Resiliently Biased Catch Patents (Class 16/321)
  • Patent number: 11235704
    Abstract: A rearview device for a vehicle includes a rearview device head, a rearview device base including a base frame, and a detent assembly which is configured to control rotation of the rearview device head with respect to the rearview device base. The detent assembly is configured to lock and unlock rotation of the rearview device head with respect to the rearview device base without vertical movement of the rearview device head with respect to the rearview device base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: Motherson Innovations Company Limited
    Inventors: Douglas James Wilson, Joel James Gough
  • Patent number: 11209042
    Abstract: A pivot fitting for moveable furniture parts on pieces of furniture has a first lever and a second lever mounted so as to pivot relative to each other about a common pivot axis from a basic position through a predetermined angle in an adjusting direction and a resetting direction, a latching mechanism, with which the two levers can be latched at different angular positions within the predetermined angle relative to each other counter to a force acting in the resetting direction, the levers being pivotable in the resetting direction when the latching mechanism is deactivated. A force-transmission shaft of the adjusting mechanism is coupled to the second level in a rotationally fixed manner. The latching mechanism can be deactivated by pivoting the second lever relative to the first lever in the adjusting direction when an end position has been reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2021
    Assignee: HETTICH FRANKE GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Oliver Nill
  • Patent number: 11131057
    Abstract: A laundry treating appliance for treating laundry items according to an automatic cycle of operation can include a cabinet defining an interior and having a top panel that at least partially defines an access opening to the interior. A lid is rotatable between a closed position and an opened position to selectively open or close the access opening. At least one hinge assembly couples the top panel with the lid. The at least one hinge assembly can include a hinge housing coupled to the top panel. A cam is received within the hinge housing and coupled to the lid. A snubber housing is coupled to the hinge housing and has a damper receiving portion. A damper is at least partially received within the damper receiving portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Iftkhar Ahamad, Raghavendran Prabhakaran, Neyda Eliza Leon Lopez
  • Patent number: 11009061
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hidden type split hinge. First and second curved tracks are provided on a curved seat body for respectively limiting a first and second curved blocks of first and second rotating members in a way of being relatively swung. First and second torsion units are symmetrical and adjacently provided to a first side of the curved seat body, and one end of the first and second torsion units is respectively provided with first and second pivoting holes, and the first and second pivoting holes are respectively in communication with first and second elongated opening holes, first and second tooth portions are respectively provided around peripheries of the first and second pivoting holes, and the first tooth portion is engaged with the second tooth portion, and the first and second pivoting hole are axially connected to the first and second shaft ends of a first lateral surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: Jarllytec Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jui-Hung Chang, Hsin-Chung Chang
  • Patent number: 10968671
    Abstract: A hinge assembly for a vehicle closure panel includes a body mounting member configured to mount the hinge assembly to a vehicle body, a closure panel mounting member configured to mount the hinge assembly to the vehicle closure panel and a hinge connecting arm pivotally connected by a first pivotal connection at a first end to the body mounting member and pivotally connected by a second pivotal connection at a second end to the closure panel mounting member. A first fastening member is movably received by the closure panel mounting member. A first stop member limits movement of the first fastening member in a first direction toward the closure panel mounting member. A second stop member limits movement of the first fastening member in a second direction away from the closure panel mounting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignees: Nissan North America, Inc., Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Debraj Dey, Scott Watson, David Kovie, Ryohei Moriya
  • Patent number: 10858072
    Abstract: A frame for a top of a boat that can be moved between a deployed position and a collapsed position with the aid of an articulated top assist mechanism such that the manual effort required to move the top between the collapsed position and deployed position is minimized or eliminated. The articulated top assist mechanism has a torque hub attached to a frame element of the top and a spring that applies torque to the hub by a strap attached to the hub and the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: Dowco, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Riordan, Jon Alexander, Robert Bartelsmeyer, Bhavana Crossland
  • Patent number: 10492923
    Abstract: An implant (500, 600) includes first and second arms (14a, 14b) hinged to a base (12) at spaced-apart locations. An actuator (18, 22a, 22b, 602, 604, 606) is deployed to rotate the arms from an initial position in opposing angular motion towards a final position. A rigid bridging element (28) bridges between the arms so that deployment of the arms towards the final position displaces the bridging element away from the base. Engagement between the bridging element and at least one of the arms is via a double pin-in-slot engagement in which two non-collinear pins (30, 40) are engaged in respective non-parallel slots (32, 42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: SEASPINE, INC.
    Inventors: Gal Zur, Haim Yustein
  • Patent number: 10225385
    Abstract: A mobile terminal having a display unit configured to be expanded or contracted in at least one direction, a housing disposed at a lower part of the display unit and formed to enclose electrical components and a case covering a rear surface of the housing is provided. The case includes at least two divided cases separate from each other, and, when at least one of the divided cases moves in a first direction relative to another one of the divided cases, the display unit is expanded and contracted in response to the movement of the at least one divided case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Choonghwan Shin, Byunghwa Lee, Yongho Lee
  • Patent number: 9820586
    Abstract: The showcase has a hinge comprising a fixed element, associated with the container body, a mobile element, intended to be associated with the door, and a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod hinged between the fixed element and the mobile element, so as to obtain an articulated quadrilateral adapted for causing a roto-translation of the fixed element with respect to the mobile element between an open position and a closed position of the hinge. The hinge also comprises a hook, associated with one from the fixed element and the mobile element and adapted for cooperating in a releasable manner with engagement means associated with the other from the fixed element and the mobile element, so as to counteract the movement of the mobile element away from the fixed element when the hinge is in closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: GOPPION S.P.A.
    Inventor: Alessandro Goppion
  • Patent number: 9759000
    Abstract: Disclosed is a hinge including: a first hinge component including: a first external surface for securing to a first structure; and a first magnetic element; and a second hinge component, pivotally coupled to the first hinge component, including: a second external surface for securing to a second structure; and a second magnetic element. A magnetic force between the first and second magnetic elements bias the first and second hinge components toward a retained position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Christopher Stuart
  • Patent number: 9645659
    Abstract: The present application provides an electronic device having a first operating mode and a second operating mode, and including a body; a first rotating structure connected with the body; a supporting part connected with the body via the first rotating structure; a second rotating structure; a base connected with the supporting part via the second rotating structure. Specifically, the body is substantially perpendicular to the base when the electronic device is in the first operating mode; and the body is substantially parallel to the base when the electronic device is in the second operating mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignees: Beijing Lenovo Software Ltd., Lenovo (Beijing) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhe Yang, Changyu Sun, Ning Le, Liyuan Gan, Fenglang Li
  • Patent number: 9631412
    Abstract: A door operator for opening and/or for closing a door includes a housing, an output shaft with a cam disc, and a first piston guided in the housing, which first piston bears against the cam disc. The output shaft includes a first axle body supported in the housing. The first axle body is connected to the cam disc in a torque-proof manner by a first plug-in connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: DORMA DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Alexander Hellwig, Sabine Wiemann, Thomas Salutzki
  • Patent number: 9549479
    Abstract: Technologies are generally described for a kickstand or similar support device connection mechanism in conjunction with computing devices. A substantially constant gap may be maintained between the kickstand and the device enclosure across the hinge rotation spectrum allowing the hinge and/or the kickstand to be level with the device enclosure. The connection mechanism may support various usage loads and rotation angles up to about 180 degrees, as well as allow for low force opening to a first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Joe Gault, Scott Bowers, Brian Bitz, Aseem Singla
  • Patent number: 9499078
    Abstract: Provided is a headrest moving device. When first and second gears, each of which has numerous teeth formed in widthwise and lengthwise directions, are engaged, the numerous widthwise teeth are engaged, and the numerous lengthwise teeth are engaged. Due to the teeth, it is possible to minutely adjust a position of a headrest and to withstand a high load. Even when some of the teeth are disengaged, the headrest moving device can be operated and provides excellent durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: Woobo Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hae Il Jeong
  • Publication number: 20150067986
    Abstract: An image forming apparatus including a hinge assembly to mutually hinge-connect a main body and a cover unit of the image forming apparatus and the hinge assembly is provided. The image forming apparatus includes a main body, a cover unit configured to be disposed on an upper side of the main body to press a manuscript, and at least one hinge assembly configured to connect the cover unit to the main body, wherein the hinge assembly includes a first body detachably mounted on the main body, a second body of which a part is fastened to the cover unit and another part is hinge-connected with the first body, a pressing unit accommodated in the first body to press the second body upward, and a pressing force adjuster configured to adjust a hinge force between the first body and the second body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jung-hoon LEE, Jung-ho BANG
  • Publication number: 20150026925
    Abstract: A security lock that retrains movement of a hinge is described. A locking system that includes a hinge that includes a first connector, a second connector and a pivot pin, the first connector pivotable relative to the second connector around the pivot pin, and a lock configured to be positioned over the pivot pin to restrain movement of the first connector is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Jesse Stots
  • Publication number: 20150000083
    Abstract: In one embodiment a chassis for an electronic device comprises a first section and a second section, the second section coupled to the first section by a hinge, a first resistance element to provide a first rotational resistance in a first angular range from a resting position, and a second resistance element to provide a second rotational resistance, greater than the first rotational resistance, in a second angular range, wherein the first resistance element operates independently of the second resistance element. Other embodiments may be described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Paul J. Gwin
  • Patent number: 8899537
    Abstract: A supporting device for an electronic device includes a supporting base, a guiding element, an adjusting element, and a latching assembly. The supporting base includes a sleeve portion. The adjusting element includes a first body and an adjusting portion. The adjusting portion is mounted on the sleeve portion. The adjusting portion defines a plurality of adjusting holes. The guiding element defines two latching grooves and is sleeved on the adjusting portion. The latching assembly includes a button, an adjusting rod, and a biasing element. The button is inserted into the coupling portion. The adjusting rod includes a fixing portion and a latching portion. The fixing portion is fixed with the button. The latching portion is latched with the adjusting holes. The biasing element resists the button and the sleeve portion. The button is capable of driving the adjusting rod to move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chang-Ming Kuan, Ming-Chien Chiu
  • Patent number: 8839561
    Abstract: Provided is a door opening/closing structure in which the attachment/detachment of the door is easy in the rotatably opening/closing door. In the door opening/closing structure, an axial member attached to a door and an axial member attached to an object to which the door is attached are arranged to oppose each other in at least one position of the rotatably fixed door, wherein one of the two axial members comprises a magnet and the other comprises a magnetic body or a magnet which attracts each other with the magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Yagiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryuuichi Yagi, Takahisa Nagamine, Masahiko Horizumi
  • Publication number: 20140183907
    Abstract: A hinge including a first hinge half rotatably connected to a second hinge half is described. A support mechanism selectively supports the first hinge half at one or more rotated positions relative to the second hinge half. The support mechanism includes a support which is selectively biased toward a support position in which the support is capable of supporting the first hinge half at a rotated position relative to the second hinge half. The support can further be selectively biased into a disengaged position in which the support is not capable of supporting the first hinge half relative to the second hinge half. With the support in a disengaged position, the first hinge half is freely pivotable relative to the second hinge half. An automatic reset mechanism may be utilized in connection with the hinge to reposition the support from the disengaged position to the support position as the hinge approaches a predefined position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventors: Ryan Tanner, Dan Danoski, Bradley Gador
  • Patent number: 8767395
    Abstract: Provided is a slim-type cradling apparatus for a portable terminal. The disclosed cradling apparatus includes a cradling body and a retaining device interworking with rotation of the cradling body to support a closed state and a rotated state of the cradling body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chung-Keun Yoo
  • Patent number: 8661619
    Abstract: A hinge adjuster includes a first frame, at least one locking piece, at least one spring component, at least one second frame and a pair of cover. The first frame defines at least one locking hole including a first accommodating hole and a second accommodating hole. The locking piece is slidably placed in the first accommodating hole for engaging with the first accommodating hole or the engaging notch alternatively. At least one groove for engaging with the locking piece is configured on a pivoted portion of the second frame, which includes a flat portion, a dentiform portion, and an end portion. And the locking piece is protruded from the locking hole and contacting with the flat portion, the dentiform portion or the end portion selectively. The hinge adjuster has strong supporting capability and can achieve a cyclic adjustment of angles, and the operation is simple and convenient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Dongguan Weihong Hardware and Plastic Products Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei Lu
  • Publication number: 20130322004
    Abstract: A hinge apparatus connects a first member and a second member to each other so that the first and second members are mutually foldable, and is usable with a computing apparatus. The hinge apparatus includes first and second main gears which are disposed on the first and the second members, respectively, a plurality of idle gears which are disposed between the first and the second main gears so that the first and the second main gears are interlocked with each other, and a pressure member which reinforces a mesh force between the first and the second main gears and the plurality of idle gears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Young-sun PARK
  • Publication number: 20130212785
    Abstract: A movement device for a helmet for moving a first element of the helmet with respect to a second element of the helmet is described. The movement device includes a pivot element for pivoting about an axis of rotation, and a pivot seat, in which the pivot element is arranged. The pivot element includes an eccentric portion or cam, and the pivot seat includes a first seat region and a second seat region. The first seat region is in a position angularly offset and linearly translated with respect to the second seat region. A first position of the pivot element corresponds to the first seat region and a second position of the pivot element corresponds to the second seat region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: AGV S.P.A.
    Inventor: AGV S.p.A.
  • Patent number: 8493730
    Abstract: A portable terminal is provided, in which a hinge device provides a pair of hinge axes extended in parallel, a pair of folding cases are engaged with the hinge device and rotate upon the hinge axes, respectively, and sliding housings are installed in the respective folding cases. The folding cases rotate in a folding direction or in an unfolding direction via the hinge device, and when the folding cases rotate, the sliding housings slide on the folding cases. When the sliding housings are opened at 180° with respect to each other, one end of the sliding housing is in a close relationship with one end of another sliding housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seon-Hee Shim, Sang-Joon Park, Jong-Woo Kim, Seok-Gyu Lee
  • Patent number: 8429795
    Abstract: A triple-tooth weld-on hinge includes a cradle plate, connector spinal plate, crowfoot wrench, riveting pin, connector plate, and spring. The cradle plate, connector spinal plate, and crowfoot wrench are connected through the connector plate and secured with the riveting pin. The bottom is joined by the spring. The range of movement between the cradle plate and the connector spinal plate is between ?1-?2, or between 105° and 125°. The hinge can be used for securing furniture, particularly steel-framed sofas, as it allows for three angled adjustments between the seats and backs of the sofas. With the various insertion slots on the spinal plate, riveting piece, and cradle plate, the steel-framed sofas can be adjusted to different dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Liang Huachun
  • Publication number: 20130042435
    Abstract: A hinge assembly that allows a door to swing open up to approximately 170 degrees, which allows for greater access to the interior compartment. In one embodiment, the hinge assembly includes two mounting brackets, a load link and a driver link. The load link is configured to carry the weight of the door while the driver link drives the load link through the pivoting motion. As the door begins to swing open, the driver link is fixed in association with the load link. This association allows the hinge assembly to rotate and keep a constant between each link, thereby allowing for a smooth and single opening motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: MIDWAY PRODUCTS GROUP, INC.
    Inventor: Randall T. Schott
  • Patent number: 8259445
    Abstract: A computing device that includes a housing, an accessory interface, and a self-closing enclosure mechanism for the accessory interface. The self-closing enclosure mechanism is positioned over the accessory interface and is pivotable to move between a closed and open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Peter Skillman, Anthony Del Balso, Siva Raja Sekhar Reddy Yeruva, Michael Much
  • Publication number: 20120174339
    Abstract: A detent hinge assembly includes a spring that biases one or more needle rollers into engagement with the outer surface of the hinge shaft. The needle rollers engage one or more grooves in the surface of the hinge shaft to provide the detent function of the hinge. The spring is in the form of a resilient band that surrounds at least a portion of the circumference of the hinge shaft. The spring is provided with a depression that faces the surface of the hinge shaft and that receives a portion of the needle roller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: South, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene Novin
  • Publication number: 20120167344
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shock-absorber device intended to connect two parts, one part moves relative to the other part, owing solely to an initial temporary thrust provided by a driving device, thereby shifting from an initial position to an end position. The device includes a mechanical system connecting the parts in relative movement, which also includes a kinetic energy accumulator designed to be supplied by the above-mentioned initial thrust, and to return at least the exact amount of energy required to allow the mobile one part to reach the end position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: CONSEIL ET TECHNIQUE
    Inventor: Guy Valembois
  • Patent number: 8196264
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a positioning module, a connecting module and a rotating module. The positioning module includes a sleeve. The connecting module includes a pivot tube and a shaft. The pivot tube is rotatably attached to the sleeve. The shaft is slidably and rotatably received in the pivot tube. The rotating module is rotatably attached to one end of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignees: Shenzhen Futaihong Precision Industry Co., Ltd., FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Xin-Quan Zhou, Hsiao-Hua Tu, Ye Liu, Yan-Ling Gao
  • Publication number: 20120137469
    Abstract: Provided is a hinge that can be manufactured easily in a short time. The hinge rotatably connects a first member and a second member, and is provided with two brackets that are rotatable against each other and mounted to the first member and the second member, respectively, and a friction-torque-generating member that generates friction torque by directly or indirectly pressing the two brackets against each other. A first of the two brackets is configured from an integral structure that includes a shaft part that passes through the second bracket and supports the rotation, and a mounting part that is mounted to the first member or the second member, with the shaft part and the mounting part being produced from a plate material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventors: Takao Kobayashi, Ikuomi Takahashi, Makoto Saito, Takashi Morimoto, Toshihiro Tamura
  • Publication number: 20120117758
    Abstract: A rotatably supported door including a hinge including a stationary hinge portion, a leaf hinge portion, which is pivotable about the stationary hinge portion, and a rotating shaft passing through the stationary hinge portion and the leaf hinge portion. The rotating shaft cooperates with an opening and/or closing damping device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: Dorma GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Oliver Walhorn
  • Publication number: 20120118842
    Abstract: The hinge structure for a furniture with a foldable shelf (1) reversibly turnable downwards from a closing position of the furniture to a substantially horizontal opening position comprises a first and a second rocker arm (2, 3) hinged at their ends by means of a first, second, third and fourth pin (4, 5, 6, 7) to a first plate (8) able to be fixed to a stationary portion (9) of the furniture and to a second plate (10) able to be fixed to the shelf (1), first decelerating means (11) mainly of the final portion of the opening stroke of the shelf (1) independently from second decelerating means (12) mainly of the initial portion of the opening stroke of the shelf (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: AUTURO SALICE S.P.A.
    Inventor: Luciano Salice
  • Patent number: 8161602
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a mounting sleeve defining a pivoting hole, a fastening seat, an elastic member, and a right side cover. The pivoting hole is enclosed by an interior peripheral wall. The interior peripheral wall defines a stopping slot. The fastening seat defines a fastening hole. The elastic member is received in the mounting sleeve. The right side cover includes a pole. The pole includes a first resisting bar and a second resisting bar. The pole is received in the pivoting hole and the fastening hole. The first resisting bar is slidably embedded in the stopping slot. The elastic member compresses the first resisting bar to abut against the fastening seat. When the first resisting bar slides out of the fastening hole and abuts against the fastening seat, the second resisting bar is slidably embedded in the stopping slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Mu-Wen Yang, Chih-Chiang Chang
  • Publication number: 20120091867
    Abstract: Hinge for a panel door, in particular a glass door, for sealing a space, such as for example a cooling cupboard, wherein the hinge (1) includes a sill/lintel-attachment part (2), two mutually connectable clamping parts (3, 4) for clamping a panel (21) in between them along an edge of the panel (21), a pivot pin (6) which connects, on one side, to the sill/lintel-attachment part (2) and, on the other side, to the clamping parts (3, 4) in such a manner that they can pivot with respect to one another, and tensioning parts (7, 8, 9) which force the sill/lintel-attachment part (2) into a neutral position with respect to the clamping parts (3, 4), wherein, in the neutral position, a mirror plane (Ls) of the clamping parts (3, 4) and a longitudinal axis (Lo) of the sill/lintel-attachment part (2) are at an angle of 5-15 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: ESTEM B.V.
    Inventor: Evert BOUWMAN
  • Patent number: 8152113
    Abstract: An adjustable supporting mechanism suitable for being connected to a body of an electronic apparatus, upholding the body on a plane, and adjusting the relative position of the body and the plane is provided. The adjustable supporting mechanism includes a base, a bearing, an elastomer, a rotating shaft, and a supporting stand. The base is capable of being connected to the body. The bearing is fixed on the base. The elastomer is fixed on the base. The rotating shaft fits the bearing and contacts the elastomer. The rotating shaft is capable of rotating with respect to the base and the elastomer. When the rotating shaft rotates, the elastomer applies a resistance on the rotating shaft for resisting the rotation of the rotating shaft. The supporting stand is fixed to the rotating shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ku-Feng Chen, Hung-Ta Liao
  • Publication number: 20120023704
    Abstract: A sub-component of a friction hinge (10, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) includes a member (14, 204) including a connection portion (28, 128, 228) defining a passage (36), wherein the passage (36) includes a splined circumferential inner periphery (38), and wherein the member (14, 204) defines a gap (30, 230a); and a shaft (16) including a splined (34) circumferential outer profile (32) movably-engaged with the circumferential inner periphery (38) of the member (14, 204a) to connect the connection portion (28, 128, 228) about an axis of rotation (A-A) extending through the shaft (16), wherein the gap (30, 230a) axially extends in a substantial parallel relationship to the axis of rotation (A-A). A friction hinge (10, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Ryan R. Case
  • Publication number: 20110317338
    Abstract: A hinge is mounted between a cover and a body of an electronic device and has an eccentric sleeve and a resisting assembly abutting against each other. When the cover is pivoted, the eccentric sleeve is rotated as well. Because the eccentric sleeve has sectors with varied radius, the resisting assembly is compressed to conduct various resisting forces when the eccentric sleeve is rotated. When the cover is opened to normal visual angle, the hinge provides a constant largest torque. Therefore, the cover is held at the normal visual angle even though the user hits the touch panel on the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventors: Kuan-Chih Chen, Chaio-Liang Tseng, Tzung-Yang Tsai
  • Patent number: 8020254
    Abstract: A hinge assembly has a pintle, a rotating bracket, a sliding bracket, a mounting bracket, a compression assembly and an elastic member. The rotating bracket is mounted rotatably around the shaft and has a latching portion. The sliding bracket is attached securely to the pintle and has a track. The mounting bracket and a latching arm. The latching arm selectively presses against the latching portion to hold the hinge closed. The compression assembly is mounted around and expands when the pintle is rotated to close. The elastic member is compressed by expansion of the compression assembly so automatically rotates the pintle to open. Therefore, with the hinge mounted in an electronic device, when the latching portion is slid out of the latching arm, the hinge is forced to open by the elastic member and compression assembly so a cover pops up and is opened easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Yu-Feng Lin
  • Publication number: 20110083300
    Abstract: A first locking arm connected to a second locking arm on a locking hinge axis. A pair of bearing surfaces on the first locking arm have a first axial spacing, and the second locking arm having a bearing block carrying bearing counter surfaces engaging the bearing surfaces providing a hinged connection between the locking arms. The bearing counter surfaces having a second axial spacing. A first locking element having a first locking surface affixed on one of the bearing surfaces, and a second locking surface affixed on one of the bearing counter surfaces engaging the first locking surface. A spring element biasing the first and the second locking surfaces together. The first axial spacing is less than the second axial spacing so that there is a second spring force acting on the first and second locking surfaces superimposed on the first spring force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Sebastian Heger, Jürgen Pfanz, Werner Lang
  • 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: 20110013350
    Abstract: A friction mechanism for use in a computing device having a base portion and a display portion. In one embodiment, the friction mechanism includes a shaft adapted to be supported by the base portion of the computing device and having ends adapted to be fixedly secured to the display portion of the computing device, a brake disk mounted on the shaft, and a brake pad in contact with the brake disk that resists rotation of the brake disk such that the brake disk, the shaft on which the brake disk is mounted, and the display portion to which the shaft is fixedly secured cannot freely pivot relative to the base portion of the computing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventors: Mark S. Tracy, Dustin L. Hoffman, Jeffrey A. Lev, Paul J. Doczy
  • Publication number: 20100325838
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a first pivot unit including a shaft, a bracket, an engaging member, a locking member, and an elastic member. The shaft has a non-circular sleeve portion. The bracket is rotatably sleeved on the shaft. The engaging member has a sleeving hole with a shape substantially corresponding to a cross-section of the sleeve portion of the shaft. The locking member has a sleeving hole with a shape substantially corresponding to a cross-section of the sleeve portion of the shaft. The locking member is non-rotatably latched to the engaging member. The elastic member is sleeved on the shaft to resist the components on the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: JIN-XIN WANG, LIANG WEI, JIAN LI
  • Publication number: 20100277857
    Abstract: A fixing mechanism includes a housing whereon an opening and at least one slot are formed, a sliding component installed inside the housing in a slidable manner, at least one rotary component installed inside the housing, connected to the sliding component in a rotatable manner, and protruding from the slot partly for fixing a structure, an elastic component installed inside the housing and disposed on an end of the sliding component for providing an elastic force to the sliding component, and an actuating tool for passing through the opening on the housing to push the sliding component so that the rotary component rotates into the slot when being driven to hit a side of the slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Kuang-Hung Chen
  • Patent number: 7814621
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a door hinge that allows a door to stay closed without the use of additional hardware. Conventional hinges merely support the door they are mounted on. The unique features of the hinge of the present invention allow a door to remain closed due to the integral strike and catch components of the hinge itself. This eliminates the time and expense for installation of traditional mechanical or magnetic closure systems on the non-hinge end of the door and frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Todd F. Radke
  • 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: 20100146734
    Abstract: This invention relates to multiple configurations of devices to restrain a door or similar hinged, swinging appliance from autonomously swinging away from an initial fully or partially opened position to which it has been adjusted. No external, unattached parts are employed. The invention is applicable to any hinged, swinging object. It includes the use of either linear friction, such as through the use of compression nuts and springs applied to the hinged pin, so as to force the hinged knuckles into contact and frictional engagement. Another concept is the use of radial friction, through the application of either a slotted spring pin, or a spiral spring pin, that locates within the knuckles of the hinge components, to add friction to their pivotal movement when opening or closing of a door, or other structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventors: Dennis J. Munson, Dale E. Aunspach
  • Patent number: 7706138
    Abstract: Provided are a hinge and a stand for a display device. The hinge includes a rotary body fixed to a display device; a support fixed to a base; a key bracket inserted in the rotary body; a hole formed inside the key bracket; and a rotary shaft inserted to the hole and the support and being a rotation axis of the rotary body. Thus, the hinge and stand may be manufactured at low costs because a small number of components are used. Also, the hinge structure effectively stands against the external vibration because no screw is used during an assembling process, and forming an exterior of the hinge in itself eliminates need to use a separate component for the exterior, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs of the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Moon Hee Lee
  • Publication number: 20100088852
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a shaft, a first bracket, a resilient member, and an engaging member. The shaft includes a limiting structure including a guiding groove and a limiting slot. The first bracket is rotatable relative to the shaft. The engaging member is rotatably sleeved on the shaft and non-rotatable relative to the first bracket. The engaging member forms a latching pole slidably received in the guiding groove and being engagable with the limiting slot of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: JIN-XIN WANG