Importance

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Abstract

A lock assembly (21) including a movable bolt (28), a movable handle (23) coupled to move the bolt (28) to an open position and a locking assembly (29) mounted for movement between a locked position securing the bolt (28) against movement and an unlocked position releasing the bolt (28) is disclosed. The locking assembly (29) moves in response to movement of the handle (23) and is normally supported in an unlocked position. Movement of the lock assembly (29) by the handle (23) results in moving to a locked position prior to movement of the bolt (28) to an opened position. An electromagnet (31) responsive to an input signal is provided to hold the locking means (29) in the unlocked position and to prevent movement of the locking means (29) to the locked position upon movement of the handle (23). This holding of the locking assembly (29) in the unlocked position permits opening of the bolt (28). Any movement without energization of the solenoid (37, 38) produces immediate locking of the bolt (28) by locking assembly (29), while movement after energization of the electromagnet (31) holds the locking assembly (29) in an unlocked position.

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First Claim