Multiple point cam-pinion door latch

Abstract

A multiple point latching system, for use with single or multi-door enclosures, which utilizes a plurality of combinational cam-pinion latch members which are rotatably mounted to the inside surface of the door and simultaneously driven by an elongated rack which extends between such latches and disconnectedly inter-engages therewith. Each combinational cam-pinion latch includes a plurality of teeth which disconnectedly inter-engage with apertures in the rack to cause simultaneous rotation thereof. A handle which is connected to the door and accessible from the exterior thereof drives one of the latch members which in turn causes movement of the rack and consequent rotation of all other combinational cam-pinion latches. Such latches are rotatably mounted at spaced locations along the free peripheral portions of the enclosure door. Each latch has a camming surface which engages the enclosure and draws the door into tightly sealed relation therewith upon closure of the door and movement of the handle to cause such latches to simultaneously move into their latched position. All cam-pinion latches and other associated latching hardware is mounted on the door in such a position that it is outside the sealed gasketed interior of the enclosure when closed and latched thereto, with no portions thereof protruding through the body of the enclosure to create possible leakage problems therein.