Abstract: A swinging door hinge has a panel and a frame. The frame includes a horizontal portion, and the horizontal portion has an aperture therethrough. An elongated pivot pin is vertically disposed through the aperture. The pivot pin is coupled to the panel such that the pivot pin and the panel rotate about a longitudinal axis of the pivot pin relative to the horizontal portion of the frame. A gripper feature is located on a surface of the pivot pin. The gripper feature engages a corresponding surface on the panel such that when the panel is rotated, a resulting torsional force transferred to the pivot pin is spread over contact area between the gripper feature and the surface of the panel. Because the torque is transferred over a greater area, stress concentrations in the panel are reduced and the panel is not deformed.

Abstract: A swinging door hinge has a panel and a frame. The frame includes a horizontal portion, and the horizontal portion has an aperture therethrough. An elongated pivot pin is vertically disposed through the aperture. The pivot pin is coupled to the panel such that the pivot pin and the panel rotate about a longitudinal axis of the pivot pin relative to the horizontal portion of the frame. A gripper feature is located on a surface of the pivot pin. The gripper feature engages a corresponding surface on the panel such that when the panel is rotated, a resulting torsional force transferred to the pivot pin is spread over a contact area between the gripper feature and the surface of the panel. Because the torque is transferred over a greater area, stress concentrations in the panel are reduced and the panel is not deformed.

Abstract: An apparatus for selectively raising, lowering or otherwise moving load such or panel, or other article such as a pet door comprises a frame, a panel, a motor, a constant tension spring, and a control system. The panel is carried by the frame for movement between an open position and a closed position. The spring is attached to the panel to bias the panel open. The frame includes a plurality of groves retaining seals such as fibrous weatherseal to seal the interface between the panel and the frame against penetration by the elements. The control system is in communication with the motor to actuate the motor, thereby moving the panel with the assistance of the spring. The control system includes an antenna in the panel for emitting a low frequency (RFID) signal, and a fob that is worn by a pet to communicate with the antenna to actuate the motor.