Patent attributes
A latch for a window sash includes a fixed plate and a latch head slidably coupled to the fixed plate. The latch head is symmetrically spring loaded to minimize rotation when the latch head translates. When the latch head retracts toward the fixed plates, hooks from the latch head engage notches on the fixed plate to lock the latch head in a retracted position. This releases the latch head from a strike so the window sash can be opened. The latch further includes a plunger centrally received in the fixed plate and the latch head. When the plunger retracts toward the fixed plate, sloped shoulders from the plunger disengages the hooks of the latch head from the notches on the fixed plate. This releases the latch head to engage the strike so the window sash is locked.