DESCRIPTION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The object of the present invention is an activating device for opening and/or closing doors, a process of manufacturing the same, and also a method of closing and opening doors using said device. The activating device is associatable to door locks. The invention can find an application in commercial or public buildings; for example, the present invention can be advantageously used in interior doors of airports, hotels, medical centers, restaurants, hospitals, offices, and schools.

STATE OF THE ART

The interior doors provided in commercial or public buildings are equipped with locks on which are fixedly installed handles or knobs configured to enable, cooperatively with the locks, to open and close the doors. Handles and knobs are elements which are touched by a large number of persons, often they are cause of infections due to their high bacterial load, viral particles, and dirt present on such elements.

In order to reduce these zones commonly touched by persons, automated doors capable of detecting the presence of persons at a passage zone which automatically open/close without causing the persons to come in contact with the doors, were developed. While the automated doors enable to improve some hygienic-sanitary aspects, it is observed that such solutions are not devoid of inconveniences. Indeed, the automated doors are bulky and overly expensive. Moreover, due to the complex structure, such doors cannot be installed as doors leading to single spaces destined to be used as toilets in restrooms. In addition, the automated doors do not offer a solution for acting on the lock and enabling someone to lock himself/herself inside without the necessity of touching any element of the same. Further, it is noted that the presence of an electronic-motorized element in automated doors requires constant and expensive maintenance services.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, an object of the present invention consists of overcoming at least one of the inconveniences and/or limitations of the preceding solutions.

A first object of the present invention consists of providing an activating device having a simple and compact structure enabling at the same time a user to effectively activate a lock without requiring the same to come in direct contact with commonly touched components of the lock itself. Specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide an activating device capable of enabling a user to open/close a door of a building without requiring the same user to come in contact with parts which could have been directly touched by another user. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an activating device characterized by a versatile use, in other words adaptable to different types of locks, and also capable of enabling to activate any type of lock. Then, it is an object of the present invention to provide an activating device enabling a user to activate a lock simply and quickly for closing and/or opening a door. A further object of the present invention consists of providing an economical and easily manufacturable activating device.

These objects and others, which will better appear in the following description, are substantially met by an activating device, a process of manufacturing this latter, and a method of opening-closing doors according to one or more of the attached claims and/or following aspects.

SUMMARY

In an aspect it is provided an activating device (1) for opening and/or closing doors (P) which is engageable with a lock (S) of a door (P), wherein said lock (S) is of a type comprising:

- a lock body insertable inside a recess of a door, said lock body substantially defining a casing having a predetermined internal volume,

- at least one blocking element engaged with the lock body and movable with respect to this latter between a retracted position, in which said blocking element is arranged at least partially in the internal volume of the lock body, and an extended position in which said blocking element emerges from the lock body for engaging the inside of a seat or matching part defined on a frame of the door,

- at least one square spindle (Q) connected to the at least one blocking element and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and the extended one and vice versa.

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the activating device (1) comprises at least one connecting element (2) configured to be stably engaged with the square spindle (Q) of the lock (S), said connecting element (2) being rotatable at least between a first and second operative positions, and vice versa, in order to enable to move the square spindle (Q) and consequently move the blocking element between the extended position and the retracted one, and vice versa. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) having at least one engagement portion (4) configured to removably engage at least one manoeuvring element (20) adapted to enable, optionally by a motion generated by a user, to displace the connecting element (2) between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) is rotatable between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa, about an axis (X). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, said rotation axis (X) is configured to be parallel to, optionally coincident with, a rotation axis of the square spindle (Q) of the lock (S).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the activating device comprises at least one manoeuvring element (20) removably engageable with the connecting element (2), optionally in order to enable to move the connecting element (2) between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) is completely separatable from the connecting element (2). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the manoeuvring element (20) is manually separatable from the connecting element (optionally without tools). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the handing element (20) is configured to engage the connecting element by an interlock action of said manoeuvring element (20) with the connecting element (2) along a predetermined direction (D), wherein the connecting element (2) and manoeuvring element (20) are devoid of constrains apt to prevent, once engaged with each other, said connecting element (2) and manoeuvring element (20) from moving along said predetermined direction (D).

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the predetermined interlock direction (D) of the manoeuvring element (20) with the connecting element (2) is:

- parallel to a rotation axis of the connecting element (2), optionally coincident with said rotation axis of the connecting element, or

- transversal, optionally perpendicular, to a rotation axis of the connecting element (2).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) comprises:

- at least one inserting portion (21) removably engageable the engagement portion (4) of the connecting element (2),

- at least one grip portion (22) configured to enable a user to grip the manoeuvring element (20) and move this latter in order to enable, when it engages the connecting element (2), to rotate said connecting element (2).

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the grip portion (22) is distanced from the inserting portion (21). In an aspect according to the two preceding aspects, the grip portion (22) and inserting portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20) are joined in a single piece.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the engagement portion (4) of the connecting element (2) comprises a seat adapted to house by a removable engagement a protrusion defined by at least part of the inserting portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) comprises a body extending substantially along a plane and having a substantially "S” or substantially "Z” shape or a substantially "2” shape. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the at least one connecting element (2) comprises:

- a support body (30) configured to be fixed to a square spindle (Q) of a lock (S),

- a casing (40) defining a compartment (43) adapted to house inside it at least part of the support body (30), wherein the support body (30) and casing (40) are stably engageable with each other in order to be integral when they move. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, at least one of the support body (30) and casing (40) defines the engagement portion (4) of the connecting element (2).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) is configured to be completely placed inside the casing (40), optionally through at least one passage opening of the casing.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) has at least one lateral wall which is outwardly delimited by at least one lateral surface (39) which is at least partially countershaped to an internal lateral surface of at least one lateral wall of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, at least part of the lateral surface (39) has a substantially arc of a circle shape. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, at least part of the lateral surface (39), in an engagement condition with the casing (40), is in contact with at least part of the internal lateral surface of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) comprises at least two lateral surfaces (39) opposite to each other.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (40) has a substantially cylindrical shape. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the internal lateral surface of the casing (40) is substantially cylindrical, the at least one lateral surface (39) of the support body (30) is at least partially countershaped to the internal lateral cylindrical surface of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30), in the engagement condition with the casing (40), is concentrically arranged with respect to this latter.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) extends along a longitudinal development direction which, at least in an engagement condition between the support body (30) and casing (40), is parallel to a longitudinal development direction of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the longitudinal development direction of the support body (30) is configured to be, when the connecting element (2) is engaged with the square spindle (Q), substantially parallel to the rotation axis (X) of the connecting element (2) itself.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) extends along a longitudinal development direction between a bottom portion (30a) and a top portion (30b). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) longitudinally extends between two end surfaces: a base surface (35a) and a head surface (35b).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (40) extends along a longitudinal development direction between a respective bottom portion (40a) and a respective top portion (40b). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (40) longitudinally extends between two end surfaces: a base surface (45a) and a head surface (45b).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) when engages the inside of the casing (40), has the bottom portion (30a) placed at, optionally facing, the bottom portion (40a) of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30), when engages the inside of the casing (40), has the top portion (30b) placed at, optionally facing, the top portion (40b) of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30), when engages the inside of the casing (40), has the base surface (35a) substantially side-by-side the base surface (45a) of the casing (40).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (40) has at the bottom portion (40a), a passage opening configured to enable the support body (30) to pass and be inserted in the compartment (43) of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (40) comprises a single passage opening.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (40) comprises a closing wall (45c) placed at the top portion (40b) of the casing (40). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the casing (40) comprises at least one lateral wall delimiting the at least one passage opening of the casing through which the support body (30) can be inserted.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the lateral wall of the casing (40), cooperatively with the closing wall (45c) of the same casing (40), delimits the compartment (43).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the head surface (35b) of the support body, when said support body (30) engages the inside of the casing (40), faces the closing wall (45c) of the casing. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the head surface (35b) of the support body, when said support body (30) engages the inside of the casing (40), is at least partially in contact with the closing wall (45c) of the casing (40).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, at least said support body (30) has at least one lateral pocket (31) defined on the lateral wall of said support body (30), which is apt to define at least part of the engagement portion (4) of the connecting element (2). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the lateral pocket (31) extends substantially along a direction transversal, optionally perpendicular, to the longitudinal development direction of the support body (30). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the lateral pocket (31) has a substantially quadrilateral shape.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the inserting portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20) is configured to engage the inside of the lateral pocket (31) of the support body (30) in order to enable the connecting element to rotate about the axis (X). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the lateral pocket (31) is defined at the top portion (30b) of the support body, optionally at the head surface (35b).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (40) has a lateral access (41) which, in the engagement condition between the support body (30) and casing (40), is configured to face the lateral pocket (31) of the support body (30) at least partially. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the lateral access (41) of the casing (40) is at least partially countershaped to the lateral pocket (31) of the support body (30). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the lateral access (41) of the casing (40) is placed at the top portion (40b) of the same casing (40), optionally in proximity of the closing wall (45c). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the lateral access (41) of the casing has a substantially quadrangular shape, optionally a substantially rectangular shape. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the lateral access (41) of the casing (40) and the lateral pocket (31) of the support body (30) define the engagement portion (4) of the connecting element (2).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) has at least one inserting seat (33) configured to engagingly receive at least part of the square spindle (Q) of a lock. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the inserting seat (33) extends along the longitudinal development direction of the support body (30). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the inserting seat (33) of the support body (30) is configured to be countershaped at least partially to the square spindle (Q) of the lock in order to be at least rotatively integral. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) is configured to be stably constrained to the square spindle (Q) by a fixing element. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, said fixing element (50) comprises at least one selected in the group of: a screw, grub screw, pin, cotter pin.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the inserting seat (33) extends from the bottom portion (30a) of the support body to a bottom wall (37) placed at the top portion (30b) of the support body (30), optionally distanced from the head surface (35b) of the support body (30) itself.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) has at least one cavity (35) opposite to the inserting seat (33) with respect to the bottom wall (37), wherein the support body (30) further comprises a channel (38) apt to establish a communication between the cavity and inserting seat (33), said channel (38) being configured to enable at least one screw to pass through in order to enable to fix the support body to the square spindle.

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the square spindle (Q) is of a type comprising a head threaded hole apt to face, in an engagement condition with the support body, the bottom wall (37) for engagingly receiving a screw inserted in the channel (38).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) and casing (40) comprise an anti-rotation system configured to prevent, when said support body (30) engages the inside of the casing (40), a relative rotation between these latter about an axis parallel to an insertion direction (Y) of the support body in the casing. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the anti-rotation system comprises:

- at least one radial protrusion (32) emerging from a lateral wall of at least one of the support body (30) and casing (40),

- at least one blocking seat (42) defined on a lateral wall of at least one of the casing (40) and support body (30).

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the radial protrusion (32) and blocking seat (42) are configured to stably engage each other in a condition wherein said support body (30) engages the inside of the compartment (43) of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the radial protrusion (32) is defined on the support body (30). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the radial protrusion (32) emerges from the lateral surface (39) of the support body. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the radial protrusion (32) is defined at the bottom portion (30a) of the support body (30). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the radial protrusion (32) emerges from the base surface (35a) towards the head surface (35b).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the blocking seat (42) is defined on the casing. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the blocking seat (42) is defined on the lateral wall of the casing. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the blocking seat comprises a cavity extending through the lateral wall of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the blocking seat (42) is defined at the bottom portion (40a) of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the blocking seat (42) extends from the base surface (45a) of the casing (40) towards the head surface (45b) of the casing itself. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the blocking seat (42) has an open outline joined without interruption to the base surface (45a) of the casing (40).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) is insertable in the casing (40) compartment through the passage opening along an insertion direction (Y). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the interlock direction is parallel to the longitudinal development direction of the support body and/or casing.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) comprises an axial constrain system configured to constrain, optionally irreversibly, the support body (30) to the inside of the casing (40). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the axial constrain system comprises:

- at least one first opening (34) defined on the lateral wall of the support body (30),

- at least one second opening (44) defined on the lateral wall of the casing (40) which is configured to face the first opening (34) of the support body (30) when said support body engages the inside of the casing (40),

- at least one axial blocking element (70) configured to be inserted, in the condition wherein said support body

(30) engages the inside of the casing (40), and the first and second openings at least partially face each other, at least partially in the first opening and at least partially in the second opening in order to axially constrain said support body (30) and said casing (40).

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the second opening (44) crosses the lateral wall of the casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the axial blocking element (70) comprises at least one selected in the group of: a grub screw, screw, cotter pin, pin. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the first opening (34) crosses the lateral wall of the support body (30). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the first opening (34) has an open outline and extends from the base surface (35a) of the support body (30) towards the head surface (35b). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the second through opening (44) comprises a hole, optionally a threaded one, arranged between the base surface (45a) and head surface (45b) of the casing (40).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the at least one connecting element (2) comprises:

- at least one first connecting element (2) according to any one of the preceding aspects;

- at least one second connecting element (2).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the lock (S) is of a type comprising:

- a lock body insertable inside a recess of a door, said lock body substantially defining a casing having a predetermined internal volume,

- at least one spring latch (S1) engaged with the lock body and movable from this latter between a retracted position, in which said spring latch (S1) is arranged at least partially in the internal volume of the lock body, and an extended position in which said spring latch (S1) emerges from the lock body and is configured to engage the inside of a seat or a matching part defined on a frame of the door,

- at least one draw bolt (C) also engaged with the lock body and movable from this latter between a retracted position, in which said draw bolt (C) is arranged at least partially in the internal volume of the lock body, and an extended position in which said draw bolt (C) emerges from the lock body and is configured to engage the inside of a respective seat or matching part defined on a frame of the door,

- at least one first square spindle (Q1) connected to the at least one spring latch (S1) and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa,

- at least one second square spindle (Q2) connected to the at least one draw bolt (C) and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa, wherein said first connecting element (2) is configured to stably engage the first square spindle (Q1) of the handle (S), said first connecting element (2) being rotatable at least between a first and second operative positions, and vice versa, in order to enable to move the first square spindle (Q1) and consequently move the spring latch (S1) between the extended position and the retracted one, and vice versa, wherein said second connecting element (2) is configured to stably engage the second square spindle (Q2) of the lock (S), said second connecting element (2) being rotatable at least between a first and second operative positions, and vice versa, in order to enable to move the second square spindle (Q2) and consequently move the draw bolt (C) between the extended position and the retracted one, and vice versa.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the second connecting element (2) is rotatable between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa, about an axis (W). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the rotation axis (W) of the second connecting element (2) is parallel to, optionally coincident with, a rotation axis of the second square spindle (Q2) of the lock (S).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) is removably engageable both with the first and second connecting elements, optionally in order to enable to move these between the respective first and second operative positions, and vice versa.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) is completely separatable from the first and second connecting elements. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the manoeuvring element (20) is manually separatable from the first and second connecting elements (optionally without using tools).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) is configured to engage the connecting element (optionally the first and/or second connecting element) by an interlock action of said manoeuvring element (20) with the second connecting element (2) along a predetermined direction (D), wherein the second connecting element (2) and manoeuvring element (20) are devoid of constraints apt to prevent, once engaged with each other, a movement of said second connecting element (2) and manoeuvring element (20) along said predetermined direction (D).

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the predetermined interlock direction (D) of the manoeuvring element (20) with the second connecting element (2) is configured to be parallel to a rotation axis of the second connecting element when engages the second square spindle (Q2), optionally is coincident with said rotation axis.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the second connecting element (2) comprises a single body having: - an inserting seat configured to engagingly receive at least part of the second square spindle (Q2) of a lock,

- an opposite engagement portion (4) configured to receive the inserting portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the door (P) is of a type comprising a first and second surfaces defining a thickness of said door, wherein the at least one square spindle (Q) emerges from at least one of said first and second surfaces of the door.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) and connecting element (2) are relatively movable from each other at least between:

- a first operative condition in which the connecting element (2) and manoeuvring element (20) are separated from each other,

- a second operative condition in which the manoeuvring element (20) and connecting element (2) are removably engaged with each other.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) when interlocks the engagement portion (4) of the connecting element (2) is configured to define at least one of the following elements: a handle of a door, a key to close-open the lock of a door.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the activating device (1) comprises at least one square spindle (Q) engageable with a lock (S) of a door to rotate the blocking element of this latter, for example a spring latch (S1) and/or draw bolt (C) of the lock (S). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the square spindle (Q) extends along an axis between a first and second end surfaces, wherein at at least one of the end surfaces, said square spindle (Q) has a threaded hole extending inside the body parallel to the axis thereof. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the square spindle (Q) has two threaded holes extending along the axis of the square spindle itself respectively from the first and second end surfaces.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) is made at least partially of a metal and/or plastic material. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) is made at least partially of at least one of the following materials: aluminum, steel, brass, ABS, PVC, polycarbonate, epoxy resins, polyester, optionally fiber filled. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the support body (30) is made of a plastic material, optionally by injection molding. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (40) is made of a metal material, optionally of aluminum. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the casing (40) is made by at least one of the following processes: die-casting, chip-removal machining. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) is made at least partially of a metal and/or plastic material.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) is made at least partially of at least one of the following materials: aluminum, steel, brass, ABS, PVC, polycarbonate, epoxy resins, polyester, optionally fiber-filled, resin-bonded mineral materials. In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) can be made by at least one of the following processes: die-casting, chip-removal machining. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the lock (S) is of a type comprising a handle (M) and/or knob engaged with the square spindle (Q) and configured to enable to move this latter in order to enable to consequently move the locking element between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa, wherein said activating device comprises at least one connecting element (2) stably fixed to said handle (M) and/or knob of the lock (S). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, said handle (M) and/or knob being configured to rotate about a predetermined axis (X) in order to rotate said square spindle (Q), optionally about the same axis, in order to enable to move the blocking element between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa. In an aspect according to the two preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) is integral with the rotative motion of the handle (M) and/or knob.

In an aspect according to the three preceding aspects, the activating device (1) comprises at least one manoeuvring element (20) configured to removably engage said at least one connecting element (2), said manoeuvring element (20) being configured to enable a user to grip the manoeuvring element (20) and, when it removably engages the connecting element (2), to move the handle (M) and/or knob in order to enable to move the blocking element between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa.

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) has at least one base (3) fixable to a handle (M) and/or knob, said connecting element (2) further comprising at least one engagement portion (4) connected to the base (3). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the coupling portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20) is configured to removably engage the engagement portion (4) of the connecting element (2). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) and connecting element (2) are relatively movable from each other at least between:

- a first operative condition in which the connecting element (2) and manoeuvring element (20) are separated from each other,

- a second operative condition in which the manoeuvring element (20) and connecting element (2) are removably engaged with each other.

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the grip portion (22) of the manoeuvring element (20) comprises an elongated body extending between a first and second end portions (22a, 22b) along a prevalent development trajectory (A). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the manoeuvring element (20) comprises a spacer (23) connected to the elongated body of the grip portion (22) substantially at the end portion (22a), said spacer (23) emerging from the elongated body of the grip portion (22) and being connected, oppositely to said grip portion (22), to the coupling portion (21) of the same manoeuvring element (20). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the spacer (23) extends along a respective prevalent development trajectory (B) between a first and second end portions (23a, 23b), said prevalent development trajectory (B) of the spacer (23) being transversal, optionally perpendicular, to the prevalent development trajectory (A) of the grip portion (22). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the spacer (23) engages, at the first end portion (23a), the elongated body of the grip portion (22), said spacer (23) engaging, at the second end portion (23b), the coupling portion (21).

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the spacer (23) is joined in one piece to the elongated body of the grip portion (22) and coupling portion (21). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the grip portion (22), spacer (23), and coupling portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20) substantially define a handle removably engageable with the connecting element (2).

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the base (3) of the connecting element (2) comprises a substantially flat plate. In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, at least part of the engagement portion (4) laterally protrudes from at least one lateral perimetral edge of the base (3), in order to define an undercut apt to engagingly receive the coupling portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20).

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) longitudinally extends along an extension direction (D) between an inserting portion (2a) and a closing portion (2b). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the base (3) of the connecting element (3) substantially extends along a plane.

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the undercut of the engagement portion (4) laterally protrudes from the base (3) along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction (D) of the connecting element (2) and parallel to the extension plane of the base (3). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the undercut of the engagement portion (4) laterally protrudes from two opposite lateral edges of the base (3).

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element extends in width along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction (D) of the connecting element (2) and parallel to a lying plane of the base (3), wherein the width of the connecting element (3), at the inserting portion (2a) is less than the width of the same connecting element (2) measured at the closing portion (2b). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) has a shape tapered from the closing portion (2b) towards the inserting portion (2a). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the base (3) of the connecting element (2) has a perimetral edge having a substantially trapezoidal shape.

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) has at the inserting portion (2a), a maximum lateral size less than a maximum lateral size of the same connecting element (2) measured at the closing portion (2b); said maximum lateral size being measured perpendicularly to the extension direction (D) of the connecting element (2) and parallel to a lying plane of the base (3).

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the coupling portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20) comprises a seat (24), substantially countershaped to the connecting element (2) apt to engagingly receive this latter. In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the seat (24) of the coupling portion (21) longitudinally develops, along a respective extension direction, between an inserting portion (24a) and a closing portion (24b), wherein the seat (24) has a passage section tapered from the inserting portion (24a) to a closing portion (24b) of the coupling portion (21). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, in the second operative condition:

- the inserting portion (24a) of the coupling portion (21) faces and directly engages the closing portion (2b) of the connecting element (2),

- the closing portion (24b) of the coupling portion (21) faces and directly engages the inserting portion (2a) of the connecting element (2).

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the seat (24) of the coupling portion (2) has an open outline the concavity thereof faces away from the grip portion (22). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the seat (24) of the coupling portion (21) has, according to a plane perpendicular to an extension direction of said seat (24), a substantially "C” shape.

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the seat (24) of the coupling portion (21), in the second condition, engagingly receives the overall connecting element (2), optionally receives the base (3) and engagement portion (4) of the connecting element (2). In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) and manoeuvring element (20) are relatively movable from each other between the first and second operative conditions, and vice versa, along a direction substantially parallel to the extension direction (D) of the connecting element (2).

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the extension direction (D) of the connecting element (2) when engages said manoeuvring element (20), optionally in the second condition, is substantially parallel to the prevalent development trajectory (A) of the grip portion (22).

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) comprises at least one through hole (10), extending through the engagement portion (4) and base (3), said at least one hole being configured to enable a screw for fixing, optionally for directly fixing, the connecting element (2) to at least one of a handle (M) and/or a knob of a door (P), to pass through.

In a further aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the connecting element (2) consists only of the base (3) and engagement portion (4) - optionally comprising said at least one through hole (10) - and is stably directly engageable with a handle (M).

In an aspect it is provided a process of manufacturing said activating device (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the manufacturing process comprises a step of predisposing the connecting element (2). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of the manufacturing process, the step of predisposing the connecting element (2) comprises the steps of:

- predisposing the support body (30),

- predisposing the casing (40),

- inserting the support body (30) in the compartment (43) of the casing,

- rotatively axially constraining said support body (30) and said casing (40).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of process, the support body (30) is inserted in the compartment (43) along an interlock direction which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal development direction of at least one of the support body (30) and casing (40). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of process, the step of constraining the support body (30) to said casing (40) comprises the sub-steps of:

- engaging the radial protrusion (32) of the support body (30) with the blocking seat (42) of the casing (40) for preventing said support body and said casing to have a rotative type relative motion,

- aligning at least partially the first and second openings (34, 44) of the support body and casing and then inserting between said openings said axial blocking element (70) in order to prevent said support body and said casing to have a rotative type relative motion.

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the rotative-axial type constrain between the support body and casing is of a reversible type, optionally disengageable by an operator by means of tools.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of process, the support body (30) is made of a plastic material, optionally by injection molding. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of process, the casing (40) is made of a metal material, optionally of aluminum. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of process, the casing (40) is made by at least one the following processes: molding, die-casting, chip-removal machining.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of process, said process comprises the step of predisposing the manoeuvring element (20). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the manoeuvring element is at least partially made of a plastic and/or metal material. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of the manufacturing process, the manoeuvring element (20) is made by at least one of the following processes: molding, die-casting, chip-removal machining.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of process, said process comprises a step of making a square spindle (Q). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the step of predisposing the square spindle (Q) comprises the following steps:

- predisposing a square cross-section rod,

- longitudinally cutting the rod in order to define a square cross-section stock having a predetermined length defined between a first and second head surfaces,

- making at least one threaded hole extending, from the first and/or second head surface, inside the stock in order to define said square spindle.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of process, the at least one connecting element (2) can comprise: at least one first connecting element (2), at least one second connecting element (2). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first connecting element is made according to any one of the preceding aspects of manufacturing process. In an aspect according to the preceding two aspects, the second connecting element is made by at least one of the following processes: by chip removal, metal die-casting.

In an aspect it is provided a process of assembling an activating device (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects to a lock (S) of a door (P). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the lock (S) is of a type comprising:

- a lock body insertable inside a recess of a door, said lock body defining substantially a casing having a predetermined internal volume, - at least one blocking element engaged with the lock body and movable from this latter between a retracted position, in which said blocking element is arranged at least partially in the internal volume of the lock body, and an extended position in which said blocking element emerges from the lock body and is configured to engage the inside of a seat or matching part defined on a frame of the door,

- at least one square spindle connected to the at least one blocking element and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa, wherein said assembly process comprises the step of reversibly engaging the connecting element (2) to the square spindle. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, such engagement step is performed by at least one of the following elements: a screw, grub screw, pin, cotter pin. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of assembly process, the step of engaging the connecting element (2) comprises the following sub-steps:

- coupling the support body (30) to the square spindle (Q) so that this latter is at least partially inserted in the inserting seat (33) of said support body (30),

- reversibly blocking said support body to the square spindle (Q),

- interlocking the casing (40) to the support body (30) so that this latter is at least partially housed in the compartment (43) of the casing.

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the step of reversibly blocking the support body (30) comprises the sub-steps of:

- inserting a screw in the cavity (35) so that a head of the screw abuts the bottom wall (37) of the support body (30) and a threaded part of the screw crosses the channel (38) of the support body (30) so that it locates at least partially in the inserting seat (33),

- screwing the threaded part of the screw into a head threaded hole of the square spindle (Q) so that the screw can grip the square spindle (Q) and couple this latter with the support body (30).

In an aspect according to two of the preceding aspect, the step of interlocking the casing to the support body comprises the following sub-steps:

- coupling the radial protrusion (32) of the support body (30) with the blocking seat (42) of the casing,

- arranging the first opening of the support body (30) so that at least partially faces the second opening (44) of the casing (40),

- inserting the axial blocking element (70), optionally comprising a grub screw, through said first and second openings (34, 44) in order to axially constrain said support body and said casing.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding assembling aspects, the lock is of a type comprising:

- a lock body insertable inside a recess of a door, said lock body substantially defining a casing having a predetermined interval volume,

- at least one spring latch (S1) engaged with the lock body and movable with respect to this latter between a retracted position, in which said latch spring (S1) is disposed at least partially in the internal volume of the lock body, and an extended position in which said spring latch (S1) emerges from the lock body and is configured to engage the inside of a seat or matching part defined on a frame of the door, - at least one draw bolt (C) also engaged with the lock body and movable with respect to this latter between a retracted position in which said draw bolt (C) is disposed at least partially in the internal volume of the lock body, and an extended position in which said draw bolt (C) emerges from the lock body and is configured to engage the inside of a respective seat or matching part defined on a frame of the door,

- at least one first square spindle (Q1) connected to the at least one spring latch (S1) and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa,

- at least one second square spindle (Q2) connected to the at least one draw bolt (C) and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa, wherein said assembly process comprises the steps of:

- reversibly engaging the first connecting element (2) with the square spindle (Q1),

- reversibly engaging the second connecting element (2) with the second square spindle (Q2).

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, such step of engaging the first connecting element (2) is performed by at least one of the following elements: a screw, grub screw, pin, cotter pin. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, such step of engaging the second connecting element (2) is performed by at least one of the following elements: a screw, grub screw, pin, cotter pin.

In a further aspect, it is provided a method of opening a door (P) by an activating device (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the method comprises the steps of:

- removably engaging the manoeuvring element (20) with the engagement portion (4) of the connecting element (2),

- pushingly acting on the manoeuvring element (20) in order to rotate said connecting element (2) between the first and second operative positions in order to enable to rotate the square spindle (Q) of the lock and consequently move the blocking element from the extended position to the retracted one.

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the connecting element (2) is rotatable between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa, about an axis (X). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the rotation axis (X) of the connecting element (2) is parallel to, optionally coincident with, a rotation axis of the square spindle (Q) of the lock (S). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of the opening method, the removable engagement of the manoeuvring element (20) with the connecting element (2) comprises the step of inserting at least partially the inserting portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20) in the seat of the connecting element (2). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the inserting portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20) is inserted along a direction transversal, optionally substantially perpendicular, to the rotation axis (X) of the connecting element (2).

In a further aspect, it is provided a method of closing a door (P) by an activating device (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects. In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the lock is of a type comprising a square spindle (Q) connected to a draw bolt (C) of a lock (S), wherein the at least one connecting element (2) engaged with the square spindle (Q) is defined by the second connecting element (2), said closing method comprises the steps of: - removably engaging the manoeuvring element (20) with the engagement portion (4) of the second connecting element (2),

- pushingly acting on the manoeuvring element (20) in order to rotate said second connecting element (2) between the first and second operative positions in order to enable to rotate the square spindle (Q) of the lock (S) and consequently move the draw bolt (C) from the retracted position to the extended one.

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the connecting element (2) is rotatable between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa, about an axis (X). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the rotation axis (X) of the connecting element (2) is parallel to, optionally coincident with, a rotation axis of the square spindle (Q) of the lock (S). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects of the closing method, the removable engagement of the manoeuvring element (20) with the second connecting element (2) comprises the step of inserting at least partially the inserting portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20) in the seat of the connecting element (2). In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the inserting portion (21) of the manoeuvring element (20) is inserted along a direction substantially parallel to the rotation axis (X) of the second connecting element (2).

In an aspect, it is provided a lock (S) of a door (P) comprising at least an activating device (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects. In an aspect, it is provided a door (P) comprising at least one activating device (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects.

In a further aspect, it is provided a use of an activating device (1) according to any one of the preceding aspects on an internal door of a building, optionally on an internal door of at least one of: airports, hotels, medical centers, restaurants, hospitals, offices, and schools.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will be described in the following with reference to the attached drawings, given only in an indicative and consequently non-limiting way, wherein:

- Figures 1 and 2 are perspective views of a casing of an activating device according to the present invention;

- Figures from 3 to 5 show a support body of an activating device according to the present invention coupable with the casing shown in Figures 1 and 2;

- Figure 6 is a perspective view of an activating device according to the present invention;

- Figure 7 is a cross-section view of the activating device of Figure 6;

- Figure 8 is an exploded view of an activating device according to the present invention. Moreover, Figure 8 illustrates a manoeuvring element which can be part, in a non-limiting way, of the activating device according to the present invention;

- Figure 9 is a further perspective view of the activating device having the support body, casing and, in a non limiting way, the manoeuvring element;

- Figure 10 is an exploded view of a door on which is attached, for each side of the door, an activating device according to the present invention; - Figure 11 is further exploded detailed view of an activating device according to the present invention adapted to be attached on a square spindle of a door;

- Figures 12 and 13 schematically show a step of opening a door by the activating device according to the present invention;

- Figure 14 schematically shows a step of closing a door by an activating device;

- Figure 15 schematically shows an activating device associated to a tap;

- Figures 16 and 17 are perspective views of an activating device according to a further embodiment;

- Figures 18 and 19 show a further embodiment of a manoeuvring element;

- Figures 20 and 21 show a further embodiment of a connecting element;

- Figure 22 shows a connecting element engaged with a door handle;

- Figure 23 shows a manoeuvring element removably engaged with a connecting element in turn engaged with a door handle;

- Figures from 24 to 26 show a further embodiment of a connecting element of an activating device according to the present invention.

DEFINITIONS AND CONVENTIONS

It is observed that, in the present detailed description, corresponding parts illustrated in the different figures are indicated by the same numeral references. The figures could illustrate the object of the invention by not-to-scale representations. Consequently, parts and components illustrated in the figures regarding the object of the invention could only refer to schematic representations.

The activating device 1 object of the present invention can be associated to a lock S of a door P. The lock S can be of a type comprising at least one of the following known components:

- a lock body insertable inside a recess of a door, said lock body substantially defining a casing having a predetermined internal volume;

- at least one blocking element engaged with the lock body and movable with respect to this latter between a retracted position, in which said blocking element is disposed at least partially in the internal volume of the lock body, and an extended position in which said blocking element emerges from the lock body and is configured to engage the inside of a seat or matching part defined on the frame of the door;

- at least one square spindle (Q) connected to the at least one blocking element and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa. The square spindle is engaged inside a square spindle hole of the lock defined by a through seat having a quadrangular shape defined on the lock body.

Particularly, the square spindle is configured to rotate about an axis and enable, by a connection with the blocking element, to move this latter.

The at least one blocking element can for example comprise at least one of the following known components: a spring latch S1, a draw bolt C. Further, the lock can comprise a faceplate F, for example of metal material, from which said blocking element, in the extended condition, can protrude. Moreover, the lock S can be of a type comprising a cylinder and/or a pawl. For example, in case there is a pawl, this latter can engage the at least one square spindle Q and consequently the at least one blocking element (the spring latch S1 and/or draw bolt C).

In an embodiment, the lock S can comprise a handle and/or knob directly engaged with the square spindle Q. The lock S can be of the type comprising a single square spindle Q, for example connected to a blocking element defined by at least one spring latch S1 or at least one draw bolt C of a door. As an alternative, the lock S - besides the above-described lock body, spring latch and draw bolt - can comprise:

- at least one first square spindle Q1 connected to the at least one spring latch S1 and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and extended one, and vice versa,

- at least one second square spindle Q2 connected to the at least one draw bolt C and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa.

If there are the first and second square spindles, these are rotatively movable about respective axes parallel to each other in order to enable to move the spring latch S1 and draw bolt C.

The term “removable" or “removably with reference to the engagement between a connecting element 2 and manoeuvring element 20 of the activating device 1 means a non-permanent engagement enabling to remove the manoeuvring element 20 from the connecting element 2. In other words, "removable” means an engagement enabling a user to remove the grip element from the connecting element without using a tool and without damaging the activating device.

The term Yevers/b/y” fixed, used for defining a coupling between two or more components of the activating device 1, means a stable coupling requiring, in order to possibly disassembly said components, a dedicated tool without causing a breakage of the components or of the same element used for fixing. The reversibly fixed components are not manually removable by a user without the aid of tools. Examples of a reversable fixing are threaded couplings obtained by screws, grub screws. Further examples of a reversable fixing are obtained by using pegs or cotter pins.

Reversible-type couplings requiring breaking at least one of the two coupled components in order to disengage them or requiring breaking the used element in order to fix said components are not considered. Non-reversible type couplings are the ones defined by welded or riveted components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Activating device

1 generally indicates an activating device for opening and/or closing doors P, associatable to a lock S of a door P and particularly to a square spindle Q of a lock S as described before.

As it is visible in Figure 6, the activating device 1 comprises a connecting element 2 reversibly fixable to the lock S of a door P, particularly to the at least one square spindle Q. Figures from 1 to 17 illustrate a first embodiment of the connecting element 2, directly engageable with a square spindle Q of a lock S; Figures from 20 to 26 schematically illustrate a connecting element reversibly directly engageable with a handle M and/or knob of a door. The following describes the connecting element 2 according to the first embodiment (Figures from 1 to 17).

The connecting element 2 is integrally rotatable with the square spindle Q at least between a first and second operative positions, and vice versa, in order to enable to move the square spindle Q and consequently move the blocking element connected to the square spindle Q between the extended position and retracted position, and vice versa. Particularly, the connecting element 2 is rotatable between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa, about an axis X (Figures 9 and 10) parallel to, optionally coincident with, a rotation axis of the square spindle Q.

As it is visible for example in Figures 6, 7, 16 and 17, the connecting element 2 comprises at least one engagement portion 4 configured to removably engage at least one manoeuvring element 20 adapted to enable, by a motion generated by a user, to move the connecting element 2 between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa. Indeed, the engagement portion 4 of the connecting element 2 is the portion adapted to enable to interlock the manoeuvring element 20 adapted to act as a handle for opening or closing the door. As it is visible for example in Figures 6 and 7, the engagement portion 4 comprises a pocket defined on a lateral wall of the connecting element 2, configured to receive by a removable engagement a protrusion of the manoeuvring element 20 along a direction D transversal to a rotation direction of the connecting element 2 (optionally perpendicular to the axis X). Indeed, the engagement portion 4 comprises a radial pocket of the connecting element 2. As an alternative, the engagement portion 4 can comprise a protrusion (Figure 17) configured to engage the inside of a seat of the manoeuvring element 20. As it is visible in the attached figures, the at least one connecting element 2 comprises:

- a support body 30 configured to be directly fixed to the square spindle Q of a lock S,

- a casing 40 defining a compartment 43 the inside thereof being adapted to house at least part of the support body 30.

The support body 30 and casing 40 are stably engageable with each other, along an insertion direction Y, in order to be integral when they move.

The casing 40 has at least one lateral wall defining at least one internal lateral surface of the casing and delimiting at least one passage opening adapted to establish a communication between the compartment 43 and the outer environment and adapted to enable the passage and insertion of the support body 30 into the compartment 43 of the casing. Particularly, the casing 40 has a single passage opening: oppositely said passage opening, the casing 40 comprises a closure wall 45c: the compartment is laterally delimited by the at least one lateral wall and above by the closure wall 45c of the casing 40.

Particularly, the casing 40 extends along a longitudinal development direction between a bottom portion 40a, where the casing defines the passage opening, and a top portion 40b. Particularly, the casing 40 longitudinally extends between two end surfaces: a base surface 45a and a head surface 45b. The base surface 45a is placed at the bottom portion 40a, while the head surface 45b is defined at the top portion 40b. The closure wall 45c can define at least partially the head surface 45b or, as shown (in a non limiting way) in the attached figures, can be distanced from said head surface in order to substantially define a step.

The casing 40 can have, in a non-limiting way, a substantially cylindrical shape (see Figures 1 and 2, for example); the development longitudinal direction extends parallel to the axis of the cylinder. In such condition, the lateral wall has a cylindrical shape and the closure wall 45c is substantially defined by a disk closing the cylinder at the top portion 40b: the internal surface delimiting at least partially the compartment 43 is also cylindrical. Obviously, it is not excluded the possibility of making a casing having a different shape, for example a polygonal cross-section.

Further, the casing 40 comprises at least one lateral access 41 defined on the lateral wall of the casing 40 and passing through this latter. The lateral access 41 of the casing 40 is placed at the top portion 40b of the same casing 40, for example in proximity of the closure wall 45c. The lateral access 41 is delimited, in a non-limiting way, by a perimetral edge having a closed outline, for example having a substantially quadrangular shape, optionally a substantially rectangular one.

As it is visible in the attached figures, the casing 40 further comprises at least one blocking seat 42 defined on the lateral wall of the casing 40 itself, particularly at the bottom portion 40a. The blocking seat substantially comprises a cavity passing through the lateral wall of the casing 40, configured to engage a radial protrusion 32 of the support body 30, in order to prevent a relative rotation between the casing 40 and the support body 30. Indeed, the blocking seat 42 of the casing 40 is configured to substantially define at least one anti-rotation system configured to prevent the support body 30 from rotating inside the compartment 43.

The through cavity defining the blocking seat can be delimited by an open-type outline as the one shown in the attached figures; in such configuration, the blocking seat extends from the base surface 45a towards the head surface 45b. Indeed, the blocking seat extends without interruptions with the base surface 45a of the casing 40 in order to define substantially a depression of a free edge delimiting the passage opening of the casing 40. The blocking seat 42 can extend along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal extension direction of the casing 40 for at least a stretch of the development of this latter. For example, the lateral wall of the casing can have a predetermined length defined by the distance present from the base surface 45a to the head surface 45b of the casing 40; the blocking seat can have a respective length - measured along the casing length - less than the casing length; for example, the ratio of the length of the blocking seat 42 to the length of the casing 40 is equal to or less than 0.5, optionally is comprised between 0.5 and 0.1. As it is visible in the attached figures, the blocking seat 42 can be aligned with the lateral access 41, along a direction parallel to the longitudinal development direction of the casing 40. Obviously, it is not excluded the possibility of providing a blocking seat 42 which is angularly offset from the lateral access 41 .

The casing 40 can comprise an opening 44 defined on the lateral wall of the casing itself. The opening 44 is configured to be disposed in order to substantially face a respective through opening 34 of the support body 30. Indeed, the through opening 34 of the support body 30 substantially defines a first through opening 34 of the connecting element 2, while the through opening of the casing 40 defines substantially a second through opening of the connecting element 2: the first and second openings 34, 44 are configured to be arranged - in an engagement condition of the support body 30 in the casing 40 - to face each other. The first through opening 34 will be more particularly described in the following.

The second through opening 44 crosses the thickness of the lateral wall of the casing 40 and is interposed between the base surface 45a and the head surface 45b of the casing 40, particularly it is distanced from both the surfaces: therefore, the second through opening 44 is delimited by a closed outline perimetral edge. For example, said through opening 44 can comprise at least one hole substantially placed in proximity of the bottom portion 40a of the casing. The second through opening 44 is angularly offset from the blocking seat 42, for example by an angle comprised between 150° and 200°, optionally comprised between 170° and 190°. Said angular offset being measured with respect to a central axis of the casing parallel to the longitudinal development direction of this latter.

The casing 40 can be made at least partially of a metal and/or plastic material. Particularly, the casing 40 can be made of at least one of the following materials: aluminum, steel, brass, ABS, PVC, polycarbonate, epoxy resins, polyester, possibly fiber filled.

As hereinbefore described, the connecting element 2 further comprises at least one support body 30 engageable with the casing 40 inside the compartment 43: the support body 30 is insertable at least partially - optionally completely - in the compartment 43 along an insertion direction Y outlined in Figure 10. Specifically, the support body 30 is configured to be completely placed inside the casing 40 upon moving the same support body 30 into the compartment 43 along the insertion direction and through the passage opening of the casing 40. Upon at least partially inserting the support body 30 in the casing 40, these are configured to define an engagement condition (see Figure 7, for example).

The support body 30 has at least one lateral wall the outside thereof is delimited by at least one lateral surface 39 which is partially countershaped to the internal lateral surface of the casing 40:in the engagement condition between the support body 30 and casing 40 (as hereinbefore said, this condition is defined when the support body 30 is inserted into the compartment 43 of the casing) at least part of the lateral surface 39 is in contact with at least part of the internal lateral surface of the casing 40. The partial contact between the lateral surface 39 of the support body 30 and the internal surface of the casing enables to position the support body 30 into the compartment 43.

As hereinbefore described, the internal surface of the casing 40 can have a circular shape; in such configuration, at least part of the outer lateral surface 39 has substantially an arc or circular or semicircular shape, at least partially countershaped to the internal surface of the casing 40, adapted to contact at least part of the internal surface of the casing in order to center said support body 30 in the compartment 43. The support body 30, in the engagement condition with the casing 40, is placed coaxially with this latter. The attached figures illustrate, in a non-limiting way, a support body 30 comprising at least two lateral surfaces 39 opposite to each other, having an arc-of-a-circle shape; the two surfaces are both adapted to contact the internal surface of the casing in order to center said support body inside the casing, in other words to cause the support body 30 and casing to be coaxial to each other. Particularly, the lateral surfaces 39 enable to align and overlap the first and second through openings 34, 44 respectively of the support body 30 and casing 40.

The support body 30 extends along a longitudinal development direction which is, at least in the engagement condition between the support body 30 and casing 40, parallel to the longitudinal development direction of the casing 40; particularly, the longitudinal development direction of the support body 30 is configured to be, when the connecting element 2 engages the square spindle Q, substantially parallel to the rotation axis X of the connecting element 2 itself.

The support body 30 extends along the longitudinal development direction between a bottom portion 30a and a top portion 30b; particularly, the support body 30 extends longitudinally between two end surfaces: a base surface 35a and a head surface 35b.

The support body 30, when engages the inside of the casing 40, has the bottom portion 30a placed at, optionally facing, the bottom portion 40a of the casing 40; in addition, the support body 30, when engages the inside of the casing 40, has the top portion 30b placed at, optionally facing, the top portion 40b of the casing 40. Particularly, the support body 30, when engages the inside of the casing 40, has the base surface 35a substantially facing the base surface 45a of the casing 40; the head surface 35b of the support body 30, when said support body 30 engages the inside of the casing 40, instead faces the closure wall 45c of the casing, optionally at least partially contacts this latter (see Figure 7).

Indeed, the support body 30 has a length slightly less than the length of the casing 40 so that said support body

30 can be completely inserted into the compartment 43, the head surface 35b thereof facing the closure wall 45c of the casing 40.

As it is visible in Figures 4, 5, 7 and 8 for example, the support body 30 comprises at least one lateral pocket

31 defined on the lateral wall: the lateral pocket 31 extends substantially along a transversal direction, optionally perpendicular to the longitudinal development direction of the support body 30. The lateral pocket 31 is defined at the top portion 30b of the support body, optionally at the head surface 35b and has, in a non-limiting way, a substantially quadrilateral polygonal shape.

The support body 30 can have two lateral pockets 31 opposite to each other with respect to a central zone of the support body itself: each lateral pocket 31 extends from a respective external lateral surface 39 towards the central zone of the support body 30. The two lateral pockets 31 extend from respective peripheral zones of the lateral wall of the support body, one towards the other. Obviously, it is not excluded the possibility of providing a support body 30 comprising a single lateral pocket 31. The lateral pocket 31, if present, is adapted to completely define the engagement portion 4 of the connecting element 2 or is configured to define said engagement portion 4 cooperatively with the casing 40.

Indeed, the lateral pocket 31, in the engagement condition between the support body 30 and casing 40, is configured to face the lateral access at least partially 41 of the casing 40 in order to define said engagement portion 4 (see Figure 7, for example). Actually, the lateral access 41 of the casing 40 can be at least partially countershaped to the lateral pocket 31 of the support body 30 in order to define with this latter substantially a single lateral seat adapted to receive and removably engage a manoeuvring element 20 as will be better described in the following. Naturally, it is not excluded the possibility of providing a support body 30 devoid of a lateral pocket 31 so that said engagement portion 4 of the connecting element 2 is only defined by the lateral access 41 of the casing 40.

As it is visible in Figures 3, 5 - 7, the support body 30 comprises at least one radial protrusion 32 emerging from a lateral wall of at least one of the support body 30 and casing 40: the radial protrusion 32 - in the engagement condition between the support body and casing - is configured to engage into the blocking seat 42 in order to substantially define an anti-rotation system configured to prevent, when said support body 30 engages the inside of the casing 40, a relative rotation between these latter about an axis parallel to an insertion direction Y of the support body 30 in the casing 40. More particularly, the radial protrusion 32 is configured to stably contact radial abutments radially delimiting the blocking seat 42 of the casing: the radial abutments of the casing are configured to prevent, once the radial protrusion 32 is in the blocking seat 42, any relative angular movement between the support body 30 and casing 40. In this way, the support body 30 and casing 40 can ensure the alignment of the lateral pocket 31 and lateral access 41 .

As it is visible in the attached figures, the radial protrusion 32 emerges from the lateral surface 39 of the support body 30, at the bottom portion 30a of the support body 30. Specifically, the radial protrusion 32 emerges from the base surface 35a towards the head surface 35b and is at least partially countershaped to the blocking seat 42. The number of radial protrusions 32 of the support body 30 is equal to the number of the blocking seats 42 of the casing. The attached figures illustrate a connecting element 2 having, in a non-limiting way, a single blocking seat 42 and therefore a single radial protrusion 32. Moreover, it is observed that the radial protrusion 32 and blocking seat 42, besides preventing a relative angular rotation between the support body 30 and casing 40, upon a stable engagement between each other, enable to align the hereunder described first and second openings 34, 44.

As hereinbefore said, the support body 30 further comprises a first opening 34 which is defined on the lateral wall of the support body. The first opening 34 is of a type passing through the lateral wall of the support body 30; the first opening 34 has an open outline and extends from the base surface 35a of the support body 30 towards the head surface 35b.

The first opening 34, in the engagement condition between the support body 30 and casing 40, is configured to face at least partially the second opening 44 of the casing 40. Indeed, first and second openings are configured to substantially define a single seat the inside thereof being adapted to house an axial blocking element 70. Specifically, the connecting element 2 comprises at least one axial blocking element 70 configured to be inserted, in the condition wherein said support body 30 engages the inside of the casing 40, at least partially in the first opening and at least partially in the second opening in order to axially constrain said support body 30 and said casing 40. As hereinbefore said, the alignment between the first and second openings 34, 44 is ensured and simplified by the radial protrusion 32 and blocking seat 42, in order to enable to insert the axial blocking element 70. Indeed, the first opening 34, second opening 44 and axial blocking element 70 define an axial constrain system configured to reversibly constrain the support body 30 inside the casing 40 and prevent the support body 30 from being extracted from the casing 40 when these are in the engaged condition. The axial blocking element 70 can comprise at least one selected in the group of: a grub screw, screw, cotter pin, pin. If the axial blocking element 70 comprises a grub screw or screw, at least one of the openings 34, 44 has a threaded portion adapted to engage the thread of the axial blocking element 70.

Since the axial constrain is defined by the above cited blocking elements, such constrain is stable and at the same time reversible; in other words, the support body 30 and casing 40 can be released by extracting the axial blocking element 70, this operation can be quickly performed by an operator means of suitable tools (a screwdriver, a pin puller, or cotter pin puller).

As hereinbefore specified, the connecting element 2 stably engages the square spindle Q of a lock S in order to enable to activate in other words move the blocking element of the lock S. Such engagement can be obtained by directly engaging the support body 30 with the square spindle Q and then reversibly engage the casing 40 with the outside of the support body 30. The engagement of the support body 30 with the square spindle Q can be obtained as usual through a grub screw or screw adapted to contact and laterally push the square spindle Q.

However, the attached figures illustrate an embodiment variant in which the support body 30 comprises an inserting seat 33 configured to engagingly receive at least part of the square spindle Q of a lock; the inserting seat 33 extends along the longitudinal development direction of the support body 30 and is configured to be countershaped at least partially to the square spindle Q of the lock S in order to be at least rotatively integral. Specifically, the inserting seat 33 has a cross section having a square shape. The inserting seat 33 extends from the bottom portion 30a of the support body 30 to a bottom wall 37 placed at the top portion 30b of the support body 30, optionally distanced from the head surface 35b of the same support body 30; the support body 30 has at least one cavity 35 opposite to the inserting seat 33 with respect to the bottom wall 37. The inserting seat 33 and cavity 35 are in communication by means of a channel 38 configured to enable the passage of at least one screw for fixing the support body 30 to the square spindle. In order to enable such engagement, the square spindle Q is of a type comprising a head threaded hole adapted to face, in an engagement condition with the support body 30, the bottom wall 37 in order to coupingly receive a screw 40 crossing the channel 38. Actually, the bottom wall 37 defines an abutment surface for the screw 50, configured to be interposed between the square spindle Q and a head of the screw 50, in order to axially constrain the support body 30 and consequently the connecting element 2, to the square spindle Q itself. Indeed, the cavity 35 is configured so that the inside thereof receives the screw head: the threaded part of the screw crosses the channel 38 and is received at least partially in the inserting seat for engaging the head threaded hole of the square spindle Q. Alternatively, the support body 30 can engage the square spindle by a pin or cotter pin; in such configuration, the square spindle should have a hole adapted to receive said pin or cotter pin.

In the same way, the engagement between the support body 30 and the square spindle Q is of a reversible type, in other words they can be released by extracting the screw or grub screw or pin or cotter pin, this step can be quickly performed by an operator with suitable tools (for example, a screwdriver, pin puller, or cotter pin puller). Moreover, the support body 30 can have at least one seat 36 defined at the bottom portion 30a, configured to house a sliding element 60 (Figure 10). Particularly, the seat faces the seat 33, in order to enable to arrange the sliding element 60 coaxially with the square spindle Q. Therefore, the sliding element 60 defines a thickness between the activating device 1 and a lateral wall of a door with which the same activating device 1 is engaged, in order to enable to relatively rotate without any friction between them.

The support body 30 can be made at least partially of a metal and/or plastic material. Particularly, the support body 30 can be made of at least one of the following materials: aluminum, steel, brass, ABS, PVC, polycarbonate, epoxy resins, polyester, possibly fiber filled.

If the lock S comprises a first and second square spindles Q1, Q2, the activating device 1 can comprise a first and second connecting elements. The first connecting element can be of a type according to the above given description and can be configured to reversibly engage a first square spindle Q1 connected to a spring latch S1 of a lock S: said first connecting element being rotatable at least between a first and second operative positions, and vice versa, in order to enable to move the first square spindle Q and consequently move the spring latch S1 between the extended position and the retracted one, and vice versa.

The second connecting element can comprise a type of pawl (Figures 10, 13 and 14) configured to reversibly engage (for example by means of a grub screw) a second square spindle Q2 connected to a draw bolt C of the lock S: said second connecting element being rotatable at least between a first and second operative positions, and vice versa, in order to enable to move the second square spindle Q2 and consequently move the draw bolt C between the extended position and the retracted one, and vice versa. Particularly, the second connecting element is rotatable between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa, about an axis W parallel to, optionally coincident with, a rotation axis of the second square spindle Q2 of the lock S. Particularly, the second connecting element comprises a single body having:

- an inserting seat configured to engagingly receive at least part of the second square spindle Q2 of a lock S,

- an opposite engagement portion 4 configured to engagingly removably receive the manoeuvring element 20

The second connecting element is illustrated for example in Figure 10 (the element is configured to engage the second square spindle Q2 and is rotatable about the axis W).

Figures from 20 to 26 illustrate the connecting element 2 according to the second embodiment which is configured to reversibly engage (for example by means of screws) directly a handle M and/or knob of a door. Such connecting element 2 can be obtained by the material and manufacturing processes described hereinbefore with reference to the connecting element according to the first embodiment.

Such connecting element 2 has a substantially flat shape, delimited by a perimeter having a substantially trapezoidal shape. The connecting element can longitudinally extends along an extension direction D between an inserting portion 2a and a closure portion 2b and simultaneously it extends in width along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction D (the direction parallel to a lying plane of the base 3): the width of the connecting element 2, at the inserting portion 2a, is less than the width of the connecting element 2 itself measured at the closure portion 2b: the connecting element 2 has a shape tapered from the closure portion 2b towards the inserting portion 2a.

As it is visible for example in Figures 20 and 21 , the connecting element 2 comprises a base 3 adapted to define the component of the connecting element 2 directly fixable to the handle M and/or knob of a door P.

The base 3 extends along an extension direction D between a first transversal wall 3a, placed at the inserting portion, and a second transversal wall 3b, placed at the closure portion 2b; the first and second transversal walls 3a, 3b are connected to each other by a first and second longitudinal walls 3c, 3d. Walls 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d extend perpendicularly to a lying plane of the plate of the base 3 and delimit a lateral perimetral edge of the base 3.

The connecting element 2, according to the second embodiment, comprises also an engagement portion 4; said engagement portion 4 is connected to and overlaps the base 3: the engagement portion 4 is configured to define at least one undercut adapted to enable the engagement of the connecting element 2 with a manoeuvring element 20.

The engagement portion 4 comprises a flat plate featuring a substantially trapezoidal shape. The engagement portion 4 has at the closure portion 2b, a width (or lateral size) greater than a width (or lateral size) measured at the inserting portion 2a: such width (or lateral size) is measured along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the connecting element 2 and parallel to an extension or lying plane of the engagement portion 4. Still more particularly, the engagement portion 4 extends along the extension direction D between a first transversal wall 4a, placed at the inserting portion 2a, and a second transversal wall 4b, placed at the closure portion 2b; a first and second transversal walls 4a, 4b of the engagement portion 4 are connected to each other by a first and second longitudinal walls 4c, 4d. Walls 4a, 4b, 4c, and 4d extend perpendicularly to a lying plane of the plate of the engagement portion 4 and delimit a lateral perimetral edge of this latter.

The plate of the engagement portion 4 emerging at least laterally from the perimetral lateral edge of the base 3 for defining said undercut. The attached figures illustrate an engagement portion 4 emerging laterally both from the first longitudinal wall 3c and second longitudinal wall 3d of the base 3 (see Figure 20, for example). Indeed, the plate of the engagement portion 4 has a shape substantially identical to the base 3 but having at least in width greater dimensions.

As it is visible in Figures 20 and 21, the connecting element 2 can comprise at least one through hole 10 extending through the engagement portion 4 and base 3; the through hole 10 is configured to enable the passage of at least one screw for fixing, optionally directly fixing, the connecting element 2 to at least one of a handle M and/or knob of a door P.

The connecting element 2, according to the second embodiment, can comprise only the base 3 and engagement portion 4. Flowever, as illustrated in the figures, the connecting element 2 (according to the second embodiment) can comprise the above described base 3 and engagement portion 4 and also an interlock element 5 stably constrainable to the base 3 oppositely to the engagement portion 4 and configured to be directly constrained to a square spindle of the door. The interlock element 5 can comprise at least one protrusion 6 configured to enable a user to grip and rotate the connecting element 2. Between the interlock element 5 and door P, the connecting element 2 can comprise a sliding element 7 configured to enable the engagement (optionally the axial constrain) of said interlock element 5 with the door and the relative motion (rotation) between said connecting element 2 and said door P.

The activating device 1 can comprise at least one square spindle Q having a square cross-section extending along a development direction; the square spindle Q extends between two opposite end surfaces where said spindle comprises at least one threaded hole adapted to receive a fixing element, such as a screw. The square spindle Q can, for example, comprise two threaded opposite holes and extending respectively from the opposite end surfaces. Particularly, from an end surface of the spindle, a first threaded hole extends while from the opposite end surface, a second threaded hole extends. First and second threaded holes extend one towards the other.

The activating device 1 can comprise the manoeuvring element 20, removably engageable with the connecting element 2, in order to enable to move the connecting element 2 (in case of the connecting element according to the first embodiment, the motion between the first and second operative positions, and vice versa). Indeed, the manoeuvring element 20 substantially acts as a "handle” and/or "key” for opening/closing the lock S adapted to enable a user to rotate the connecting element 2 in order to activate the lock S itself, and consequently to open or close the door P. The manoeuvring element 20 and connecting element 2 can be completely manually separated by a user without using tools or without breaking at least one of said elements. In other words, the manoeuvring element 20 and connecting element 2 are movable from each other at least between:

- a first operative condition in which the connecting element 2 and manoeuvring element 20 are separated from each other,

- a second operative condition in which the manoeuvring element 20 and connecting element 2 are removably engaged.

Indeed, the manoeuvring element 20 is configured to engage the connecting element 2 by an interlocking action of said manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element 2 along a predetermined direction D: the connecting element 2 and manoeuvring element 20 are devoid of constrains adapted to prevent, once they are engaged with each other, a motion of said connecting element 2 and manoeuvring element 20 along said predetermined direction D. Specifically, the predetermined interlock direction D of the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element 2 is:

- parallel to a rotation axis of the connecting element 2, optionally coincident with said rotation axis of the connecting element,

- transversal, optionally perpendicular, to a rotation axis of the connecting element 2.

The manoeuvring element 20 comprises at least one inserting portion 21 removably engageable with the engagement portion 4 of the connecting element 2 and at least one grip portion 22 configured to enable a user to grip the manoeuvring element 20 and move this latter in order to enable, when engages the connecting element 2, to rotate this latter.

The grip portion 22 and inserting portion 21 can be joined in one piece to each other meanwhile they are arranged at a predetermined distance so that, in the interlock/engaged condition of the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element 2, the grip portion 22 will be distanced from said connecting element 2. Particularly, as it is still visible in Figure 8, the manoeuvring element 20 comprises a spacer 23 joining in one piece - and distancing at the same time, the grip portion 22 from the inserting one 21 .

The inserting portion 21 of the manoeuvring element 20 is at least partially countershaped to the engagement portion 4 so that - upon the engagement condition of the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element 2 - said manoeuvring element 20 can pushingly act on said manoeuvring element 20 in order to enable it to rotate.

Figures 8, 9, 12 - 17 illustrate a manoeuvring element 20 configured to cooperate with the connecting element 2 according to the above described first embodiment. The inserting portion 21 of said manoeuvring element 20 can comprise a protrusion countershaped at least partially to the pocket 31 of the support body 30: the protrusion is insertable into the pocket 31 for pushingly acting on lateral walls delimiting said pocket 31 in order to enable the rotation of the connecting element 2. For example, the inserting portion 21 can comprise a protrusion having at least one cross-section having a polygonal (optionally rectangular), semicircular or elliptical shape. In the embodiment shown in Figure 17, the inserting portion 21 can substantially comprise a sleeve portion defining a seat adapted to receive the engagement portion 4 which, in this case, can be defined by a protrusion adapted to enter inside the seat of the inserting portion 21 . The seat of the inserting portion 21 can have a cross-section having a polygonal (optionally rectangular), semicircular, or elliptical shape. The manoeuvring element 20 can comprise a body extending substantially along a plane and having a substantially "S” shape or a substantially "Z” shape or a substantially "2” shape. Such shape is only defined by the inserting portion 21, spacer 23 and grip portion 22; the shape of the manoeuvring element is such to enable to protect the hand of a user in order to prevent the same from coming in contact with the connecting element 2 when the manoeuvring element 20 is engaged in the same connecting element 2. Therefore, the shape of the manoeuvring element 20 prevents a user from contacting the portion of the door P which could be subjected to a common contact.

It is observed as the manoeuvring element 20 can be removably engaged both with the first and second connecting elements, in order to enable these latter between the respective first and second operative positions and vice versa. Particularly, the manoeuvring element 20 can engage the inside of the engagement portion 4 of the first connecting element 2 along the direction D, which is transversal to the longitudinal development direction of the connecting element (Figure 8). Vice versa, the manoeuvring element 20 can be inserted inside the engagement portion 4 of the second connecting element along the direction D, which is parallel to the longitudinal development direction of the same connecting element and consequently parallel to the rotation axis of the second connecting element.

Both the first and second connecting elements rotatively constrain the manoeuvring element 20, in order to enable to rotate this latter integrally with the first and second connecting elements. Flowever, it is observed as both the first and second connecting elements, and manoeuvring element 20 do not define any type of constrain adapted to prevent the manoeuvring element 20 from moving along the direction D, making the manoeuvring element 20 completely separatable from the first and second connecting elements. Figures 18 and 19 illustrate a different manoeuvring element 20 configured to cooperate with the connecting element 2 according to the above described second embodiment. Such manoeuvring element 20 comprises the coupling portion 21 configured to removably engage the engagement portion 4 of the connecting element 2. The coupling portion 21 comprises a seat 24, substantially countershaped to the connecting element 2 adapted to engagingly receive this latter. The seat 24 of the coupling portion 21 longitudinal develops between an inserting portion 24a and closure portion 24b: the seat 24 features a passage cross-section tapered from the inserting portion 24a to the closure portion 24b of the coupling portion 21. Indeed, the tapered configuration of the seat 24 is countershaped to the tapered configuration of the connecting element 2.

The seat 24 has, along a plane perpendicular to the extension direction of the seat itself, an open outline the concavity thereof faces away from the grip portion 22 of the manoeuvring element. Particularly, the seat 24 has, along a plane perpendicular to the extension direction of said seat 24, a substantially "C” shape the inside thereof enabling to receive the connecting element 2, in other words both the base 3 and engagement portion 4.

The coupling portion 21 and engagement portion 4 cooperate with each other in order to enable to removably engage the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element 2; particularly, the manoeuvring element 20 and connecting element 2 are reversibly reciprocally movable at least between:

- a first operative condition in which the connecting element 2 and manoeuvring element 20 are separated from each other,

- a second operative condition in which the manoeuvring element 20 and connecting element 2 are removably engaged.

The movement between the first and second operative conditions, and vice versa, of the connecting element 2 and manoeuvring element 20 occurs along a direction D determined by the shape of the undercut (or undercuts) of the engagement portion 4 and by the countershaped arrangement of the seat 24 of the coupling portion 21 . The tapered shape of the base 3 and engagement portion 4 of the connecting element 2 and the tapered shape of the seat 24 enable to easily engage the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element. Indeed, it is observed from Figure 2 as, in the first operative condition and during the engagement of the manoeuvring element on the connecting element 2, the closure portion 24b of the seat 24 directly faces the inserting portion 2a of the connecting element 2 for receiving it; due to the greater size of the closure portion 24b of the seat 24 with respect to the inserting portion 2a of the connecting element 2, the user can easily and quickly interlock the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element 2. During this step, the tapered shape of the seat 24 and connecting element 2 guide the elements 2 and 20 until they are completely engaged, in other words in the second operative conditions as shown for example in Figure 1.

The manoeuvring element 20, as shown in Figures 23 and 25, is configured to stably engage the connecting element 2 which can be associated to a handle M and/or knob or to an interlock element 5. The manoeuvring element 20 is the component of the activating device 1 directly grippable by the user to activate a handle and/or lock. The manoeuvring element 20 has the grip portion 22 comprising an elongated body extending between a first and second end portions 22a, 22b along a prevalent development trajectory A. Further, the manoeuvring element 20 comprises a spacer 23 connected to the elongated body of the grip portion 22 substantially at the first end portion 22a. The spacer 23 emerges from the elongated body of the grip portion 22: the spacer 23 extends along a respective prevalent development trajectory B, optionally rectilinear, between a first and second end portions 23a, 23b. The prevalent development trajectory B of the spacer 23 is transversal, optionally perpendicular to the prevalent development trajectory A of the grip portion 22. As it is visible in Figures 18 and 19, the spacer 23 is engaged, at the first end portion 23a, with the elongated body of the grip portion 22 while, at the second end portion 23b, engages the coupling portion 22. Advantageously, it is observed that the spacer 23 emerges from the coupling portion 21 oppositely to the seat 24: the concavity of the open outline of the seat 24 faces away from the spacer. The spacer 23 can be joined in one piece to the elongated body of the grip portion 22 and, in the same way, can be joined in one piece to the coupling portion 21 : the grip portion 22, spacer 23 and coupling portion 21 of the manoeuvring element 20 define a single solid body. Indeed, as it is visible in the attached figures, due to the transversal extension of the spacer 23 from the grip portion 22 and the position of the coupling portion 21 configure the manoeuvring element 20 so that it can substantially define a handle removably engageable with the connecting element 2.

Moreover, it is useful to observe as the direction of the extension of the connecting element 2 when engages said manoeuvring element 20, is parallel to the prevalent development trajectory A of the grip portion 22. In addition, it is noted that the direction along which the connecting element 2 and manoeuvring element 20 are relatively movable, is substantially parallel to the prevalent development trajectory A of the grip portion 22.

The manoeuvring element 20 can be made at least partially of a metal and/or plastic materials. Specifically, the manoeuvring element 20 can be made at least partially of at least one of the following materials: aluminum, steel, brass, ABS, PVC, polycarbonate, epoxy resins, polyester, possibly fiber-filled, resin-bonded mineral materials.

In a further embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 15, the activating device 1 can be for example installed to a tap in order to enable to supply water and/or select the temperature of the same without directly contacting said tap. Specifically, the activating device 1 can be installed to taps actuatable by a dispenser, pedal, or a photocell, located in public establishments. It is observed that the connecting element 2 can be engaged with a water dispenser and/or water temperature selector of a tap and is rotatively movable integrally with this latter. Engaging the handling device 20 with the inside of the connecting element 2 (Figure 17) enables to vertically rotate the connecting element 2 itself to supply water from the tap. In the same way, it enables to horizontally rotate the connecting element 2 itself and adjust the temperature of the water supplied by the tap.

The connecting element 2 is shown in an engaged condition with a door P or a tap. The possibility of engaging the connecting element according to the above given description with a different component of a bathroom, for example, at least one of: a button of a flushing system, a toilet seat of a bowl, a soap and/or towel dispenser, a light switch, is not excluded. Manufacturing process

It is also an object of the present invention a process of manufacturing an activating device 1 according to the above given description or according to the attached claims. The process comprises a step of predisposing the connecting element 2, which can comprise the steps of: predisposing the support body 30, predisposing the casing 40, inserting the support body 30 into the compartment 43 of the casing, rotatively axially constraining the support body 30 and casing 40. Particularly, the support body 30 is inserted in the compartment 43 along an interlock direction which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal development direction of at least one of the support body 30 and casing 40.

Moreover, it is observed that the step of constraining the support body 30 to the casing 40 is reversible and consequently releasable by an operator by means of tools. Particularly, the step of constraining the support body 30 to the casing 40 comprises the sub-steps of:

- engaging the radial protrusion 32 of the support body 30 with the blocking seat 42 of the casing in order to prevent a relative rotation between the support body 30 and casing 40,

- aligning at least partially the first and second openings 34, 44 of the support body and casing and then inserting the axial blocking element 70 between said openings, consequently preventing the relative rotation between the support body 30 and casing 40.

The connecting element 2 can be made at least partially of a metal and/or plastic materials. Specifically, the connecting element 2 can be made at least partially of at least one of the following materials: aluminum, steel, brass, ABS, PVC, polycarbonate, epoxy resins, polyester, possibly fiber-filled, resin-bonded mineral materials. Therefore, the connecting element can be made at least partially by at least one of the following processes: molding, die-casting, or chip-removal machining.

Further, the process can comprise a step of predisposing a first and second connecting elements, also made by at least one of a chip-removal process of a metal material stock or metal die-casting.

The process of manufacturing the activating device 1 can further comprise predisposing the manoeuvring element 20, and also the square spindle Q. Specifically, the step of predisposing the square spindle Q comprises the following steps:

- predisposing a square cross-section rod,

- longitudinally cutting the rod in order to define a square cross-section semi-finished product having a predetermined length defined between a first and second head surfaces,

- making at least one threaded hole extending, from the first and/or second head surfaces, inside the semi finished product in order to define the square spindle.

Assembling process

It is also an object of the present invention a process of assembling an activating device 1 according to the above given description or according to the following claims. The process comprises assembling the activating device 1 to a lock S of a door P. Particularly, in case of a connecting element according to the first embodiment, the assembly process comprises a step of engaging the connecting element 2 with the square handle spindle Q, comprising in turn the following sub-steps:

- coupling the support body 30 with the square spindle Q so that this latter is at least partially inserted in the inserting seat 33 of said support body 30,

- reversibly blocking said support body to the square spindle Q,

- interlocking the casing 40 with the support body 30 so that this latter is at least partially housed in the compartment 43 of the casing 40.

Specifically, the step of reversibly blocking the support body 30 comprises the sub-steps of:

- inserting a screw 50 into the cavity so that the screw head abuts the bottom wall 37 of the support body 30 and the screw threaded portion crosses the channel 38 of the support body 30,

- screwing the threaded portion of the screw into a head threaded hole of the square spindle Q so that the screw can grip the square spindle Q and couple this latter with the support body 30.

The step of interlocking the casing 40 with the support body 30 comprises the sub-step of coupling the radial protrusion 32 of the support body 30 with the blocking seat 42 of the casing 40, in order to align the first and second openings 34, 44 respectively of the support body 30 and casing 40. The step of interlocking the casing 40 can further comprise the sub-steps of:

- arranging the first opening of the support body 30 so that it partially faces the second opening 44 of the casing 40,

- inserting the axial blocking element 70 (a grub screw, a screw, a pin, or cotter pin) through the first and second openings 34, 44, in order to axially constrain the support body 30 and casing 40.

It is observed that the lock S is of a type comprising at least one spring latch S1 and/or draw bolt C emerging from a lock body configured to engage the inside of a seat or matching part defined on said frame of the door P. Therefore, the lock S can have at least one first square spindle Q1 connected to the spring latch S1 and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position (Figure 15) and the extended one (Figure 16), and vice versa, and also a second square spindle Q2 connected to at least one draw bolt C and configured to enable to move this latter between the retracted position and the extended one, and vice versa. So, the process can provide a reversible engagement of the first and second connecting elements respectively to the first and second square spindles according to what was hereinbefore specified.

In case of a connecting element 2 according to the second embodiment, the assembly process comprises reversibly fixing the connecting element 2, for example by screws, directly to the handle M and/or knob of a door or fixing the element 2 (by means of screws, for example) to the pawl of a door or to an interlock element 5. Opening method

Moreover, it is an object of the present invention a method of opening a door P - for example, an internal door of a building, e.g., a door of a public restroom - by the claimed activating device 1 and/or according to above given description. The process comprises the steps of:

- removably engaging the manoeuvring element 20 with the engagement portion 4 of the connecting element

2,

- pushingly acting on the manoeuvring element 20 in order to rotate said connecting element 2 (optionally between the first and second operative positions) in order to enable a rotation of the square spindle Q of the lock S and consequently move the blocking element from the extended position to the retracted one.

In other words, the opening method provides removably engaging the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element 2 upon a step of at least partially inserting the inserting portion 21 of the manoeuvring element 20 into the seat of the connecting element 2. Particularly, such step provides to removably engage the manoeuvring element 20 inside the lateral pocket 31 of the support body 30, wherein the engagement between the manoeuvring element 20 and connecting element 2 can be performed by positioning the manoeuvring element 20 at the engagement portion 4. Only after the engagement between the lateral pocket 31 and manoeuvring element 20, it is possible to pushingly act on the grip portion of the manoeuvring element 20 in order to move the manoeuvring element 20 to enable to open the door P; particularly, the pushing action is performed by the user by directly acting on the grip portion 22. Due to the thrust of the manoeuvring element 20 and due to the connection with the connecting element 2, the spring latch S1 can be actuated to open the door P.

The process can provide to engage a connecting element 2 outside the door P (Figure 12), for example by directly engaging the square spindle, and engage at least one further connecting element 2 inside the door (Figure 13). Figure 13 illustrates a configuration in which there are two further connecting elements located inside the door: one connecting element is connected to the square spindle adapted to activate the spring latch while a second connecting element 2 is connected to a further square spindle adapted to activate the draw bolt C of the lock.

The user, in order to initially open the door P from the outside, can engage the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element 2, rotate this latter and then actuate the spring latch S1 in order to open the door P (see Figure 12). The user, once inside, can engage the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element engaged with the square spindle connected to the draw bolt (Figure 14) in order to enable the closure (the door is locked). The user, in order to go out, must open the draw bolt C and move the manoeuvring element removably engaging the connecting element 2 connected to the square spindle adapted to activate the draw bolt S1 and then rotate the manoeuvring element 20 (Figure 13). Closing method

Moreover, it is an object of the present invention a method of closing a door P - for example, an internal door of a building, such as for example a door of a public restroom - by the activating device 1 claimed and/or according to the above given description. The door is closed by activating the connecting element 2 connected to the square spindle adapted to activate the draw bolt. The method provides to removably engage the manoeuvring element 20 with the connecting element 2 and then the user rotates the manoeuvring element 20 so that the draw bolt C will be extracted.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION The present invention enables to obtain substantial advantages. Particularly, the activating device 1 enables a user to quickly safely open/close doors or hatches, in other words preventing the user from coming in direct contact with the object to be moved such as for example the handle or lock of a door. Further, the activating device 1 is designed for a non-invasive installation, so that it minimizes as much as possible the number of elements to be added/substituted to the existing door/hatch and preventing the requirement of substituting or structurally modifying the same. Specifically, the connecting element 2 is configured to be easily fixed to the square spindle of the lock of a door and/or to a handle M (or knob) and is configured to enable to easily quickly removably engage the manoeuvring element 20. It is useful to observe that the activating device, once installed, always ensures the possibility of exploiting all the operations of the lock, possibly also without using the manoeuvring element.