Abstract: A hatch opening and closing device for a vehicle includes a cover, which is adapted to cover and seal an opening in a vehicle and to pivot between an open position and a closed position, and at least one locking device, which is adapted to move between an unlocked position and a locked position. The locking devices includes an engagement surface for engaging the cover when the cover is in the closed position thereby locking the cover in the closed position. The cover is releasably coupled to the locking device by a lost motion device over a first range of motion and decoupled from the locking device over a second range of motion so that the locking device can be independently moved from the cover. The hatch opening and closing device further includes a driver, which pivots the locking device and cover between the unlocked position and the locked position and the open position and the closed position, respectively.

Abstract: An apparatus that stabilizes vehicle sliding doors when transitioning to and from a closed position, wherein the sliding door is guided along a track by a guide wheel contacting internal surfaces of the track. The apparatus stabilizes the sliding door by limiting movement of the guide wheel in cross-car and vertical directions. The apparatus is coupled to the track and limits movement of the guide wheel by contacting a shaft of the guide wheel as well as top and bottom surfaces of the guide wheel. Shaft and bottom surface contact is provided by a plurality of parallel members extending along a first and second side of the shaft of the guide wheel. Top surface contact of the guide wheel is provided by a longitudinal member, preferably having a longitudinal cavity for energy absorption and dissipation. The plurality of parallel members further define a curved receptacle which substantially mates with the shaft of the guide wheel.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for progressively engaging a plurality of strikes with a corresponding plurality of receivers to secure and lock a window sash to a window frame. A force transmitting device may be included with a guide forming a channel for an elongated tape transmits a horizontal movement provided by an operator mechanism into a vertical movement at a locking mechanism. The operator mechanism may include a removable bezel and a removable handle to facilitate access to the operator mechanism.

Abstract: A retractable lid assembly for covering an opening in a storage bin is disclosed. The retractable lid assembly includes a lid having a first surface facing the storage bin and a second surface opposite to the first surface. A pivot member is pivotably attached to the lid at a first pivot point and pivotably attached adjacent to the opening in the storage bin at a second pivot point. The lid is retracted from the opening in the storage bin by pivoting the lid at the first pivot point and the second pivot point while the first surface of the lid remains substantially facing the storage bin during retraction of the lid.

Abstract: A drive system is provided for moving a lockable vehicle part. The drive system includes a drive element that operates with a change in length. The element is supported at its ends on the vehicle part and on the body. A releasable snap lock is provided by which the vehicle part is locked in one of its end positions. The snap lock is released by a control stroke of the drive element effectively connected with the release mechanism of the snap lock. The control stroke precedes the working stroke to move the vehicle part by connecting one end of the drive element to a release mechanism. In order to reduce the space required in the vehicle for the drive system, a rotary joint is provided as the release mechanism for the control stroke of the drive element.

Abstract: An agricultural grain storage or feed tank including a body with a roof having an upper inlet opening is provided with a roof cap assembly which includes an elongated and vertically extending control rod which is vertically and pivotably movable with respect to the body of the tank whereby a cap connected to the control rod may be selectively moved remotely from the opening by raising the control rod and thereafter swinging the cap relative to the opening. The opening is reinforced by a reinforcing centering ring which is selectively mounted to the exterior of the roof of the tank and which includes a plurality of support rods on which the cap is normally seated so as to create an air passageway into the inlet opening. In the preferred embodiment, the body of the tank is corrugated and is supported by legs having corrugated sections which interfit with the body of the tank.

Abstract: A window operator and lock structure for controlling a window sash relative to a window frame, including a drive input securable to a frame and engaging both an operator linkage securable to a window sash to effectuate motion of a secured sash relative to a frame, and a lock linkage securable to a lock structure for locking a secured sash to a frame. A link in the lock linkage moves in a generally longitudinal direction when operating the lock structure and includes a substantially transverse slot. A cam is pivotable about a cam axis fixed relative to the frame and includes a member receivable in the link slot to block operation of the lock linkage. The sash when closed against the frame includes a member engaging the cam to pivot the cam in a first direction moving the cam member clear of the link slot. The cam is blocked from pivoting when the sash is closed by engagement of the cam member with a side surface of the lock linkage link.

Abstract: In a device for opening and closing a window, a casement is moved between a closed and open position with respect to a stationary frame. This is done by a longitudinally displaceable toothed rack, which transfers the longitudinal movement into a movement of the casement by a hinge rod. In order to obtain a device which is easy to operate, it is proposed that in addition to the first toothed rack co-operating with the casement, a second toothed rack is provided in the frame which changes closing elements located on the frame between a latched position holding the casement and an unlatched position releasing the casement, by a closing rod. Although both toothed racks are longitudinally displaced by the same actuating element, as a rule only one of the two toothed racks is coupled to the actuating means while the other is uncoupled and stationary.

Abstract: A device for opening and closing a hatchway on a combat vehicle, especially a tank, by a hatch. The hatch comprises two components, one above the other. The upper component slides back and forth across and above the hatchway. The lower component descends tight into the hatchway. The object is to simplify the generic device to the extent that it can be operated from inside the vehicle. An operations-control rack extends along the upper component in the direction it slides back and forth in. The rack is engaged by a pinion. The pinion is part of a mechanism mounted on the vehicle and controlled from inside the vehicle. A cam track is fastened tight to the rack. A control pin rests against the cam track. The cam track operates by way of the control pin in conjunction with at least one mechanism that locks the upper component in position. The upper component is attached to the rack by a clutch.

Abstract: An apparatus for opening and closing a top bin lid from below such that, when in the fully opened position, the lid will not extend above the plane of the opening. The apparatus utilizes an elongated lever arm pivotally mounted on the pivot axis of the bin lid. A flexible linkage, such as a chain extends from below, over the lever arm and is connected to a gravity biased latch system which holds the lid in the closed position until the chain is pulled from below. After the latch is released, further drawing of the chain will pivot the lid and arm about their common pivot axis until the arm is obstructed from further movement by the bin. Continued pulling of the chain will draw the lid toward the lever arm against spring pressure until the lid has been pivoted approximately 180.degree. from its closed position.

Abstract: A window operator and lock structure for controlling a window sash supported by a hinge for pivotal motion relative to a window frame, including a base mounted to the frame and supporting a drivable sun gear, and a planet gear engaging the sun gear and supported on the base for pivoting about the sun gear axis. One linkage is secured to the planet gear axis and the window sash to control motion of the sash. A locking structure secures the sash to the frame, which structure is operated by a gear arm fixedly secured to the planet gear and a cam link between the gear arm and the locking structure. Selective operation of the locking structure is effectuated by biasing the cam link against a fixed pin which engages a slot in the cam link to secure the cam link against operating the locking structure, and a trip on the sash which engages the cam link when the sash is closed against the frame to disengage the cam link from the pin.

Abstract: A casement window wherein the sash is pivotable in the frame about a vertical axis has a self-locking crank drive which pivots the sash between open and closed positions by way of a pivotable lever, a link which is coupled to the lever, and an actuator which is movably installed in the sash, which is coupled to the link and which forms part of a locking-unlocking mechanism for the sash. The first stage of rotation of the crank drive in order to pivot the sash from closed position involves a displacement of the actuator which ensures that the sash is unlocked, and further rotation of the crank drive results in pivoting of the sash to the open position. If the direction of rotation of the crank drive is reversed, the sash is moved to the closed position before the actuator is caused to lock the sash to the frame. A blocking device for the actuator is operated by the frame to release the actuator for movement to its operative position shortly before the sash reaches the closed position.

Abstract: A casement operator for a window has a deployment linkage connectable between the window frame and the base and operable to cause movement of the window sash. A gear drive drives the deployment linkage, which coacts with a sash lock and a lock linkage having a window-actuated trigger. A plurality of rigid links are in pivotal engagement with the deployment linkage and in driving engagement with the gear drive, and a tie rod is disposed intermediate the rigid links and the sash lock. A trip lever with a trigger extending beyond the window frame is pivotally secured to the base and engageable with the lock linkage for restricting the movement of said lock linkage during a non-locking mode of operation of the operator.

Abstract: A window stay is provided for a casement window so that its window sash is shifted outwardly from the window frame as it is being opened. The window stay comprises a first arm, a second arm and a third arm associated with a driving rod. The first arm has points pivotally attached to the window sash and the window frame and swings the window sash in relation to the window frame as the driving rod is operated. The second arm has points respectively pivotally attached to the window sash and the driving rod swings the window sash in relation to the first arm as the driving rod is operated. The third arm has points respectively pivotally attached to the first arm and the driving rod and swings the first arm in relation to the window frame in accordance with the movement of the driving rod. The window stay is provided with a lock for the window sash, operated by the acting rod.

Abstract: A window operator has a prime mover for opening and closing of a window, with the prime mover being drivingly connected to a drive output member through an intermediate gear structure. A clutch device in the drive structure senses the torque applied to the drive output member in a window closing operation and a switch operable by the clutch is effective to deenergize the prime mover when the torque applied to the output member reaches a predetermined value. The switch can be adjustably located relative to the clutch whereby the predetermined value at which the motor will be deenergized may be varied in order to obtain a desired tension on a member connected to the closed sash of the window, such as a chain connected to the sash of a skylight window.

Abstract: A window operator and hinge structure for a casement window which can be simply factory pre-set for positioning of a window in either egress or wash modes, with switching between modes requiring no additional parts or special tools. The structure has a pivoted handle movable between a closed, inactive position flush with a sill cover and rotatable to an inclined, active position. The handle, in its pivoting movement, operates window locking structure and also controls the action of a brake, with release of the brake by raising of the handle to operative position. Motion-transmitting connections between the handle and linkage structure include the brake as well as the clutch, with the clutch effective to limit the torque that can be applied to the linkage. The handle can be moved to closed, inactive position with the window open so that no handle protrudes and this movement of the handle sets the brake so that a wind cannot move the window.

Abstract: A shaft of a window actuator is operable to open and close a casement window sash when the shaft is rotated either by a hand crank or by a motor from inside of the premises. The shaft is automatically locked against rotation if a backdriving force is applied to the actuator from outside the premises. This prevents an open sash from being buffeted by wind and from being pulled open further by a potential intruder.

Abstract: A building has at least one security guard post to control the secured building exits, each of which has an unlocking instrumentality, without forbidding their emergency use. When activating the unlocking instrument to open a secured exit, there is a transmission of information to the security guard post and an initiation of a delay during which the security guard can forbid the opening of the exit. The unlocking instrument can also visually indicate events at the exit. The apparatus has an electro-mechanical lock, a sensor which is sensitive to motion of the unlocking instrument, a control line linking each door to be controlled to the security guard post, and a central electronic processing unit. A surveillance circuit responds to the sensor. A security circuit frees the unlocking instrument when a fault is detected.

Abstract: A self-locking window operator having one or more arms transmitting a force from a drive mechanism to a window sash for positioning thereof and with the arms mounted and driven for rotational movement in positioning of the window sash and also mounted and driven for linear movement when the window sash is closed to achieve a locking action between the window sash and the window frame by engaging a locking mechanism which locks the window against high window-opening loads.

Abstract: A locking member for an open roof construction for a vehicle.This open roof construction is provided with a panel, which in the closed position closes an opening in the roof of the vehicle and which is movable from this closed position or to this closed position by means of at least one push-pull cable. This push-pull cable is displaceable by means of a driving wheel, which is rotatable in two opposite directions, while a locking member at least substantially prevents a rotation of the driving wheel by the push-pull cable. This locking member comprises two cooperating locking parts, the first one of these locking parts being stationary and the second locking part, when at rest, being maintained in the locked position, while this second locking part can first be brought from its locked position into its released position with respect to the stationary locking part by means of an actuating member and can thereafter be rotated in the two opposite directions, which rotation is followed by the driving wheel.

Abstract: A latching device for a security gate of the type used at the entrance of subterranean garages for apartments or condominiums or secured storage rental areas is disclosed which is mechanically actuated by operation of the motor drive system to open the security gate. The latching device effectively prevents the security gate from being forced open, and in one embodiment includes a mechanism for preventing manual disengagement of the latch from attempts to force the gate laterally until the latch disengages. The latching device of the present invention is substantially cheaper than other security gate locking devices, as well as being highly reliable and wear-resistant.

Abstract: The invention relates to a safety device for an interlocking mechanism between two sealed enclosures such as found in biological or nuclear environments and which prevents accidental opening of one or the other of two doors closing off the enclosures, which prevents leakage from the enclosures and which may be readily retrofitted to an existing locking system. The locking system comprises a locking ring (36) rotatable between an inoperative position and a locking position for locking the two enclosures and an operating lever for locking the two doors. The safety device includes two locking mechanisms electrically controlled by four prepositioned detection means on the form of microswitches for locking and unlocking the two locking mechanisms.

Abstract: A door and latch sequencing mechanism includes a door member 10 hingedly mounted along one edge to an aperture defined by body walls 12, for movement between open and closed positions. The door member 10 pivotally carries a latch 13 for movement between latched and unlatched positions. A crank member 16 turnable about a fixed axis is connected by a first connecting rod 18 to the door member and by a contracting linkage 19, 20, 21 to the latch member. The first connecting rod, contracting linkage and crank member are arranged so that turning of the crank member in the appropriate single sense sequentially(a) maintains the door member in its closed position or moves it to a temporary position remote from the open position,(b) unlatches the latch, and(c) opens the door member.

Abstract: A refuse compaction apparatus including a container for storing refuse under pressure, a tailgate rotatably mounted on the container for movement between an opened and a closed position. The tailgate in its opened position permits refuse to be discharged from the container and the tailgate in its closed position forms a closure with the storage container. In maintaining the tailgate in its closed position, a latch member is engageable with a keeper member with means to provide rotational movement of the latch member into a position to make contact with the keeper member. After rotational movement of the latch member, means are provided to cause translational movement of the latch member into contact with the keeper member to maintain the tailgate in a closed position.

Abstract: There is provided an assembly for opening and closing a closure lid of a grain bin or silo from a remote position, such as ground level. When a flexible cord or cable connected to the upper end of a lower lever is operatively pulled there is relative pivotal movement between this lower lever and an upper lever against the influence of a spring acting therebetween, with a latch arm the upper end of which is pivotally connected through an operating arm to the upper end of the upper lever being initially pivotted relative to the closure lid to move a latch member presented by the latch arm out of engagement with a fixed bracket member with resilient deformation of a relatively stiff but resiliently deformable strip connected between the closure lid and the operating arm. Thereafter, the closure lid is pivotally raised about a fixed pivot axis thereof. Releasing of the cord or cable results in the closure lid being urged under the influence of the spring pivotally to be lowered to its closed condition.

Abstract: A remote controlled automobile door opening system having solenoid assemblies for unlocking, unlatching and partially opening the automobile door in response to a remote radio signal. The unlocking, unlatching and partial opening of the door occur sequentially after the radio signal is received.

Abstract: A pair of four-bar linkages employing lost motion incorporated into an aircraft door construction which simultaneously are operable by a main door handle so that the output crank of each linkage has a dwell which is sequenced such that the operation of the associated latches and door hinges are properly timed and sequenced for opening and closing of the door.

Abstract: A trailer and a demountable container for transporting loose products or refuse is disclosed herein. The container has an internal ejector slidable over its entire length for ejecting the contents therein. The trailer has mounted on its bed a centering relief longitudinally positioning the container, a pin engaging an aperture in the front of the container holds the container in a lateral position, and a hydraulic ram for moving the internal ejector from the front of the container to the rear. A guide, part on the trailer bed and part in the container, supports the hydraulic ram at intermediate points along its length to prevent the ram from bending or buckling as it is being extended. Coupling and alignment of the mechanical parts and hydraulic ram is insured automatically with the placement of the container on the bed of the trailer.

Abstract: A releasable door hold-open device or assembly is mounted on the header over a door panel. The assembly has a track channel with a top web and depending flanges. A door panel connector arm has a traveller movable in the track channel. A solenoid operates a detent in the track channel near the hinge end of the traveller path. A conductor channel is fastened to the top web and communicates with the track channel through an opening. A connector block releasably adjoins the track channel and the conductor channel at the hinge end thereof. A smoke detector underlies the connector channel at the other end of the track channel. Conductors from outside extend through the connector block, through connecting plugs in the block and track channel and to the solenoid and through the conductor channel to the smoke detector.

Abstract: Garage door assemblies having a frame for receiving a door mounted for over head swinging movement and a spring element as an energy storing member which compensates for at least a part of the weight of the door. For the transfer of the force of the spring element to the door, there is provided a lever system including a lever capable of pivoting between a first position in which the spring force has a low leverage and a second position in which the spring force has an increased leverage sufficient to provide a turning moment capable of swinging the door. The lever is retained in its first position by a releasable locking device.

Abstract: The side, end or floor of a house trailer is provided with an opening when being constructed or cut thereinto if completed which is closed by an escape door. The latching mechanism is constructed for rapid opening in case an occupant must hurriedly escape from the trailer interior. This may be caused by someone forcing entrance into the trailer, by fire, by failure of the trailer door to open or for any other reason where the occupant is away from the door and must leave the trailer on very short notice. The door is preferably spring pressed, hinged at the bottom and approximately seven feet long and 28 inches high. The door is latched by a releasable latching mechanism which is operated by pushing on an adjacent knob to open an area through the wall or floor of a size to permit the occupant to crawl or roll through the opening to escape from the trailer interior.

Abstract: A casement operator for a window has a deployment linkage connectable between the window frame and the base and operable to cause movement of the window sash. A gear drive drives the deployment linkage, which coacts with a sash lock and a lock linkage having a window-actuated trigger. A plurality of rigid links are in pivotal engagement with the deployment linkage and in driving engagement with the gear drive, and a tie rod is disposed intermediate the rigid links and the sash lock. A trip lever with a trigger extending beyond the window frame is pivotally secured to the base and engageable with the lock linkage for restricting the movement of said lock linkage during a non-locking mode of operation of the operator.

Abstract: A window operator has a prime mover for opening and closing of a window, with the prime mover being drivingly connected to a drive output member through an intermediate gear structure. A clutch device in the drive structure senses the torque applied to the drive output member in a window closing operation and a switch operable by the clutch is effective to deenergize the prime mover when the torque applied to the output member reaches a predetermined value. The switch can be adjustably located relative to the clutch whereby the predetermined value at which the motor will be deenergized may be varied in order to obtain a desired tension on a member connected to the closed sash of the window, such as a chain connected to the sash of a skylight window.