The present invention relates to a lock assembly, and more particularly to a mounting arrangement for a universal core assembly into multiple lock housings.
Numerous types of conventional lock assemblies are utilized for various applications. Homes and commercial establishments are protected predominantly by key-actuated pin tumbler locks. In a typical lock, a core assembly houses a rotational cylindrical plug having a longitudinally extending keyway. A driving member such as a cam is connected to the rear face of the plug. Rotation of the plug rotates the cam, which thereby rotates a driving member. The driving member actuates a bolt-throwing or latch-moving mechanism.
The interface between the plug and the case is called the shear line. A plurality of radially extending, parallel chambers is formed in the case and the plug. Spring-biased pins are disposed in each chamber. Under normal conditions, the drivers block the shear line, thereby preventing the plug from being rotated relative to the case. However, when a properly configured key is inserted into the keyway, the drivers and lower pins are moved so that the top of the lower pins and the bottom of the drivers meet at the shear line. The plug can then be rotated to cause rotation of the driving member and subsequent retraction or extension of the bolt or latch.
Locksmiths frequently must re-key or replace residential or commercial locks on short notice. To this end, interchangeable core assemblies are manufactured by various lock makers. Disadvantageously, the interchangeable core assemblies are relatively complicated. Typically, the interchangeable core assembly, even those from a single manufacture, is specific to a particular lock type and including mounting structure specific thereto. For example, a knob lock assembly, a lever lock assembly, and deadbolt lock assembly each utilize a core assembly and mounting arrangement particular to a knob, a lever, and a deadbolt, respectively. Such an arrangement complicates re-keying and replacement of residential and commercial locks.
Accordingly, it is desirable to provide an uncomplicated mounting arrangement for a core assembly that is readily mounted into multiple lock types.