Latch and lock assemblies with spring-biased pivot bolts

Abstract

Flush mountable latches and locks for industrial cabinets, tool carts, electrical equipment enclosures and the like utilize versatile housings of novel configuration together with push-to-operate handles that are pivotally movable relative to the housings to effect unlatching movements of spring-biased, pivotally mounted latch bolts. The lock-type embodiment has a locking mechanism that is mounted on the housing to selectively permit and prevent unlatching movements of its pivotal latch bolt. The resulting arrangement provides sturdy latch and lock assemblies that employ a small number of relatively movable parts that can be assembled, installed and serviced with ease. Improved features include the provision of a plural part handle assembly having portions that are configured to cooperate with a resilient, weather resistant boot that optionally may be interposed between housing and handle assembly components. Other improvements features include the provision of mounting hardware that readily adapts latch and lock units for mounting on structures of a wide variety of thicknesses, and simplifications that enhance the ease of assembly and improve the operation of components that are employed in the lock-type embodiment.