Abstract: A fractional-rotation latching system with retrofit capability which includes, in its most preferred embodiment with reference to an example vending machine environment, a T-handle housing to be connected to a vending machine door, a T-handle designed to be nested at least partially within the T-handle housing, a key-operated cylinder lock contained within the T-handle and including a radial lock bolt, a fractional-rotation post member connected to the T-handle, corresponding receiving assembly connected to the vending machine frame for receiving the post member, thereby creating a link sufficient to secure the vending machine door to the vending machine frame, a rotation limitation assembly connected to the post member which includes a cam washer and a flanged washer located within the T-handle housing, and a guide block interposed between the post member and the T-handle to secure a continuously engaging connection between the post member and the T-handle and to limit axial movement between the T-handle and

Abstract: A Latching System comprises a notched post assembly, a post gripping assembly and a handle assembly, and, in preferred embodiments, a lock assembly associated with the handle assembly, wherein the notched post assembly is comprised of an elongated post formed at one end with at least two opposing, axially extending rows of notches or teeth and alternately disposed smooth surfaces and the post gripping assembly comprises a channel for accepting the notched end of the post and comprises movable cam elements which cooperate with the notches of the post to effect the primary latching function of the system; and wherein the unlatching of the post from the channel is accomplished by rotating the post to disengage the notches and the cam elements. A pick-resisting improvement to the cylinder lock assembly includes facial piece defined with a plurality of knobs protruding partly into the key entry passage of the lock assembly.

Abstract: An object retention apparatus which includes, in its most preferred embodiment, an outer body member and an inner body member, which inner body member is insertable into the outer body member and includes an interior storage compartment closed by a cap to seal in solids, such as heart medication tablets or diabetes medication and which is preferably designed to additionally seal a container or vial which fits within the compartment for storing liquids, such as perfume, cologne, breath freshener, etc. The object retention apparatus also features two attachment rings attached to the body members and a quick release mechanism to allow separation of the two body members and, thus, the rings. The quick release mechanism includes a push button, a retaining loop, a biasing device, and a retaining ring device for holding the release mechanism in place. In an alternate embodiment, the inner body consists of a whistle. The quick release mechanism also has application in other devices unrelated to object retention.

Abstract: A door latch comprises a post and collar gripping and release mechanism cooperatively mounted to the door and door frame of a vending machine, cabinet, or the like, to provide an initial latching function in the form of a frictional gripping of the post by the collar, and further comprises a lock assembly associated with the post and collar mechanism to provide a primary locking function and to effect release of the latching function.

Abstract: Key holder includes, in its most preferred embodiment, front and back covers with interlocking hinge appendages defining a transverse passageway inside which is located a swivel cartridge functioning both as a hinge pin and as a swivelling key attachment device. Swivel cartridge includes a casing, a swivel member located at least partially within the casing so as to be capable of rotation with respect to the casing and extending out through a first end of the casing to define a ring passageway through which a key ring is attachable, a hook member contacting the swivel member within the casing and extending out through a second end of the casing, and a spring located within the casing for urging the hook member toward the first end of the casing, thereby maintaining continuous contact between the hook member and the swivel member.

Abstract: A lock and release apparatus comprises an integrally cooperating bar and collar combination which provides a variety of gripping and releasing arrangements; wherein the bar of such combination defines a plurality of circumferentially alternating surfaces, including at least one flat surface and one arcuate surface; and, wherein the collar of such combination defines a ball and cam relationship which cooperates with the arcuate surface of the bar to provide a gripping action between the bar and collar, which is releasable by variety of arrangements made functional by the present invention.

Abstract: A key chain with interior storage compartment closed by a cap to seal in solids, such as heart medication tablets or diabetes medication and which, preferably, is designed to additionally seal a container or vial which fits within the compartment for storing liquids, such as perfume, cologne, breath freshener, etc. which also features two key rings with a quick release mechanism to allow separation of the two rings.

Abstract: A door latch comprises a post and collar gripping and release mechanism cooperatively mounted to the door and door frame of a vending machine, cabinet, or the like, to provide an initial latching function in the form of a frictional gripping of the post by the collar, and further comprises a lock assembly associated with the post and collar mechanism to provide a primary locking function and to effect release of the latching function.

Abstract: A door latch comprises a post and collar gripping and release mechanism cooperatively mounted to the door and door frame of a vending machine, cabinet, or the like, to provide an initial latching function in the form of a frictional gripping of the post by the collar, and further comprises a lock assembly associated with the post and collar mechanism to provide a primary locking function and to effect release of the latching function.

Abstract: A latching system comprises a notched post assembly, a post gripping assembly and a handle assembly, and, in preferred embodiments, a lock assembly associated with the handle assembly, wherein the notched post assembly is comprised of an elongated post formed at one end with at least two opposing, axially extending rows of notches or teeth and alternately disposed smooth surfaces and the post gripping assembly comprises a channel for accepting the notched end of the post and comprises movable cam elements which cooperate with the notches of the post to effect the primary latching function of the system; and wherein the unlatching of the post from the channel is accomplished by rotating the post to disengage the notches and the cam elements. A pick-resisting improvement to the cylinder lock assembly includes facial piece defined with a plurality of knobs protruding partly into the key entry passage of the lock assembly.

Abstract: A lock and release apparatus comprises an integrally cooperating bar and collar combination which provides a variety of gripping and releasing arrangements; wherein the bar of such combination defines a plurality of circumferentially alternating surfaces, including at least one flat surface and one arcuate surface; and, wherein the collar of such combination defines a ball and cam relationship which cooperates with the arcuate surface of the bar to provide a gripping action between the bar and collar, which is releasable by variety of arrangements made functional by the present invention.