Patent ID: 8096593
Filing Date: 2012-01-17
Classification: E05B,E05C,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A latch assembly for a sliding frame, comprising a latch and a stop element, the latch comprising a mounting end for mounting the latch on a mounting surface adjacent and substantially parallel to the sliding frame and the mounting end dimensioned to allow the sliding frame to slide along a sliding path over the mounting end when the latch allows the sliding frame to move from a closed position to an open position; a blocking element having an end portion and a body portion coupled to the mounting end, the body portion extending from the mounting end at an angle relative to a plane of the mounting surface and the body portion having a length that allows the blocking element to be manipulated by a user and the body portion dimensioned such that the body portion extends to cover a space between the mounting surface and a side surface of the sliding frame and the end portion of the blocking element abutting the side surface of the sliding frame to prevent the frame from sliding into an open position; the stop element mounted on the side surface of the sliding frame such that the end portion of the blocking element engages the stop element and prevents the sliding frame from opening when the frame is in the closed position; and the blocking element having a degree of stiffness in the direction of the sliding path that allows the blocking element to block the sliding frame, and having a degree of flexibility in a direction perpendicular to the sliding path to allow a user to disengage the latch by pushing the blocking element out of the sliding path so that the sliding frame can be moved to an open position.