Simple Concealed Locking Device for Cases of Drawers
A simple method of providing a homemade locking device for a tier of drawers, the use of only one keyed lock being necessary, as is common in manufactured cases, is shown in the sketch. This is applicable to new or old cases, where a space of about 1¹⁄₂ in. is available between the back of the drawers and the rear of the case.
The device, as detailed, consists of a locking bar sliding in guides, screwed or fastened to the back of the case. Attached to the bar are latches one less in number than there are drawers, and spaced apart the distance that each drawer top is above the one below. The upper latch is the master feature. The top of this is beveled off, forcing it downward when the top drawer is closed. The locking bar, with the other latches, also moves down, and the latch fingers engage the backs of the drawers. The connecting bar is operated by a light coil spring, set on a shouldered rod at the bottom of the bar, as detailed.
The master latch may be attached at any place on the bar, and should be placed at the bottom drawer, for cases too high to be reached handily. To make the device for a small space, a ¹⁄₄-in. metal rod, with metal fingers clamped on, can be used. Metal striking plates are then put on the back edges of the drawers.—G. A. Luers, Washington, D. C.
¶Steam-pipe drains should be provided at all points in the line where water is likely to accumulate.