Uncontrolled and rapid movement of equipment and people through security gates has been a major problem for security personnel. In situations pertaining to facility security, it is desirable to delay the passage of a person through an entrance or an exit for a small interval of time, such as several seconds or up to a minute. Often, authorization to proceed is provided by an electronic signal to unlock the passageway. Such electronic signals are initiated remotely by a person in authority, such as a guard in a control room viewing a security camera, or a person who verifies the identity of the requester through a two-way audio connection.

The Delayed Latching Mechanism is fully mechanical and requires no electricity. It provides secure access to doors, hatches, or gates.

There are many circumstances where such entrances or exits are routine, and very rarely should such a passage be denied. There also are many circumstances where such passageways are remotely located, and electronic monitoring and control is impractical. Current systems often fail to efficiently meet certain requirements set by these circumstances. Improved systems and methods are needed for delaying the passage of a person through an entrance or an exit for a small interval of time.

The Delayed Latching Mechanism is a rugged, hydraulically operated locking latch system that adds a time delay to the unlocking action. The mechanism includes a locking bolt that engages the locking bolt recess to prevent the opening of the closure. A latching lever (either balanced or imbalanced) couples with the locking bolt. A bias spring is provided to bias the latching lever in the locked position. A catch is provided that has a holding configuration and a releasing configuration. A hydraulic cylinder has a high-pressure chamber and an atmospheric pressure chamber that are separated by a piston engaged with a ram for engaging the latching lever.

Access from the outside is controlled by repeatedly pumping the hydraulic lever until it locks into place, which adds a time-delay level of protection. From the inside, the mechanism can be easily unlocked.

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