Patent Publication Number: US-7905525-B2

Title: Security latch device with a latching arm cover

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/203,249 filed on Dec. 19, 2008, and of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT PROTECTION 
     A portion of the disclosure of this patent document and its figures contain material subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever. 
     BACKGROUND 
     I. Field 
     The invention relates to covers for security latch devices. 
     II. Background 
     For security, hotel rooms are equipped with automatic door locks with electronic key access, dead bolts and security latch devices or door guards. The security latch devices are provided for the added protection of the room occupant of the hotel when in the room and, especially, when the resident is sleeping or does not want to be disturbed. A security latch device includes a security latching arm. When the security latching arm is deployed, as intended, the door is allowed to be swung open only partially from the inside to allow the occupant to observe who is at the door, without allowing full access into the room. However, the security latching arm is oftentimes used to intentionally keep the hotel door ajar (so that the door is prevented from automatically closing and locking). For example, the latching arm may be deployed to keep the door ajar for a quick run to the ice machine, to a vending machine in a nearby room, to dash out and grab some food off of a breakfast bar, to hang out in the hallway with other hotel occupants, and for other reasons. The security latching arm may be used to keep the hotel door ajar for many other reasons such as, without limitation, to ask a close-by housekeeper for additional towels. 
     When the security latching arm is used to keep the door ajar, the arm (e.g., swing latching arm or bar-type latching arm) of the security latch device is pivoted, swung, slid or moved to interpose the security latching arm between the door and the door jamb. The occupant sometimes quickly releases the hotel door after the security latching arm is interposed between the door and the door jamb. Consequently, the hotel door, which may be biased to automatically close, strikes or slams into the security latching arm; thereby, banging the door, the latching arm and the door jamb (or door frame). 
     The security latch device is typically made of metal or other heavy and rigid material. Hence, the paint and surfaces on the door, door jamb and/or door frame may be chipped, scratched, marked and/or dented upon impact with the security latching arm. Accordingly, the doors and door frames need repeated maintenance from, as little as, refreshing paint to the removal of the door and/or door frame. Thus, the security latch is a source of repeated maintenance and cost. 
     In general, the security latch device may be a swing arm security latch, a bar-type locking mechanism or a like security latch device, such as those known by the following terms—“privacy flip lock”; “hotel security latch”; “swing bar security latch”; “bar lock”; “pivoting swing latch”; “door guard”; “security door latch”; “safety latch”; “swing bar guard mechanism”; and “door retainer”—all of which are made by various manufacturers. 
     SUMMARY 
     The aforementioned problems and other problems, are reduced, according to exemplary embodiments, by the devices and methods for protecting doors, door jambs or door frames from a security latching arm interposed between the door and door jamb or door frame. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, the security latching arm cover comprises a sleeve configured to conform to a security latching arm of a security latch device. The sleeve is slipped on or installed on, over or around the security latching arm. The sleeve is made of impact absorbing material to protect a door&#39;s surface, door jamb and/or door frame when the security latching arm is impacted by a door. 
     According to another exemplary embodiment, the security latch device comprises a security latching arm configured to move, pivot, swing or slide from an operative position, non-operative position or door-ajaring position and a security latching arm cover. The cover comprises a sleeve configured to conform to the security latching arm of the security latch device and to slip on or install on, over or around the security latching arm and being made of impact absorbing material to protect a door&#39;s surface, door jamb and doorframe when the security latching arm is impacted by a door. 
     Other systems, methods, and/or products according to embodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of the following drawings and further description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, and/or products be included within this description, be within the scope of the present invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The above and other exemplary embodiments, objects, uses, advantages, and novel features are more clearly understood by reference to the following description taken in connection with the accompanying figures wherein: 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates a perspective view of a security latching arm cover with a partial view of a security latching arm (shown in phantom) in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates a perspective view of a security latching arm cover in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 2A  illustrates a security latch device, in a non-operative position, installed on a hotel door and wall in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 2B  illustrates the security latch device, in an operative position, installed on a hotel door and wall in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 2C  illustrates the security latch device, in a door-ajaring operative position, installed on a hotel door and wall in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view of another security latch device, in an operative position, in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates a perspective view of a security latching arm cover for the security latch device of  FIG. 3  in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 4B  illustrates a side view of a security latching arm cover of  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a perspective view of yet another security latch device, in an operative position, in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 6A  illustrates a perspective view of a security latching arm cover for the security latch device of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 6B  illustrates a side view of a security latching arm cover of  FIG. 6A ; 
         FIG. 7A  illustrates a security latch device, in a non-operative position, installed on a hotel door and wall in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 7B  illustrates the security latch device, in an operative position, installed on a hotel door and wall in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments; and 
         FIG. 7C  illustrates the security latch device, in a door-ajaring operative position, installed on a hotel door and wall in accordance with some of the exemplary embodiments. 
     
    
    
     The appended drawings illustrate exemplary configurations of the disclosure and, as such, should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure that may admit to other equally effective configurations. 
     DESCRIPTION 
     The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any configuration or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other configurations or designs. 
     This invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure). 
     Thus, for example, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the diagrams, schematics, illustrations, and the like represent conceptual views or perspective views illustrating some of the devices, covers and methods embodying this invention. The functions of the various elements shown in the figures may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well as security latch device or bar-type latch device hardware that may vary in shape, attachment, size, and other physical features. Those of ordinary skill in the art further understand that the exemplary device hardware, systems, and/or methods described herein are for illustrative purposes and, thus, are not intended to be limited to any particular named manufacturer or other relevant physical limitation (e.g., color of the sleeve). Still further, those of ordinary skill in the art further understand that the security latch device may be utilized in the hotel industry, in the travel industry, for latching mechanisms on perimeter fences (e.g., swing open the latch to keep the gate from closing), and for residential purposes (e.g., ease of use of security latch device compared to using a key to unlock a deadbolt of the door). 
       FIG. 1A  illustrates a perspective view of a security latching arm cover  100  with a partial view of a security latching arm  10  (shown in phantom).  FIG. 1B  illustrates the security latching arm cover  100  without the security latching arm  10 . The security latching arm cover  100  is made of impact absorbing material such as rubber, resilient material, flexible plastic material, leather, other man-made products, natural products and combinations thereof. The security latching arm cover  100  comprises, in an embodiment, a cylindrically shape structure  102  with a hollow cavity  104  (shown in phantom) formed therein. The structure  102 , in an embodiment, is unitary. One side of the cylindrically shaped structure  102  has an opening  106  formed therein. The opening  106  permits access therethrough by the security latching arm  10 . 
     The cylindrically shaped structure  102  has a thickness TH corresponding to the wall thickness about the opening  106  and along the length of the hollow cavity  104 . The other end  108  of the cylindrically shaped structure  102  is closed. The thickness of the cylindrically shaped structure  102  on the end  108  is the diameter of the cylindrical shaped structure  102 . The cylindrically shaped structure  102  (sometimes referred to herein as a “sleeve”) provides cushioning and impact absorption to dampen impact forces applied thereto, and consequently, damage to the door, door jamb and/or doorframe is minimized, if not prevented. 
     The security latching arm cover  100  is fitted around or to the contoured configuration of the security latching arm  10 . The security latching arm cover  100  may be friction-fit coupled on, over or around security latching arm  10  so that, after installation, the security latching arm cover  100  remains secure and in position (installed). 
     More specifically, the cylindrically shaped structure  102  or sleeve of the security latching arm cover  100  is tightly fitted around or to the contoured configuration of the security latching arm  10  so that once the sleeve is installed, the latching arm cover  100  remains in place even after repeated grabbing, touching or manipulation of the latching arm cover  100 . For example, the fitting of the cover  100  could adhere to the surface of the security latching arm  10  depending on shape and friction, or other means to effectuate attachment. 
     In an embodiment, the cylindrically shaped structure  102  or sleeve may be adhesively affixed to the security latching arm  10  so that the cylindrically shaped structure  102  or sleeve is not easily removed. 
     In an embodiment, the cylindrically shaped structure  102  or sleeve may be coated on or applied to the security latching arm  10  so that the cylindrically shaped structure  102  or sleeve remains in the installed position. For example, the sleeve may be comprised of a material that is applied to, painted on or otherwise formed directly onto the surface of the security latching arm  10 , and the material or paint would form the security latching arm cover  100 . For example, the sleeve may comprise foam that is painted, sprayed or coated on the security latching arm  10  which after a drying time, hardens, cures or sets to form the sleeve having impact absorption properties. 
       FIG. 2A  illustrates a security latch device  200 A, in a non-operative position, installed on a hotel door D and wall W. The hotel door D is shown closed and is viewed from the inside. The door frame DF includes right and left vertical jambs and top and bottom horizontal jambs. The door D is hingedly coupled to one of the vertical jambs. Nonetheless, the construction of the door D and door frame DF is very well known. Thus, no further discussion is provided. The reference label A, B or C after the number  200  is used to denote the different positions of the security latching arm  224  for the same security latch device. The security latching arm  224  is capable of being moved in other intermediary positions between the positions shown in  FIGS. 2A-2B ,  2 A and  2 C or  2 B and  2 C. Thus, the positions are exemplary and not intended to be limiting. 
     The security latch device  200 A is a bar-type security latching assembly configuration. The device  200 A includes a security latching arm assembly  220 , installed on door D, and a latching slot assembly  240 , installed on wall W. In another embodiment, the security latching arm assembly  220  may be installed on the wall W and the latching slot assembly  240  may be installed on the door. The security latching assembly  220  includes a mounting plate  222  with fasteners for attachment to the door D, a security latching arm  224  with security latching arm cover  100  inserted on, over or around a free-end of the security latching arm  224 . The security latching assembly  220  is mounted to the door D in proximity to a vertical edge of the door opposite the vertical edge of the door that is hinged to the doorjamb. 
     The security latching assembly  220  further includes at least one strap or clip  226  for securing the security latching arm  224  to the mounting plate  222 . The at least one strap or clip  226  slideably receives the security latching arm  224  therein so that the security latching arm  224  can be slid from and to a non-operative position ( FIG. 2A ), an operative position ( FIG. 2B ) and/or the door-ajaring position ( FIG. 2C ). The security latching assembly  220  further comprises an actuating handle  228  affixed to the security latching arm  224 . The actuating handle  228  is configured to be grasped by a user&#39;s hands. The actuating handle  228  allows the user to grasp the actuating handle  228  and selectively slide or move the security latching arm  224 . The security latching arm  224  can be selectively slid from and to the non-operative position ( FIG. 2A ), the operative position ( FIG. 2B ) and/or the door-ajaring position ( FIG. 2C ). 
     In an embodiment, there is a pair of straps or clips  226  affixed, bolted or secured to the mounting plate  222 . When the actuating handle  228  is positioned between the pair of straps  226 . The distance slid or traveled by the security latching arm  224  is limited by the distance between pair of straps or clips  226 . In an embodiment, the pair of straps or clips  226  may be affixed, bolted or secured directly to the door D or, alternately, wall W, without the need for a mounting plate. 
     In the exemplary illustration, the non-operative position corresponds to the security latching arm  224  being in a non-deployed state or fully retracted state, as best seen in  FIG. 2A . The latching slot assembly  240 , installed on wall W, includes a mounting plate  242  having affixed, secured or fastened thereto a latching slot  244 . The latching slot  244  is dimensioned to receive the free-end of the security latching arm  224  with the security latching arm cover  100  when the free-end of the security latching arm  224  is injected (by sliding motion) into the latching slot  244 . 
       FIG. 2B  illustrates the security latch device  200 B, in an operative position, installed on the hotel door D and wall W. The hotel door D is shown closed and is viewed from the inside. In the illustration, the operative position corresponds to the security latching arm  224  being in the deployed state or injected and secured in the latching slot  244 , as best seen in  FIG. 2B . 
     The security latching arm cover  100  can be used with existing security latch devices (e.g., existing bar-type security latch devices). The existing bar-type security latch devices would require minimal retrofitting. For example, the latching slot assembly (e.g., latching slot assembly  240 ) may require replacement if the latching slot does not have an opening sufficiently large to pass the diameter of the security latching arm cover  100  therethrough when in the security latching arm with cover  100  is in the deployed state. 
       FIG. 2C  illustrates the security latch device  200 C, in a door-ajaring operative position, installed on the hotel door D and wall W. In the exemplary illustration, the hotel door D is shown ajar and is being viewed from the outside. Thus, the security latch device  200 C is shown, in phantom, except that portion of the latching arm cover  100  viewable from the outside when the security latching arm  224  is in the door-ajaring operative position. In the in door-ajaring position, the latching arm cover  100  is interposed between the hotel door D and the door frame DF or door jamb. Thereby, the impact-dampening construction of the security latching cover  100  buffers impacts or strikes departed to the hotel door D and the door frame DF or door jamb, such as when the door D is left to freely close or when the door slams. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view of another security latch device  300 , in an operative position. The security latch device  300  has a ball hook and yoke style security latching assembly configuration. The security latch device  300  includes a U-shaped latching assembly  320  which, in an embodiment, includes a mounting plate  322  and a pivoting U-shaped latching arm  330 . The mounting plate  322  is fastened via fasteners  328  to a wall in proximity to the vertical door jamb opposite the vertical door jamb to which the door is hinged. The pivoting U-shaped latching arm  330  is hingedly or swingingly mounted to the mounting plate  322  via hinge members  324 A and  324 B. The pivoting U-shaped latching arm  330  serves as a yoke. 
     The pivoting U-shaped latching arm  330  has a U-shape or horse-shoe shape configuration. The U-shape, in an embodiment, is made of a continuous piece of metal or other durable, rigid and strong material that has a bend or arch generally in a middle or at apex  334 . The U-shape includes first and second parallel legs  332 A and  332 B which are separated by a predetermined distance to form a slide channel  338 . At the apex  334 , the pivoting U-shaped latching arm  330  includes a ball or spherically-shaped tip  336  integrally affixed to, formed on or molded along an exterior surface of the bend or arch. The ball or spherically-shaped tip provides a reinforced end with additional ease of manipulation or placement of the latching arm  330  as well as other advantages. The free ends of legs  332 A and  332 B are hingedly or swingingly coupled to hinge members  324 A and  324 B via pivot pins  325 . 
     The security latch device  300  further includes a ball hook assembly  340  mounted to the door in proximity to a vertical edge of the door opposite to the vertical edge of the door hinged to the door jamb. The ball hook assembly  340  is positioned to mate or yoke with the pivoting U-shaped latching arm  330  in the slide channel  338 . 
     The ball hook assembly  340  includes a hook mounting plate  342  having a curved finger or prong member  344  mounted thereto. The ball hook assembly  340  further includes a ball or spherically-shaped tip  346  integrally affixed to or formed on a free end of the curved finger or prong member  344 . The hook mounting plate  342  includes fasteners  348  for attachment to the door on the side intended to be swung open. The hook mounting plate  342  is intended to be installed at a location proximate to an edge of the door intended to be swung open. 
     The free-ends of the legs  332 A and  332 B are slightly flared in an outward direction. The flaring configuration slightly widens the slide channel  338  in proximity to the hinge members  324 A and  324 B to form a receiving hole  339  between and in proximity to the hinge members  324 A and  324 B. The receiving hole  339  is dimensioned to receive the diameter or circumference of the ball or spherically-shaped tip  346 . The width of the slide channel  338  is smaller than the diameter or circumference of the ball or spherically-shaped tip  346  and serves as a locking portion or locking mechanism. 
     In operation, security latch device  300  allows the door to be swung open approximately a distance that corresponds to the length of the slide channel  338 . The receiving hole  339  of the pivoting U-shaped latching arm  330  serves as an unlocking portion of the U-shaped latching arm  330 . The narrower configuration or width of the slide channel  338  serves as a locking portion of the pivoting U-shaped latching arm  330 . 
     When the pivoting U-shaped latching arm  330  is in a latching position, if the door is swung open, the curved finger or prong member  344  of the ball hook assembly  340  slides from the receiving hole  339  and along the slide channel  338 . When the curved finger or prong member  344  reaches the end of the slide channel  338  in proximity to apex  334 , the door is prevented from being swung any further. The narrower configuration of the slide channel  338  prevents the ball or spherically-shaped tip  346  from passing through the slide channel  338  when in proximity to apex  334 . 
     The security latch device  300  further includes a security latching arm cover  310 . The security latching arm cover  310  provides cushioning and impact absorption to dampen impact forces applied thereto. The security latching arm cover  310  is fitted around or to the contoured configuration of the U-shaped latching arm  330 . The latching arm cover  310  may be friction-fit coupled on, over or around U-shaped latching arm  330  so that, after installation, the latching arm cover  310  remains secure and in position (installed). 
     More specifically, the security latching arm cover  310  is tightly fitted around or to the contoured configuration of the U-shaped latching arm  330  so that once installed, the latching arm cover  310  remains in place even after repeated grabbing, touching or manipulation of the latching arm cover  310 . 
     In an embodiment, the security latching arm cover  310  may be adhesively affixed to the U-shaped latching arm  330  so that the security latching arm cover  310  is not easily removed. 
     In an embodiment, the security latching arm cover  310  may be coated on or applied to the U-shaped latching arm  330  so that the security latching arm cover  310  remains in the installed position. Furthermore, the security latching arm cover  310  may be transparent or opaque. The security latching arm cover  310  is a unitary structure and is made of sponge rubber, rubber, resilient and flexible plastic material, leather or other impact absorbing material including natural and man-made materials. 
     The configuration and construction of the security latching arm cover  310  will now be described in relation to  FIGS. 4A and 4B .  FIG. 4A  illustrates a perspective view of a latching arm cover for the security latch device of  FIG. 3  or other existing security latch devices already installed. The security latching arm cover  310  has a generally U-shaped configuration that tracks the contour of the U-shaped latching arm  330  and includes a V-shaped notch  420  formed in proximity to an arched-end or apex portion  416 . The V-shaped notch  420  is configured to receive and pass therethrough the ball or spherically-shaped tip  336 , as best seen in  FIG. 3 . 
     The security latching arm cover  310  includes parallel sleeve portions  412 A and  412 B which are dimensioned to cover, wrap, and enclose the parallel legs  332 A and  332 B. Free ends portions  414 A and  414 B of the sleeve portions  412 A and  412 B, respectively, are slightly flared in an outward direction and track the outward flaring of the free ends of the parallel legs  332 A and  332 B, respectively. The sleeve portions  412 A and  412 B are generally tubular in shape such that there is a hollow interior. 
     An interior surface  418  of the parallel sleeve portions  412 A and  412 B that is within the slide channel  338  is continuous from a tip of the free-end portion  414 A to the tip of free-end portion  414 B. The widest part of the V-shaped notch  420  is formed in an exterior surface of the arched-end or apex section  416 . In an embodiment, the interior surface  418  may be smooth or frictionless so that the curved finger or prong member  344  can slide within the slide channel  338 . 
     The security latching arm cover  310  may further comprise slits  422 A and  422 B formed longitudinally along a length of the sleeve portions  412 A and  412 B, respectively, and free-end portions  414 A and  414 B, respectively, to create openable seams to install the security latching arm cover  310  over and around the U-shaped latching arm  330 . The slits  422 A and  422 B are configured to close or seal. In an embodiment, the resiliency and flexibility of the cover  310  would cause the slits to close by contraction of the material. 
     In an embodiment, in lieu of a unitary cover construction, the sleeve portions  412 A and  412 B with free-end portions  414 A and  414 B, respectively may be separated where the V-shaped notch  420  is formed so that the cover construction includes two sleeve portions. The two sleeve portions may optionally include the slits  422 A and  422 B. 
     The slits  422 A and  422 B allow the cover  310  to be wrapped or clamped around the first and second parallel legs  332 A and  332 B. The seams of the slits  422 A and  422 B may be configured to adhesively close and secure. In an embodiment, the slits  422 A and  422 B may close by contraction of the material. In an embodiment, the slits  422 A and  422 B may produce a gap of varying sizes. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a perspective view of yet another security latch device  500 , in an operative position. The security latch device  500  is another example of a ball hook and yoke style security latching assembly configuration. The security latch device  500  includes a U-shaped latching assembly  520  which, in an embodiment, includes a mounting plate  522  and a pivoting U-shaped latching arm  530 . The mounting plate  522  is fastened via fasteners  528  to a wall in proximity to the vertical door jamb opposite the vertical door jamb to which the door is hinged. The pivoting U-shaped latching arm  530  is hingedly or swingingly mounted to the mounting plate  522  via hinge members  524 A and  524 B. The pivoting U-shaped latching arm  530  serves as a yoke. 
     The pivoting U-shaped latching arm  530  has a U-shape or horse-shoe configuration. The U-shape, in an embodiment, is made of a continuous piece of metal or other durable, rigid and strong material that has a bend or arch generally in a middle or at an apex  534 . The U-shape includes first and second parallel legs  532 A and  532 B which are separated by a predetermined distance to form a slide channel  538 . The free ends of legs  532 A and  532 B are hingedly or swingingly coupled to hinge members  524 A and  524 B via pivot pins  525 . 
     The security latch device  500  further includes a ball hook assembly  540  mounted to the door in proximity to a vertical edge of the door opposite to the vertical edge of the door hinged to the door jamb. The ball hook assembly  540  is positioned to mate or yoke with the pivoting U-shaped latching arm  530  in the slide channel  538 . 
     The ball hook assembly  540  includes a hook mounting plate  542  having a curved finger or prong member  544  mounted thereto. The ball hook assembly  540  further includes a ball or spherically-shaped tip  546  integrally affixed to or formed on a free end of the curved finger or prong member  544 . The hook mounting plate  542  includes fasteners  548  for attachment to the door on the side intended to be swung open. The hook mounting plate  542  is intended to be installed at a location proximate to an edge of the door intended to be swung open. 
     The free-ends of the legs  532 A and  532 B are slightly flared in an outward direction. The flaring configuration slightly widens the slide channel  538  in proximity to the hinge members  524 A and  524 B to form a receiving hole  539  between and in proximity to the hinge members  524 A and  524 B. The receiving hole  539  is dimensioned to receive the diameter or circumference of the ball or spherically-shaped tip  546 . The width of the slide channel  538  is smaller than the diameter or circumference of the ball or spherically-shaped tip  546  and serves as a locking portion or locking mechanism. 
     The security latch device  500  further includes a security latching arm cover  510 . The security latching arm cover  510  provides cushioning and impact absorption to dampen impact forces applied thereto. The security latching arm cover  510  is fitted around or to the contoured configuration of the U-shaped latching arm  530 . The latching arm cover  510  may be friction-fit coupled on, over or around U-shaped latching arm  530  so that, after installation, the latching arm cover  510  remains secure and in position (installed). 
     More specifically, the security latching arm cover  510  is tightly fitted around or to the contoured configuration of the U-shaped latching arm  530  so that once installed, the latching arm cover  510  remains in place even after repeated grabbing, touching or manipulation of the latching arm cover  510 . 
     In an embodiment, the security latching arm cover  510  may be adhesively affixed to the U-shaped latching arm  530  so that the security latching arm cover  510  is not easily removed. 
     In an embodiment, the security latching arm cover  510  may be coated on or applied to the U-shaped latching arm  530  so that the security latching arm cover  510  remains in the installed position. Furthermore, the security latching arm cover  510  may be transparent or opaque. The security latching arm cover  510 , in an embodiment, is a unitary structure and is made of sponge rubber, rubber, resilient and flexible plastic material or other impact absorbing material (natural, man-made or combination thereof). The security latching arm cover  510  has a U-shaped slit  512 . 
     The slit  512  allows the cover  510  to be wrapped or clamped around the U-shaped latching arm  530  including legs  532 A and  532 B. The seam of the slit  512  may be configured to adhesively close and secure. In an embodiment, the slit  512  may close by contraction of the material. In an embodiment, the slit  512  may produce a gap of varying sizes. 
     The configuration and construction of the security latching arm cover  510  will now be described in relation to  FIGS. 6A and 6B .  FIG. 6A  illustrates a perspective view of a security latching arm cover for the security latch device of  FIG. 5  or existing security latch devices of similar kind. The security latching arm cover  510  has a generally U-shaped configuration that tracks the contour of the U-shaped latching arm  530 . 
     The security latching arm cover  510  includes parallel sleeve portions  612 A and  612 B which are dimensioned to cover, wrap, and enclose the parallel legs  532 A and  532 B. The sleeve portions  612 A and  612 B are generally tubular in shape such that there is a hollow interior. The parallel sleeve portions  612 A and  612 B are joined by an arch portion  614 . The parallel sleeve portions  612 A and  612 B and arch portion  614  create a U-shaped hollow cavity to receive the U-shaped latching arm  530 . 
     The security latching arm cover  510  is shown with slit  512  represented as a dashed line in  FIG. 6B . 
       FIGS. 7A-7C  illustrate a security latch device in a non-operative position, an operative position, and in a door-ajaring operative position, respectively. In  FIGS. 7A and 7B , the hotel door D is shown closed and is viewed from the inside. The door frame DF includes right and left vertical jambs and top and bottom horizontal jambs. A door D is hingedly coupled to one of the vertical jambs. In  FIG. 7C , the door is ajar and viewed from the outside. The reference label A, B or C after the number  700  is used to denote the different positions of the security latching arm  730  for the same security latch device (e.g., security latch device  300  or  500 ). The security latching arm  730  is capable of being moved, swung, pivoted or rotated to other intermediary positions between the positions shown in  FIGS. 7A-7B ,  7 A and  7 C or  7 B and  7 C. Thus, the positions are exemplary and not intended to be limiting. The security latching arm  730  is covered by security latching arm cover  710 . 
     In  FIGS. 7A-7C , the security latching arm  730  of U-shaped latching assembly  720  is shown mounted to the wall W adjacent to the door D. The ball hook assembly  740  is shown mounted to the door D. However, the locations of the U-shaped latching assembly  720  and the ball hook assembly  740  may be reversed such that the U-shaped latching assembly  720  is mounted to the door while the ball hook assembly  740  is mounted to the wall W. 
     In  FIG. 7A  the security latching arm  730  is shown pivoted or rotated away from the ball hook assembly  740  mounted to door D. Thus, the security latching arm  730  is in a non-operative position. In the non-operative position, the door can be open and closed by the occupant freely. 
     In  FIG. 7B , the security latching arm  730  is shown in an operative position shown pivoted 180 degrees from the position shown in  FIG. 7A . The operation position orients the slide channel over the ball hook assembly  740  which aligns the curved finger or prong member or portions thereof in the slide channel. If the door D is open, the ball hook assembly  740  locks or yokes with the security latching arm  730 . The door D is permitted to open partially, as the curved finger or prong member slides in the slide channel. 
       FIG. 7C  corresponds to the door-ajaring operative position. In the door-ajaring position, the security latching arm  730  is rotated, moved, swung or pivoted to that the arm  730  so that the security latching arm  730  is interposed between the door jamb and the door D. The security latching arm cover  710  installed on the arm  730  dampens or buffers impacts imparted to the arm  730  when the door D closes or slams into the security latching arm  730 . 
     As can be readily seen, the security latch device  200 A- 200 C,  300 ,  500  or  700 A- 700 C with a security latching arm cover  100 ,  310 ,  510  or  710 , respectively, prevents or minimizes damage to a door, door jamb or door frame from a strike, impact or shock imparted to the security latching arm from a closing door when the security latching arm (e.g., arm  10 ,  224 ,  330 ,  530 ,  730 ) is interposed or, otherwise, is positioned between the door and the door jamb or door frame. In addition, security latch device  200 A- 200 C,  300 ,  500  or  700 A- 700 C with a security latching arm cover  100 ,  310 ,  510  or  710 , respectively, allows the door to stay partially open and helps in reducing the noise generated when the door slams into, hits or strikes a security latching arm interposed between the door and door jamb or door frame. 
     As can be readily seen, the security latching arm cover  100 ,  310 ,  510  or  710  may be used with existing security latch devices to prevent damage to a door, door jamb or door frame from a strike, impact or shock imparted to a security latching arm of an existing device from a closing door when the security latching arm is interposed or, otherwise, is positioned between the door and the door jamb or door frame. In addition, the security latching arm cover  100 ,  310 ,  510  or  710  when used with existing security latch devices allows the door to stay partially open and helps in reducing the noise generated when the door slams into, hits or strikes a security latching arm of the existing security latch device interposed between the door and door jamb or door frame. 
     Advantages of the security latching arm covers will now be described. An advantage of the security latching arm covers is that the covers can be installed on various latch configurations or conventional latches. Another advantage of the security latching arm covers is that the security latching arm covers protect a door, door jamb and/or door frame from damages which control maintenance cost. Resilient material or other material of the security latching arm cover serves to absorb the noise and shock produced during the use of the door. The security latching arm covers are constructed to bears the strain over, without restraining natural movement of the door. The covers are economical and easy to use. 
     The security latching arm covers described herein are constructed as a sleeve, sleeve portions or a coating that affixes or binds to a security latching arm, the security latching arm cover protecting the door, door jamb and/or door frame from damages that may occur due to repetitive hits by left open latches, the latches left between them. 
     Exemplary embodiments of the invention include a sleeve or coating that is able to be attached or affixed to retrofit existing security latch devices. The security latching arm cover may be “cushiony” sleeve so that when the security latching arm cover or sleeve is interposed between a door and door frame or door jamb, the strike on the jamb, the security latching arm and door the imparted by a closing door is dampened, buffered or absorbed. The security latching arm cover or sleeve prevents direct contact with the hard and rigid metal surfaces of the security latching arm. 
     The cushiony material of the security latching arm cover or sleeve may be made of a man-made product, natural product, synthetic product and combinations thereof. For example, the security latching arm cover or sleeve may be a rubber coating that is permanently fixed on the security latching arm. 
     According to exemplary embodiments, the security latching arm cover is a door protector, a door jamb protector, a door frame protector and a security latching arm protector. The security latch devices described herein are for used on hotel doors motel doors, residence doors, etc. where a security latch device is used. These security latch devices and the latching arms associated therewith may have different physical configurations and the invention envisions accommodating these various configurations, including U-shaped designs, sling designs, retainer designs, designs having a “ball” shaped end and others configurations and designs. 
     According to some of the embodiments, an security latching arm of the security latch device includes a cover, sliding attachment, coating, or other materials affixed thereto to protect a door (e.g., hotel door) from damage incurred when the latching arm is used to prop open the door—that is, to prevent the door from securely closing. According to some of the exemplary embodiments, the inventive construction includes a rubber sleeve that is inserted over the elongated latching arm of the bar-type security latch devices. Alternate embodiments include the sleeve made of natural and/or man-made materials. 
     A transparent latching arm cover renders the cover essentially invisible or obscure. Thus, the addition of the cover is barely detectable. The cover does not aesthetically distract in a hotel or motel environment. The security latching arm cover is not visible from the hall of a hotel when the door is closed—that is, the sleeve is only visible when the security latching arm is used to prop open the door. 
     Other advantages of the security latching arm cover is beneficial to hotel owner&#39;s by protecting the door and by reducing a need for maintenance and/or replacement of the door due to paint chipping, denting or other damage from the security latching arm. 
     The door protector is equally applicable in different kinds of latches, retaining systems, sliding bolts and chain latches or convex type locking systems. 
     Although the exemplary embodiments of the door protector are preferred and aimed for use in protecting the door and/or the door frame from damages that occur due to open locking devices, the same is equally helpful and applicable in sliding bolts and all kinds of latches, while using the protecting head of the locking to prop open a door or to otherwise cause interference. 
     While the present invention has been described with respect to various features, aspects, and embodiments, those skilled and unskilled in the art will recognize the invention is not so limited. Other variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.