US Patent 7258374 Low profile push/pull door latch assembly

A push/pull door latch assembly for use in a door includes a handle assembly and a latch cylinder. The handle assembly has a stop configured for limiting the movement of the handle during the push or pull operation, and absorbing shock transmitted from a user's hand through the handle and a cam assembly that operates in response to the push or pull operation of the handle. The cam assembly operates the latch so as to unlock the door when the handle is pushed or pulled.