Abstract: A joint for an orthotic apparatus is disclosed. The joint includes a main block having arc-shaped grooves formed on opposite sides and a pair of rails separated by each arc-shaped groove. The joint also includes a pair of carriers slidably mounted on the opposite sides of the main block, each carrier having a main rollers in rolling engagement with the arc-shaped groove and a plurality of side rollers adapted to roll on the rails. Attached to each carrier is an arc-shaped rack arranged concentrically with the arc-shaped groove and a base plate for connecting to a long leg supporting member. The joint further includes a pinion gear installed on a bottom part of the main block and in meshing engagement with each arc-shaped rack, and an electric motor for operating the pinion gear.

Abstract: An opening/closing device for a lid adapted to openably cover an opening of, for example, a trunk of a motorcar does not substantially project into the trunk when the lid is closed. An elongated guide slot extends along a side edge of the opening. A first arm member has one end fixedly secured to the lid and the other end slidably fitted in the guide slot. A second arm member has one end pivotably mounted on the first arm member or on the lid and the other end pivotably mounted on the side edge of the opening. The first and second arm members are adapted to be folded into positions substantially parallel to each other when the lid is closed.