator bolt also including an
oppositely-disposed second end for receiving said actuator, said
rotator bolt cooperating with said actuator such that said padlock
can be converted between key-retaining and non-key-retaining
functions without introduction of any additional components
therebetween, and without removal of any components from between
said rotator bolt and said actuator.
6. The dual-function padlock of claim 5 wherein said rotator bolt
comprises: first and second axially-aligned rotator members having
confronting first end faces and oppositely facing second end faces;
means defining a lost-motion recess and an anchor recess in one of
said confronting first end faces, said recesses being radially
spaced from said axis; at least one recess-engaging member
extending from the other of said confronting end faces, said at
least one recess-engaging member cooperating with said means
defining said recesses such that said recess-engaging member can be
selectively disposed within either one of said recesses, at least
in part, by rotating said rotator members relative to one another;
and means for maintaining said actuator stationary relative to at
least one of said first and second rotator members, said means for
maintaining being disposed at said second end of said rotator
bolt.
7. The dual-function padlock of claim 5 wherein said rotator bolt
comprises: a unitary rotator bolt having an actuator-engaging
portion disposed at said second end of said rotator bolt, said
actuator-engaging portion having a first section which permits
lost-motion between said actuator and said rotator bolt; said
actuator-engaging portion also having an arcuately spaced second
section for preventing lost-motion between said actuator and said
rotator bolt; and whereby the lock function is selectively
determined by placing said actuator into one of said first and
second sections of said actuator-engaging portion.
8. The dual-function padlock of claim 5 wherein said rotator bolt
comprises: a first rotator member having an actuator-engaging
portion at one end thereof, said first rotator member also having
an opposite second end and being rotatable about said rotation
axis; a second rotator member having a release-mechanism-engaging
portion at one end thereof, having an opposite second end and being
rotatable about said rotation axis, one of said first and second
rotator members having lost-motion and anchoring recesses which are
radially offset from said axis and which are disposed on the second
end of said member, the other of said first and second rotator
members having a protrusion extending from said second end thereof
such that said protrusion can be received within either one of said
recesses when said rotator members are axially aligned and when
said second ends of said rotator members are placed adjacent one
another.
9. A rotator bolt sub-assembly for use in a lock of the type having
a release-mechanism and an actuator, said sub-assembly comprising:
first and second axially-aligned rotator members having confronting
first end faces and oppositely facing second end faces, said
rotator members defining a rotation axis and being rotatable about
said axis; means defining a lost-motion recess and an anchor recess
in one of said confronting first end faces, said recesses being
radially spaced from said axis; at least one recess-engaging member
extending from the other of said confronting end faces, said at
least one recess-engaging member cooperating with said means
defining said recesses such that said recess-engaging member can be
selectively disposed within either one of said recesses, at least
in part, by rotating said rotator members relative to one another;
means for transferring rotational motion about said axis from the
actuator to said rotator members, said means for transferring being
disposed on said second end face of one of said rotator members;
and means for actuating the lock release-mechanism in response to
transfer of rotational motion to said rotator members, said means
for actuating being disposed on said second end face of the other
of said rotator means.
10. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 9 wherein said
lost-motion recess is an elongated arcuate recess, wherein said
recess-engaging member has a profile, wherein said anchor recess is
arcuately adjacent said elongated recess and wherein said anchor
recess has a shape which is substantially complementary to said
profile of said recess-engaging member.
11. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 10 wherein said
recess-engaging member is a fixed protrusion and wherein said first
and second rotator members must be axially displaced from one
another to change the recess in which said protrusion is
located.
12. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 10 wherein said
recess-engaging member is a linearly-movable, spring-loaded
pin.
13. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 9 wherein: said
lost-motion recess is an arcuate recess of a first predetermined
axial depth, said anchor recess is disposed at one end of said
elongated recess; and said anchor recess extends axially deeper
than said lost-motion recess.
14. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 13 wherein said
recess-engaging member comprises an externally-threaded screw
disposed within an internally-threaded bore and wherein said anchor
recess is an internally-threaded bore.
15. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 9 further comprising
means for resiliently biasing said first and second rotator members
axially adjacent one another.
16. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 9 further comprising
means for preventing over-rotation of the rotator bolt, said means
for preventing being at least partially disposed on one of said
first and second rotator members.
17. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 16 wherein said means
for preventing over-rotation comprises an arcuate recess.
18. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 9 wherein said means for
engaging the release mechanism comprises four radial cuts
equidistantly disposed about one of said first and second rotator
members.
19. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 9 further comprising a
torsion spring, wherein one of said first and second rotator
members includes means for affixing said torsion spring thereto,
and wherein the torsion spring can be coiled either about or within
the other of said first and second rotator members.
20. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 9 wherein at least a
portion of said elongated and anchor recesses extends from said
confronting end faces of one of said rotator members entirely
through said second end face of said rotator member.
21. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 9 wherein said means for
transferring prevents lost-motion between the actuator and said at
least one of said rotator members.
22. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 9 wherein said means for
transferring is disposed on said second end of one of said rotator
members and wherein said second end of the other of said rotator
members includes means defining a recess for receiving the torsion
spring.
23. The rotator bolt sub-assembly of claim 12 wherein said
lost-motion recess and said anchor recess extend entirely through
one of said first and second members.
24. A dual-function lock sub-assembly for a lock of the type having
a release-mechanism and an axis-defining lock-cylinder which is
capable of transferring rotational motion to an actuator, said
sub-assembly comprising: an actuator mounted to the lock-cylinder
for axial rotation therewith, said actuator having a free end; and
a unitary rotator bolt having a release-mechanism-engaging portion
at one end thereof for controlling movement of the
release-mechanism and an integral dual-function actuator-engaging
portion at an opposite end thereof, said actuator-engaging portion
having a first section which permits limited lost-motion between
said free end of said actuator and said rotator bolt, said
actuator-engaging portion also having an arcuately spaced second
section for preventing lost-motion between said free end of said
actuator and said rotator bolt, wherein a lock function is
selectively determined by placing said free end of said actuator
into said first section of said actuator-engaging portion and
wherein another lock function is selectively determined by placing
said free end of said actuator into said second section of said
actuator-engaging portion.
25. The lock sub-assembly of claim 24 wherein: said first and
second portions of said actuator-engaging portion comprise three
protrusions extending from said opposite end of said rotator bolt
in a direction which is at least substantially parallel to the
axis, said protrusions being disposed around the axis at three of
four locations arcuately spaced 90.degree. apart; and at least a
portion of said free end of said actuator is disposed on only one
side of, and is oriented at least substantially parallel to, the
axis.
26. The lock sub-assembly of claim 24 wherein: said first section
of said actuator-engaging portion comprises an arcuate recess; said
second section of said actuator-engaging portion comprises an
anchor recess arcuately spaced from said arcuate recess; and at
least a portion of said actuator is disposed on only one side of,
and is oriented at least substantially parallel to, the axis.
27. The sub-assembly of claim 24 wherein: said first and second
sections of said actuator-engaging portion comprises at least one
elongated member extending from said opposite end of said rotator
bolt, each member having a cross-sectional shape; and said actuator
includes at least one axially-extending recess which is capable of
rigid engagement with one of said members, each recess being
defined by at least one bearing wall and being complementary in
shape to one of said members.
28. The lock sub-assembly of claim 27 wherein: said first and
second sections of said actuator-engaging portion comprise an
unoccupied volume and at least one post, said post being circular
in cross-section; and said actuator includes at least one recess
for engagement with said post, said at least one recess being at
least partially circular in cross 1 sectional shape.
29. The lock sub-assembly of claim 24 wherein said
release-mechanism-engaging portion includes four radial recesses
disposed at four locations angularly spaced 90.degree. from one
another about said rotator bolt.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to the field of key
operated locks. More particularly, the present invention is
directed to locks, and subassemblies therefor, which can be
converted between key-retaining and non-key-retaining functions.
Accordingly, the general objects of the present invention are to
provide novel and improved methods and apparatus of such
character.
2. Description of the Related Art
Key operated locks are broadly classified into two mutually
exclusive lock types. Locks of the first type are known as
key-retaining locks because in such locks the lock mechanism
prevents the key from being removed from the lock while the lock is
in an unlocked condition. Locks of the second type are known as
non-key-retaining locks because in such locks the lock mechanism
permits the key to be removed from the lock while the lock is in
the unlocked condition. Most conventional locks only offer one of
these lock functions and, hence, are known as single-function
locks.
There are practical, functional and security advantages to both
types of single-function locks. Since most manufacturers produce
single-function locks, lock purchasers normally need to first
determine the lock function which meets their particular
requirements, and then purchase the single-function lock of the
appropriate type. Therefore, locksmiths and other lock suppliers
are typically required to stock inventories of both key-retaining
and non-key-retaining locks in order to satisfy the needs of all
potential lock purchasers.
In order to eliminate the need for locksmiths and other lock
suppliers to stock unnecessarily large inventories of both
key-retaining locks and nonkey-retaining locks, dual-function locks
have been developed. Some exceptionally innovative dual-function
padlocks are shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,174,136. Other
highly similar dual-function padlocks are shown and described in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,363,678. The contents of these two patents are
hereby incorporated by reference. Both of these patents represent
examples of padlocks which can be readily converted between
key-retaining and non-key-retaining functions by the introduction
and/or disposal of components between the rotator bolt and the
actuator of a lock cylinder. Thus, these locks offer the ability
for the purchaser to select the desired lock function at the time
of installation or later.
However, none of the dual-function padlocks of the related art can
be converted between key-retaining and non-key-retaining functions
(i.e., inter1 function lock conversion) without the introduction of
and/or the disposal of additional lock components.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is, accordingly, an object of the present invention to provide
an improved dual-function lock which may be readily converted
between key retaining and non-key-retaining lock functions without
the introduction of and/or disposal of additional lock
components.
It is another object of the present invention to provide improved
dual-function lock sub-assemblies which can be used in
dual-function locks to facilitate more efficient inter-function
lock conversion.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
dual-function locks sub-assemblies which can be used to retrofit
single-function locks to thereby permit these locks to achieve
inter-function lock conversion.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide improved
dual-function locks which offer an optimal combination of (1)
simplicity; (2) reliability; (3) economy; and (4) versatility.
These and other objects and advantages of the present invention are
provided in one embodiment in the form of an axis-defining lock
subassembly comprising first and second axially aligned rotator
members having confronting first end faces and oppositely facing
second end faces. At least one lost-motion recess and at least one
anchor recess are disposed in one of the confronting end faces such
that these recesses are radially offset from the rotation axis. At
least one recess-engaging member extends from the other of the
confronting end faces. This recess-engaging member cooperates with
the recesses to permit lock function selection by placing the
recess-engaging member into a particular recess. Specifically, the
recess-engaging member can be placed into the anchor recess to
prevent relative rotation between the first and second rotator
members and to thereby select the key-retaining function. In order
to select the non-key-retaining function, the recess-engaging
member can be placed into the elongated lost-motion recess, thereby
permitting limited motion between the first and second rotator
members.
In embodiments utilizing a set-screw, inter-function conversion can
be achieved by advancing or retracting the set-screw and by
rotating the first and second rotator members relative to one
another. In embodiments where the recess-engaging member is a fixed
protrusion, the first and second rotator members can be axially
displaced from one another, rotated a predetermined distance, and
replaced adjacent one another once again. Still further embodiments
utilize a spring-loaded pin which can be depressed while rotating
the first and second rotator members relative to one another and
then released.
In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the
dual-function lock sub-assembly comprises a unitary rotator bolt
and a companion actuator. The rotator bolt has a
release-mechanism-engaging portion at one end thereof and an
actuator-engaging portion at an opposite end thereof. While a first
section of the actuator-engaging portion prevents lost-motion
between the rotator bolt and a companion actuator, a second section
permits limited lost-motion. Thus, in such embodiments, the lock
function can be selectively determined by placing the companion
actuator into the desired first or second section of the
actuator-engaging portion.
In still other embodiments of the present invention, the
dual-function lock sub-assembly includes a rotator bolt of one of
the types described above and an integral actuator which can be
received by a lock cylinder. In this manner, the invention is
compatible with an even wider variety of locks and lock
cylinders.
Another important feature of the present invention lies in the
formation of radial cuts in multiple predetermined locations of the
rotator bolt in order to permit the rotator bolt to cooperate with
a still wider variety of locks and/or cylinders. For example, if
the rotator bolt of the present invention is utilized with a
padlock of the type having two oppositely disposed locking balls,
forming four radial recesses in the rotator bolt permits a
dual-function rotator bolt to accommodate vertical and horizontal
tailpieces alike. Other embodiments of the present invention can
accommodate both horizontal and vertical tailpieces with fewer
radial cuts.
Still other embodiments are compatible with other styles of lock
release mechanisms.
Still another advantage of the present invention is that the
inventive lock sub-assembly can be utilized to easily retrofit a
variety of locks presently in inventory or actual use.
Specifically, in accordance with the present invention,
dual-function rotator bolts can be crafted to the dimensions of
conventional rotator bolts, thereby permitting replacement of
conventional rotator bolts with dual-function rotator bolts. Such
substitution, thus, offers still greater versatility in the lock
art.
Finally, other embodiments of the present invention encompass dual5
function locks which utilize the inventive lock sub-assemblies
briefly noted above. While such locks are preferably dual-function
padlocks, the present invention is not so limited. In particular,
the present invention offers significant advantages when utilized
in locks with removable cylinder mechanisms whether they be used in
door knobs or padlocks. Similarly, specialized cylinder
configurations can also be accommodated with the present
invention.
Numerous other advantages and features of the present invention
will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the
following detailed description of the invention, from the claims,
and from the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be
described below with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein
like numerals represent like structures and wherein:
FIG. 1a is an exploded and partially cut-away perspective
illustration of a dual-function padlock in accordance with one
preferred embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 1b is an exploded perspective view of the lock sub-assembly
depicted in FIG. 1a;
FIG. 1c is a non-exploded perspective view of the lock subassembly
of FIG. 1a and 1b;
FIGS. 1d-1f are cross-sectional views of the inventive lock
subassembly of FIG. 1c;
FIG. 1g is a cross-sectional view of a variation of the lock
subassembly of FIGS. 1a-1f, FIG. 1g being similar to FIG. 1d;
FIG. 2a perspective illustration of a rotator bolt in accordance
with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 2b-2d are cross-sectional views of the inventive lock
subassembly of FIG. 2a;
FIG. 3a is a perspective illustration of a lock sub-assembly in
accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
FIGS. 3b-3d are sectional views of the inventive lock sub-assembly
of FIG. 3a;
FIG. 4a is an exploded and partially cut-away illustration of a
dual-function padlock in accordance with another preferred
embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4b is a perspective view of the rotator bolt depicted in FIG.
4a;
FIG. 5a is an exploded and partially cut-away illustration of a
dual-function padlock in accordance with still another preferred
embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 5b is a perspective view of the rotator bolt of FIG. 5a;
FIG. 6a is an exploded and partially cut-away illustration of yet
another dual-function padlock in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 6b is a perspective view of the rotator bolt of FIG. 6a;
FIG. 6c is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the
rotator bolt and actuator utilized in the lock of FIG. 6a;
FIG. 6d is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of
the rotator bolt and actuator utilized in the lock of FIG. 6a;
FIG. 7a is a exploded perspective view of still another preferred
embodiment of the dual-function lock sub-assembly of the present
invention; and
FIG. 7b is an exploded perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the dual-function lock sub-assembly of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Dual-function locks, and lock sub-assemblies therefor, in
accordance with the preferred embodiments of the present invention
will be described with joint reference to the Figures. Throughout
this description, however, it is to be understood that, to
facilitate understanding of the drawings, only enough structure of
the apparatus has been illustrated to enable one skilled in the art
to readily understand the underlying principles and concepts of the
invention.
As shown in FIG. 1a, a dual-function padlock 10 preferably
comprises a padlock body 12, a lock cylinder 13 with a blade-like
actuator 15 extending therefrom, at least one locking ball 16, a
shackle 14 with a recess 17 for selectively receiving ball 16, a
rotational stop member 18 with an affixation screw and a lock
sub-assembly 20. As shown, padlock 10 is of a generally
conventional configuration and employs locking ball 16 as a
release/locking mechanism to selectively release retain shackle 14
in a locked condition. Those of ordinary skill will readily
appreciate that, for example, the particular configuration of
padlock body 12, cylinder 13, actuator 15, shackle 14 and release
mechanism 16 can assume a wide variety of well-known and equivalent
configurations. A mere sampling of such configurations of the
related art is provided in the Information Disclosure Statement
attached to this application and further references to such
components should be understood to encompass these and other
configurations known in the art.
FIGS. 1b-1f illustrate a dual-function lock sub-assembly 20 in
accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present
invention. Sub-assembly 20 comprises a first rotator member 24, a
second rotator member 22, a recess-engaging member 34 and a torsion
spring 38. In use, first and second rotator members 24, 22 are
positioned axially adjacent one another such that respective end
faces 42 and 44 (FIGS. 1e and 1f) confront one another (FIG. 1c).
Additionally, sub-assembly 20 is configured such that, under
certain use conditions, first and second members 24 and 22 rotate
about a common rotation axis as shown.
First rotator member 24 comprises confronting end face 44 and
second end face 45 from which actuator-engaging protrusions 36a-36d
extend. As shown, protrusions 36a-36d preferably extend in a
direction which is at least substantially parallel to the rotation
axis and are located in four positions arcuately located around the
rotation axis at 90.degree. intervals.
Protrusions 36a-36d, thus, are particularly well-suited to engage
both horizontal and vertical actuators such that they remain
stationary relative to protrusions 36a-36d. Naturally, protrusions
36a-36d could, alternatively, be oriented in many other ways to
engage tailpieces of any orientation without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention.
First member 24 also preferably includes an internally threaded
bore 32 which is offset from the rotation axis and into which an
externally threaded screw (the preferred form of recess-engaging
member 34) may be threaded. This arrangement permits
recess-engaging member 34 to be accessed from the bottom of a
padlock with an appropriate tool for adjustment of the axial
position of member 34. It is also possible to rearrange the various
elements of this embodiment so that the axial position of member 34
may be adjusted through an aperture through padlock body 12.
Second rotator member 22 is preferably a generally cylindrical
member with diametrically opposed radial cuts 26 for engagement
with and operational control over release-mechanism 16. As best
seen in FIG. 1b, member 22 preferably includes an elongated and
arcuately shaped recess 28 of a predetermined length and shallow
depth for permitting limited lost-motion between members 22 and 24.
Lost-motion recess 28 is preferably disposed on confronting end
face 42 and has a deeply threaded anchor recess 30 at one end
thereof. As shown therein, anchor recess 30 preferably extends
axially deeper into member 22 than shallow recess 28.
When sub-assembly 20 is installed in padlock 10, a second end face
43 of member 22 abuts against an end wall of padlock body 12 (FIG.
1a). As shown in FIGS. 1d and 1e, optional torsion spring 38 is
preferably coiled within a recess 40 below second end face 43.
Spring 38 permits automatic locking of padlock 10 upon closure of
shackle 14.
With primary reference now to FIGS. 1d-1f, it will be appreciated
that when recess-engaging member 34 is entirely disposed within
threaded bore 32, first and second rotator members 24 and 22 are
freely rotatable relative to one another about the rotation axis.
When member 34 is longitudinally advanced into lost-motion recess
28, however, first and second members 24 and 22 are only capable of
limited rotation about the rotation axis. In particular, first and
second members 24 and 22 may only rotate to the extent that member
34 can arcuately traverse recess 28. This arrangement provides for
lost-motion between first and second rotator members 24 and 22. For
example, member 24 can be rotated counterclockwise relative to
member 22. Therefore, a padlock employing subassembly 20 configured
in this manner will operate in a non-key-retaining mode.
Sub-assembly 20 can also be configured to prevent lost-motion
between first and second members 24 and 22 by aligning bore 32 with
recess 30 and axially advancing recess-engaging member 34 into the
lower depths of recess 30 as shown in FIGS. 1d-1f. In this
configuration, relative rotation between first and second rotator
members 24 and 22 is prevented and sub-assembly 20 can be utilized
in a key-retaining padlock. Naturally, axially retracting member 34
permits limited lost-motion once again. This process for converting
between key-retaining and non-key-retaining functions can be
repeated as desired.
One small variation of the embodiment of FIGS. 1a-1f is shown in
FIG. 1g and entails the use of a dog-point screw 34', threadless
recesses 28' and 30' and threaded bore 32'. Despite minor
differences, the embodiment of FIG. 1g operates in essentially the
same way as the embodiment of FIGS. 1a-1f and simply illustrates
that threads are not required either on the end of screw 34 or in
recess 30.
Another preferred embodiment of a dual-function lock sub-assembly
is illustrated in FIGS. 2a-2d. As indicated by the use of like
reference numerals, much of sub-assembly 20a (FIGS. 2a-2d) is
substantially similar to sub-assembly 20 (FIGS. 1a-1f). The primary
difference between subassembly 20a and sub-assembly 20 resides in
(a) the use of a mechanism to resiliently maintain first and second
rotator members 24a and 22a adjacent one another; and (b) the
particular structure of the recesses and recess-engaging
member.
As shown in FIG. 2b, first and second rotator members 24a and 22a
are resiliently maintained adjacent one another through the
cooperation of apertures 46 and 47, threaded screw 50 and axial
bias member 48. As shown therein, threaded screw 50 freely extends
through aperture 46 of member 22a and is affixed to (preferably
threaded into) aperture 47 of member 24a. Bias member 48 is
preferably a compression spring which urges screw 50 toward a
second end face 43a of second member 22a.
Accordingly, first rotator member 24a is resiliently biased against
first rotator member 22a. First and second members 24a and 22a can,
however, be separated to a limited extent by simply pulling them
away from one another along the rotation axis.
Sub-assembly 20a also differs from sub-assembly 20 in the
particular configuration of recesses 54 and 56 and of a cooperating
recess-engaging member 52 (preferably an immovable protrusion). As
shown in FIGS. 2b-2d, anchor recess 54 and elongated, arcuate
recess 56 are disposed within confronting end face 44a.
Recess-engaging member 52 is preferably an immovable protrusion
disposed on confronting end face 42a. However, those of ordinary
skill will readily appreciate that the locations of recesses 54 and
56 and of member 52 can be changed (e.g., reversed) without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
When recess-engaging member 52 is disposed within anchor recess 54,
lost-motion between first and second members 24a and 22a is
prevented and sub-assembly 20a can be used in a key-retaining lock.
By contrast, when member 52 is received within elongated recess 56,
lost motion about the rotation axis is possible. Thus, sub-assembly
20a can be utilized in a non-key-retaining lock. In order to
convert sub-assembly 22a between these lock functions, a user
merely needs to axially separate first and second members 24a and
22a, rotate these members relative to one another by the desired
amount and permit members 24a and 22a to retract toward one
another. As with the embodiment of FIGS. 1a-1f, this inter-function
conversion procedure can be repeated as desired.
FIGS. 3a-3d illustrate yet another preferred lock sub-assembly in
accordance with the present invention. As indicated by the use of
like reference numerals, sub-assembly 20b is substantially similar
to subassemblies 20 and 20a, with the primary differences residing
in the recesses 64 and 66, the recess-engaging mechanism 58, 60 and
62 and in the configuration of actuator-engaging portion 45b of
first rotator member 24b.
As best shown in FIG. 3a, actuator-engaging portion 45b differs
from portions 45 and 45a in the particular configuration of
protrusions 36a, 36b and 36c extending from the end face of rotator
member 24b. As shown, protrusions 36a-36c are disposed at three of
four locations arcuately located about the axis at 90.degree.
intervals. Also as shown, these protrusions extend substantially
parallel to the rotation axis.
In use, rotator bolt 20b can be disposed within a padlock such as
lock 10 such that actuator 15 is trapped in a first section between
adjacent protrusions 36a and 36b or between protrusions 36b and
36c. Since lost-motion is not possible in such a configuration,
actuator 15 is held stationary relative to rotator member 24b.
Recesses 64 and 66 and recess-engaging mechanism 58, 60 and 62 have
also been modified in this alternative embodiment. As best shown in
FIGS. 3a and 3d, recesses 64 and 66 extend entirely through rotator
member 24b. Additionally, recesses 64 and 66 are positioned so as
not to interfere with the location of protrusions 36a-36c (see
especially FIG. 3d). As will be noted in greater detail below, this
feature ensures easy access to spring-loaded pin 62 which serves as
the recess-engaging member. In yet another variation of this
embodiment, only a small portion of recesses 64 and 66 extend
through rotator member 24b. Such configuration permits the presence
of a fourth protrusion 36d while still allowing access to recesses
64 and 66 to manipulate spiring-loaded pin 62.
The recess-engaging mechanism of the embodiment of FIGS. 3a-3d
comprises pin 62, biasing member 60 and receiving aperture 58. As
best shown in FIG. 3b, resilient member 60, which is preferably a
compression spring, and pin 62 are disposed for linear reciprocal
movement within receiving-aperture 58 such that pin 62 is urged
into one of recesses 64 and 66 in a quiescent state. In order to
change the recess within which pin 62 is received, pin 62 is
accessed from the actuator-engaging side of rotator member 24b and
depressed until rotator ember 24b can be rotated about the rotation
axis. When the pin becomes aligned with one of recesses 64 and 66,
bias member 60 urges member 62 into reception therewith.
Naturally, when pin 62 is received within recess 64, lock
sub-assembly 20b is configured to perform a key-retaining function.
By contrast, when pin 62 is received within recess 66, lock
sub-assembly 20b is configured to perform a non-key-retaining
function. As with the earlier embodiments described above,
inter-function conversion procedure can be repeated as desired.
Still another dual-function padlock embodiment of the present
invention is illustrated in FIG. 4a. As indicated by the use of
like reference numerals, padlock 10a of FIG. 4a is substantially
similar to padlock 10 of FIG. 1a. The primary differences between
these padlocks resides in the structure of rotator bolt 20c and of
actuator 15a extending from lock cylinder 13. As shown in FIG. 4a,
actuator 15a is preferably a substantially blade-like tailpiece
extending at least substantially parallel to an axis defined by
cylinder 13. Additionally, actuator 15a preferably includes an
extended portion at the free end thereof (which is entirely on one
side of the rotation axis of cylinder 13) for engagement with
rotator bolt 20c.
Rotator bolt 20c is best illustrated in FIG. 4b. As shown therein,
rotator bolt 20c comprises a structure 26 for engaging
release-mechanism 16 of padlock 10a at a second axial end 43c
thereof. Rotator bolt 20c also comprises an actuator-engaging
portion 45c at an opposite axial end which includes three
protrusions 36a, 36c and 36d disposed at three of four positions
arcuately located about the axis at 90.degree. intervals. As shown,
these protrusions preferably extend substantially parallel to the
rotation axis.
In use, the rotator bolt 20c can be disposed within a padlock such
as lock 10a such that actuator 15a is trapped in a first section
between adjacent protrusions 36a and 36d. Since lost-motion is not
possible in such a configuration, padlock 10a, as thus configured,
operates in a key-retaining mode. Alternatively, rotator bolt 20c
can be rotated 180.degree. from the orientation shown in FIGS. 4a
and 4b so that tailpiece 15a can be inserted into a second section
between the enlarged arcuate space between protrusions 36a and 36c.
In this configuration, padlock 10a permits lost-motion between
rotator bolt 20c and actuator 15a. Therefore, as thus configured,
padlock 10a operates in a non-key-retaining mode. Those of ordinary
skill will readily appreciate that optional spring 19 provides the
customary automatic locking feature of non-key-retaining locks and
that optional rotational stop 18 provides the customary mechanism
to preclude over-rotation of actuator 15a.
Yet another preferred dual-function padlock of the present
invention is shown in FIG. 5a. As indicated by the use of like
reference numerals, much of padlock 10b (FIG. 5a) is substantially
similar to padlock 10a of FIG. 4a. The primary differences between
padlock 10b of FIG. 5a and padlock 10a of FIG. 4a resides in the
structure of rotator bolt 20d. In particular, rotator bolt 20d
offers the capability of operating in both key-retaining and
non-key-retaining functions due to the structure of
actuator-engaging portion 45d. With primary reference to FIG. 5b,
portion 45d includes a first section having a lost-motion recess 68
(preferably an elongated arcuate recess) which provides for
lost-motion between rotator bolt 20d and actuator 15a, and a second
section having an anchor recess 70 arcuately spaced from the recess
68. It will be readily appreciated that anchor recess 70 precludes
lost-motion between rotator bolt 20d and tailpiece 15a. It will
also be appreciated that selection between the key-retaining and
non-key-retaining modes of operation is permitted by selective
reorientation of rotator bolt 20d and selective placement of
actuator 15a as described above with respect to rotator bolt
20c.
Still another preferred dual-function padlock of the present
invention is shown in FIGS. 6a-6d. As indicated by the use of like
reference numerals, much of padlock 10c is substantially similar to
padlocks 10 and 10b. The primary difference between padlock 10c
(FIG. 6a) and padlocks 10a and 10b (FIGS. 4a and 5a) resides in
rotator bolt 20e and its companion actuator 15b. In particular,
blade-like actuator 15b is provided with an elongated recess 73
extending in an axial direction along the length of actuator 15b.
Recess 73 is preferably complementary in cross-sectional shape to
the profile of protrusion 36a' of rotator bolt 20e (see especially
FIG. 6b). As illustrated in FIG. 6b, cross-sectionally circular
protrusion 36a' extends from the end face of actuator-engaging
portion 45e of rotator bolt 20e in a direction which is at least
substantially parallel to the rotation axis of rotator bolt 20e.
Naturally, protrusion 36a' is designed to be snugly received within
recess 73. This forms a first (no lost-motion) section. A second
(lost-motion) section includes the entire region which arcuately
surrounds (ie., is either to the left or right of) this first
section or any portion thereof.
Key-retaining operation (i.e., with no lost-motion) of padlock 1Oc
can be effectuated by orienting actuator 15b relative to rotator
bolt 20e such that, upon insertion of cylinder 13 into padlock body
12, at least a part of protrusion 36a' is snugly received within
recess 73 (i.e., by placing actuator 15b into the first section).
By contrast, non-key-retaining operation of padlock 10c can be
effectuated by orienting tailpiece 15b relative to rotator bolt 20e
such that tailpiece 15b lies to one side of protrusion 36a' (i.e.,
by placing actuator 15b into the second section).
Thus, lost-motion between rotator bolt 20e and actuator 15b is
provided so that padlock 10c can operate in the non-key-retaining
mode. Naturally, repeated inter-function conversion can be
effectuated by reversing and/or repeating the processes described
above.
One variation of the embodiment of FIGS. 6a and 6b is illustrated
in FIG. 6c. As shown in FIG. 6c, protrusion 36a' (FIG. 6b) could
optionally take another of a great many cross-sectional shapes such
as the circular-sector shape of protrusion 36a. Additionally, the
embodiment of FIG. 6c includes a companion actuator 15c having an
elongated V-shaped recess 73a for complementary engagement with
protrusion 36a. As with the embodiment of FIGS. 6a and 6b, the
embodiment of FIG. 6c provides for both key-retaining and
non-key-retaining modes of operation by selective orientation and
placement of actuator 15c relative to rotator bolt 20f upon
insertion of cylinder 13 into padlock body 12.
Rotator bolt 20f of FIG. 6c also includes an additional feature at
second end 43d. As shown, second end 43d preferably includes
release-mechanism-engaging portions 26 disposed at four equidistant
locations about the rotation axis of rotator bolt 20f. Four full
diameter portions 26' are disposed between portions 26 and
protrusion 36a is disposed in alignment with one of full diameter
portions 26'. This arrangement permits rotator bolt 26f to
accommodate both horizontal and vertical actuators in both
key-retaining and non-key-retaining modes of operation by
appropriately orienting rotator bolt 26f within padlock body 12.
This arrangement, however, assumes that rotator bolt 20f will be
used in a padlock having a pair of locking balls rather than one as
shown, for example, in FIG. 6a. Thus, if only one locking ball is
utilized, two radial cuts 26, preferably located approximately
90.degree. apart, can be used to accommodate both horizontal and
vertical tailpieces. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill will
appreciate that protrusion 36a could easily be relocated as
appropriate for any tailpiece orientation without departing from
the spirit and scope of the invention. Naturally, the above-noted
features could be incorporated into any of the unitary rotator
bolts shown and described herein.
Yet another variation of the embodiment of FIGS. 6a and 6b is
illustrated in FIG. 6d. It will be appreciated that the second end
of rotator bolt 20g (FIG. 6d) is identical to that of rotator bolt
20e of FIG. 6b. It will also be appreciated that actuator-engaging
portion 45f' and actuator 15c' (FIG. 6d) are substantially similar
to those of FIG. 6c. The primary difference between
actuator-engaging portions 45f and 45f' resides in the presence of
an arcuately spaced second protrusion 36c in the embodiment of FIG.
6d. Also, actuator 15c' is provided with a pair of elongated
recesses in order to accommodate the presence of both oppositely
disposed protrusions 36a and 36c. This arrangement operates in the
same general manner as rotator bolt 20f of FIG. 6c but offers the
advantage of better engagement between rotator bolt 20g and
actuator 15c'.
Turning now to FIG. 7a, there is shown another dual-function
subassembly 20h in accordance with the invention. As shown in FIG.
7a, sub-assembly 20h preferably comprises first and second rotator
members 24c and 22c, respectively, and an optional torsion spring
19a. Those of ordinary skill will readily appreciate that this
dual-function lock subassembly 20h can be utilized with any of the
actuators shown and/or described herein and, additionally, can be
utilized in locks of the general nature of padlock 10 (FIG.
1a).
Second rotator member 22c preferably includes a
release-mechanism-engaging portion 26a comprising radial cuts
through an inner section 76 and larger end walls 74. Second member
22c also includes a confronting end face 42c and an oppositely
disposed second end 43e. An optional axial stud 88 can also be
provided along the rotation axis of second member 22c. Similarly, a
recess-engaging protrusion 90 is provided at a radial distance from
the rotation axis. Protrusion 90 is designed for engagement with
complementary recesses 92 and 94 disposed on confronting end face
44c of first rotator member 24c. An aperture 78, or any other
suitable affixation means, can be provided on wall 74 of second
member 22c in order to fixedly receive one end of spring 19a. The
other end of spring 19a will be affixed to the lock within which
sub-assembly 20h is used and provides for automatic locking of the
lock. As shown in FIG. 7a, spring 19a is preferably coiled around
first rotator member 24c at a second end thereof.
First rotator member 24c includes an enlarged diameter portion 82
at the actuator-engaging portion 45g and a reduced diameter portion
80 near confronting end face 44c. Reduced diameter portion 80
permits first member 24c to receive spring 19a without increasing
the overall diameter of sub-assembly 20h and without interfering
with actuator-engaging portion 45g. Confronting end face 44c
includes an elongated lost-motion recess 92 and an arcuately spaced
anchor recess 94 which are designed for selective engagement with
recess-engaging member 90. As an optional feature of sub-assembly
20h, arcuate recess 92 traverses less than 90.degree., but still
permits sufficient rotation of second rotator member 22c during use
to lock and unlock a lock. However, other suitable arrangements of
recesses 92 and 94 (such as permitting recess 92 to traverse
90.degree. and to locate anchor recess 94 approximately 90.degree.
from one end of recess 92) are also within the scope of the
invention. An optional bore 86 extends through first member 24c
along the rotation axis and cooperates with member 88 to assist in
appropriate alignment for rotation. A rotator stop groove can be
provided on first rotator member 24c to prevent over-rotation of
engaging actuator. Sub-assembly 20h is preferably maintained within
a padlock with an axially oriented screw having a head which rides
within rotator stop groove 18a. Thus, rotation of first member 24c
is limited by engagement of the screw head with end walls of groove
18a.
This arrangement eliminates the need for a separate rotator stop
component such as rotator stop 18 of FIG. 1a, for example.
Actuator-engaging portion 45g of sub-assembly 20h preferably
includes a cross-shaped recess 84 for engaging the actuator of a
lock cylinder. As shown, recess 84 is designed to accommodate both
horizontal and vertical tailpieces. However, recess 84 can be
rotated to accommodate tailpieces of any angular orientation
between horizontal and vertical orientations. Similarly, many other
recess and/or protrusions can be utilized on actuator-engaging
portion 45g as appropriate to accommodate the many styles of
actuators available in the lock industry.
Still another dual-function lock sub-assembly in accordance with
the present invention is shown in FIG. 7b. As indicated by the use
of like reference numerals, much of sub-assembly 20i of FIG. 7b is
substantially identical to sub-assembly 20h of FIG. 7a except that
actuator-engaging recess 84 has been replaced with protrusions 96
for reception within an interchangeable core type lock cylinder.
Naturally, other styles of protrusions and/or lugs can be utilized
as desired to ensure cooperation with an appropriate tailpiece
and/or lock cylinder. A final distinction between sub-assemblies
20h and 20i resides in the utilization of a shallow recess 86' in
sub-assembly 20i (rather than the elongated aperture 86 of
sub-assembly 20h).
Naturally, sub-assemblies 20h and 20i will operate equally
effectively if the location of recess-engaging member 90 and
recesses 90 and 94 are reversed or otherwise reoriented. These
sub-assemblies are capable of providing both key-retaining and
non-key-retaining lock functions in the same general manner as the
embodiment of FIGS. 2a-2d. However, as noted above, sub-assemblies
20h and 20i are typically maintained within a padlock by the
cooperation of a retaining screw and rotator stop groove 18a. Thus,
reorientation of first and second rotator members 24c and 22c is
accomplished by loosening the retaining screw, reorienting these
members relative to one another and re-tightening the retaining
screw.
While the present invention has been described in connection with
what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not
limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is intended to cover the
various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within
the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *