Patent Publication Number: US-2023145971-A1

Title: Handle catch assemblies

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure generally relates to handle catch assemblies, and more particularly but not exclusively relates to lever catch assemblies for a handleset of a lockset. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Certain existing handlesets utilize a catch to selectively couple the handle to the spindle. In many handlesets in which the handle is provided in the form of a lever, the handleset can be installed in either of a right-handed orientation and a left-handed orientation. In some existing approaches, the handing of the handleset is set at the time of manufacture such that the customer must know the handing at the time of purchase. For these reasons among others, there remains a need for further improvements in this technological field. 
     SUMMARY 
     An example catch assembly is configured for installation into a spindle, and generally includes a holder, a first catch, a second catch, and a bias mechanism. The holder is configured for mounting within the spindle. The first catch is mounted for movement relative to the holder between a first projected position and a first depressed position. The second catch is mounted for movement relative to the holder between a second projected position and a second depressed position. The bias mechanism biases the first catch toward the first projected position and biasing the second catch toward the second projected position. Further embodiments, forms, features, and aspects of the present application shall become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIG.  1    is an exploded assembly view of a lockset according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  2    is an exploded assembly view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  3    is a cross-sectional view of the catch assembly of  FIG.  2    installed to the lockset illustrated in  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  4    is an exploded assembly view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  5    is a perspective view of the catch assembly of  FIG.  4    installed to a spindle. 
         FIG.  6    is an exploded assembly view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  7    is a plan view of the catch assembly of  FIG.  6    installed to a spindle. 
         FIG.  8    is a plan view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments in a biasing state. 
         FIG.  9    is a plan view of the catch assembly of  FIG.  8    in a retaining state. 
         FIG.  10    is a perspective view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  11    is a plan view of the catch assembly of  FIG.  10    installed to a spindle. 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of a portion of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  13    is a plan view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments in a retaining state while a lockset is in a locked state. 
         FIG.  14    is a plan view of the catch assembly of  FIG.  13    in a biasing state while the lockset is in an unlocked state. 
         FIG.  15    is an exploded assembly view of a spindle and a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  16    is a cutaway view of a spindle with the catch assembly of  FIG.  15    installed. 
         FIG.  17    is an exploded assembly view of a spindle and a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  18    is a cutaway view of a spindle with the catch assembly of  FIG.  17    installed. 
         FIG.  19    is a partially-exploded assembly view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  20    is a partially-exploded assembly view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  21    is a partially-exploded assembly view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  22    is a perspective view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  23    is a perspective view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  24    is a plan view of a catch assembly according to certain embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS 
     Although the concepts of the present disclosure are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described herein in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit the concepts of the present disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives consistent with the present disclosure and the appended claims. 
     References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an illustrative embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may or may not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. It should further be appreciated that although reference to a “preferred” component or feature may indicate the desirability of a particular component or feature with respect to an embodiment, the disclosure is not so limiting with respect to other embodiments, which may omit such a component or feature. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to implement such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. 
     Additionally, it should be appreciated that items included in a list in the form of “at least one of A, B, and C” can mean (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (B and C); (A and C); or (A, B, and C). Similarly, items listed in the form of “at least one of A, B, or C” can mean (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (B and C); (A and C); or (A, B, and C). Items listed in the form of “A, B, and/or C” can also mean (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (B and C); (A and C); or (A, B, and C). Further, with respect to the claims, the use of words and phrases such as “a,” “an,” “at least one,” and/or “at least one portion” should not be interpreted so as to be limiting to only one such element unless specifically stated to the contrary, and the use of phrases such as “at least a portion” and/or “a portion” should be interpreted as encompassing both embodiments including only a portion of such element and embodiments including the entirety of such element unless specifically stated to the contrary. 
     In the drawings, some structural or method features may be shown in certain specific arrangements and/or orderings. However, it should be appreciated that such specific arrangements and/or orderings may not necessarily be required. Rather, in some embodiments, such features may be arranged in a different manner and/or order than shown in the illustrative figures unless indicated to the contrary. Additionally, the inclusion of a structural or method feature in a particular figure is not meant to imply that such feature is required in all embodiments and, in some embodiments, may be omitted or may be combined with other features. 
     With reference to  FIG.  1   , illustrated therein is door  90  having a lockset  100  according to certain embodiments mounted thereon. The door  90  generally includes an outer or non-egress side  91 , an inner or egress side  92  opposite the non-egress side  91 , and a swinging edge  93  extending between and connecting the egress side  92  and the non-egress side  91 . The lockset  100  generally includes an outside handleset  110  mounted to the non-egress side  91 , an inside handleset  120  mounted to the egress side  92 , and a latch mechanism  130  including a latchbolt  132  operable to project beyond the swinging edge  93 . As described herein, the lockset  100  has a locked state in which an outside handle  140  is operable to retract the latchbolt  132 , and an unlocked state in which the outside handle  140  is inoperable to retract the latchbolt  132 . 
     The outside handleset  110  generally includes an outside escutcheon  112 , an outside spindle  114  mounted for rotation relative to the outside escutcheon  112 , and an outside catch assembly  116  mounted to the outside spindle  114 , and in the illustrated form further includes the outside handle  140  and a lock cylinder  150 . As described herein, the outside handle  140  is selectively coupled to the spindle  114  via the catch assembly  116 , and the lock cylinder  150  is operable to transition the lockset  100  between its locked state and its unlocked state. The spindle  114  is operably connected with the latch mechanism  130  such that when the lockset  100  is in its unlocked state, rotation of the spindle  114  causes retraction of the latchbolt  132 . 
     As will be apparent from the description herein, the catch assembly  116  generally includes at least one catch and a bias mechanism biasing the at least one catch toward a projected position. With the at least one catch in the projected position, the catch assembly  116  is operable to selectively retain the handle  140  on the spindle  114 . In certain embodiments, the catch assembly  116  may be provided as a modular construct configured for installation to the spindle  114  as a modular unit. For example, the catch assembly  116  may be provided in the form of the catch assembly  200  illustrated in  FIGS.  2  and  3   , the catch assembly  400  illustrated in  FIGS.  6  and  7   , the catch assembly  600  illustrated in  FIGS.  10  and  11   , the catch assembly  700  illustrated in  FIGS.  12 - 14   , the catch assembly  800  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16   , the catch assembly  900  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   , the catch assembly  1000  illustrated in  FIG.  19   , the catch assembly  1100  illustrated in  FIG.  20   , the catch assembly  1200  illustrated in  FIG.  21   , the catch assembly  1300  illustrated in  FIG.  22   , the catch assembly  1400  illustrated in  FIG.  23   , or the catch assembly  1500  illustrated in  FIG.  24   . It is also contemplated that the catch assembly  116  may not necessarily be a modular construct configured for installation as a single unit. For example, the catch assembly  116  may take the form of the catch assembly  300  illustrated in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , or the catch assembly  500  illustrated in  FIGS.  8  and  9   . 
     The inside handleset  120  generally includes an inside escutcheon, an inside spindle  124  mounted for rotation relative to the inside escutcheon, and an inside catch assembly  126  mounted to the inside spindle  124 , and in the illustrated form further includes an inside handle  160  and a lock state selector  170 . The inside handle  160  is selectively coupled to the spindle  124  via the catch assembly  126 , and the lock state selector  170  is operable to transition the lockset  100  between its locked state and its unlocked state. The spindle  124  is operably connected with the latch mechanism  130  such that rotation of the spindle  124  causes retraction of the latchbolt  132 . 
     As will be apparent from the description herein, the catch assembly  126  generally includes at least one catch and a bias mechanism biasing the at least one catch toward a projected position. With the at least one catch in the projected position, the catch assembly  126  is operable to selectively retain the handle  160  on the spindle  124 . In certain embodiments, the catch assembly  126  may be provided as a modular construct configured for installation to the spindle  114  as a modular unit. For example, the catch assembly  126  may be provided in the form of the catch assembly  200  illustrated in  FIGS.  2  and  3   , the catch assembly  400  illustrated in  FIGS.  6  and  7   , the catch assembly  600  illustrated in  FIGS.  10  and  11   , the catch assembly  700  illustrated in  FIGS.  12 - 14   , the catch assembly  800  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16   , the catch assembly  900  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   , the catch assembly  1000  illustrated in  FIG.  19   , the catch assembly  1100  illustrated in  FIG.  20   , the catch assembly  1200  illustrated in  FIG.  21   , the catch assembly  1300  illustrated in  FIG.  22   , the catch assembly  1400  illustrated in  FIG.  23   , or the catch assembly  1500  illustrated in  FIG.  24   . It is also contemplated that the catch assembly  126  may not necessarily be a modular construct configured for installation as a single unit. For example, the catch assembly  126  may take the form of the catch assembly  300  illustrated in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , or the catch assembly  500  illustrated in  FIGS.  8  and  9   . 
     The latch mechanism  130  is mounted in a bore formed in the swinging edge  93  of the door  90 , and includes the latchbolt  132 . The latchbolt  132  has an extended position in which the latchbolt  132  is operable to retain the door  90  in its closed position and a retracted position in which the latch mechanism  130  permits opening of the door  90 . 
     The outside handle  140  generally includes a shank  142  and a grip  141  extending from the shank  142 . A chamber  144  is formed within the shank  142  and receives the outside spindle  114 , and an opening  145  is formed in a face of the handle  140  to permit access to the lock cylinder  150 . Formed on opposite sides of the shank  142  are a pair of recesses  146  through which the catch assembly  116  engages the handle  140  in a manner described in further detail below. While the illustrated handle  140  is provided in the form of a lever, it is also contemplated that the handle  140  may be provided in another form, such as that of a knob. 
     The lock cylinder  150  is mounted within the spindle  114  and the shank  142 , and generally includes a shell  152  rotationally coupled with the spindle  114  and/or the shank  142 , a plug  154  mounted for rotation relative to the shell  152 , a tailpiece  156  rotationally coupled with the plug  154 , and a tumbler assembly operable to selectively prevent rotation of the plug  154  relative to the shell  152 . The tumbler assembly is biased toward a blocking state, in which the tumbler assembly prevents rotation of the plug  154  relative to the shell  152 . When a proper key is inserted into the plug  154 , the tumbler assembly moves to an unblocking state, in which the tumbler assembly permits rotation of the plug  154  relative to the shell  152 . Rotation of the plug  154  causes a corresponding rotation of the tailpiece  156 , which moves one or more internal components of the lockset  100  to transition the lockset  100  between its locked state and its unlocked state. 
     The inside handle  160  is substantially similar to the outside handle  140 , and includes a shank  162  and a grip  161  extending from the shank  162 . A chamber  164  is formed within the shank  162  and receives the inside spindle  124 , and an opening is formed in a face of the handle  160  to permit access to the lock state selector  170 . Formed on opposite sides of the shank  162  are a pair of apertures  166  through which the catch assembly  126  may be accessed to permit decoupling of the handle  160  from the spindle  124  in a manner described in further detail below. While the illustrated handle  160  is provided in the form of a lever, it is also contemplated that the handle  160  may be provided in another form, such as that of a knob. 
     The illustrated lock state selector  170  is mounted in the inside handle  160  such that a user is able to transition the lockset  100  between its locked state and its unlocked state from the egress side  92  of the door  90 . In the illustrated form, the lock state selector  170  is provided in the form of a pushbutton that places the lockset  100  in the locked state when depressed. It is also contemplated that the lock state selector  170  may take another form, such as that of a turnbutton. In certain embodiments, such as those in which the lockset  100  includes an electronic locking mechanism, the lock state selector  170  may not necessarily be mounted in the inside handle  160 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  2   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  200  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  200  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  200  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  200  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . 
     The catch assembly  200  generally includes a holder  210  configured for mounting within the spindle  114 , a bias mechanism  220  mounted within the holder  210 , and a pair of catches  230  mounted to the bias mechanism  220  and extending through the holder  210 . As described herein, the catch assembly  200  is configured to selectively couple the handle  140  to the spindle  114  when the handle  140  is in either of two orientations relative to the spindle  114 . While not specifically illustrated in  FIG.  2   , it should be appreciated that the catch assembly  200  may further include a retention mechanism configured to discourage removal of the catches  230 , such as the retainers  840  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16   , or the retainer  940  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . 
     The holder  210  is configured for mounting within the spindle  114 , extends along a longitudinal axis  201  of the catch assembly  200 , and has an outer periphery  211 , an inner periphery  212 , and a pair of holder openings  213  extending through the body of the holder  210 . While other forms are contemplated, in the illustrated embodiment, the openings  213  are diametrically opposite one another. Formed on the inner periphery  212  are a pair of longitudinal channels  216 , each of which intersects a corresponding one of the openings  213 . The holder  210  has a first end face  218  and an opposite second end face  219 , and in the illustrated form, each channel  216  extends from each of the first end face  218  and the second end face  219 . In certain embodiments, ridge  214  may be formed on the inner periphery  212  of the holder  210  to restrict circumferential rotation of the bias mechanism  220 . 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  220  comprises a single arcuate leaf spring  221 . The leaf spring  221  is arcuate about the longitudinal axis  201 , and includes a first end portion  222  and a second end portion  224  opposite the first end portion  222 . The first end portion  222  includes a first slot  223 , and the second end portion  224  includes a second slot  225 . 
     Each catch  230  includes a body portion  232 , a tab  234  projecting radially outward from the body portion  232 , a plate  236  positioned radially inward of the body portion  232 , and a post  238  projecting radially inward from the plate  236 . The tab  234  is sized and shaped to extend through the opening  213 , and in the illustrated form comprises a chamfer  235 . The plate  236  is sized and shaped to be received in the channel  216  to limit circumferential movement of the catch  230  relative to the holder  210 . The post  238  is sized and shaped to be inserted in each and either of the slots  223 ,  225 . 
     During assembly of the catch assembly  200 , each catch  230  is positioned within the holder  210 , and pushed radially outward such that the tabs  234  extend through the openings  213  and project beyond the outer periphery  211  of the holder  210 . The plates  236  are seated in the channels  216  to thereby prevent the catch  230  from exiting the corresponding opening  213  in the radially-outward direction. The end portions  222 ,  224  of the leaf spring  221  are then pushed toward each other such that the leaf spring  221  is slightly compressed, and the leaf spring  221  is inserted into the holder  210  such that each slot  223 ,  225  aligns with a corresponding post  238 . The leaf spring  221  is then released such that the end portions  222 ,  224  flex away from one another, thereby causing the slots  223 ,  225  to receive the posts  238 . 
     With the catch assembly  200  assembled, the leaf spring  221  engages the inner periphery  212  of the holder  210  and biases the catches  230  radially outward toward projected positions thereof. The catches  230  can be moved to depressed positions by urging the tabs  234  radially inward against the biasing of the leaf spring  221 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  3   , illustrated therein is a cross-sectional view of outside handleset  110  with the catch assembly  200  installed. In the interest of clarity, certain features of the outside handleset  110  are omitted from the illustration of  FIG.  3   . During assembly of the handleset  110 , the assembled catch assembly  200  is installed to the spindle  114 , after which the handle  140  is installed to the spindle  114 . 
     Installation of the catch assembly  200  to the spindle  114  generally involves depressing the catches  230  as described above, and inserting the catch assembly  200  into the spindle  114 . During such insertion, the inner periphery of the spindle  114  retains the catches  230  in the depressed positions until each catch  230  aligns with a corresponding opening  115  in the spindle  114 , at which point the biasing of the bias mechanism  220  urges the catches  230  radially outward to their projected positions such that the tabs  234  project beyond the outer periphery of the spindle  114 . With the catch assembly  200  installed to the spindle  114 , the handle  140  may be installed to the spindle  114 . 
     During installation of the handle  140  to the spindle  114 , the catches  230  are urged radially inward to their depressed positions. In certain forms, this radially-inward urging may be performed manually. Additionally or alternatively, the chamfers  235  on the tabs  234  may cause the catches  230  to be urged inward as the spindle  114  enters the chamber  144 . The inner periphery of the chamber  144  then retains the catches  230  in their depressed positions until each catch  230  aligns with a corresponding recess  146  in the handle  140 , at which point the biasing of the bias mechanism  220  urges the catches  230  radially outward to their projected positions such that the tabs  234  enter the recesses  146 . 
     With the handle  140  installed to the spindle  114 , the catch assembly  200  retains axial engagement between the spindle  114  and the handle  140  to thereby selectively prevent removal of the handle  140  from the spindle  114 . In the event that a user wishes to remove the handle  140  from the spindle  114 , the user may depress the catches  230 , for example by manually engaging one catch  230  (the left catch  230  in the illustration of  FIG.  3   ) while inserting a tool through an aperture  147  in the shank  142  to thereby depress the other catch  230  (the right catch  230  in the illustration of  FIG.  3   ). 
     If the user attempts to remove the handle  140  when the outside handleset  110  is in its locked condition, the lock cylinder  150  may prevent such removal. More particularly, when the lock cylinder  150  is in its locked state, the tailpiece  156  and/or a component engaged with the tailpiece  156  (e.g., the driver  119  illustrated in  FIGS.  13  and  14   ) may be oriented such that the wider dimension of the tailpiece  156  (or other component) is aligned with the posts  238  to thereby prevent depression of the catches  230 . When the lock cylinder  150  is transitioned to its unlocked state (e.g., by inserting the proper key and rotating the plug  154 ), the narrower dimension of the tailpiece  156  (or other component) is aligned with the posts  238  such that the catches  230  may be depressed. In such forms, the handle  140  may be prevented from being removed while the handleset  110  is in its locked state. 
     With reference to  FIG.  4   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  300  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  300  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  300  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  300  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . The catch assembly  300  generally includes a bias mechanism  320  and a pair of catches  330  biased by the bias mechanism  320  toward projected positions. The catch assembly  300  generally includes a first catch mechanism  302  and a second catch mechanism  304  substantially similar to the first catch mechanism  302 . Each catch mechanism  302 ,  304  generally includes a leaf spring  321  and a catch  330  mounted to the leaf spring  321 . 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  320  comprises a pair of leaf springs  321 . Each leaf spring  321  includes a flat central portion  322  including an opening  323 , and a pair of arcuate end portions  324  extending from opposite sides of the central portion  322 . 
     Each catch  330  generally includes a body portion  332 , a tab  334  extending radially outward from the body portion  332 , and a post  338  extending radially inward from the body portion  332 . The tab  334  may include a chamfer  335  analogous to the above-described chamfer  235 . The post  338  extends through the opening  323 , and may be deformed to thereby stake the catch  330  to the leaf spring  321 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  5   , illustrated therein is the catch assembly  300  installed to the spindle  114 . During installation of the catch assembly  300 , the leaf spring  321  of the first catch mechanism  302  is first deformed to a state conducive for insertion into the spindle  114 . The catch mechanism  302  is then inserted into the spindle  114  until the catch  330  aligns with a corresponding opening  115  in the spindle  114 , at which point the leaf spring  321  urges the catch  330  toward its projected position such that the tab  334  projects through the opening  315 . These steps may then be repeated for the second catch mechanism  304 . The handle  140  may then be installed to the spindle  114  in a manner analogous to that described above such that the catch assembly  300  selectively couples the spindle  114  with the handle  140 . If a user attempts to remove the handle  140  when the outside handleset  110  is in its locked condition, the lock cylinder  150  and/or driver  119  may prevent such removal in a manner analogous to that described herein. 
     While not specifically illustrated in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , it should be appreciated that the catch assembly  300  may further include a retention mechanism configured to discourage removal of the catches  330  via the openings  115 , such as the retainers  840  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16    or the retainer  940  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  6   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  400  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  400  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  400  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  400  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . The catch assembly  400  generally includes a bias mechanism  420  and a pair of catches  340  biased by the bias mechanism  320  toward projected positions. The catch assembly  400  extends along a longitudinal axis  401 , and generally includes a holder  410 , a first catch mechanism  402 , and a second catch mechanism  404 . As described herein, each catch mechanism  402 ,  404  includes a leaf spring  421  and a catch  430 . 
     The holder  410  is generally annular about the longitudinal axis  401 , and includes an outer periphery  411 , an inner periphery  412 , and a pair of openings  413 . Each opening  413  includes a circumferential portion  414  and a longitudinal slot  415 , and a channel  416  is formed on the inner periphery  412  and connected with the opening  413 . Each circumferential portion  414  extends about a portion of the circumference of the holder  410 , and each longitudinal slot  415  extends from a first end face  418  of the holder  410  to the corresponding circumferential portion  414 . 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  420  includes a pair of leaf springs  421 . Each leaf spring  421  is generally arcuate about the longitudinal axis  401 , and includes an opening  423 . While other locations are contemplated, in the illustrated form, each opening  423  is formed at or near a midpoint of the leaf spring  421 . 
     Each catch  430  is substantially similar to the above-described catches  230 , and similar reference characters are used to denote similar elements and features. For example, each catch  430  generally includes a body portion  432 , a tab  434 , a plate  436 , and a post  438 , which respectively correspond to the above-described body portion  232 , tab  234 , plate  236 , and post  238 . At least a portion of the plate  436  is sized and shaped to be received in the channel  416  to thereby limit circumferential movement of the catch  430 . One or both of the tabs  434  may define a chamfer  435  analogous to the above-described chamfer  235 . 
     During assembly of the catch assembly  400 , the catch mechanisms  402 ,  404  may first be assembled by mounting each catch  430  to the corresponding leaf spring  421 . For example, the post  438  may be inserted into the opening  423 , and thereafter deformed to stake the catch  430  to the leaf spring  421 . The catch mechanisms  402 ,  404  may then be inserted into the holder  410  such that the plates  436  pass through the longitudinal slots  415  and enter the channels  416 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  7   , illustrated therein is the catch assembly  400  installed to the spindle  114 . Such installation may proceed in a manner analogous to that described above with respect to installation of the catch assembly  200  to the spindle  114 . The catch assembly  400  may then be used to selectively couple the handle  140  to the spindle  114  in a manner analogous to that described above with reference to  FIG.  3   . If a user attempts to remove the handle  140  when the outside handleset  110  is in its locked condition, the lock cylinder  150  and/or driver  119  may prevent such removal in a manner analogous to that described herein. 
     While not specifically illustrated in  FIGS.  6  and  7   , it should be appreciated that the catch assembly  400  may further include a retention mechanism configured to discourage removal of the catches  430  via the openings  115 , such as the retainers  840  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16    or the retainer  940  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  8  and  9   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  500  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  500  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  500  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  500  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . As described herein, the catch assembly  500  generally includes a holder  510 , a bias mechanism  520 , and a pair of catches  530 . 
     The holder  510  has an outer periphery  511  and an inner periphery  512 , the latter of which is defined at least in part by an oblong collar  516  having a major dimension  513  and a minor dimension  514 . As described herein, the inner periphery  512  of the holder  510  is sized and shaped to engage the tailpiece  156  or another component engaged with the plug  154  (e.g., the driver  119  illustrated in  FIGS.  13  and  14   ) such that the holder  510  rotates as the lock cylinder  150  transitions the outside handleset  110  between its locked and unlocked conditions. 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  520  includes a pair of leaf springs  521 . Each leaf spring  521  is generally arcuate about the longitudinal axis  501 , and has a pair of opposite end portions  522 . Each end portion  522  is anchored to the holder  510  at a location near the major dimension  513  of the inner periphery  512 . 
     Each catch  530  is operable to engage a corresponding leaf spring  521 , and generally includes a tab  534  that may include a chamfer  535 , and a radially-inner abutment portion  538 . 
     During installation of the catch assembly  500  to the spindle  114 , each catch  530  may be inserted into a respective spindle opening  115 , and the holder  510  with the leaf springs  521  mounted thereon may be inserted into the spindle  114  until the leaf springs  521  are longitudinally aligned with the catches  530 . When so installed to the spindle  114 , the collar  516  is operable to engage the tailpiece  156  and/or another component engaged with the plug  154 , such as the driver  119  illustrated in  FIGS.  13  and  14   . With the collar  516  engaged with the tailpiece  156  and/or other component, the collar  516  is operably engaged with the plug  154  such that the minor dimension  514  is aligned with the abutment portions  538  when the outside handleset  110  is in its unlocked condition ( FIG.  8   ), and such that the major dimension  513  is aligned with the abutment portions  538  when the outside handleset  110  is in its locked condition ( FIG.  9   ). 
     When the outside handleset  110  is in its unlocked condition ( FIG.  8   ), the minor dimension  514  of the collar  516  is aligned with the catches  530 , and the leaf springs  521  are engaged with the abutment portions  538 . As a result, the leaf springs  521  bias the catches  530  radially outward to the projected positions thereof, but also permit the catches  530  to be urged radially inward to their depressed positions. Accordingly, when the outside handleset  110  is in its unlocked condition, the catch assembly  500  permits radially-inward movement of the catches  530  such that the handle  140  is operable to be decoupled and removed from the spindle  114 . 
     When the outside handleset  110  is in its locked condition ( FIG.  9   ), the major dimension  513  of the collar  516  is aligned with the catches  530 , and the anchored end portions  522  of the leaf springs  521  are engaged with the abutment portions  538 . As a result, the collar  516  retains the catches  530  in their projected positions. Accordingly, when the outside handleset  110  is in its locked condition, the catch assembly  500  prevents radially-inward movement of the catches  530  such that the handle  140  is inoperable to be decoupled and removed from the spindle  114 . 
     While not specifically illustrated in  FIGS.  8  and  9   , it should be appreciated that the catch assembly  500  may further include a retention mechanism configured to discourage removal of the catches  530  via the openings  115 , such as the retainers  840  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16    or the retainer  940  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  10  and  11   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  600  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  600  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  600  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  600  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . As described herein, the catch assembly  600  extends along a longitudinal axis  601 , and generally includes a holder  610 , a bias mechanism  620 , and a pair of catches  630  movably mounted to the holder  610  such that the bias mechanism  620  urges the catches  630  outward. 
     The holder  610  is generally annular about the longitudinal axis  601 , and includes a pair of openings  613  and a pair of flexible arms  615 , each of which extends into a corresponding one of the openings  613 . Each arm  615  extends generally in the longitudinal direction, and is self-biased in a radially-outward direction. Thus, each arm  615  is biased toward a projected position, and is movable toward a depressed position. 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  620  is integrally formed with the holder  610 , and includes the flexible arms  615 . 
     Each catch  630  includes a notch  631  sized and shaped to receive a portion of a corresponding arm  615 , and is mounted to a corresponding one of the flexible arms  615  such that the bias mechanism  620  biases the catches  630  toward their projected positions. 
     During assembly of the catch assembly  600 , the catches  630  may be positioned such that each arm  615  is at least partially received in a corresponding one of the notches  631 . The catches  630  may be secured to the arms  615  using a suitable attachment mechanism, such as adhesive or a fastener. Additionally or alternatively, the arms  615  may be press fit into the notches  631 . With the catch assembly  600  assembled, the catch assembly  600  may be installed to the spindle  114  in a manner analogous to that described above with reference to the installation of the catch assembly  200  to the spindle  114 . The catch assembly  600  may then be used to selectively couple the handle  140  to the spindle  114  in a manner analogous to that described above with reference to  FIG.  3   . If a user attempts to remove the handle  140  when the outside handleset  110  is in its locked condition, the lock cylinder  150  and/or driver  119  may prevent such removal in a manner analogous to that described above. 
     While not specifically illustrated in  FIGS.  10  and  11   , it should be appreciated that the catch assembly  600  may further include a retention mechanism configured to discourage removal of the catches  630  via the openings  115 , such as the retainers  840  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16    or the retainer  940  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  12 - 14   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  700  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  700  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  700  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  700  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . As described herein, the catch assembly  700  extends along a longitudinal axis  701 , and generally includes a holder  710 , a bias mechanism  720 , and a pair of catches  730  movably mounted to the holder  710  such that the bias mechanism  720  urges the catches  730  outward. 
     The holder  710  is somewhat similar to the above-described holder  610 , and includes a pair of flexible arms  715 , each of which is self-biased in the radially-outward direction. In contrast to the longitudinally-extending arms  615 , the arms  715  of the illustrated holder  710  are generally arcuate, and extend in the circumferential direction. 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  720  is integrally formed with the holder  710 , and includes the flexible arms  715 . 
     Each catch  730  is mounted to a corresponding one of the flexible arms  715  such that the bias mechanism  720  biases the catches  730  toward their projected positions. 
       FIGS.  13  and  14    illustrate the catch assembly  700  installed to the outside handleset  110  and providing a selective coupling between the spindle  114  and the handle  140 . Also illustrated in  FIGS.  13  and  14    is a driver  119  operable to transition the outside handleset  110  between its locked condition and its unlocked condition. The driver  119  is engaged with the tailpiece  156  such that the driver  119  is operable to be actuated by the lock cylinder  150  for unlocking of the outside handleset  110 . 
     With the handleset  110  in its locked condition ( FIG.  13   ), a major dimension of the driver  119  is aligned with the catches  730 , thereby preventing depression of the catches  730 . As a result, the catch assembly  700  cannot be transitioned to its decoupling state, and the handle  140  is retained on the spindle  114 . When the handleset is in its unlocked condition ( FIG.  14   ), a minor dimension of the driver  119  is aligned with the catches  730 , thereby permitting depression of the catches  730 . As a result, the catch assembly  700  can be transitioned to its decoupling state, and the handle  140  is operable to be removed from the spindle  114 . 
     While not specifically illustrated in  FIGS.  12 - 14   , it should be appreciated that the catch assembly  700  may further include a retention mechanism configured to discourage removal of the catches  730  via the openings  115 , such as the retainers  840  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16    or the retainer  940  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  15  and  16   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  800  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  800  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  800  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  800  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . As described herein, the catch assembly  800  extends along a longitudinal axis  801 , and generally includes a holder  810 , a bias mechanism  820 , a pair of catches  830  movably mounted to the holder  810 , and a pair of retainers  840  preventing removal of the catches  830 . 
     The holder  810  is generally annular about the longitudinal axis  801 , and includes a pair of openings  813 , each of which is sized and shaped to receive a corresponding one of the catches  830 . Defined on the outer periphery of the holder  810  are two pairs of longitudinal grooves  814 , with each pair of grooves  814  positioned on opposite sides of a corresponding one of the openings  813  such that each opening  813  intersects a corresponding pair of grooves  814 . 
     The bias mechanism  820  is mounted within the holder  810 , and is configured to bias the catches  830  radially outward toward the projected positions thereof. The illustrated bias mechanism  820  is provided in the form of an arcuate leaf spring  821 , which may include a pair of openings  828  configured to receive posts  838  of the catches  830 . 
     Each catch  830  generally includes a body portion  832 , a tab  834  extending radially outward from the body portion  832 , and a post  838  extending radially inward from the body portion  832 . The post  838  extends through an opening  828  in the leaf spring  821 , and may be deformed to thereby stake the catch  830  to the leaf spring  821 . 
     Each retainer  840  generally includes a circumferentially-extending body  842  and a pair of legs  844  extending longitudinally from the body. As described herein, the retainers  840  may be utilized to discourage removal of the catches  830  from the holder  810 . 
     During an example procedure for assembly and installation of the catch assembly  800 , the leaf spring  821  may be mounted to the holder  810 , and the holder  810  and leaf spring  821  may be inserted into the spindle  114  such that the holder openings  813  align with the spindle openings  115 . The catches  830  may then be inserted via the aligned openings  115 ,  813  such that the body portion  832  engages the leaf spring  821  and the post  838  projects through the opening  828  in the leaf spring  821 . The retainers  840  may then be longitudinally inserted such that each leg  844  enters a corresponding groove  814 , thereby capturing the body portion  832  of each catch  830  between the legs  844  and the leaf spring  821 . As a result, the catches  830  are capable of limited travel between the projected and depressed positions thereof, but are prevented from fully exiting the spindle openings  115 . 
     Once installed to the spindle  114 , the catch assembly  800  may be used to selectively couple the handle  140  to the spindle  114  in a manner analogous to that described above with reference to  FIG.  3   . If a user attempts to remove the handle  140  when the outside handleset  110  is in its locked condition, the lock cylinder  150  and/or driver  119  may prevent such removal in a manner analogous to that described above. 
     Although the retainers  840  have been described with specific reference to the catch assembly  800  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16   , it should be appreciated that such retainers  840  may also be utilized in combination with other embodiments. As one example, the holder  210  of the catch assembly  200  illustrated in  FIGS.  2  and  3    may include two pairs of grooves corresponding to the two pairs of grooves  814 , and the retainers  840  may be utilized to prevent removal of the catches  230  in a manner analogous to that described above. As another example, the holder  410  of the catch assembly  400  illustrated in  FIGS.  6  and  7    may include two pairs of grooves corresponding to the grooves  814 , and the retainers  840  may be utilized to prevent removal of the catches  430  in a manner analogous to that described above. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  17  and  18   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  900  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  900  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  900  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  900  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . As described herein, the catch assembly  900  extends along a longitudinal axis  901 , and generally includes a holder  910 , a bias mechanism  920 , a pair of catches  930  movably mounted to the holder  910 , and a retainer  940  preventing removal of the catches  930 . 
     The holder  910  is generally annular about the longitudinal axis  901 , and includes a pair of openings  913 , each of which is sized and shaped to receive a corresponding one of the catches  930 . Defined on the outer periphery of the holder  910  are two longitudinal grooves  914 , with each groove  914  intersecting a corresponding one of the openings  913 . The holder  910  may further include an additional longitudinal groove  916  configured to receive a stabilization portion  946  of the retainer  940 . 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  920  comprises a leaf spring  921 . The leaf spring  921  is mounted within the holder  910 , and is configured to bias the catches  930  radially outward toward the projected positions thereof. The leaf spring  921  may include a pair of openings  928  configured to receive posts  938  of the catches  930 . 
     Each catch  930  generally includes a body portion  932 , a tab  934  extending radially outward from the body portion  932 , and a post  938  extending radially inward from the body portion  932 . The post  938  extends through an opening  928  in the leaf spring  921 , and may be deformed to thereby stake the catch  930  to the leaf spring  921 . Each catch  930  also includes a slot  939  configured to receive an end portion  944  of the retainer  940 . 
     The illustrated retainer  940  generally includes an annular portion  942  and a pair of longitudinally-extending end portions  944 , and may further include a longitudinal stabilization portion  946 . 
     During an example procedure for assembly and installation of the catch assembly  900 , the leaf spring  921  may be mounted to the holder  910 , and the holder  910  and leaf spring  921  may be inserted into the spindle  114  such that the holder openings  913  align with the spindle openings  115 . The catches  930  may then be inserted via the aligned openings  115 ,  913  such that the body portion  932  engages the leaf spring  921  and the post  938  projects through the opening  928  in the leaf spring  921 . The retainer  940  may then be longitudinally inserted such that each end portion  944  enters a corresponding slot  939 , while the stabilization portion  946  enters the groove  916 . When the catch assembly  900  is installed to the spindle  114 , the end portions  944  and the slots  939  permit limited travel of the catches  930  between the projected and depressed positions thereof, but prevent the catches  930  from fully exiting the spindle openings  115 . 
     Once installed to the spindle  114 , the catch assembly  900  may be used to selectively couple the handle  140  to the spindle  114  in a manner analogous to that described above with reference to  FIG.  3   . If a user attempts to remove the handle  140  when the outside handleset  110  is in its locked condition, the lock cylinder  150  and/or driver  119  may prevent such removal in a manner analogous to that described above. 
     Although the retainer  940  has been described with specific reference to the catch assembly  900  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   , it should be appreciated that such a retainer  940  may also be utilized in combination with other embodiments. As one example, the holder  210  of the catch assembly  200  illustrated in  FIGS.  2  and  3    may include a pair of groove corresponding to the grooves  914 , and the end portions  944  of the retainer  940  may extend through slots in the catches  230  to prevent removal of the catches  230  in a manner analogous to that described above. As another example, the holder  410  of the catch assembly  400  illustrated in  FIGS.  6  and  7    may include a pair of grooves corresponding to the grooves  914 , and the end portions  944  of the retainer  940  may extend through slots in the catches  430  to prevent removal of the catches  430  in a manner analogous to that described above. 
     With reference to  FIG.  19   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  1000  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  1000  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  1000  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  1000  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . As described herein, the catch assembly  1000  extends along a longitudinal axis  1001 , and generally includes a holder  1010 , a bias mechanism  1020 , a pair of catches  1030  movably mounted to the holder  1010  such that the bias mechanism  1020  urges the catches  1030  outward, and a cap  1050  that retains the bias mechanism  1020  within the holder  1010 . 
     The holder  1010  includes a pair of openings  1013  in which the catches  1030  are movably seated. The holder  1010  also includes one or more recesses  1015  that provide mounting locations or anchor points for the cap  1050 . 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  1020  is provided in the form of an arcuate leaf spring  1021 , each end of which is engaged with a corresponding one of the catches  1030 . For example, each end of the leaf spring  1021  may include a longitudinal extension  1023  that is received in a slot  1033  of the corresponding catch  1030 . 
     The catches  1030  are movably mounted in the openings  1013 , and are engaged with the leaf spring  1021  such that the bias mechanism  1020  urges the catches  1030  outward toward the projected positions thereof. For example, each catch  1030  may include a slot  1033  that receives a corresponding extension  1023  of the leaf spring  1021 . 
     The cap  1050  includes a body portion  1052  that is generally annular about the longitudinal axis  1001 , and a pair of clip arms  1054  that depend from the body portion  1052 . Each clip arm  1054  includes a tab  1055  that is angled inward and received in a corresponding recess  1015  to secure the cap  1050  to the holder  1010 . The cap  1050  may further include a projection  1056  that projects from the body portion  1052  and prevents radially-inward movement of the leaf spring  1021 . 
     During assembly of the catch assembly  1000 , the catches  1030  may be inserted into the holder openings  1013  from outside the holder  1010 . The leaf spring  1021  may then be compressed and inserted into the holder  1010  such that the end portions thereof engage the catches  1030 . The cap  1050  may then be pressed onto the end of the holder  1010  such that the tabs  1055  snap into the recesses  1015  to constrain longitudinal movement of the bias mechanism  1020  in a first longitudinal direction. Movement of the bias mechanism  1020  in the opposite longitudinal direction may be constrained by the catches  1030  and/or a ridge  1018  of the holder  1010 . 
     When assembled, the catch assembly  1000  may be installed to the spindle  114  as a modular unit in a manner analogous to that described above. While not specifically illustrated in  FIG.  19   , it should be appreciated that the catch assembly  1000  may utilize a retention mechanism if needed, such as the retention mechanism  840  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16    or the retention mechanism  940  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . It is also contemplated that such retention mechanisms may not necessarily be required in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  19   . 
     With reference to  FIG.  20   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  1100  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  1100  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  1100  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  1100  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . As described herein, the catch assembly  1100  extends along a longitudinal axis  1101 , and generally includes a holder  1110 , a bias mechanism  1120 , and a pair of catches  1130  movably mounted to the holder  1110  such that the bias mechanism  1120  urges the catches  1130  outward. 
     The holder  1110  includes a pair of radial openings  1113  in which the catches  1130  are movably seated. The holder  1110  also includes a pair of longitudinal openings  1114  for receiving corresponding legs  1124  of the bias mechanism  1120 . The longitudinal openings  1114  intersect longitudinal slots  1115  that allow the legs  1124  to flex radially inward. The holder  1110  also includes a circumferentially-extending channel  1112  that receives a body portion  1122  of the bias mechanism  1120 . 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  1120  is provided in the form of a wire spring  1121 , and generally includes a body portion  1122  and a pair of legs  1124  extending from opposite sides of the body portion  1122 . The body portion  1122  is received in the circumferential channel  1112  of the holder  1110 , which constrains longitudinal movement of the bias mechanism  1120 . Each leg  1124  extends through a corresponding one of the longitudinal openings  1115  and into engagement with a corresponding one of the catches  1130 . When the catches  530  are depressed, the legs  1124  flex radially inward through the slots  1115 . 
     When assembled, the catch assembly  1100  may be installed to the spindle  114  as a modular unit in a manner analogous to that described above. While not specifically illustrated in  FIG.  20   , it should be appreciated that the catch assembly  1100  may utilize a retention mechanism if needed, such as the retention mechanism  840  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16    or the retention mechanism  940  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . It is also contemplated that such retention mechanisms may not necessarily be required in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  20   . 
     With reference to  FIG.  21   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  1200  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  1200  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  1200  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  1200  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . As described herein, the catch assembly  1200  extends along a longitudinal axis  1201 , and generally includes a holder  1210 , a bias mechanism  1220 , and a pair of catches  1230  movably mounted to the holder  1210  such that the bias mechanism  1220  urges the catches  1230  outward. 
     The holder  1210  includes a pair of radial openings  1213  in which the catches  1230  are movably seated. The holder  1210  also includes a pair of longitudinal channels  1214  for receiving corresponding legs  1224  of the bias mechanism  1220 . The holder  1210  also includes a pair of recesses  1216  operable to engage clip arms  1226  of the bias mechanism  1220 . 
     In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  1220  includes an annular body portion  1222 , from which project a pair of legs  1224  and a pair of clip arms  1226 . Each leg  1224  is seated in a corresponding channel  1214 , and serves as a leaf spring for a corresponding one of the catches  1230  such that the catches  1230  are biased outward by the bias mechanism  1220 . Each clip arm  1226  includes a tab  1227  that is angled inward and received in a corresponding recess  1016  to secure the bias mechanism  1220  to the holder  1210 . 
     When assembled, the catch assembly  1200  may be installed to the spindle  114  as a modular unit in a manner analogous to that described above. While not specifically illustrated in  FIG.  21   , it should be appreciated that the catch assembly  1200  may utilize a retention mechanism if needed, such as the retention mechanism  840  illustrated in  FIGS.  15  and  16    or the retention mechanism  940  illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . It is also contemplated that such retention mechanisms may not necessarily be required in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  21   . 
     With reference to  FIG.  22   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  1300  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  1300  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  1300  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  1300  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . In the interest of conciseness, the following descriptions of the catch assembly  1400  focus primarily on features different from those described above with reference to the above-described catch assemblies. 
     The catch assembly  1300  generally includes a holder  1310 , a bias mechanism  1320 , and a pair of catches  1330  mounted to the holder  1310  such that the bias mechanism  1320  urges the catches  1330  outward. The illustrated holder  1310  is generally annular, and includes a pair of longitudinally-extending flexible arms  1315 , which define the bias mechanism  1320 . Each catch  1330  is formed on the free end of a corresponding one of the arms  1315  such that the bias mechanism  1320  biases the catches  1330  outward to the projected positions thereof. In the illustrated form, the catch assembly  1300  is provided as an integrally formed, unitary construction in which the collar  1310 , the bias mechanism  1320 , and the catches  1330  are provided as a monolithic structure. The catch assembly  1300  may be installed to the spindle  114  as a modular unit in a manner analogous to that described above. 
     With reference to  FIG.  23   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  1400  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  1400  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  1400  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  1400  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . In the interest of conciseness, the following descriptions of the catch assembly  1400  focus primarily on features different from those described above with reference to the above-described catch assemblies. 
     The catch assembly  1400  generally includes a holder  1410 , a bias mechanism  1420 , and a pair of catches  1430  mounted to the holder  1410  such that the bias mechanism  1420  urges the catches  1430  outward. The holder  1410  is generally annular, and includes a pair of longitudinally-extending flexible arms  1415 , which define the bias mechanism  1420 . Each catch  1420  is mounted on the free end of a corresponding one of the arms  1415  such that the bias mechanism  1420  biases the catches  1430  outward to the projected positions thereof. In the illustrated form, the collar  1410  and the bias mechanism  1420  are integrally formed as a monolithic structure. The catch assembly  1400  may be installed to the spindle  114  as a modular unit in a manner analogous to that described above. 
     With reference to  FIG.  24   , illustrated therein is a catch assembly  1500  according to certain embodiments. The catch assembly  1500  may, for example, be utilized as the catch assembly  116  of the outside handleset  110  and/or the catch assembly  126  of the inside handleset  120 . Thus, while certain descriptions of the catch assembly  1500  will be made with reference to the outside handleset  110 , it should be appreciated that at least some such descriptions may be equally applicable to embodiments in which the catch assembly  1500  is installed to the inside handleset  120 . In the interest of conciseness, the following descriptions of the catch assembly  1500  focus primarily on features different from those described above with reference to the above-described catch assemblies. 
     The catch assembly  1500  generally includes a holder  1510 , a bias mechanism  1520 , and a pair of catches  1530  mounted to the holder  1510  such that the bias mechanism  1520  urges the catches  1530  outward. The holder  1510  is generally annular, and the bias mechanism  1520  is mounted to the holder  1510 . In the illustrated form, the bias mechanism  1520  is provided in the form of one or more wire springs  1521 . Each catch  1520  engaged with a corresponding portion of the one or more wire springs  1521  such that the bias mechanism  1520  biases the catches  1530  outward to the projected positions thereof. The catch assembly  1500  may be installed to the spindle  114  as a modular unit in a manner analogous to that described above. 
     While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the inventions are desired to be protected. 
     It should be understood that while the use of words such as preferable, preferably, preferred or more preferred utilized in the description above indicate that the feature so described may be more desirable, it nonetheless may not be necessary and embodiments lacking the same may be contemplated as within the scope of the invention, the 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,” or “at least one portion” are used there is no intention to limit the claim to only one item unless specifically stated to the contrary in the claim. When the language “at least a portion” and/or “a portion” is used the item can include a portion and/or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.