This is Week 4 of the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association’s 100th Anniversary Challenge (click here for my Week 1, Week 2, and Week 3 submissions).  The topic this week is innovation – from new designs and features to process improvements and standards leadership, this is a chance to showcase what’s next for our industry.

The product innovation I’m going to share is Schlage’s new motorized latch retraction mortise lock.  It fits the same prep as a Schlage L9000 mechanical lock, and it’s perfect for applications where the latch needs to be released for operation of the door or held retracted until projected by the fire alarm or access control system.

For example, if a door has an automatic operator and latching hardware, the latch must be retracted electrically before the door can open automatically.  In the past, the options for latching doors with automatic operators were electric latch retraction panic hardware, or electric strikes.  The new lock is a great alternative, and is available in 6 functions to accommodate every application.  And of course, it’s certified to BHMA Grade 1.

This is a fantastic example of solving a problem experienced in the field using product innovation.  Whether it’s an individual restroom with an auto operator, a stairwell door with access control, or a location where push/pull function is desired until latching is required, the solution no longer requires a work-around.

Check out the video below or visit the Schlage website for more info, or you can leave your questions in the comment box and I’ll make sure they get answered.  What are your ideas for applications where an electric latch retraction lockset could be used?  Share in the comments!

You need to login or register to bookmark/favorite this content.