Christopher S Shea

US Patent:

41748603, Nov 20, 1979

Filed:

Sep 14, 1977

Appl. No.:

5/833304

Inventors:

Christopher J. Shea - New Britain CT

Assignee:

The Stanley Works - New Britain CT

International Classification:

E05C 502

US Classification:

292113

Abstract:

A latch for ovens and the like includes a latch subassembly movable between latching and unlatching positions, a high temperature locking pawl engageable with the latch subassembly at a preselected elevated temperature to block its movement to unlatching position, and a thermal element which moves the locking pawl into blocking position. First adjustment means is provided to engage the locking pawl during its movement from a nonblocking position to the blocking position so as to locate its abutment surface in a predetermined position in the path of movement of the latch subassembly. Second adjustment means is also provided and is engageable with the locking pawl during its movement from blocking position to non-blocking position so as to locate the abutment surface on the pawl in a predetermined position. As a result, the length of the path of movement of the pawl between its two positions and the disposition of the pawl in its blocking position may be readily adjusted to compensate for variations in temperature conditions and thermal gradients between ovens and thermal elements in ovens of different models and manufacturers.

US Patent:

41333373, Jan 9, 1979

Filed:

Sep 14, 1977

Appl. No.:

5/833235

Inventors:

Christopher J. Shea - New Britain CT

Assignee:

The Stanley Works - New Britain CT

International Classification:

F24C 1502

US Classification:

126197

Abstract:

A latch for ovens and the like includes a latch subassembly movable between latching and unlatching positions, a high temperature locking pawl which is engageable with the latch subassembly at a preselected elevated temperature to block its movement to unlatching position, and a thermal element which rotates the pawl into the blocking position. Resiliently deflectable means is provided on the locking pawl to rotate the pawl into blocking position in the event that the latch subassembly is moved from the latched position towards the unlatched position as the preset elevated temperature for latching is approached, thereby compensating for lag in response of the thermal element and preventing opening of the oven door at elevated temperatures.