Door lock chassis assembly

An apparatus that at least assists in maintaining a lever or knob of a lock device in a relatively neutral and static position. The apparatus includes a biasing element that can be constructed from a compliant material that may at least assist in reducing impact forces between interfacing surfaces at least when the lever or knob is returns to the neutral, static position from one or more activated positions. The compliant nature of the damper can further alleviate issues relating to manufacturing tolerances and wear between interfacing surfaces.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present application generally relate to door locks, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to chassis assemblies for door locks.

BACKGROUND

Door locks often include door knobs or levers that are typically directly or indirectly coupled to a latch of a door lock. Such door knobs or levers typically provide an interface for a user to retract the latch from an extended position to a retracted position. Further, door locks often use springs to bias door handles, such as knobs or levers, to a neutral, un-actuated position that typically corresponds to the associated latch being in the extended position. Accordingly, at least when a door or other entryway device to which the door lock is mounted is in a closed position relative to an associated entryway, the door handle can be biased by the spring to the neutral, and relatively static, unactuated position. Further, with the door handle in the neutral position, the latch, and moreover a latch bolt, may be in an extended position such that the latch extends into a door strike or other opening in an adjacent door frame or wall. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the door may be displaced from the closed position to the open position through manipulation of the door handle. For example, a user may rotate or pivot the handle to an activated position, which causes the latch bolt to be displaced from the extended position to the retracted position. When the latch is in the retracted position, the latch may be at least partially withdrawn from the door strike or adjacent door frame or wall. When the user releases the door handle, such door knobs or levers are often biased back to the neutral, un-actuated position, and the latch returns to the extended position.

The ability to repeatably attain/maintain the door handle at the neutral, un-actuated, and generally static, position is often dependent, at least in part, on the manufactured dimensional accuracy of various component interfaces associated with the operation of the door lock. Accordingly, discrepancies in the dimensional accuracy of various components of the door lock can adversely impact the nature of such component interfaces, as well as the timing of the engagement between those components and/or interfaces. Further, such components are typically manufactured to not only attain/maintain the door handle at the neutral, un-actuated and static position, but to do so in a manner that is aesthetically pleasing, such as, for example, retaining door knobs or levers having relatively linear appearances in a generally horizontal orientation. According to such designs, the inability to attain and/or maintain such horizontality of the door handle, also referred to as lever droop, can be considered by at least some to be aesthetically objectionable, and, in at least some situations, may adversely impact revenues. Efforts to ensure that the component interfaces can retain the door handle at a particular orientation when the door handle is at the neutral, un-actuated position can include tighter manufacturing tolerances for various components of the door lock. Yet, such efforts to tighten manufacturing tolerances can lead to higher part costs, and, in at least in certain situations, may be infeasible to maintain in the long term.

Additionally, the ability to maintain the door knob or lock at the neutral, unactuated and static position over the course of the life of the door lock, particularly as the number of operation cycles accumulate, may be adversely affected by certain interactions and at least occasional striking or impact forces between components of the door lock. Moreover, when a door handle is released from an actuated position at least certain components of the door lock can be accelerated back toward, and into contact with, other components of the door lock as the handle and door lock components return to their respective neutral, un-actuated positions. Such return displacement of certain components can be arrested by a sudden impact with other components of the lock device, such as, for example, a relatively rigid housing, which can also increase the noise associated with the operation of the door lock. Further, such impact can lead to detrimental wear of components of the door lock, and can cause dimensional changes that alter interface clearances between the involved components. These dimensional changes may lead to an increase in the perceptible change in the orientation of the neutral position of the door handle.

BRIEF SUMMARY

One aspect of the present application is directed to an apparatus for a door lock chassis assembly that is structured to be coupled to a handle. The apparatus can include a damper that can be constructed from a compliant material and which is positioned between at least one interface surface between a housing and an actuation mechanism. The actuation mechanism can include one or more engagement sections that are positioned to directly or indirectly couple the actuation mechanism to the handle. Further, the one or more engagement sections can be structured to transmit a biasing force from a biasing element to facilitate the biasing of the handle in an unactuated position. Additionally, the engagement sections can be structured to facilitate rotational displacement of the actuation mechanism as the handle is rotated away from the unactuated position.

Another aspect of the present application is directed to an apparatus for biasing a position of a handle. The apparatus can include a housing having a first side and a second side. The apparatus can also include an actuation plate that can be rotatably coupled to the housing and be rotatably displaceable in a first direction from a neutral position to a first actuation position, as well as in a second direction from the neutral position to a second actuation position, with the first direction being opposite of the second direction. Further, the actuation plate can include one or more engagement sections sized to directly or indirectly couple the actuation plate to the handle. The apparatus can also include a biasing element that is coupled to the actuation plate and which provides a biasing force that biases the actuation plate to the neutral position. The apparatus further includes a damper that is constructed from a compliant material and is positioned between at least one interface between the actuation plate and the housing.

A further aspect of the present application is directed to an apparatus that includes a handle that is rotatably displaceable between an unactuated position and at least one actuated position. The apparatus includes an actuation plate having an actuation body and one or more engagement sections. The one or more engagement sections can be directly or indirectly coupled to the handle, and the actuation plate can be rotatably displaceable from a neutral position. The apparatus can further include one or more dampers constructed from a compliant material, at least one of the one or more dampers being positioned between at least one interface between the actuation plate and the housing. The apparatus also includes a biasing element that can provide a biasing force to bias the actuation plate to the neutral position, at least a portion of biasing element being configured to contact one or more of the one or more dampers as the actuation plate is rotatably displaced to the neutral position. Further, one or more of the engagement sections can at least assist in retaining the handle in the unactuated position when the actuation plate is in the neutral position.

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments of the present invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is shown in the drawings, certain embodiments. It should be understood, however, that the present invention is not limited to the arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the attached drawings. Further, like numbers in the respective figures indicate like or comparable parts.

DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

Certain terminology is used in the foregoing description for convenience and is not intended to be limiting. Words such as “upper,” “lower,” “top,” “bottom,” “first,” and “second” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. This terminology includes the words specifically noted above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Additionally, the words “a” and “one” are defined as including one or more of the referenced item unless specifically noted. The phrase “at least one of” followed by a list of two or more items, such as “A, B or C,” means any individual one of A, B or C, as well as any combination thereof.

FIG. 1illustrates an exploded view of a lock assembly100that is structured to be operably mounted or coupled to an entryway device102, such as, for example, a door or gate, among other devices. The lock assembly100includes a first latch assembly portion104that is structured to extend from a first106aof the entryway device102, and a second latch assembly portion108that extends from a second side106bof the entryway device102. Further, at least a portion of the first and second latch assembly portions104,108may extend into a cross-bore110in the entryway device102that extends along a thickness of at least a portion of the entryway device102and between the opposing first and second sides106a,106bof the entryway device102. The first and second latch assembly portions104,108may also be coupled to a latch assembly112that extends into an edge bore110formed in a side edge112of the entryway device102that is generally perpendicular to, and in communication with, the cross-bore110in the entryway device102.

According to certain embodiments, the first latch assembly portion104may include a first handle114, a first rose116, and a first chassis assembly118. The first rose116can be sized to extend over at least a portion of the first chassis assembly118so that the first rose116can be positioned to at least assist in covering or concealing the first chassis assembly118from view at least when the lock assembly100is operably mounted or coupled to an entryway device102. In certain embodiments, the first rose116can provide a decorative plate or cover that may enhance the aesthetics of the lock assembly100.

According to certain embodiments, the first chassis assembly118includes a first chassis spindle120that extends through at least a portion of a first spring cage assembly122. The first chassis spindle120is sized for engagement with at least a first drive spindle124to rotationally couple therewith. For example, according to certain embodiments, at least a portion of the first chassis spindle120may receive insertion of the first drive spindle124such that rotational displacement of the first chassis spindle120is translated into rotational displacement of at least the first drive spindle124. The first chassis spindle120may be rotationally coupled with the first drive spindle124via mating portions having non-circular shapes and/or a mechanical fastener, such as a pin, screw, or key. The first drive spindle124may also be coupled to the first handle114, such as, for example, via engagement with a mating recess in the first handle114. According to such embodiments, the first drive spindle124may be coupled to the first handle114and extend into at least the first chassis spindle120such that rotational or pivotal displacement of the first handle114is translated by the first drive spindle124into rotational displacement of the first chassis spindle120.

Similarly, the second latch assembly portion108can include a second handle126, a second rose128, and a second chassis assembly130. The second rose128can be sized to extend over at least a portion of the second chassis assembly130so that the second rose128can be positioned to at least assist in covering or concealing the second chassis assembly130from view at least when the lock assembly100is operably mounted or coupled to an entryway device102. In certain embodiments, the second rose128can provide a decorative plate or cover that may enhance the aesthetics of the lock assembly100.

According to certain embodiments, the second chassis assembly130includes a second chassis spindle132that extends through at least a portion of a second spring cage assembly134. The second chassis spindle132is sized for engagement with at least a second drive spindle136to rotationally couple therewith. For example, according to certain embodiments, at least a portion of the second chassis spindle132may receive insertion of the second drive spindle136such that rotational displacement of the second chassis spindle132is translated into rotational displacement of at least the second drive spindle136. The second chassis spindle132may be rotationally coupled with the second drive spindle136via mating portions having non-circular shapes and/or a mechanical fastener, such as a pin, screw, or key. The second drive spindle136may also be coupled to the second handle126, such as, for example, via engagement with a mating recess in the second handle126. According to such embodiments, the second drive spindle136may be coupled to the second handle126and extend into at least the second chassis spindle132such that rotational or pivotal displacement of the second handle126is translated by the second drive spindle136into rotational displacement of the second chassis spindle132.

According to the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the first and second chassis assemblies118,130can extend into the cross-bore110in the entryway device102and can be coupled to the latch assembly112. Moreover, the first and second chassis assemblies118,130may each be operably coupled to the latch assembly112such that rotation of the first or second chassis spindles120,132of the first and/or second chassis assemblies118,130is translated into linear displacement of a latch bolt138of the latch assembly112between an extended position and a retracted position. In the illustrated form, each of the handles114,126is provided in the form of a lever-type handle. It is also contemplated that one or both of the handles114,126may be provided in the form of a knob-type handle.

FIG. 2illustrates an exploded perspective view of a door lock chassis assembly200according to one embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the door lock chassis assembly200can be adapted to be used as either or both of the first and second chassis assemblies118130, and includes a housing202, a spindle204, an actuation plate or mechanism206, a biasing element208, and a damper210. Optionally, the door lock chassis assembly200can also include a washer or spacer209that can be operably positioned between the actuation plate206and the handle114,126. The housing202can having opposite first and second sides212a,212band be structured to provide a relatively fixed structural member for the door lock chassis assembly200. For example, referencingFIGS. 1 and 2, the housing202can be part of the first chassis assembly118and be structured to at least assist in the coupling of the first chassis assembly118to the second chassis assembly130and/or to the entryway device102. According to certain embodiments, the housing202can include one or more posts214extending from the second side212bof the housing202. The posts214may be structured for a threaded engagement with a mechanical fastener, such as a bolt or screw, that can be coupled to the second chassis assembly130. Further, the housing202can be constructed from a variety of materials, including, for example, a metal having a relatively low surface hardness. By way of example, the housing202may be formed of a metal having Brinell Hardness Number (BHN) of around 100 or less, among other materials and levels of surface hardness.

The spindle204includes a spindle sleeve216having a first end portion218aand an opposite second end portion218b. The spindle204also includes a spindle plate220, which is joined to the second end portion218bof the spindle sleeve216, and extends radially outwardly therefrom. Further, at least a portion of the spindle sleeve216is sized to extend through an aperture203in the housing202. According to the illustrated embodiment, the spindle plate220may abut the second side212bof the housing202, while at least a portion of the spindle sleeve216extends through the aperture203and away from the first side212aof the housing202.

The first end portion218aof the spindle sleeve216can be configured to be rotationally coupled to the handle114,126and/or associated trim of the handle114,126. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, the first end218aof the spindle sleeve216includes a non-circular engagement portion222that is shaped to directly or indirectly be coupled to the handle114,126such that rotational displacement of the spindle204may be translated to the handle114,126, and vice versa. However, in addition to, or in lieu of, using a non-circular configuration, the engagement portion222of spindle sleeve216can be operably coupled to the handle114,126in a variety of other manners, including, but not limited, a pin, screw, bolt, clamp, and/or adhesive, among other connections.

The actuation plate206can be structured to interface, either directly or indirectly, with the handle114,126. More specifically, the actuation plate206can be structured to transmit a torque from the handle114,126to the biasing element208, and vice versa. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuation plate206includes a body portion or segment224, one or more retention segments226, and one or more engagement sections228a,228b. The body portion224can include a first side230a, a second side230b, an inner wall232, and an outer wall234. The inner wall232generally defines an opening236that is sized to accommodate placement of the actuation plate206about a hub238on the first side212aof the housing202. Moreover, the opening236can be sized to accommodate rotational displacement of the actuation plate206about at least a portion of the hub238. Additionally, according to the illustrated embodiment, the second side230bof the body portion224may, when the actuation plate206is positioned about the hub238of the housing202, abut or be generally adjacent to the first side212aof the housing202. Further, the actuation plate206can be constructed from a variety of materials, including, but not limited to, a metal having a relatively low surface hardness, such as, for example, a Brinell Hardness Number (BHN) of around 100 or less.

The engagement section228a,228bof the actuation plate206are sized to provide an interface between the actuation plate206and the handle114,126. For example, as shown in at leastFIGS. 2-5, according to certain embodiments, the engagement section228a,228bmay comprise one or more outwardly extending tabs that are positioned to engage, either directly or indirectly, one or more adjacent abutment surfaces240a,240bof the handle114,126. Further, the one or more engagement sections228a,228band the one or more corresponding abutment surfaces240a,240bcan be positioned at a variety of locations about the actuation plate206and handle114,126, respectively. For example, according to certain embodiments, the first abutment surface240aand adjacent first engagement section228a, and the second abutment surface240band adjacent second engagement section228b, may be on opposite sides of a central axis246of the chassis assembly200. The one or more engagement sections228a,228bof the actuation plate206can be configured for engagement with the corresponding one or more adjacent abutment surfaces240a,240bsuch that rotational displacement of one of the actuation plate206and the handle114,126may be translated to the other of the actuation plate206and the handle114,126. Additionally, the one or more engagement sections228a,228bof the actuation plate206can be configured for engagement with the corresponding one or more adjacent abutment surfaces240a,240bin a manner that at least assists in maintaining the handle114,126in the neutral, unactuated position.

Which abutment surfaces240a,240bengages which portions of the engagement sections228a,228bcan depend on the direction of rotational displacement as well as the configuration or position of the abutment surfaces240a,240band engagement sections228a,228b. For example, according to the embodiment shown inFIGS. 2-5, two opposing abutment surfaces240a,240bon the first side230aof the body portion224can be positioned for engagement with one or more of the engagement sections228a,228bso as to provide an interface between the actuation plate206and the handle114,126that at least assists in transmitting rotational forces therebetween. Moreover, as indicated byFIG. 5, according to certain embodiments, the abutment surfaces240a,240bcan generally define a space or cavity244in the handle114,126that receives the placement of an adjacent engagement section228a,228b. According to such an embodiment, rotation of the actuation plate208in a first direction can result in a first side242aof a first engagement section228abeing in engagement with an adjacent first abutment surface240ain a manner that causes the handle114,126to rotate in the first direction. Additionally, according to certain embodiments, such rotation in the first direction can also result the second engagement section228bbeing engaged with an adjacent second abutment surface240b, which can also assist in facilitation rotation of the handle114,126in the first direction. Conversely, rotation of the actuation plate208in an opposite second direction can result in the first engagement section228abeing in engagement with an adjacent second abutment surface240b, and the second engagement surface228bbeing in engagement with an adjacent first abutment surface240a, thereby causing the handle114,126to rotate in the second direction.

While certain above examples may be discussed in terms of rotational displacement of the actuation plate206being translated into rotational displacement of the handle114,126, it is to be appreciated that rotational displacement of the handle114,126can similarly be translated to rotational displacement of the actuation plate206. Moreover, rotational displacement of the handle114,126(such as, for example, by a user manipulating the handle114,126) can result in, based on the direction of displacement, the first abutment surface240aexerting a force against the first side242aof the adjacent engagement section228a, or the second abutment surface240bexerting a force against the second side242bof the adjacent engagement section228athat facilitates the rotational displacement of the actuation plate206.

According to other embodiments, one or more of the engagement sections228a,228bmay be positioned adjacent a single abutment surface240a,240b. According to such an embodiment, when rotated in one direction, the first engagement section228amay be engaged with an adjacent first or second abutment surface240a,240bso as to facilitate rotational displacement of the actuation plate206and/or the handle114,126, and the second engagement section228bis not engaged with and adjacent first or second abutment surface240a,240b. According to such an embodiment, when rotated in another, opposite direction, the second engagement section228bmay be engaged with an adjacent first or second abutment surface240a,240bso as to facilitate rotational displacement of the actuation plate206and/or the handle114,126, and the first engagement section228ais not engaged with and adjacent first or second abutment surface240a,240b. Alternatively, according to certain embodiments, the first and second abutment surfaces240a,240bmay be coupled to the associated, adjacent first and second engagement sections228a,228b(such as, for example, by a pin, clip, clap, or press fit, among other arrangements and connections), such that when the first engagement section228aand the first abutment surface240aare in a pushing or pressing relationship that facilitates rotational displacement, the second engagement section228band the second abutment surface240bare in a pulling relationship.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the biasing element208can provide a centralizing preload torque to hold the handle114,126in a neutral, unactuated position. The biasing element208can also provide a return torque when the handle114,126is actuated by a user. More specifically, when the user releases the handle114,126, the return torque will urge the handle114,126back to the unactuated position. The actuation plate206may be sized to accommodate the placement, or otherwise accommodate the structure and/or position of the biasing element208. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, the biasing element208can be a generally cylindrical shaped torsion spring having a first arm248aat a first end250aof the biasing element208, and a second arm248bat a second end250bof the biasing element208. According to such an embodiment, the biasing element208may include an aperture252that accommodates the placement of the biasing element208about the outer wall234of the body portion224of actuation plate206.

Additionally, the body portion224of the actuation plate206may include one or more retention segments226that outwardly extend from around a portion of the first side230aand/or outer wall234in a manner that may facilitate the biasing element208being retained at a lateral position between the retention segments226of the actuation plate206and the housing202, as shown in at leastFIG. 5. Further, the torsion spring of the biasing element208can be constructed from a variety of different materials, including, but not limited to, cold drawn spring wire having, for example, a surface hardness of a Rockwell C (RC) of around 50 RC to around 60 RC, among other levels or surface hardness and/or materials.

The actuation plate206includes at least one actuation body254that is positioned for engagement with at least a portion of the biasing element208. According to the illustrated embodiment, engagement between the biasing element208and the actuation body254may be used to bias at least the actuation plate206to a neutral position that can be associated with the latch bolt138being at a predetermined position, such as the extended position or the retracted position. The actuation body254can have a variety of shapes and sizes. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, the actuation body254can be positioned in a space256between the first and second arms248a,248bof the biasing element208in a manner in which the actuation body254is engaged with one or more of the first and second arms248a,248bof the biasing element208. The at least one actuation body254can outwardly extend from the body portion224of the actuation body254so as to be positioned to engage a portion of the biasing element208, such as, for example, a lower portion258aof the first arm248aand/or the second arm248b. Furthermore, according to certain embodiments, the actuation body254may extend from the one or more retention segments226, as shown, for example, by at leastFIG. 5.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the damper210may be configured to at least assist in maintaining the position/orientation of the biasing element208when at a rest position and/or to dampen the return of the biasing element208to the neutral, unactuated position. The damper210may be constructed from a variety of different materials, including, but not limited to, a material that may provide sufficient rigidity to maintain the biasing element208at the rest position, is shock absorbent, and/or is wear resistant. For example, according to certain embodiments, the damper210may be constructed from a rubber or elastomeric material having a hardness that is optimized for wear resistance, and which can provide a degree of structural performance or support characteristics.

The damper210may have a variety of different shapes and sizes. According to the illustrated embodiment, as shown by at leastFIGS. 2-5, the damper210can include a main section260and an extension section262. The main section260can be configured to be received in an opening264in the housing202. Further, the main section260can be used to secure the damper210to the housing202. For example, according to certain embodiments, the main section260and/or the opening264of the housing202can be sized to provide a press or interference fit between the main section260and portions of the housing202that generally define the opening264. However, the damper210can be coupled to the housing202in a variety of other manners in addition to, or in lieu of, an interference or press fit. For example, according to embodiments in which the housing202does, or does not, include an opening264that receives at least a portion of the damper210, the damper210can be secured or affixed to the housing202via a mechanical fastener and/or an adhesive. For example, according to certain embodiments, the damper201can at least partially be secured to the housing202via the use of a pin, screw, bolt, rivet, snap-fit and/or clamp. According to other embodiments, the damper210can be secured to the housing202via use of a glue, resin, and/or plastic weld, among other fasteners.

The opening264of the housing202and the main section260of the damper210can be sized such that the housing202provides structural integrity to the damper210. The extension section262can include a first segment266aand a second segment266bthat are separated by a gap268. Further, according to certain embodiments, the gap268can be sized to accommodate the positioning of a rib270of the housing202between the first and second segments266a,266b. The first and second segments266a,266bmay further be configured to contact an upper portion258bof the adjacent first and second arms248a,248bof the biasing element208. According to such an embodiment, the rib270may provide a degree of rigidity and/or structural integrity to the first and/or second segments266a,266b. Additionally, the first and second segments266a,266bmay provide a dampening or cushion effect that prevents the first and second arms248a,248bof the biasing element208from directly striking or otherwise impacting the rib270of the housing202. Alternatively, according to other embodiments in which the housing202does not a rib270, the extension262of the damper210may not include a gap268. For example, according to certain embodiments, the first and second segments266a,266bcan be a single segment that extends across the extension262.

According to certain embodiments, the deformation and/or deflection capabilities of the damper210may allow the damper210to have relatively larger size tolerances for at least purposes of manufacturing. This may enable the damper210to provide an operationally compliant component that provides localized tuning of the interface between at least the biasing element208, damper210, housing202, and/or the actuation plate206, without at least some of the same degree of traditional size tolerance limitations. The deformation and/or deflection capabilities of the damper210may additionally or alternatively enable the damper to provide a compliant component that maintains an operational size, shape and/or interfaces for a relatively longer period of time and/or a larger number of operation cycles. For example, referencing the lock chassis assembly200being in the neutral, unactuated position (FIG. 2), with the housing202, actuation plate206, and the biasing element208being constructed from relatively rigid materials, the introduction of the damper210may facilitate simultaneous contact at interfaces between the actuation plate206and first and second arms248a,248bof the biasing element208, as well as interfaces between the first and second arms248a,248bof the biasing element208and the damper210. Moreover, the compliant nature of the damper210, including the conformity of the material of the damper210, can at least assist in the damper210being able to conform to the geometry of at least a portion of the biasing element208that engages the damper210, as well as the positioning or size of the rib270. Thus, such conformity of the damper210can compensate for relatively large manufacturing tolerances associated with actuation body254and the rib270of the housing202. Further, the compliant nature of the damper210and the ability to compensate for certain discrepancies in the geometric interfaces between the damper210, biasing element208, housing202, and/or actuation plate206can at least assist in minimizing perceptible droop and/or rattle of the handle114,126.

Thus, according to the illustrated embodiment, during lock operation, the damper210can be able to change shape as a result of relatively high, localized surface stresses imposed on the damper210from the biasing element208. Rather than localized permanent yielding, the damper210can experience localized and at least relatively temporary deformation when exposed to the loads from the biasing element208. Upon removal of those loads, the damper210can regain its prior, generally non-deformed shape. Additionally, with appropriate material selection, wear from relative motion at interfaces between the damper210and the biasing element208can be reduced or eliminated. Further, using such an embodiment can minimize rotational clearances at the interfaces between the damper210and the biasing element208that otherwise could result from wear, which help improve long-term droop and rattle performance of the lock chassis assembly200as the number of operational cycles are accumulated.

FIG. 4Aillustrates the lock chassis assembly200in a state in which a rotational force exerted on the rotated the handle114,126in a first direction (such as, for example, by a user manipulating the handle114,126) has displaced the lock chassis assembly200to a first actuated position. As discussed above, such rotation of the handle114,126can be translated to the engagement section228a,228bof the actuation plate206in a manner that can facilitate rotational displacement of the actuation plate206. Such rotation of the actuation body254in the first direction can result in a first side255aof the actuation body254exerting a force against the first arm248aof the biasing element208in a manner that rotatably displaces the first arm248awith the actuation body254. Further, while the actuation body254and first arm248aare rotated, the second segment266bof the damper210and/or the rib270of the housing202can be positioned to prevent or minimize similar rotation of the second arm248bof the biasing element208, thereby allowing for an increase in the size of the space256between the first and second arms248a,248bof the biasing element208. Moreover, such a change in the distance or space256between the first and second arms248a,248bcan be associated with the biasing element208being changed from an unactuated state to an actuated state, wherein the biasing element208provides a force that seeks to return at least the biasing element208to the unactuated state.

Further, as shown inFIG. 4A, when in the first actuated position, the upper portion258bof the second arm248bof the biasing element208and the second segment266bof the damper210, as well as the interface between the lower portion258aof the first arm248aof the biasing element208and the first side255aof the actuation body254, are in engaged states. Conversely, at the first actuation position, the interface between the upper portion258bof the first arm248aof the biasing element208and the first segment266aof the damper210actuation body254, as well as the interface between the lower portion258aof the second arm248bof the biasing element208and the second side255bof the actuation body254are in disengaged states. From the first actuated position, when the force that displaced the handle114,126away from the neutral, unactuated position is released or otherwise removed, the biasing element208can provide a force that urges the above-identified rotated components of the assembly200back to the neutral or unactuated positions illustrated inFIG. 3A.

According to certain embodiments, at least a portion of the damper210can be positioned about one or both of the first and second sides255a,255bof the actuation body254, as shown, for example, byFIG. 3B. For example, according to certain embodiments, rather than being coupled to the housing202, the damper210can be coupled to the actuation body254so that the interface between the first and/or second sides255a,225bat least when the actuation body254returns to the neutral, static position is not directly with the housing202, but instead with the damper210. Moreover, such a configuration can allow the damper210to remain between interfacing portions of the first and/or second sides255a,255bof the actuation body254and the corresponding interfacing surfaces of the housing202, such as, for example, the rib270.

According to other embodiments, a first portion of damper210can be coupled to the housing202, such as the rib270, while a second portion of the damper210is coupled to the first and/or second sides255a,255bof the actuation body254. Thus, according to such an embodiment, at least a first portion of the damper210that is coupled to the housing202, and at least a second portion of the damper210that is coupled to the actuation body254can be positioned to prevent direct contact between the first and/or second sides255a,255bof the actuation body254and the housing202at least when the actuation body254returns to the neutral, static position. For example, according to certain embodiments in which the housing includes a rib270, a damper210can be positioned on both sides of the rib270, and another damper210can be positioned along both the first and second sides255a,255bof the actuation body254. According to such an embodiment, at least when the actuation body254returns to the neutral, static position, the interface between one side of the rib270and the first side255aof the actuation body254and/or the interface between the other side of the rib270and the second side255bof the actuation body254may be separated by two layers of damper210.

In connection with the return from the first, actuated position to the neutral, unactuated position, the return force provided by the biasing element208can cause the upper portion258bof the first arm248ato impact the first segment266aof the damper210as the first arm248areturns to its neutral, unactuated position. Such impact may allow the damper210to relatively cushion at least the biasing element208as such displacement of the biasing element is brought to a stop. Further, the damper150can isolate the rib270of the housing202from yielding and/or wear that might otherwise occur from such impact forces. Additionally, as the actuation body254returns to its corresponding neutral, unactuated position, the force provided by the biasing element208can at least assist in the actuation body254impacting the lower portion258aof the second arm248bof the biasing element208. However, the compliant nature of the damper210may allow a degree of movement of the first spring arm248arelative to the damper210, which may accommodate a degree of corresponding movement of the second arm248bassociated by the impact of the actuation body245against the second arm248b, thereby providing a degree of cushion for such impact between the actuation body245and the second arm248b. Further, according to the illustrated embodiment, as the biasing element208can be constructed from a material that is relatively much harder material than at least the housing202and actuation plate206, the impact forces at least between the biasing element208and the damper210and/or actuation plate206can be large enough to cause localized yielding of the damper210, housing202, and/or the actuation plate206.

FIG. 4Billustrates the lock chassis assembly200in a state in which a rotational force exerted on the rotated the handle114,126in a second direction that is opposite of the first direction that is depicted inFIG. 4Ahas resulted in the rotational displacement of the lock chassis assembly200to a second actuated position. Such rotation in the second direction may be similar to the rotation in the first direction, but can result in engagement and disengagement of opposite portions and/or segments of the rotated components. For example, such rotational displacement from the neutral, unactuated position to the second actuated position can include the second side255bof the actuation body254exerting a force against the second arm248bof the biasing element208in a manner that rotatably displaces the second arm248bof the biasing element208. Further, while the actuation body254and the second arm248bare rotatably displaced, the first segment266aof the damper210and/or the rib270of the housing202can be positioned to prevent or minimize similar rotation of the first arm248aof the biasing element208, thereby allowing for an increase in the size of the space256between the first and second arms248a,248bof the biasing element208. Again, such a change in the distance or space256between the first and second arms248a,248bcan be associated with the biasing element208being changed from an unactuated state to an actuated state, wherein the biasing element208provides a force that seeks to return at least the biasing element208to the neutral, unactuated state.

Further, as shown inFIG. 4B, when in the second actuated position, the interface between the upper portion258bof the second arm248bof the biasing element208and the second segment266bof the damper210, as well as the interface between the lower portion258bof the first arm248aof the biasing element208and the first side255aof the actuation body254, are in a disengaged state. Conversely, at the second actuation position, the interface between the lower portion258aof the second arm248bof the biasing element208and the second side255bof the actuation body254, as well as the interface between the upper portion258bof the first arm248aof the biasing element208and the first segment266aof the damper210, are in an engaged state. From the second actuated position, when the force that displaced the handle114,126away from the neutral, unactuated position to the second actuated position is released or otherwise removed, the biasing element208can provide a force that urges the above-identified rotated components of the assembly200back to their corresponding neutral, unactuated positions, as shown inFIG. 3.

In connection with the return from the second actuated position to the neutral, unactuated position, the return force provided by the biasing element208can cause the upper portion258bof the second arm248bto impact the second segment266bof the damper210as the second arm248breturns to its neutral, unactuated position. Similarly, as the actuation body254returns to its corresponding neutral, unactuated position, the force provided by the biasing element208can at least assist in the first side255aof the actuation body254impacting the lower portion258aof the first arm248aof the biasing element208. Yet, similar to the above discussion regarding the return to the neutral, unactuated position from the first actuated position, such impacts can be at least partially cushioned by the compliant nature of the damper210. Moreover, as discussed above, the deformable nature of the damper210may allow the damper to at least partially slow the movement of the rotating components and/or absorb some of the impact forces.

Additionally, as shown inFIGS. 3A-4B, according to certain embodiments, the housing202can include a recess or groove272that can accommodate rotational displacement of the actuation body254and/or at least a portion of the biasing element208. Optionally, according to certain embodiments, the ends274a,274bof the recess or groove272may be sized to limit the extent to which the actuation body254and/or the biasing element208can be rotatably displaced from the neutral, unactuated position.

Additionally, according to the illustrated embodiment in which the biasing element208is a torsion spring, in response to the assembly200being displaced from the neutral, unactuated position, at least a portion of the biasing element208, including, but not limited to, the first and second ends250a,250bof the biasing element208, can move generally inwardly in the direction of the central axis246, which can lead to relative motion between the biasing element208and the housing202. However, according to the illustrated embodiment, the impact of such relative motion, as well as the effect of the forces at which the biasing element208and/or actuation body254may strike components of the assembly200when returning to the neutral, unactuated position, have on the dimensional sizes of effected components of the assembly200may be relatively minimal.

Moreover, dimensional changes that may be affected by impact forces and relative motion of components of the assembly (including, for example, the shape and sizes of the biasing element208, actuation body254, and/or rib270of the housing202) may be minimized and/or minimal in view of the compliant nature of the damper210. The compliant nature of the damper210may also minimize and/or eliminate wear at such associated interfaces, as previously discussed. Further, to the extent such forces and motion do adversely impact the sizes and/or wear of such components, the compliant nature of the damper210can, at least to a certain extent, compensate for such changes in the assembly200while minimizing and/or preventing the associated degradation of the droop and/or rattle performance of the knob or lever114,126.

As is evident from the foregoing, the damper210may provide a cushion between the biasing element208and at least one of the handle114,126and the housing202. In certain embodiments, the biasing element208is engaged with the housing202via the damper210, and is engaged with the handle114,126via an actuation plate. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing element208and the damper210are positioned on the outward-facing side of the housing202. Additionally or alternatively, a damper and a biasing element may be positioned on the opposite, inward-facing side of the housing202such that the biasing element is engaged with the housing202via the damper. In such forms, the spindle plate220may serve a function analogous to that described above with reference to the actuation plate206, such that the biasing element is engaged with the handle114,126via the actuation plate220of the spindle204.

Furthermore it should be understood that while the use of the word preferable, preferably, or preferred in the description above indicates that feature so described may be more desirable, it nonetheless may not be necessary and any embodiment lacking the same may be contemplated as within the scope of the invention, that scope being defined by the claims that follow. In reading the claims it is intended that when words such as “a,” “an,” “at least one” and “at least a portion” are used, there is no intention to limit the claim to only one item unless specifically stated to the contrary in the claim. Further, when the language “at least a portion” and/or “a portion” is used the item may include a portion and/or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.