Security gate operable with one hand.

摘要

A security gate includes an installation and release mechanism that is operable with one hand. The gate comprises two panels (22,24) which are extendible with respect to each other and lockable in the extended position. This makes it possible for the gate to expand across a wide variety of door openings. A handle (36) located centrally on the top of the gate is connected by a pair of cranks (56,88) and a pull rod (76) to a pair of plungers (26,28) which contact one side of the door frame. Spring bias (66,104) on the plungers normally force the plungers into contact with the door frame. Slots (64,98) in the upper and lower plunger links permit the plungers to accommodate irregular door frames. The handle is employed to withdraw the plungers from contact with the door frames and, conversely, the absence of handle pressure causes the gate to position itself solidly against the vertical door jamb. The handle is also employed by the operator to carry and position the gate in the doorway, allowing one-handed operation. A thumb operable handle interlock system prevents the handle from being accidentally manipulated unless one of two release interlock buttons (38) is depressed by the thumb of the user. Also, the two extended panels are held in position by a second safety interlock which prevents a pair of extension adjustment knobs (32) from rotating unless the extension interlock is released.