LOCKING SYSTEM WITH MULTIPLE LATCHES

摘要

A locking system provides multiple lockable latching mechanisms that are collectively operable and lockable from a central actuation mechanism. Each latching mechanism can be positioned and actuated independent of the positioning of others of the latching mechanisms. In particular, the latching mechanisms need not be aligned with one another. The system uses flexible connectors between the central actuation mechanism and the respective latching mechanisms. The flexible connectors can have different respective lengths.

主权项

1. A locking system, comprising:
a central actuation mechanism; and a plurality of latch mechanisms each individually and operably connected to the central actuation mechanism via a respective flexible connector, each latch mechanism comprising an elongate latching member constructed and arranged to be selectively extended along a direction of extension of the elongate latching member into a latching position and retracted into a release position and in correspondence with an operation of the central actuation mechanism; wherein each respective flexible connector comprises an inner flexible cable slidably disposed within an outer flexible tubular sheath, wherein a first end of the inner cable is connected with an end of the corresponding latching member and a second end of the inner cable is operably connected with the central actuation mechanism, such that extension and retraction of the latching member corresponds with extension and retraction of the inner cable within the outer sheath obtained by operation of the central actuation mechanism; wherein each one of the latch mechanisms can be operably located relative to the central actuation mechanism independent of the location of any of the others of the latch mechanisms; wherein the central actuation mechanism is selectively lockable in a state in which the plurality of latch mechanisms are in the latching position.