Torsion Spring Patents (Class 16/308)
  • Patent number: 8302261
    Abstract: A hinge comprises a rotatable bracket, a fixed bracket, a torsion spring, a locknut element and a shaft penetrating through the rotatable bracket, the fixed bracket, the spring and the locknut element. The rotatable bracket forms a through hole therein. The hinge further comprises an elastic hook and a driving element. The elastic hook is inserted into the through hole of the rotatable bracket to lock the electronic device when the electronic device is closed. A driving element mounted in the main body receives an operation of the user to push the elastic hook out of the through hole in order to open the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xian-Wei Ma, Ting Luo
  • Patent number: 8266764
    Abstract: A hinge for a packaging or cargo box or the like, having a first and a second hinge leaf, the second hinge leaf has a first bushing and a second bushing located at a distance therefrom, between which a bushing of the first hinge leaf can be rotated about a mutual hinge axis. An axial tube is rotationally fixed to the bushing of the first hinge leaf and is pivot-supported in the bushings of the second hinge leaf. A torsion spring is disposed in the axial tube and attached to one end of the axial tube. A torque support connects the other end of the torsion spring to the second hinge leaf in a rotationally fixed manner. A damper for the hinge movement is connected to the second hinge leaf and the axial tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: SFS intec Holding AG
    Inventors: Sascha Costabel, Olav Schendel
  • Patent number: 8245354
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a shaft, a cam, a follower, and an resilient member. The follower is mounted on the shaft. One end of the follower has a first cam surface. The first cam surface defines a groove. The cam is mounted on the shaft and adjacent to the follower. The cam has a second cam surface, and the second cam surface engages with the first cam surface. The second cam surface forms a protrusion, and the protrusion is received in the groove. The resilient member is placed around the shaft forcing the first cam surface to engage with the second cam surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignees: Shenzhen Futaihong Precision Industry Co., Ltd., FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Chao Duan, Chia-Hua Chen
  • Publication number: 20120162864
    Abstract: In one embodiment an electronic device comprises a housing having a first section comprising a display and a second section comprising a keyboard coupled to the first section by a hinge assembly and an automatic hinge opening assembly for the housing. The automat hinge opening assembly comprises a hinge pin assembly mountable to the first section of the housing of the electronic device a pin rotatable about an axis between a first position and a second position and a hinge plate coupled to the pin and connectable to a hinge which connects the first section of the housing to a second section of the housing, and at least one torsion member coupled to the pin to apply a torque to the pin, wherein the torsion member is to store potential energy when the first section of the housing and the second section of the housing are in a closed position. Other embodiments may be described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: JERED H. WIKANDER, SHAWN S. MCEUEN, MARK MACDONALD, ROBERT W. WOLCOTT
  • Patent number: 8205300
    Abstract: A hinge structure includes a first bracket, a fastener, a second bracket and a resilient member. The fastener is secured on the first bracket. The second bracket is rotatably fixed on the first bracket about the fastener. The second bracket is set in a first position near the first bracket. The resilient member is mounted around the fastener to bias the first bracket towards the second bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wan-Cheng Lin, Zhong-Qun Li
  • Publication number: 20120145337
    Abstract: An overhead door with spring-loaded roller hinges that push the door against its frame or weather stripping to provide an effective weather and thermal seal when the door is closed. The spring-loaded roller hinges are readily retrofit to overhead doors with conventional roller hinges. Each hinge spaces and pivotally secures a roller hub from the base of the hinge. The roller hub is pivotally secured to an inside flange and movably held by an elongated slot in an outer flange. The roller hub supportingly receives the axle of a wheel that rollingly engages a track fixed to the vertical sides of the door frame. Each roller hinge has a spring that biases its roller hub and wheel rearwardly against the fixed track, which pushes the door panels forward and into sealing engagement with the door frame or its weather stripping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: Lester L. Mortier
  • Publication number: 20120099249
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a first cam, a second cam, a third cam, at least one resilient member and a shaft. The first cam includes an outer cam surface and an inner cam surface. The third cam is slidably received in the second cam, and the second cam and the third cam respectively engage with the outer cam surface and the inner cam surface. The resilient member provides an elastic force making the third cam and the second cam abut against the first cam. The shaft extends through the first cam, the second cam, the third cam and the at least one resilient member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Applicants: FIH (Hong Kong) Limited, SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: CHAO DUAN, CHIA-HUA CHEN
  • Patent number: 8161603
    Abstract: A hinge according to the present invention includes: a housing; a shaft received in the inside of the housing; a guide member linearly moving along the shaft; and a first elastic member compressed and expanded along the movement of the guide member, wherein any one of the guide member and the housing is formed with a track groove and the other is formed with a guide projection moving the track groove and, the track groove is formed to move the guide projection to different paths according to a forward rotation and a reverse rotation of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Sang-Ho Park, Ki-Hoon Song, Kil-Seok Jeong, Jeong-Ho Shin
  • Publication number: 20120050956
    Abstract: A sliding hinge is mounted between a cover and a body of an electronic device and has a bracket, a linking panel, a slide and a connecting wire. The bracket is attached securely to the cover. The linking panel is attached securely to the body and is mounted slidably on the bracket. The slide is mounted slidably on the bracket. The connecting wire is wound around a fulcrum of the bracket and respectively connects to the linking panel and the slide. The cable of the electronic device is mounted through the slide. When the cover slides relative to the body, the slide and the linking panel relatively move in opposite directions. Therefore, the cable is folded to keep taut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: SHIN ZU SHING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chih-Cheng CHANG, Cheng-Syue Wu, Ruei-Lin Jhu
  • Publication number: 20120039028
    Abstract: A mobile terminal of a slide type having a dual display is disclosed, by which if an open configuration has been entered after sequential completion of slidable and rotary movements, two displays are located on the same plane in an open configuration to provide various user interface environments. The present invention includes a first body, a second body slidably connected to the first body, and a slide hinge module configured to guide a slidable movement of the second body on the first body to open the first body, the slide hinge module configured to guide a rotary movement of the second body against the first body in case of an open configuration of a partial region of the first body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventors: Zhi Min CHOO, Young In PARK
  • Publication number: 20120005860
    Abstract: A hinge mechanism includes a shaft with shaft portion, shaft sleeve, first torque spring, and first sliding member. The shaft sleeve defines a through hole for the shaft portion extending through, a slot extending substantially parallel to the through hole, and forms hooks extending from two opposite sides of the slot. The first sliding member goes over the shaft sleeve, and the first torque spring includes a first end fixed to the shaft and a second end extending through the slot and then fixed to the first sliding member. The first torque provides torque to prevent the shaft sleeve from rotating to the shaft. When the first sliding member is moved along the shaft sleeve to compress the first torque spring, the torque can be adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FU TAI HUA INDUSTRY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: SONG-YA CHEN
  • Publication number: 20120005861
    Abstract: Hinge (1) with one pivoting (2) and one fixed (3) hinge leaf, with a physical hinge axle (7) similar to a hollow cylinder which is common to both hinge leaves (2, 3) with an imaginary mathematical axis (4). The hinge axle (7) is connected unmovably to the pivoting (2) hinge leaf and mounted rotatably on a journal bearing (5-1, 5-2), the body of which journal bearing is connected rigidly with the fixed (3) hinge leaf. In the hinge axle (7) a spiral torsion spring (8) arranged, the first (8-1) of whose two ends is connected unmovably to the hinge axle (7) and the second (8-2) of whose two ends is connected via a worm-gear unit consisting of a worm wheel (9) and endless screw (6) to the journal-bearing body of the journal bearing (5-1). The worm wheel (9) is arranged in the journal bearing (5-1) to rotate around the axis (4) of the hinge axle (7) and is fixed permanently to the second (8-2) of the two ends of the spiral torsion spring (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: S-FASTENERS GMBH
    Inventors: BERNHARD HOMNER, DIMITRI SVYRSKY, ROBERT BONFERT
  • Publication number: 20110292605
    Abstract: A portable electronic device has a cover, a base and a heat-dissipating hinge. The heat-dissipating hinge has a cam and a foot. The cam is attached to the cover. The foot abuts the cam and protrudes out of the base. When the cover is opened, the cam is rotated to push the foot protruding out of the base and standing on the table. Therefore the base is elevated to easily dissipate heat so heat dissipation efficiency of the portable electronic device is increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: KUAN-CHIH CHEN, Chaio-Liang Tseng
  • Publication number: 20110271485
    Abstract: A control motion hinge, comprising a first leaf hinge with three knuckles to secure a first pin, wherein the two outer knuckles have roller knuckles, a link having a two knuckles on a first end to interlock with the first leaf hinge and a single knuckle on a second end, a second leaf hinge with two knuckles to secure a second pin when interlocked with the second end of the link, wherein the two knuckles of the second leaf hinge have a roller path for engaging the roller of the first leaf hinge, wherein such rollers traverse the roller path, a first spring device positioned between said first leaf hinge and said link to apply a force therebetween, and thus softly closing the door reducing the sound of closure during the final approach of the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Robert F. Irwin
  • Patent number: 8015665
    Abstract: A spring hinge comprises a frame leaf, door leaf, upper and lower tube sections to fixedly connect with frame leaf, and middle tube section to fixedly connect with door leaf, wherein middle tube section is internally made with a hydraulic damping speed reducing device; lower tube section is internally installed with a torsion spring device, wherein torsion spring being completely sleeved on the exterior of spindle rod is affixed to the spring seat at the lower end thereof, and an upper and lower clutching device is installed between middle tube section and torsion spring device thereby allowing middle tube section and torsion spring device to be separated or combinedly moved, wherein torsion spring and hydraulic damping speed reducing device are packagely used to close door slowly while releasing spring energy after closing to set angle to precisely close the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: Jiaoting Pan
  • Publication number: 20110163643
    Abstract: An appliance including a treatment container having a container door pivotable about a pivot axis, and a door-weight compensating device for at least partially compensating a weight of the container door. The door-weight compensating device may include a spring which is connected by a tension transmitter in a spring force transmitting manner to the container door. In an exemplary embodiment, the container door includes a deflector pivotally disposed about the pivot axis, the deflector having at least two sliding surfaces for deflecting the tension transmitter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERAETE GMBH
    Inventors: Dieter Hotz, Cengiz Kücük, Manfred Seeßle, Martin Stickel
  • Publication number: 20110162173
    Abstract: A clamp (20) includes a first barrel half (26) and second barrel half (28). A hinge pin (30) pivotally couples a first edge (38) of the first barrel half (26) with a third edge (46) of the second barrel half (28). A spring (96) imposes force on the barrel halves (26, 28) to bias a second edge (40) of the first barrel half (26) away from a fourth edge (48) of the first barrel half (28) to create a gap (34) between edges (40, 48), placing the clamp (20) in an open position (22). A handle (32) includes a base (80) that abuts an outer surface (54) of the barrel halves (26, 28) to compel the second edge (40) of the first barrel half (26) toward the fourth edge (48) of the first barrel half (28) to close the gap (34), placing the clamp (20) in a closed position (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventors: John Ciminski, Verl Edward Miller, James Hawthorne
  • Publication number: 20110133619
    Abstract: A hinge comprises a rotatable bracket, a fixed bracket, a torsion spring, a locknut element and a shaft penetrating through the rotatable bracket, the fixed bracket, the spring and the locknut element. The rotatable bracket forms a through hole therein. The hinge further comprises an elastic hook and a driving element. The elastic hook is inserted into the through hole of the rotatable bracket to lock the electronic device when the electronic device is closed. A driving element mounted in the main body receives an operation of the user to push the elastic hook out of the through hole in order to open the electronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD ., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: XIAN-WEI MA, TING LUO
  • Patent number: 7913357
    Abstract: An exemplary hinge positioning structure (20) includes a pair of first leaves (22), a pivot shaft (262) rotatably engaged in the pair of first leaves, and a pair of pivot shaft grippers (24) sleeved on the pivot shaft. An end of each pivot shaft gripper engaged with each of the first leaves respectively so that the end of each pivot shaft gripper is fixed relative to each of the first leaves. The hinge positioning structure further includes a resilient member (266), two ends of the resilient member connected to the pair of pivot shaft grippers respectively, and applying a force on the pair of pivot shaft grippers so that the pair of pivot shaft grippers tightly grip the pivot shaft, such that the pivot shaft is prevented from rotating relative to the first leaves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ying-Jun Peng, Jin-Xin Wang
  • Publication number: 20110042970
    Abstract: An apparatus secures a cover onto a housing of a portable electronic device. The apparatus has a first latch that is pivotally connected to the cover by a first hinge, so that in a first rotational position, the first latch contacts a first catch on the housing and in a second rotational position, the first latch is remote from the first catch. A second latch assembly has a second latch that is pivotally connected to the cover by a second hinge, so that in one rotational position, the second latch contacts a second catch on the housing and in another rotational position, the second latch is remote from the second catch. By squeezing the first and second latches between two fingers, a user is able to disengage those latches from the catches and remove the cover from the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventors: Vijai Rajagopal, James Carl Infanti, Timothy Herbert Kyowski
  • Patent number: 7887019
    Abstract: A support mechanism is adapted to support an upper body of an electronic element, and the upper body can be turned pivotally relative to a lower body of the electronic device. The support mechanism includes a base, a plate, a transmission shaft and a torsional force generating device, in which the base is fixed on the lower body and the plate is fixed on the upper body. Furthermore, the transmission shaft is passed through and installed on the base and the torsional force generating device is wound around the transmission shaft. One end of the torsional force generating device is extended outward and fixed on the plate so as to couple the base to the plate and process a pivotal turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Teco Image System Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Ming Te Yeh, Chien-Chung Tseng
  • Patent number: 7861375
    Abstract: A hinge assembly comprises a first hinge half, a second hinge half, a spring, and a pin passing through the spring joining the first hinge half and the second hinge half. The spring in turn comprises a coil body, a first spring arm extending from the coil body having a first distal end portion, a second spring arm extending from the coil body having a second distal end portion, a first support extending from the first distal end portion towards the first hinge half and bearing on the first hinge half, and a second support extending from the second distal end portion towards the second hinge half and bearing on the second hinge half.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: William Conway, Dikran Babikian, Douglas Murphy
  • Publication number: 20100325837
    Abstract: A remote control has lower and upper casings. A sliding hinge has a main bracket attached to the lower casing, a sliding bracket attached to the upper casing, two positioning assemblies mounted between the main bracket and the sliding bracket, multiple fasteners mounted through the sliding bracket, the positioning assemblies and elongated slots of the main bracket and two resilient components connected to the main bracket and the fasteners. The resilient components push the sliding bracket and selectively retain the sliding bracket securely at opposite ends of the elongated slots of the main bracket. The lower and the upper casings of the remote control do not collide with each other or with the main and the sliding brackets and therefore prevent localized wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: SHIN ZU SHING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chun-Jen Lu
  • Publication number: 20100321866
    Abstract: A moving mechanism is provided, including a torsion hinge, a slider, a lock member, and an elastic member disposed on the slider. The torsion hinge has a first plate and a second plate rotatable relative to each other. The lock member is rotatable relative to the first plate, and the slider is movably disposed on the second plate. When the moving mechanism is in a closed state, the lock member is engaged with a slot portion of the second plate, so as to restrict the second plate in a predetermined angle. When the slider slides relative to the second plate to a critical position, the elastic member pushes the lock member to release from the slot portion, such that the second plate is rotatable to an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventors: I-Cheng CHUANG, Ying-Xing Lee, Chien-Wei Huang, Ying-Yen Cheng, Ying-Hao Yeh
  • Publication number: 20100293750
    Abstract: A hinge provides swiveling of a display relative to one side of a host body including a first fastening seat, a pintle, a second fastening seat, a main torsion anchor member, a torsion rotary member, an ancillary torsion anchor member, a compressed elastic reed assembly and a nut. The main torsion anchor member and the torsion rotary member are compressed by a returning force of the compressed elastic reed assembly. When the pintle pivots to a selected angle, the protrusion rapidly slides in a retaining latch trough of the main torsion anchor member through a steep sloped surface so that the display automatically and fully folds over the host body. The torsion rotary member pivots concurrently so that the bulged edge slides on a gradual sloped surface of different gradients so that adequate friction resistance is generated due to compression of the returning force of the compressed elastic reed assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: SINHER TECHNOLOGY INC.
    Inventor: Yung-Chang Chiang
  • Publication number: 20100287734
    Abstract: A hinge structure includes a first bracket, a fastener, a second bracket and a resilient member. The fastener is secured on the first bracket. The second bracket is rotatably fixed on the first bracket about the fastener. The second bracket is set in a first position near the first bracket. The resilient member is mounted around the fastener to bias the first bracket towards the second bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD ., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: WAN-CHENG LIN, ZHONG-QUN LI
  • Publication number: 20100275412
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a first bracket, a second bracket, a damping member, and a torsion resilient member. The first bracket defines a damping protrusion. The second bracket is rotatable relative to the first bracket. The damping member defines a depression. The damping protrusion is configured to engage with the depression. The torsion resilient member urges the first bracket to rotate relative to the second bracket and the damping member. The engagement of damping protrusion and the depression prevents the first bracket from rotating when the first bracket rotates through a predetermined angle. When the first bracket rotates through the predetermined angle relative to the second bracket and the damping member, the first bracket together with the damping member are rotatable relative to the second bracket to any desired angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO.,LTD.
    Inventors: JIN-XIN WANG, LIAN-CHENG HUANG, JIAN LI, GUO-JIN CAI
  • Publication number: 20100269294
    Abstract: A hinge, particularly for movable pieces of furniture, having at least two stop parts connected in an articulated manner, which is to say a hinge arm and a hinge cup, for fastening to pieces of furniture, having a damping device for damping the hinge movement, and having a restoring mechanism, by which an actuating element of the damping device can be moved into a starting position for the next damping stroke after damping has taken place, the damping device and the restoring mechanism being disposed as separate components on the hinge cup, characterized in that the damping device, which has no restoring mechanism, is disposed on a lateral wall of the hinge cup, and that the restoring mechanism is disposed on an opposing lateral wall of the hinge cup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventor: Bernhard KRAMMER
  • Publication number: 20100236022
    Abstract: The present invention provides a simple connecting mechanism disposed between a stationary body and a movable body to simply change relative positions and attitudes of the movable body with respect to the stationary body, and it is possible to simply manufacture a sunvisor, an armrest, a portable table by using the mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: QLT CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chang Seop Lee
  • Patent number: 7743466
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a labor-saving pivotal shaft structure, comprising a fixed part and a movable part, wherein the movable part and the fixed part produce a frictional torque therebetween to provide the movable part with the functions of rotating, arresting, and positioning relative to the fixed part; and a torsion rod which is a rigid rod, whose one end is mounted onto the fixed part; such that the fixed part is connected to a main frame and the movable part as well as the other end of the torsion rod are respectively connected to a cover frame, and thus when the cover frame is being closed down, the fixed part is in a fixed condition and the torsion rod and the cover frame rotate together, leading to the torsion rod being in a twisted condition of storing energy; whereas when the cover frame is being opened up, the stored energy of the torsion rod is released to provide an auxiliary force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Jarllytec Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chung-Ho Tu, Chia-Cheng Chen
  • Publication number: 20100127137
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a main body, a cover, and two support legs. The main body defines two receiving portions. The cover is rotatably connected to the main body. Two resisting portions are formed on the cover. The support legs are rotatably received in the receiving portions of the main body respectively. When the cover rotates relative to the main body, the resisting portions resist the support legs to rotate, thus driving the support legs protruding out from the main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY(ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: WEI-JUN WANG
  • Patent number: 7716786
    Abstract: A slide hinge is connected a cover to a base of a portable electronic device and has a stationary bracket, two pivot members, a sliding bracket and two torsion springs. The pivot members are mounted rotatably on the sliding bracket and are mounted to the base. The sliding bracket is mounted slidably on the stationary bracket and is mounted to the cover. The torsion springs are connected between the stationary bracket and the sliding bracket and each torsion spring multiple looped segments. The torsion springs with the looped segments provide an excellent resilient force to position the stationary bracket in one edge of the sliding bracket and therefore stably hold the cover in opened or closed positions without inadvertently sliding relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Bin Shen
  • Publication number: 20100096518
    Abstract: A support stand for a flat-panel display monitor includes a rotatable bracket, a hinge assembly, a base member, a first link bracket, and a second link bracket. The first and second link brackets are rotatably assembled between the rotatable bracket and the support member via the hinge assembly. The rotatable bracket defines a pivot hole, and a guiding notch communicating with the pivot hole. The hinge assembly includes a pivotal shaft, and a positioning washer sleeved on the pivotal shaft. The pivotal shaft is engaged in the pivot hole of the rotatable bracket from the guiding notch. The positioning washer is fixed on the rotatable bracket to prevent the pivotal shaft from disengaging from the pivot hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) Co., LTD, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: TIE-ZHU WANG, FAN ZHOU, GUO-QI ZHANG, YU-CHENG CHOU
  • Patent number: 7699378
    Abstract: A motion assist hinge mechanism includes a first and second hinge part mounted to the tailgate and vehicle body, respectively. The first hinge part includes a first cam having a sloped engagement surface engaged with a sloped engagement surface of a second cam of the second hinge part, under the bias of a resilient member, for moving axially along a pivot axis. The second cam is fixed to the vehicle body against pivotal movement relative to the pivot axis. When the tailgate is moved from a lowered, open position towards a raised, closed position, the resilient member translates a torque assisting force to the tailgate. The surface of the second cam may also include a detent that mates with the surface of the first cam to lock the tailgate at an angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Ventra Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. J. Smith, Bradley F. Patzer, Stanislav Magovski
  • Publication number: 20100083467
    Abstract: A portable electronic device includes a main portion, a display portion and a hinge module. The display portion is pivotally connected with the main portion by the hinge module. A first hinge member has one end secured to the main portion. A second hinge member has one end, pivotally connected with the other end of the first hinge member, and the other end secured to the display portion, wherein the second hinge member comprises a guide slot. A resilient member is disposed around the other end of the first hinge member. The resilient member includes a fastening end and an actuation end. The fastening end is secured to the first hinge member. The actuation end is disposed within the guide slot of the second hinge member. The guide slot is operable to drive the actuation end so as to deform the resilient member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: ASUSTEK COMPUTER INC.
    Inventors: Pao-Tung Weng, Chih-Ho Hsieh, Mei-Fan Chou
  • Publication number: 20100065705
    Abstract: A support arm having a proximate support arm segment, a distal support arm segment, and a hinge system having a proximate end pivotally connected to the proximate support arm segment at a proximate pivot, and a distal end pivotally connected to the distal support arm segment at a distal pivot. A tensile member having a first end and a second end, has the first end extending into and secured at a termination point on or beyond either the proximate support arm segment or the distal support arm segment, and the second end extending into and secured at a termination point on or beyond either the proximate support arm segment or the distal support arm segment. The tensile member thereby biases one or both of the proximate support arm segment and the distal support arm segment with respect to the hinge system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventors: Garrett W. Brown, Anthony D. Sacksteder
  • Publication number: 20100050383
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a frame having a protrusion, a support, and a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly rotatably connects the frame and the support. The hinge assembly includes an elastic member providing a force pulling the frame and the support to move towards each other. The protrusion of the frame and the support cooperatively support the electronic device on a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO. LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: JIN-XIN WANG, CHAO-ZHONG FU, JIAN LI, LI-JUN YUAN
  • Publication number: 20100027204
    Abstract: An electronic device and a method for using the same are provided. The electronic device includes a first body, a torsion hinge, and a second body. The first body has a first magnetic component. The torsion hinge is slidably disposed on the first body. The second body is connected to the torsion hinge and has a second magnetic component. The second magnetic component magnetically attracts the first magnetic component when the torsion hinge is located at a first position, and enables the first body and the second body to be in a folded state. The second magnetic component separates from the first magnetic component, and the torsion hinge drives the second body to rotate relative to the first body when the torsion hinge leaves the first position, so as to enable the first body and the second body to be in an unfolded state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: HTC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Meng-Sheng Chiang
  • Patent number: 7628443
    Abstract: A self-engaging rod retaining clip assembly for retaining a rod and a method of retaining the rod to a vehicle closure support component is disclosed. The self-engaging rod retaining clip assembly holds a rod retaining clip in a desired position on a vehicle closure support component until the rod is installed. Installing the rod includes pressing the rod against a rod pivoting flange, which causes clip retention flanges to flex outward around a clip support arm until the rod is sufficiently retained inside a rod channel in the support component. The clip retention flanges then snap towards each other to retain the clip, and hence the rod, in the support component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary W. Krajenke
  • Publication number: 20090288271
    Abstract: A hinge mechanism for deploying a vehicle pedestrian protection system is provided, including a first hinge element, a second hinge element, and a biasing mechanism. The hinge mechanism also includes a closed position and an open position, where at least a portion of the first hinge element and at least a portion of the second hinge element separate from one another when the hinge mechanism is urged from the closed position to the open position. The biasing mechanism exerts a biasing force. A first biasing position is defined where the biasing force is exerted at the first and second hinge elements for retaining the hinge mechanism in the closed position. A second biasing position is defined where the hinge mechanism is in the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventors: Ryan F. Kmieciak, Christoph Meese
  • Publication number: 20090265889
    Abstract: A spring hinge comprises a frame leaf, door leaf, upper and lower tube sections to fixedly connect with frame leaf, and middle tube section to fixedly connect with door leaf, wherein middle tube section is internally made with a hydraulic damping speed reducing device; lower tube section is internally installed with a torsion spring device, wherein torsion spring being completely sleeved on the exterior of spindle rod is affixed to the spring seat at the lower end thereof, and an upper and lower clutching device is installed between middle tube section and torsion spring device thereby allowing middle tube section and torsion spring device to be separated or combinedly moved, wherein torsion spring and hydraulic damping speed reducing device are packagely used to close door slowly while releasing spring energy after closing to set angle to precisely close the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Jiaoting PAN
  • Publication number: 20090255090
    Abstract: A hinge assembly and a mobile terminal are disclosed. The hinge assembly can include: a torsion spring; a shaft, which penetrates through the torsion spring; a bushing, coupled to one end of the torsion spring and to one side of the shaft; a holder, which is coupled to the other end of the torsion spring, and which the shaft penetrates through; a sliding cam, which is coupled to the other side of the shaft, and which may move in linkage with the shaft; a fixed cam, which engages the sliding cam; a compression spring, which is positioned between the holder and the sliding cam, and which may place the sliding cam in close contact with the fixed cam; and a housing coupled to the holder and the fixed cam. Thus, the mobile terminal can be unfolded automatically using just a few number of parts without requiring energy consumption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRO-MECHANICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Seong-Geun Kim, Sung-Tai Jung, Ga-Young An, Yun-Mo Kang
  • Publication number: 20090255091
    Abstract: A hinge assembly can include: a torsion spring; a shaft, which penetrates through the torsion spring; a bushing, coupled to one end of the torsion spring and one side of the shaft; a holder, which is coupled to the other end of the torsion spring; a housing coupled to the holder; and a damper, which is coupled to the shaft, and which may dampen a rotation speed of the shaft. The damper can include: a first case, which is coupled to the shaft to move in linkage with the shaft; a second case, rotatably coupled to the first case; a viscous fluid, placed between the first case and the second case; and a stopper, which is coupled to the housing and configured to restrict the rotation angle of the second case. Thus, a mobile terminal may be unfolded automatically using a few number of parts without requiring energy consumption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRO-MECHANICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sung-Tai Jung, Yun-Mo Kang, Seong-Geun Kim, Ga-Young An
  • Publication number: 20090241289
    Abstract: A hinge apparatus having an automatic return function for building materials is provided, in which a return spring is removed to thereby offer a closing force of each door with only a torsion spring. The hinge apparatus includes an upper body; a lower body; a shaft whose lower end portion is rotatably installed in the lower body; a piston whose outer circumference is slidably installed along the inner surface of the lower body”, a rotational/linear motion converter which converts a rotational motion of the shaft into an axial linear motion of the piston according to rotation of the door; a damping unit which provides a damping function selectively where the piston ascends according to return of the door; a torsion spring which rotates the shaft in the direction returning the door at the closing time; and a clutch unit for stopping an increment of an elastic force due to reverse twisting of the spring where an opening angle reaches a clutch stop start angle, or for restoring the elastic force of the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Soon Woo Choi, Chan Ho Hong
  • Patent number: 7594303
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a first body, a second body, a pivot set for hinging the second body to the first body and a torsion spring. The pivot set includes a pivot seat and a pivot extending from the pivot seat. The pivot seat is detachably secured to the first body. The pivot rotatably extends into the second body. The torsion spring includes a fixing end thereof fixed to the second body, and a sliding end thereof slidably pressing against the first body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shen Zhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: He-Li Wang, Xiang-Hui Zhang, Wen-Jie Bao
  • Publication number: 20090205168
    Abstract: A hinge assembly and a portable electronic device are provided. The portable electronic device includes a lid, a main body, and a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly pivotly connects the lid to the main body. The hinge assembly includes a pivot element, a torsion spring, and a hinge brace. The pivot element is formed on the lid and partially and rotatably received in the main body. The torsion spring is assembled between the lid and the main body. When the lid is in a closed position with respect to the main body, the torsion spring becomes constricted and accumulates potential energy. When the lid is opened from the main body, the potential energy of the torsion spring is released to drive the lid to rotate to an open position with respect to the main body. The hinge brace is attached to the main body for blocking an excessive rotation of the lid with respect to the main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shi-Kun GUO, Jin-Feng LIU, Qia-Kai XIE
  • Publication number: 20090199364
    Abstract: The present application is directed to a hinge for a clamshell-type wireless communication device or other electronic device. In one embodiment, the communication device includes a base portion and a flip portion. A hinge mechanism movably couples the flip portion to the base portion so that the flip portion may pivot between a closed position and an open position. The hinge mechanism comprises first and second hinge parts, an indexing pin, and a spring. The indexing pin is rotatable relative to the first hinge part about a pivot axis. Additionally, the indexing pin is movable axially along the pivot axis. The second hinge part is non-rotatably engaged with the indexing pin and is rotatable about the pivot axis relative to the first hinge part between closed and open positions. The spring applies both an axial force and a rotational force to the indexing pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB
    Inventor: Gregory S. Patterson
  • Publication number: 20090175588
    Abstract: A fiber distribution terminal system includes a below ground vault, and a terminal enclosure positioned within the vault. The system also includes a lift system positioned within the vault, the lift system including at least one torsion member, wherein, as the terminal enclosure is pivoted from a lifted position to a below ground position, the torsion member stores potential energy, and wherein, as the terminal enclosure is pivoted from the below ground position to the lifted position, the torsion member releases the potential energy to assist in pivoting the terminal enclosure to the lifted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: ADC TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: James J. Brandt, Trevor D. Smith, Michael Kenneth Barth, Glen Cordle
  • Publication number: 20090151119
    Abstract: A slide hinge is connected a cover to a base of a portable electronic device and has a stationary bracket, two pivot members, a sliding bracket and two torsion springs. The pivot members are mounted rotatably on the sliding bracket and are mounted to the base. The sliding bracket is mounted slidably on the stationary bracket and is mounted to the cover. The torsion springs are connected between the stationary bracket and the sliding bracket and each torsion spring multiple looped segments. The torsion springs with the looped segments provide an excellent resilient force to position the stationary bracket in one edge of the sliding bracket and therefore stably hold the cover in opened or closed positions without inadvertently sliding relative to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Wen-Bin Shen
  • Patent number: RE41560
    Abstract: An automotive closure panel which is rotatable about a pivot axis has an axial locator insert situated within a pivot bearing insert bore to set a margin extending between the closure panel and a vehicle body. This system is particularly useful for closure panels such as tailgates having torsion bar or motorized lift assist, because such systems are not easily disassembled for the purpose of setting the closure panel margins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Scott G. Miller, Jeff A. Firzlaff