Abstract: The device includes a coiled extension spring, one end containing a hook for pivotal attachment either to the door or door frame, the other end being open to receive an elongated, tubular guide, one end of which threads into the open end of the spring. The other end of the guide is closed and contains a coaxial aperture through which slides an elongated rod having one end adapted for pivotal attachment to the other of the door or door frame and a piston attached to its second end which is slidably-retained within the guide to position the rod during relative coaxial sliding of the rod and guide, and to stop the rod against further protractive movement when the piston abuts the closed end of the guide. Camming surfaces located radially on the piston cooperate with opposing follower means in the guide, of which two embodiments are disclosed, to clamp the piston in the most extensive position of the rod, which clamping action can be overcome by a retractive force of the rod of a predetermined amount.

Abstract: A self-closing door is disclosed being hinged at the top and at the bottom to swing between open and closed positions. A torque rod is aligned in the pivot axis of the door and is anchored at the bottom to a device secured to the cabinet frame. This device receives the end of the torque rod and serves as both the bottom hinge socket for the door's hinge pin associated with the torque rod assembly and as the bottom anchor for the torque rod. This device is provided with a worm wheel adjustable by a worm to provide the desired torque to the torque rod. The device is also provided with an apparatus to laterally adjust the bottom hinge socket so as to adjust the vertical alignment of the door's pivot axis to compensate for sag in the door and to insure that the horizontal frame members of the door are aligned with the cabinet.

Abstract: A hinge pin is described for an appliance door which combines the functions of a plug-in, mechanical hinge pin and bearing member for the door, adaptable for either right-hand or left-hand opening doors, with that of an electrical connector to bring power into the door without the need of a separate, external service loop to the door. A frame-mounted mating receptacle is provided in the combination for sliding engagement of the hinge pin and plug with the appliance in two embodiments permitting a "universal", side-by-side mounting of two or more doors. Electrical connectors are included for engagement with the hinge pin and plug combination, both at the appliance frame and within the door.

Abstract: A structure adapted for use in a door of a refrigerated compartment. The door may include a plurality of panes of glass, a plurality of spacers for spacing the plurality of panes of glass so as to form an air space between each pair of panes of glass, a conductive coating applied to one surface of one of the panes of glass facing into the air space between the panes of glass, and an electrical circuit connected to the conductive coating on the coated surface of the pane of glass. The electrical circuit includes a portion which could otherwise be exposed to physical contact through the air space in the event of breakage of the coated or opposing pane of glass. The structure includes a portion for blocking physical contact with the portion of the electrical circuit which could otherwise be exposed. The structure further includes portions for connecting with the spacers in the door for securing the structure in the door.

Abstract: Apparatus is described for decreasing the frost-free recapture time of a multi-pane glazed door such as is used on refrigerated display cabinets, by selectively heating the innermost pane when it is exposed to high relative humidity conditions. An electric current is passed through an optically transparent electrically conductive layer on the unexposed surface of the innermost pane. This heats the pane to a temperature above the dew point of the ambient air.