Fluid Softenable Or Soluble Latch Release Patents (Class 49/22)
  • Patent number: 5353547
    Abstract: A closure assembly and strut for a pivoting closure which automatically operates to close the closure when rain begins to fall. The closure assembly is provided with two pivoting arms which, when pivoted to their extreme positions, would allow a slot provided on a hinge portion of each arm to align into which a soluble restraining element is placed. The extremity portions of each arm are used to support the closure in an opened position. When it begins to rain, water would hit the soluble element directly or would indirectly be directed to this soluble element through capillary action which would soften the soluble restraining element, allowing a spring to trip the pivot out of alignment with the ends, thereby precipitating the collapse of the closure element. Once the closure element collapses, the closure would close due to the force of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Inventor: Colin Foster