Magnetically actuated automatic window latch

摘要

A latch assembly for use with a window sash slidingly mounted with a window frame. The latch includes a strike (12) and at least one bolt (18) moveable in a body between a retracted position and a projecting position. In the projecting position the bolt is engageable in the strike. A connecting mechanism in the form of cranks (20) couple the bolt to an operating member (14). Additionally the latch includes a biasing element (33) and a magnetic actuating element (29) movable independently of but coupled to the bolt. When the bolt is in the retracted position but aligned with the strike, a magnetic attraction between the strike and the magnetic actuating element occurs to cause movement of the magnetic actuating element relative to the strike. This movement of the magnetic actuating element causes the bolt to move to the projecting position.