Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides a safety door-mounted latch mechanism available and accessible from within an enclosure that is normally locked by means of the door. A freezer or refrigerator door, for example, may be provided with the latch which is capable of being locked from the outside by means of either a padlock or an integral cylinder which receives a key. A radial tongue of the latch cooperatively engages a striker mechanism. The result is the ability of a person otherwise trapped within the enclosure to reach safety. A novel linkage-type of mechanism having a plurality of pivot points translates rectilinear actuating movement into an arcuate movement of the tongue or keeper member.

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First Claim