Having Transverse Or Skewed Axes Patents (Class 16/367)
  • Patent number: 6980425
    Abstract: A rotatable display mounting arrangement is disclosed to include a base having a first pivot structure, an open frame, the open frame having a second pivot structure pivotally coupled to the first pivot structure of the base and a second pivoting means symmetrically disposed at top and bottom frame bars thereof, and a display horizontally rotatably mounted within the open frame, the display having a first pivoting means symmetrically disposed at the top and bottom sides and respectively pivoted to the second pivoting means of the open frame, the first pivoting means having wire holes for the passing of the electric circuit wire of an antenna embedded in the top frame bar of the open frame and the electric circuit wire of the base to the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Tatung Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chin-Ku Chuang, Wen-Chieh Wang, Chao-Ming Huang
  • Patent number: 6941618
    Abstract: Disclosed is a hinge device of a portable wireless terminal. The portable wireless terminal includes a first housing, a second housing rotatably coupled to the first housing in such a manner that the second housing moves away from the first housing or approaches the first housing according to a rotational movement thereof, a first hinge axis extending parallel to an upper surface of the first housing, and a second hinge axis extending perpendicular to the upper surface of the first housing and providing a rotational center for the first hinge axis. The first and second hinge axes act as rotational axes of the second housing when the second housing rotates with respect to the first housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignees: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., M2Sys Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Si-Wan Kim
  • Patent number: 6935000
    Abstract: The disclosed device is directed toward a lifting gate. The lifting gate comprises a barrier member having a top and a bottom opposite thereof. A top bracket assembly is coupled to the top of the barrier member. The top bracket assembly includes a top bearing coupled to a top bracket and a top hinge support coupled to the top bearing. A bottom bracket is coupled to the bottom of the barrier member. The bottom bracket has a body defined by a first bracket end and a second bracket end and a central bracket portion between said first and second bracket ends. The bottom bracket is coupled to the bottom of the barrier member proximate to the first bracket end. A bottom bearing is coupled to the bottom bracket proximate to the central bracket portion. A bottom hinge support has a first support end and a second support end opposite thereof and has a central support portion between the first and second support ends. The bottom hinge support is coupled to the bottom bearing proximate the central support portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Roger R. Arnaud
  • Patent number: 6907642
    Abstract: A Bimini hinge with a base member having an upper surface and a lower mounting surface and a vertically extending cylindrical opening therein. An intermediate member has a lower cylindrical surface that is received in the base member, and a latching member carried by the intermediate member secures the intermediate member to the base member for relative indexed rotation. The remote end of the intermediate member is pivotally secured to a mounted member, and the remote end of the latter is formed for securement of an item such as a Bimini Top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: R & D Shed, L.L.C.
    Inventor: John Czipri
  • Patent number: 6883206
    Abstract: A swivel hinge with angular fixing structure is employed to connect a mainframe and a display means of a notebook computer. The swivel hinge has a fixture part, a fixture friction ring, a rotation part, a rotation friction ring, and an elastic ring. The fixture part mounted on the mainframe has a through hole in the center thereof. The fixture friction ring mounted on the fixture part has at least one holder on the surface. The rotation friction ring mounted on the rotation part has at least one slot in the surface thereof. The elastic ring is located between the fixture part and the fixture friction ring. If the slot and the holder on the friction ring fit into each other, the desired angular fixing function is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Quanta Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Kuo-Chang Yang, Jung-Wen Chang, Wen-Hsiang Chen
  • Patent number: 6845547
    Abstract: A vehicular door hinge mechanism provides for a motion in two different directions at two different portions of the door's motion cycle. The present invention provides a hinge which allows the door of the vehicle to move outwards in a substantially horizontal plane for a predetermined arc, then move vertically upwards on another predetermined arc thereafter. The invention comprises a hinge mechanism having a chassis mounting plate and a swingarm. Between them is either a pivotal bearing or a hinge designed to allow the staged two dimensional motion of the invention. A spring or cylinder is connected at its ends to the chassis mounting plate and the swingarm. A horizontal pressure bearing surface and a cam adjuster cooperate to provide strength and precise fit of the door with the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventor: Demetrius Calvin Ham
  • Patent number: 6845546
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a fixing seat and a rotation seat rotatable in relation to the fixing seat. The fixing seat has a fixing plate for connection to a mainframe of an electronic device, a rotation shaft securely connected to the fixing plate and having a limiting flange formed on a mediate portion of the rotation shaft, and a limiting disk securely mounted on the rotation shaft and having two limiting edges. The rotation seat has a body rotatably mounted on the rotation shaft and having two connection legs each rotatably received in two tubes and an extension to selectively engage with either one of the limiting edges to limit a rotation angle of the body to the fixing plate and leaf springs mounted on the rotation shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sheng-Nan Lu, Tien-Yueh Hsu
  • Publication number: 20040231105
    Abstract: A hinge apparatus, which includes a first hinge part connected, in a rotatable manner, to a first electronic apparatus, a second hinge part having a second hinge axis connected in an inclined manner at a predetermined angle to a first hinge axis of the first hinge part, a wiring member for connecting the first and the second electronic apparatus by sequentially passing by the first and the second hinge axes in a manner of winding around the outer peripheral surfaces of each of the first and the second hinge axes. Accordingly, the hinge apparatus can connect a plurality of electronic apparatus so that those electronic apparatus are mutually rotatable in a plurality of rotational directions without implementing the complicated manufacturing process of forming through holes on each of the hinge axes, and inserting the wiring member into those through holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventor: Kyoung-jin Ahn
  • Patent number: 6804861
    Abstract: A rotation shaft mechanism is proposed, whereby a display portion of a portable computer is upheld when the display portion is lifted, so that turning of the display portion will not rub against the surface of base portion of the portable computer. The rotation shaft mechanism includes a vertical shaft and two horizontal shafts each has an eccentric protuberance. The vertical shaft includes a first component having a pair of symmetric projective ears and a cylinder body, a second component slipped onto the cylinder body, and a third component also slipped onto the cylinder body. The horizontal shafts pass through and join the projective ears. The second component has projective walls corresponding to the eccentric protuberances. The first and second components interfere each other to rotate synchronously. An elastic component is disposed between the lower portion of the cylinder body and the bottom face of the third component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Lite-On Technology Corp.
    Inventor: Hsiang-Ti Hsu
  • Publication number: 20040200038
    Abstract: A rotary type hinge device, installed between a terminal body and a folder of the portable wireless terminal. The hinge device has a first rotation axis for opening and closing operations of the terminal body and folder, and a second rotation axis extending perpendicular to the first rotation axis to be rotated relative to the first rotation axis. The hinge device is adapted to rotate the folder about the second rotation axis in a state wherein the folder and terminal body are opened. The hinge device comprises a first hinge housing coupled to the terminal body to rotate about the first rotation axis; a main shaft having its one end fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the first hinge housing and the other end thereof protruding outwardly from one side of the first hinge housing; and a second hinge housing rotatably coupled to the other end of the main shaft protruded outwardly from the first hinge housing and adapted to rotate about the second rotation axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jae-Shik Kim
  • Publication number: 20040187263
    Abstract: A multi-axis automobile door mount providing a combination of swing-out and vertical-lift motion suitable for retrofitting a conventional swing-out automobile door for vertical-lift operation. The door is opened from a closed position in the conventional swing-out movement about a swing-out hinge. At a predetermined swing-out angle of the door to the automobile body, the door is moved in an upward vertical direction about the vertical-lift hinge. The door is closed by lowering the door to the horizontal orientation and closed in the conventional swing-in manner. A vertical-lift door system is provided to substantially incorporate the movement of a vertical-lift door with an integrated system of one or more hinges and lift assist devices. The lift assist devices provide for, singularly or in combination, among other things, controlled and deliberate movement of the door, power-assisted door operation, and/or easier integration and assembly onto the automobile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Lawrence Andrew Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20040143936
    Abstract: A hinge structure for sales systems bridging a body and a display screen includes an anchor bracket fastening to the body, a first axle pivotally fastening to the anchor bracket and a second axle connecting to the display screen and pivotally running through the first axle. The first axle has two ends coupling respectively with a first axle washer. The second axle has a pivotal connecting section located on a lower side thereof to pivotally couple with second axle washers. The display screen is tiltable forwards and rearwards through the first axle, and turnable left and right through the second axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: Ming-Jer Hsu
  • Patent number: 6742221
    Abstract: A hinge for a notebook computer is composed of an upper seat, a lower seat, and two arms. The upper seat is rotatably mounted in the lower seat, and the arms are mounted on the upper seat. A monitor of the computer is installed on the arms, and the lower seat is secured on a body of the computer. Therefore, the monitor can be turned about the arms to raise from the body, and turned along with the upper seat about a vertical axis of the lower seat to adjust a visible scope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sheng-Nan Lu, Chia-Hui Chen, Jih-Nan Tai, Hua-Chung Tseng, Chu-Hsian Chian, Chao-Teh Ho, Chun-Hsi Shen
  • Publication number: 20040098835
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fitting (2) that rotatably bears on a shaft an element (1) closing an opening. In order to provide a fitting (2) that is inexpensive and has a reduced number of individual components that are compact, universally usable, stable and optically appearing and that can be simply and adjustably fitted together to a fitting (2) that especially bears elements (1) from glass, the fitting (2) consists of two limbs (3, 4) extending in parallel which define a space (5) in between them and which are rotatably mounted on a shaft. Said limbs integrally blend on one end into a common flange (7) that comprises at least one clamping elements (6, 25) and on the other end they integrally blend into one sleeve element (8, 9) each. The fitting (2) further comprises a ring (12) that can be positioned on the shaft and that can be immobilized in the space (5) between the sleeve elements (8, 9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventor: Hubert Elmer
  • Publication number: 20040083577
    Abstract: A hinge for a notebook computer is composed of an upper seat, a lower seat, and two arms. The upper seat is rotatably mounted in the lower seat, and the arms are mounted on the upper seat. A monitor of the computer is installed on the arms, and the lower seat is secured on a body of the computer. Therefore, the monitor can be turned about the arms to raise from the body, and turned along with the upper seat about a vertical axis of the lower seat to adjust a visible scope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Sheng-Nan Lu, Chia-Hui Chen, Jih-Nan Tai, Hua-Chung Tseng, Chu-Hsian Chian, Chao-Teh Ho, Chun-Hsi Shen
  • Publication number: 20040045131
    Abstract: A hinge assembly, and an associated method, for hingedly connecting separate body portions, such as first and second housing portions of a mobile station, theretogether. The hinge assembly provides multiple axes of rotation including, at least, a transversely-extending axes and a longitudinally-extending axis. The hinge assembly includes a first hinge piece and a second hinge piece, associated, respectively, with the first and second body portions. The hinge pieces are coupled theretogether by a bearing that permits rotational movement about a longitudinally-extending axis. And, at least one of the hinge pieces is hingedly-connected to a body portion with which the hinge piece is associated to permit rotational movement a transversely-extending axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Ricky William Barnett
  • Patent number: 6694570
    Abstract: A hinge device for a foldable electronic apparatus. The hinge device includes an elongated main frame that extends along a first axis. A hinge unit includes an elongated pivot rod extending along the first axis and having a pivot end portion coupled pivotally to a stationary fixing block such that the pivot rod is rotatable axially about the first axis, and a connecting end portion connected to the main frame. A pivot unit includes an elongated pivot shaft extending along a second axis transverse to the first axis, and a pivot member coupled pivotally to the upper end portion of the pivot shaft, and adapted to be mounted on a cover member of the electric apparatus. A positioning unit is mounted on the cover member and is operable so as to engage the elongated main frame for preventing axial rotation of the cover member about the second axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Wu-Yung Chen
  • Patent number: 6694569
    Abstract: A hinge device. The device includes an elongated main frame that extends along a first axis. The device includes an elongated pivot rod that extends along the first axis and that has a pivot end portion coupled pivotally to a stationary fixing block such that the pivot rod is rotatable axially about the first axis, and a connecting end portion connected to the main frame. A pivot unit includes an elongated pivot shaft that extends along a second axis transverse to the first axis. The pivot shaft has an upper end portion opposite to a lower end portion, which is coupled to the main frame, and projecting from the main frame. A pivot member is coupled pivotally to the upper end portion of the pivot shaft. A positioning unit is mounted on the main frame and is operable so as to prevent axial rotation of the pivot member about the second axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chung-Chi Chien, Wu-Yung Chen
  • Publication number: 20040006848
    Abstract: An angle adjustment device for a solar lamp has a seat adapted to be mounted inside the housing by a pair of first screws, a first pivot hinge pivotally connected to the seat by a first bolt-nut combination, a large sleeve rotatably mounted on top of the first pivot hinge, a small sleeve telescopically connected to and received in the large sleeve, a connector rotatably mounted on top of the small sleeve, and a second pivot hinge pivotally connected to the connector by a second bolt-nut combination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Ming-Sheng Hsu
  • Publication number: 20030177608
    Abstract: This invention relates to a hinge for interconnecting sections of a floating dock and for interconnecting walkways with floating docks. This hinge protects docks from being damaged by stress exerted by the side to side or up and down motion of the wave, storm or high winds. This hinge can also be used for reconstructing old damaged docks. The hinge comprises two stackable sheet of twisting members which are preferably flat, each having an arcuate front end for facilitating a twisting motion of the twisting members relative to each other, a mounting plate, and a central opening for accomodating a pivot rod; a fastener for keeping the hinge components together; and, preferably washers to protect the outside surfaces of the twisting members from abrasion. One side of the hinge preferably attaches to a dock section having a dock joint bracket while the other end preferably attaches to a plain corner bracket: to allow vertical pivotal movement of the dock sections in response to wave motions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Wayne A. Hozie
  • Publication number: 20030167601
    Abstract: In a hinge device for a foldable electronic apparatus, an elongated main frame extends along a first axis. A hinge unit includes an elongated pivot rod extending along the first axis and having a pivot end portion coupled pivotally to a stationary fixing block such that the pivot rod is rotatable axially about the first axis, and a connecting end portion connected to the main frame. A pivot unit includes an elongated pivot shaft extending along a second axis transverse to the first axis, and a pivot member coupled pivotally to the upper end portion of the pivot shaft, and adapted to be mounted on a cover member of the electric apparatus. A positioning unit is mounted on the cover member and is operable so as to engage the elongated main frame for preventing axial rotation of the cover member about the second axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Applicant: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Wu-Yung Chen
  • Publication number: 20030167600
    Abstract: In a hinge device, an elongated main frame extends along a first axis. A hinge unit includes an elongated pivot rod that extends along the first axis and that has a pivot end portion coupled pivotally to a stationary fixing block such that the pivot rod is rotatable axially about the first axis, and a connecting end portion connected to the main frame. A pivot unit includes an elongated pivot shaft that extends along a second axis transverse to the first axis. The pivot shaft has an upper end portion opposite to a lower end portion, which is coupled to the main frame, and projecting from the main frame. A pivot member is coupled pivotally to the upper end portion of the pivot shaft. A positioning unit is mounted on the main frame and is operable so as to prevent axial rotation of the pivot member about the second axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Applicant: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chung-Chi Chien, Wu-Yung Chen
  • Patent number: 6611992
    Abstract: The disclosed device is directed toward a lifting gate. The lifting gate comprises a barrier member having a top and a bottom opposite thereof. A top bracket assembly is coupled to the top of the barrier member. The top bracket assembly includes a top bearing coupled to a top bracket and a top hinge support coupled to the top bearing. A bottom bracket is coupled to the bottom of the barrier member, having a body defined by a first bracket end and a second bracket end and a central bracket portion between the first and second bracket ends. The bottom bracket is coupled to the bottom of the barrier member proximate to the first bracket end. A bottom bearing is coupled to the bottom bracket proximate to the central bracket portion. A bottom hinge support has a first support end and a second support end opposite thereof, and a central support portion between the first and second support ends. The bottom hinge support is coupled to the bottom bearing proximate to the central support portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Roger Regan Arnaud
  • Patent number: 6594860
    Abstract: A universal hinge with a base member having a smooth semi spherical upper surface and a lower mounting surface and a vertically extending cylindrical opening therein. An intermediate member has a lower cylindrical surface that is received in the base member, and a latching member carried by the base member secures the intermediate member to the base member for relative rotation. The remote end of the intermediate member is pivotally secured to a mounted member, and the remote end of the latter is formed for securement of an item such as a Bimini Top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Accon Marine, Inc
    Inventor: John Czipri
  • Patent number: 6578593
    Abstract: A folding square framework which may serve as a support for a tensile canvas or membrane. This framework, which may be mounted on a fixed column or wall, may fold, around hinges set at 54.3° to the longitudinal axes of each member of the framework, at each corner, compactly together such that all four sides of the framework are rested parallel with one another, perpendicular to the plane of the unfolded structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Terry Leonarz
  • Patent number: 6522530
    Abstract: A computer system includes a monitor assembled with a main body. The computer system further has a swiveling member installed between the main body and the monitor, for allowing the monitor to be laterally swivelled relative to the main body, and a tilting member assembled with the swiveling member, for allowing the monitor to be tilted transversely relative to the swiveling movement of the swiveling member. With this configuration, the monitor can be tilted and swiveled relative to the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seog Bang
  • Publication number: 20020129465
    Abstract: A universal hinge with a base member having a smooth semi spherical upper surface and a lower mounting surface and a vertically extending cylindrical opening therein. An intermediate member has a lower cylindrical surface that is received in the base member, and a latching member carried by the base member secures the intermediate member to the base member for relative rotation. The remote end of the intermediate member is pivotally secured to a mounted member, and the remote end of the latter is formed for securement of an item such as a Bimini Top.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: John Czipri
  • Patent number: 6447043
    Abstract: A vehicle body closure assembly combines a hinge, that provides a plurality of pivot axes that are aligned with a common intersection point above a body opening closed by a closure panel hinged to the vehicle body, and a displacement limiter that controls the open position of the closure so that the hinge pieces maintain a stable alignment with respect to each other. Preferably, the hinge structure or adjacent supports include the displacement limiter. A panel mount defmes a first hinge axis, a body mount defines a second axis and a pair of links are pivotally secured together between the panel mount and the body mount to complete a hinge set. Preferably, a pair of hinge sets are secured to the hinge side of the closure panel to align said panel for movement in a non-interfering path with respect to body portions adjacent the path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: M & C Corporation
    Inventors: Marinus T. VandenHeuvel, Rafael Perlin, Michael John Duffy
  • Patent number: 6427288
    Abstract: To prevent the force of operation required for tilting up and down a display unit from varying from one to another tilted angle of the display unit, to rotate the display unit with a detent, for use with no degradation of performance even after a long-term use, and to permit a horizontal oscillation of the display unit, there is provided a tilting hinge including a fixing member having side plates and installed to a stand for the display unit, the fixing member serving also as a spring case, a support member for the display unit, installed to the side plates of the fixing member with a hinge pin to be tiltable up and down, a friction mechanism including the hinge pin and provided between the fixing and support members, an actuator provided on the support member rotatably about the hinge pin, and a compression spring provided between the actuator and fixing member with a slider in contact with the actuator, being provided between the actuator and compression spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Katoh Electrical Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazuo Saito
  • Patent number: 6347433
    Abstract: A hinge connects a first member to a second member. The hinge includes a connector constructed of a polymeric material secured to the first member. The connector is constructed from a polymeric material and has a generally flat connector surface, and a first axis. A support is rotatably connected to the connector about the first axis. The support is constructed of a metallic material and has first and second opposing generally flat support surfaces. The first generally flat support surface is biased against the connector surface. A friction piece constructed of a polymeric material is rotatably connected to the support about the first axis and is rotatably fixed to the connector. The friction piece is biased against the second generally flat support surface. A torque element has a first end including an open portion and a closed portion. The torque element has an elongated second end extending from the closed portion. The second end of the torque element is fixedly connected to the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: CEMA Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene Novin, David A. Lowry
  • Patent number: 6314615
    Abstract: A multiaxis closure hinge for pivotally mounting a closure panel adjacent to an opening in a body to rotate about a point remote from the hinge between a closed position over the opening and an open position disposed apart from the opening is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: Tiete O. Wolda
  • Patent number: 6256837
    Abstract: A hinge assembly for mounting a video display with a screen to the interior of an automobile is disclosed. The hinge assembly comprises an open shaft adapted to pivot the screen about a first axis, a rotate shaft adapted to pivot the screen about a second axis, transversal to the first axis, a click plate attached to at least one end of the rotate shaft, the click plate causing the rotate shaft to pivot with a plurality of stops to maintain stability of the video display, a stopper attached to at least one end of the rotate shaft, the stopper causing the rotate shaft to stop rotation at a predetermined angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: USA Spec, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. T. Lan, Chia I Tsui
  • Patent number: 6151756
    Abstract: A hinge having a housing with a flush mountable flange. A hinge member having pivotally connected upper and lower portions with the lower portion pivotally connected within the housing. A portion of the lower portion is engageable with a slot in the housing for locking the lower portion in an upright position. Upon unlocking the lower portion from the housing the hinge member can be pivoted into a flush relationship with the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Accon Marine, Inc.
    Inventor: John Czipri
  • Patent number: 5774935
    Abstract: A hinge for joining and aligning two panels includes hinge leaves, each having an integral projection for insertion into a recess in one of the panels. Each of the leaf projections is disposed along an imaginary right circular cylinder having its center axis intersecting the hinge axis and the center axis of the imaginary cylinder of the other leaf projection. When the leaves are positioned in parallel, opposing relationship, the axes of the imaginary cylinders are coincident and the alignment of the hinge axis can be adjusted by rotating the hinge when it is inserted into hinge-mounting recesses that allow for such hinge rotation, such as arcuate. A hinged panel assembly includes the hinge mounted in arcuate grooves that allow for hinge rotation, such as semicircular grooves. The semicircular grooves are formed by clamping the panels together in alignment and cutting a substantially circular groove that is bisected by the joint between the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Robert P. Reisman
    Inventor: Jesse E. Hawley
  • Patent number: 5708560
    Abstract: A device (10) adding keyboard input to a handheld computer (12) lacking such input (such as pen computers and personal digital assistants) includes a bracket (30) having a plurality of clips (33) removably carrying the handheld computer (12), and a joint (40) secured to the keyboard (11) and the bracket (30) for positioning the keyboard (11) in a plurality of orientations relative to the handheld computer (12). These orientations include a first orientation in which the keyboard (11) is operable and at a preselected viewing angle from a display (14) that is pan of the handheld computer (12), a second orientation adjacent the display (14) in which the keyboard (11) substantially covers the display (14), and a third orientation proximate the handheld computer (12) in which the display (14) is unobstructed, thereby facilitating pen-based input through the display (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Khyber Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Rajendra Kumar, Steven E. Brooks
  • Patent number: 5592717
    Abstract: A gate hinge hinges a gate to a vertical post at an installation site where the post projects vertically in an upward direction from a surface having a first surface portion extending laterally of the post in an inward direction normal to the upward direction of the post and a second surface portion inclined rearwardly of the post upwardly at an angle of inclination, the gate hinge including a hinge axis, mounting members mounting the gate hinge relative to the post with the hinge axis skewed relative to the direction of the post such that the hinge axis passes through a first location adjacent the upper end of the post and a second location vertically below the first location and placed rearwardly and outwardly, with respect to the post, relative to the first location, a bracket mounting the gate to the hinge for swinging movement about the hinge axis between a closed position and an open position, the bracket having bracket arms for locating the gate relative to the hinge axis such that the gate, when in th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventor: Pietro Longo
  • Patent number: 5558164
    Abstract: A collapsible tool bar is provided for carrying agricultural earth-working tools and includes a normally horizontal main tool bar section and at least one outer wing section. The main and wing section are connected by a hinge which has a main hinge plate secured to one of the tool bar sections and a wing hinge plate secured to the other tool bar section. The hinge also includes an intermediate hinge plate connecting the main and wing hinge plates. The main hinge plate is rotatably attached to said intermediate hinge plate about a substantially vertical axis. Means are provided for selectively securing the main hinge plate to the intermediate hinge plate. The wing hinge plate is rotatably attached to the intermediate hinge plate about a substantially horizontal axis. Means are provided for urging said outer wing section in a downward direction when the main hinge plate is secured to the intermediate hinge plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: Larry R. Clymer
  • Patent number: 5519920
    Abstract: A hinge for holding two components, such as a cabinet and its door or the like, that are supported so as to pivotable relative to one another about the axis of the hinge. The hinge has a hinge support that is disposed on one of the components and has two aligned eyelets. A hinge bolt is connected to the other component and extends through the eyelets in order to connect the components. To be able to displace the components relative to one another, the hinge bolt is fixedly connected to its component and the eyelets are attached to the hinge bolt via pivotable connected rods such that the eyelets are displaceable along an axis of the hinge bolt, with the hinge bolt having such a configuration that rotation of the hinge bolt effects displacement of the eyelets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Assignee: EMKA Beschalagteile GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Friedhelm Runge, Manfred Sauerland
  • Patent number: 5419012
    Abstract: A gooseneck type hinge (18) for a vehicle body deck lid (16) includes a gooseneck member (20) moved by a control link (42) between a vertically extending orientation in an open position of the deck lid and a horizontally extending orientation in a closed position of the a deck lid so as to limit the extent to which the gooseneck member (20) of the hinge intrudes into the usable space of the associated vehicle body compartment (12). A universal hinge member (30) of the hinge has a first pivotal connection (32) for providing pivoting thereof about a first axis A on a vehicle body mounted member (28) and also has a second pivotal connection (34) that mounts a first end (22) of the gooseneck member (20) with respect thereto about a second axis B that is generally transverse to the first axis A.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Midway Products Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Cecil H. Lewis
  • Patent number: 5381486
    Abstract: A communication headset is disclosed having a microphone for transmitting the user's voice and a receiver for transmitting audio signals into the user's ear. In a monaural configuration, the headset includes a resilient, generally U-shaped headband, to be worn over the head, having a housing adjustably attached at one end and a stabilizing clip at the other. The receiver assembly is mounted to the housing with a ball and socket type arrangement, allowing the receiver assembly to rotate axially and pivot in a spherical fashion with respect to the housing, thereby increasing comfort and acoustic coupling with any size or shape ear. A binaural configuration is also disclosed wherein the stabilizing clip is replaced with a second receiver assembly, ball and socket joint, and housing.The microphone is mounted on the distal end of a microphone boom for positioning adjacent the user's mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Assignee: ACS Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Christine E. Ludeke, Larry M. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5337452
    Abstract: Panels (10, 12, 16, 20) are joined on several hinge axes (14-22, 18-24), and may fold around either axis. A spherical ball (26) fits within a ball receiving socket (28) in the corner of each panel. Sealing against leakage, from one side of the panels to the other, is accomplished at this multiple axis point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: George LeBlanc, Gwyn Gallagher
  • Patent number: 5279144
    Abstract: A system for calibrating an internal balance used in the testing of scale models in wind tunnels including a base; apparatus for rigidly connecting a first portion of an internal balance to the base; force adaptor apparatus for rigidly engaging a second portion of the internal balance; apparatus for securing the force adaptor apparatus to the base, including apparatus for applying selected loads to the force adaptor apparatus so as to cause a corresponding loading on the internal balance; and low friction apparatus for coupling the force adaptor apparatus to the apparatus for securing, including apparatus for transmitting a direct force from the apparatus for applying selected loads to the force adaptor apparatus via a load point whose position relative to the force adaptor apparatus is substantially constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1994
    Assignee: Israel Aircraft Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Michael Levkowitch
  • Patent number: 5205017
    Abstract: A notebook computer top cover mounting hardware comprising a mainframe having a movable support pivoted to a top edge thereof at one side, and a top cover connected to said movable support by a movable rod and a holding plate for holding a display, wherein engaging a side pin of said movable rod from a first annular groove to a second annular groove inside said holding plate causes said top cover to be rotated through 180.degree. angle for turning said display from a concealed position to the outside for performing a data input operation through a pen device conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Jetta Computers Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: B. J. Wang
  • Patent number: 5206790
    Abstract: A laptop computer (10) with a tiltable and swivelable display (12) is connected to case (29) by a pivot mechanism (20) and a swivel mechanism (33). In the pivot mechanism (20), a first pivot (22) connects display (12) to a pivot plate (50), and the second pivot (24) connects the pivot plate (50) to base (32) of the display (12). The first pivot (22) consists of a pair of pivot pins (52) on each end of the pivot plate (50). The second pivot (24) consists of split pivot pins (54) at each end of the pivot plate (50). The pivot pins (54) and inboard shafts (58) are fastened together and inboard shafts (58) rotate within outboard shafts (56). The outboard shafts (56) and the inboard shafts (58) are surrounded by clutch springs (60), which are connected so that the clutches are in their free rotating direction, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Zeos International, Ltd.
    Inventors: William B. Thomas, Michael R. Barry, James R. Flom
  • Patent number: 5081741
    Abstract: Hinge fittings for pivoting a titlable door or window in which the opening frame partially overlaps the fixed frame provided with a corner bearing and a casement stay fixed in rabbets, and each of the corner bearing and the casement stay having an auxiliary stay arm, a connecting rod and a second stay arm connecting the opening frame to the fixed frame. In order to guarantee better sealing and reliable operation of the door or window, the hinge fittings also include elements for the lateral and vertical positioning of the opening frame in relation to the fixed frame and elements to press the opening frame against the fixed frame on closing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Assignee: Ferco International Usine de Ferrures de Batiment
    Inventor: Laurent Aumercier
  • Patent number: 5052079
    Abstract: A pivoted fitting or turn-and-tilt fitting for windows, doors or the like comprises a bottom turn-and-tilt bearing and a top pivot bearing, both bearings being in each case constructed with two links in order to shift the pivot axis during pivoted opening of the leaf frame. In order to relieve the links of the weight of the leaf, it is suggested that the leaf frame be supported on the fixed frame via an arrangement which is independent of the links of the two pivot bearings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Aug. Winkhaus GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Alfred Vosskotter
  • Patent number: 4744472
    Abstract: Pile table for a small offset printing machine and for receiving a pile of flat workpieces to be printed, the workpieces, respectively, being of nonuniform thickness over the area thereof, includes a pile carrying plate, a double pivot bearing pivotally mounting the pile carrying plate, the double pivot bearing having a first swivel axis extending in a direction in which the flat workpieces are transported in the printing machine and a second swivel axis extending transversely to the direction, and an actuating lever secured to the pile carrying plate for manually swivelling the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1988
    Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
    Inventor: Reiner Pfister
  • Patent number: 4692964
    Abstract: A fully concealed, self-closing hinge for mounting a cabinet door to open through an angle of about 175 degrees on a cabinet frame, the hinge having only two pivoted links and three pivot axes. One link is connected to pivot relative to the door about one axis, the other link is connected to pivot relative to the frame about a second axis, and the two links are connected together to pivot relative to one another about the third axis. All three axes intersect one another at a common point on the hinge axis of the door in all positions of the door and constrain the door to swing in an arc about the hinge axis while enabling wide-angle opening of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1987
    Assignee: Amerock Corporation
    Inventor: William DeBruyn
  • Patent number: 4660251
    Abstract: A hinge-type lid mounting device has a main body to be attached to a case or the like, and the main body has at its one end a cam body pivotally mounted through a first pin. The other end of the main body defines a fixed spring seat, and a spring is interposed between the fixed spring seat and a movable spring seat adapted to abut the cam body. A lid supporting member is rotatably mounted on the cam body through a second pin perpendicular to the first pin. A lid is anchored at its one end to the lid supporting member through a lid anchoring member and a fixing screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1987
    Assignees: Santo Industries Co., Ltd., Western Trading Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takaharu Watabe
  • Patent number: 4658475
    Abstract: Hinge mechanism for a vehicle door comprising a vehicle frame having a mounting surface extending along the vehicle frame, another mounting surface extending along the vehicle door proximate the mounting surface on the vehicle frame, and support members extending between the mounting surfaces to support the door. The support members comprising support arms pivotally attached between brackets positioned on the mounting surfaces. The support arms are pivotally attached through rotary shafts, which are individually mounted at opposite ends of each of the support arms. The rotary shafts are aligned along independently inclined axes, which define a point of convergence beneath the hinge mechanism for the independent axes, so that the upper portion of the door is positioned away from the vehicle frame when the door is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1987
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Eiichi Kinaga, Daiichi Shiraishi