Hinge Member Actuated Patents (Class 200/61.7)
  • Patent number: 12216493
    Abstract: According to various embodiments of the disclosure, an electronic device may includes: a first housing in which a display module is disposed; a second housing in which a circuit board and a cooling fan connected to the circuit board are accommodated, where a first opening is defined in the second housing to introduce air into the cooling fan; and a hinge module rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing, and disposed adjacent to the first opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2025
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Myoungjun Choi, Haein Chung
  • Patent number: 12206807
    Abstract: A hinge assembly for a foldable electronic device comprises a row of interconnected and abutting hinge blades and at least one linear actuator. The linear actuator comprises a rotation shaft and a linear drive arrangement. The first end of the linear drive arrangement is interconnected with the rotation shaft, and the second is connected to one hinge blade. The linear actuator further comprises a locking arrangement for locking the hinge assembly, and the locking arrangement comprising a cam element interlocking with a cam section located on the rotation shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2025
    Assignee: HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Juuso Heiskanen
  • Patent number: 12048294
    Abstract: The present invention features a method and apparatus for enriching the environment of an animal. The apparatus presents a stimulus to an animal, and the animal may input the correct response to the stimulus into an interface. Upon a correct response the apparatus delivers a treat, indication, or combination thereof to the animal. The apparatus may increase the complexity of the stimulus with each correct response. The apparatus may also be connected to social media to track and compare the results of the animal's actions with other animals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2024
    Assignee: AcuiSee LLC
    Inventors: Scott Baron, Jeffrey A. Jamison
  • Patent number: 11851941
    Abstract: A hold-open arrester arrangement has a low power consumption, and therefore a battery lifetime is long in the embodiments of the invention utilizing the battery. The hold-open arrester arrangement has a hold-open arrester arrangement having a hold-open function to hold a door open. The arrangement has also an electric release arrangement. The release arrangement is arranged to release the hold-open function in a fire alarm situation. The hold-open arrester arrangement comprises a sliding block and an arrester unit. The sliding block is connectable with a slide rail in a sliding manner and also pivotable connectable to an arm of a door closer. The arrester unit is connectable to the slide rail and has a body, said electric release arrangement, and said hold-open function with the sliding block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: ABLOY OY
    Inventors: Sauli Seppänen, Juhani Karvonen
  • Patent number: 11686137
    Abstract: A hinge has a first component that pivotally supports a second component of the hinge. The first hinge component carries an energy harvesting switch having a movable operator such as a spring-projected plunger that is positioned to be depressed or otherwise moved by the second hinge component in response to relative pivotal movement of the first and second hinge components. If a gate is fastened to the second hinge component, at least some of the weight of the gate is transferred from the second hinge component to the first hinge component. When the gate is pivoted away from a closed orientation toward an open orientation, the second hinge component moves the operator of the energy harvesting switch thereby causing the energy harvesting switch to emit a radio frequency signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: ERGOMAT, INC
    Inventors: John Joseph Girard, Claus Munch Lendal
  • Patent number: 10895889
    Abstract: A notebook computer including a first body, a second body having a first display, a third body having a second display, a first hinge module, a second hinge module, a first electronic module, a second electronic module, and a switch module is provided. The first body and the second body rotate relatively via the first hinge module, and the second body and the third body rotate relatively via the second hinge module. The switch module is disposed in the first hinge module, and the switch module is electrically connected to and activates the first electronic module or the second electronic module depending on a rotating state of the first hinge module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: COMPAL ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Tung-Ying Wu, Ming-Chung Liu, Kuan-Chang Lee
  • Patent number: 10784058
    Abstract: A sealed electrical contact system includes at least one male electrical contact with at least one annular flange and a male conductive contact. At least one female electrical contact includes a receptacle and a female conductive contact disposed in the receptacle. The at least one annular flange is configured to contact an inner surface of the receptacle when the male conductive contact contacts the female conductive contact and closes a circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Overhead Door Corporation
    Inventor: Federico Romero
  • Patent number: 10487551
    Abstract: A method for making an electric hinge comprising providing first and second hinge plates, each hinge plate having at least one knuckle and forming in each hinge plate an open slot extending from an edge distal from the knuckle and terminating at a mid-portion of the hinge plate to the knuckle. The open slot depth is less than the thickness of the hinge plate. The method includes drilling a hole from the terminus of each open slot to the knuckle of the hinge plate and passing a wire through the hole from the terminus of the open slot to the knuckle in the first hinge plate and from the knuckle of the second hinge plate to the corresponding terminus of the second hinge plate. The method includes mating the first and second hinge plates by inserting a hinge pin through the knuckle of each hinge plate to form the electric hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: ASSA ABLOY Accessories and Door Controls Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Soloski, Thomas Naples, Kenneth Grant
  • Patent number: 10359806
    Abstract: A sensor generates signals representing whether a computer game headset is being worn properly so that the wearer may be advised. The sensor may be a pressure sensor or motion sensor or stretch sensor on the headset, or it may be a camera that images the wearer and uses image recognition to determine if the headset is on correctly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignee: Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Osman
  • Patent number: 10167657
    Abstract: The hinge assembly comprises a housing for mounting on a cabinet and a post member for mounting on a door and for rotation relative to the housing. A first electrical contact is mounted within the housing for connection to a source of electrical power in the cabinet and a second electrical contact is disposed in the post in electrical contact with the first contact for connection to an electrical appliance in the door. In one embodiment, the electrical contacts rotate relative to each other as the post member pivots on the housing while in other embodiments; the electrical contacts remain stationary relative to each other as the post member pivots on the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: Component Hardware Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Brion Gompper, James Rowland, Zohreh Erfan
  • Patent number: 10088874
    Abstract: Aspects described herein generally relate to a capture connector an actuated locking device. The actuator mechanism includes a capture connector having a body and at least one contact element connectable to the body, wherein each contact element comprises a first contact surface extending in a first direction and a second contact surface extending in a second direction different from the first direction. The actuator mechanism further includes a shape memory wire extending in a third direction adjacent to the capture connector, and at least one termination component fixedly coupled to the shape memory wire. The shape memory wire has at least one of a first actuation state and a second actuation state, and in the first actuation state, the shape memory wire generates an actuator force in the third direction, which is normal or oblique to the first direction of the first contact surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Douglas Bowers, Justin Carl Lind
  • Patent number: 10062249
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for determining, at a controller of a device of a premises management system having a head unit and a backplate, at least a partial removal of the head unit from the backplate based on a position of a removal switch that detects connectivity between the head unit and the backplate. When the controller determines that the position of the removal switch is in an open position, an orientation of the head unit may be continuously determined based on an output signal from an accelerometer coupled to the head unit. A tampering signal is output based on the open position of the backplate removal switch and the determined orientation of the head unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: Google LLC
    Inventors: Yash Modi, Conor O'Neill, Shao-Po Ma
  • Patent number: 9970224
    Abstract: The hinge assembly comprises a housing for mounting on a cabinet and a post member for mounting on a door and for rotation relative to the housing. A first electrical contact is mounted within the housing for connection to a source of electrical power in the cabinet and a second electrical contact is disposed in the post in electrical contact with the first contact for connection to an electrical appliance in the door. In one embodiment, the electrical contacts rotate relative to each other as the post member pivots on the housing while in other embodiments; the electrical contacts remain stationary relative to each other as the post member pivots on the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: COMPONENT HARDWARE GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Brion Gompper, James Rowland, Zohreh Erfan
  • Patent number: 9785196
    Abstract: Aspects described herein generally relate to a capture connector an actuated locking device. The actuator mechanism includes a capture connector having a body and at least one contact element connectable to the body, wherein each contact element comprises a first contact surface extending in a first direction and a second contact surface extending in a second direction different from the first direction. The actuator mechanism further includes a shape memory wire extending in a third direction adjacent to the capture connector, and at least one termination component fixedly coupled to the shape memory wire. The shape memory wire has at least one of a first actuation state and a second actuation state, and in the first actuation state, the shape memory wire generates an actuator force in the third direction, which is normal or oblique to the first direction of the first contact surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Douglas Bowers, Justin Carl Lind
  • Patent number: 9699543
    Abstract: A mobile terminal having a terminal body, an audio output module located in the terminal body, a power supply unit located in the terminal body, an earphone port formed on one side of the terminal body and a controller configured to, when a plug of earphone having a cable-type battery is inserted into the earphone port while performing an audio output function, to select an audio output path for at least one of the audio output module or the earphone inserted in the earphone port to output audio sound according to the audio output function and to charge the power supply unit by the cable-type battery is provided. Accordingly, an audio sound can be output through an audio output path selected according to the intention of the user who has inserted the earphone having the cable-type battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Yongsin Kim, Jongho Kim
  • Patent number: 9536684
    Abstract: A multi-signaling hinged safety switch for mobile protection barriers includes a fixed member designed to be secured to a stationary part of the barrier and having a pair of axial end holes, a movable member designed to be secured to a pivotal part of the barrier and having a pair of substantially transverse arms located outside the fixed member and pivoted to the axial end holes, an electrical detection system within the fixed member switching one or more electric safety circuits of the barrier at a predetermined switching angle. A pair of cylindrical pins extend in cantilever fashion from the arms and are pivotally inserted in the holes, with mutually spaced opposed ends defining a gap with no axial connection member therein. The detection system includes a pair of detectors each interacting with one end of a pin and having a switching angle that are operatively independent of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: PIZZATO ELETTRICA S.R.L.
    Inventors: Marco Pizzato, Giuseppe Pizzato
  • Patent number: 9152826
    Abstract: An electronic device is provided, the electronic device having an anti-theft interface. If damage to the anti-theft interface is detected, the electronic device enters a user authentication mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Wan-Li Zhang, Adnan A. Siddiquie, Jeffrey A. Lev, Michael J. Dougherty, Earl W. Moore
  • Publication number: 20150096872
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for creating an integrated access door and switch actuator. The integrated access door and switch actuator are created from a single composite material. The composite material is flexible to allow movement, but is also durable to provide a protective covering. The integrated access door and switch actuator include a hinge, which allows the access door to move to an open and closed position while the switch actuator is stationary in a fixed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventor: William Woodburn
  • Publication number: 20140042885
    Abstract: A switching system including a switch activation pin, a switch, and a switch connector is provided. The switch activation pin mounts to an arm that pivotally mounts a door to a body of a device. The switch activation pin moves with the arm when the door is opened or closed. The switch mounts to the device to control a component of the device. The switch connector mounts to the device to activate the switch based on a position of the switch activation pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: Sub-Zero, Inc.
    Inventors: Arturo J. Bonomie, Daniel Mark Graham, Mark J. Blahnik, Sean Petersen
  • Patent number: 8598478
    Abstract: The invention relates to a switch for a door, a flap or a door handle of a motor vehicle, having a base body with a receptacle; a first contact area and second contact area, both areas provided in the receptacle; a snap-action plate arranged in the receptacle having a curved region situated above the first contact area, and at least three support elements, with at least one support element contacting the second contact area, the curved region undergoing elastic deformation by operation of the snap-action plate, thereby achieving an electrical connection between the two contact areas and therefore generating a switching signal, with the second contact area, which is at a distance from the first contact area, extending at least in regions around the first contact area such that at least one support element touches the second contact area in every possible position of the snap-action plate within the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Huf HĂĽlsbeck & FĂĽrst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Buss
  • Patent number: 8513551
    Abstract: An interlock mechanism includes first and second covers hinged to an apparatus body and openably closable relative to the apparatus body, an interlock switch provided inside the first and second coverts in the apparatus body, first and second pressing portions respectively provided on the first cover and the second cover, a first cam unit pivotably supported on the apparatus body by a first shaft to contact the first pressing portion, and a second cam unit pivotably supported on the first cam unit by a second shaft to contact the second pressing portion. When the first and second pressing portions respectively contact the first cam unit and the second cam unit, the first and second cam units rotate to push the interlock switch, the second cam unit turns on the interlock switch, and the closing of the first and second covers are detected simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshihide Ohta
  • Publication number: 20130199904
    Abstract: A switching arrangement for detection of displacement of a movable member (80, 62, 86) of a household appliance comprises: (a) a switch (76, 84) having an control element (78, 116) which is movable between a first position in which the switch assumes a first switching condition and at least one second position in which the switch assumes a second switching condition; and (b) an actuation member (68, 82) adapted for connection to said movable member (80, 62, 86) and having a cam surface engaging said control element (78, 116).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS CORPORATION N.V.
    Inventors: Frank Huget, Christoph BlĂĽml
  • Patent number: 8184433
    Abstract: An electronic device having a pivotable cover includes a cover body, a device body connected pivotably to the cover body, and a switch unit disposed on pivot connecting portions of the cover body and the device body. When the cover body is pivoted relative to the device body, the switch unit switches a power supply status of the electronic device. Thus, the convenience of operating the electronic device is enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventor: Shih-Jeh Lin
  • Publication number: 20120118712
    Abstract: An actuator that includes a shelf having a pivot cone, a first member, a second member, a trigger pin and a trigger lever latch. The first member includes a weight, a first shaft extending upwardly from the weight and through an opening in the pivot cone, and a first plate affixed to the first shaft. The first plate is supported by the pivot cone. The second member includes a second plate resting on the first plate and a second shaft extending upwardly from the second plate. The trigger lever latch includes a first portion connected to the second shaft and a second portion extending upwardly at an angle away from the first portion. The trigger pin has an engagement surface. The trigger pin is movable between an operational state and a tripped state. The second end of the trigger lever latch is engaged with the engagement surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Colin Johnstone
  • Publication number: 20120061214
    Abstract: The invention relates to a switch for a door, a flap or a door handle of a motor vehicle, having a base body with a receptacle; a first contact area and second contact area, both areas provided in the receptacle; a snap-action plate arranged in the receptacle having a curved region situated above the first contact area, and at least three support elements, with at least one support element contacting the second contact area, the curved region undergoing elastic deformation by operation of the snap-action plate, thereby achieving an electrical connection between the two contact areas and therefore generating a switching signal, with the second contact area, which is at a distance from the first contact area, extending at least in regions around the first contact area such that at least one support element touches the second contact area in every possible position of the snap-action plate within the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Buss
  • Patent number: 8134593
    Abstract: A head band unit contains a bending sensor which detects bending of the head band unit. As shown in the figure, the bending degree of the head band unit when mounted on a user head is smaller than the bending degree of the head band unit when not mounted. Accordingly, the bending degree of the bending sensor is also smaller when mounted. Consequently, by using the output of the bending sensor, it is possible to judge whether the headphone is mounted on the user head. When the headphone is mounted on the user head, power supply to a secondary battery is stopped. Thus, it is possible to provide an output device which can safely charge the secondary battery and can continue operation by an external power source even if the electric capacity of the secondary battery has become zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Masaki Otsuki, Satoshi Ejima
  • Patent number: 8129642
    Abstract: A hinge actuator includes a first part, a second part, an electric drive, a coupling, and an auxiliary coupling. The first part and second part are configured for connection via the electric drive. The coupling is provided between the first part and the second part such that, in a first position, the first part and the second part are connected via the drive and can be pivoted relative to each other via the drive, and, in a second position, the first part and the second part are not connected to each other via the drive and can be pivoted relative to each other manually. In an embodiment, first stops are included on the coupling and the auxiliary coupling, and second stops are included on the coupling and the first part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: MCi (Mirror Controls International) Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Stefan Frits Brouwer, Peter Alexander Hamming, Andreas Johannes Petrus Schalkwijk, Eric Gerardus Paulus van Slagmaat, Paulus Gerardus Maria van Stiphout
  • Patent number: 8014147
    Abstract: A portable electronic apparatus includes a first casing, a second casing, and an enhanced pivotal mechanism for folding/unfolding the second casing with respect to the first casing. The pivotal mechanism further includes a main pivot to pivot the first casing and the second casing; a combination constructed on the first casing and further including a first driving element driven by the main pivot, a first cam driven by the first driving element, and a first cover pivotally rotated by the first cam; and, another combination constructed on the second casing and further including a second driving element driven by the main pivot, a second cam driven by the second driving element, and a second cover pivotally rotated by the second cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: ASUSTeK Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Kuan-Ting Chen, Peter Timothy Clark
  • Patent number: 7847205
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hinge actuator comprising a first part which is configured for connection with a second part via an electric drive. The first and the second part are provided with stops cooperating in a pivoting direction for defining a select or predetermined position of the actuator parts with respect to each other. In an embodiment, in a first position of a coupling between the first part and the second part, these parts can pivot via the electric drive. In a second position, the first part and the second part are not connected via the drive but can be pivoted relative to each other manually. Further, the first and the second part may be provided with stops only cooperating in the second position of the coupling in an opposing pivoting direction, for defining the select or predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: MCi (Mirror Controls International) Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Stefan Frits Brouwer, Peter Alexander Hamming, Andreas Johannes Petrus Schalkwijk, Eric Gerardus Paulus van Slagmaat, Paulus Gerardus Maria van Stiphout
  • Patent number: 7748083
    Abstract: A built-in domestic appliance including a hinge device that hinges a door to a furniture body of the built-in domestic appliance, with the hinge device being designed to implement an opening and closing movement of the door, during which a gap is formed between one edge of the door and a front of a second furniture body adjacent to the furniture body of the built-in domestic appliance, a sensor device that monitors the gap for a presence of a foreign body, and a blocking device that blocks the hinge device in the presence of the foreign body detected by the sensor device in a direction of movement of the door which would result in a further reduction of the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Adolf Feinauer, Bernd Heger
  • Patent number: 7679013
    Abstract: There is provided an electronic device that enables and ensures the detection of the open/close condition and attached condition of a plurality of cover bodies by only one detection switch. Therefore, an electronic device comprises an upper cover, a front cover, an actuator, and a mechanical switch. The upper cover is provided openable and closable with respect to a rolled sheet holder storing case, and the front cover is removably attached on the rolled sheet holder storing case for covering a component, which is housed in the rolled sheet holder storing case. The actuator is provided on the front cover, and it makes an action when the upper cover is closed to the rolled sheet holder storing case, and the mechanical switch detects the action of the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinji Kobayashi, Keiji Seo, Akira Sago, Atsushi Kasugai, Hiroaki Kita
  • Patent number: 7547855
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hinge actuator comprising a first part which is configured for connection with a second part via an electric drive. The first and the second part are provided with stops cooperating in a pivoting direction for defining a select or predetermined position of the actuator parts with respect to each other. In an embodiment, in a first position of a coupling between the first part and the second part, these parts can pivot via the electric drive. In a second position, the first part and the second part are not connected via the drive but can be pivoted relative to each other manually. Further, the first and the second part may be provided with stops only cooperating in the second position of the coupling in an opposing pivoting direction, for defining the select position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: MCi (Mirror Controls International) Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Stefan Frits Brouwer, Peter Alexander Hamming, Andreas Johannes Petrus Schalkwijk, Eric Gerardus Paulus van Slagmaat, Paulus Gerardus Maria van Stiphout
  • Patent number: 7538284
    Abstract: An electrical operating panel, in particular for height-adjustable tables equipped with actuators or lifting columns driven by an electric motor. The panel has a first part (1) intended for fixed mounting of the panel and a second part (2) with operating keys (19) for activating electrical switches. The two parts are hinged together, and the hinge is formed with a rotary shaft (10) on the no part and a bearing with a cylindrical face (13) on the other part and formed with interengaging projections (16) and depressions (15) such that the second part may assume various angular positions relative to the first part, the force between projections and depressions bearing greater than the necessary operative pressure on the operating keys, but smaller than the force necessary to manually move the second part between the various angular positions. The panel is of simple structure and easy to mount and use. The users may easily set the keyboard part in the desired angular position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Linak A/S
    Inventors: Jens Jørgen Nielsen, Finn Jacobsen, Martin Riis
  • Patent number: 7536880
    Abstract: A magnetic lid switch assembly includes a first magnetically actuated electrical switch that has a lever arm movable between a first position wherein the first switch is open and a second position wherein the first switch is closed. A second magnetically actuated electrical switch electrically is connected in series with the first switch. The second switch has a lever arm movable between a first position wherein the second switch is open and a second position wherein the second switch is closed. A first actuator is magnetically coupled to the first switch. The first actuator moves the lever arm of the first switch closing the first switch to enable the first switch to pass an electric current when the first actuator is positioned proximate the first switch. A second actuator is magnetically coupled to the second switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Errin Whitney Gnadinger, Kristian Michael Magnuson, Thomas William McConihay, John Jacob Lapina, Jr., Derek Lee Watkins
  • Patent number: 7507922
    Abstract: The invention concerns a hinge of the type consisting of two flap-shaped main components (1, 2), having a mutual-engagement area (3) on a common pivoting axis. The hinge provides that with one of the flaps (1, 2) there is integral a head (4) of the pivoting axis, having a cam-shaped profile, and that with the other flap (1, 2) there is associated a switch body (5) wherefrom a control pin (9) protrudes. An outer end of the control pin (9) engages with said cam-shaped profile, and an end inside the body (5) acts on a button (11) actuating a switch (10) arranged within said body (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Elesa S.p.A.
    Inventor: Alberto Bertani
  • Patent number: 7390983
    Abstract: A switch lock apparatus includes a switching mechanism configured to switch a switch provided at a main body part where a cover body is rotatably provided to a lock-off state where operation can be done or a lock-on state where the operation cannot be done, and an interlocking mechanism configured to control the switching mechanism so that the switch is switched to be in the lock-on state based on the cover body being rotated to a closing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Yusuke Mizuno, Toyokazu Hamaguchi
  • Patent number: 7361855
    Abstract: A device for establishing an electrical connection between two parts, in particular vehicle parts, which can move such that they can pivot with respect to one another about an axis, a first part (3) being provided with a current transmitter unit (1), and a second part (4) being provided with a current receiver unit (2), the current transmitter unit (1) and the current receiver unit (2) each being arranged in the region of the axis (5) such that the current receiver unit (2) and the current transmitter unit (1) come into contact with one another at least in an end position of the pivoting movement of the parts (3, 4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Magcode AG
    Inventor: Hermann Neidlein
  • Patent number: 7352357
    Abstract: A data processing apparatus includes a main body, a cover unit having a display such as an LCD, and a detecting mechanism for detecting the opening and closing of the cover unit in relation to the main body. The detecting mechanism includes a cam mounted coaxially to and rotating together with a pivot shaft that can rotate together with the cover unit, and a detecting switch mounted to the main body and directly or indirectly actuated by the action of the cam as the cover unit opens and closes to detect the opening and closing of the cover unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Tadanori Tachikawa, Sonomasa Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7329820
    Abstract: A detecting system capable of detecting an open/closed state of a cover equipped to a body of a device is provided. The detecting system comprises a body, a cover that moves in a range between an open position and a fully-closed position, a detecting unit that detects open state and closed state of the cover, an actuating mechanism equipped to the cover, a part of which is shifted in a first direction according to opening motion and closing motion of the cover, and affects the detecting unit, and a releasing mechanism by which the part of the actuating mechanism is shifted in a second direction when the cover in the open position is brought in a position in adjacent to the fully-closed position and when the cover in the fully-closed position is opened to a predetermined extent to be in the position in adjacent to the fully-closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hideki Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7271358
    Abstract: A switching hinge comprises a hinge housing (6) at which a hinge flap (4) is swivellably disposed, a switching element (2) coupled with the hinge flap (4) being provided, which switching element (2) triggers a switching operation at a built-in switch (7) in a predetermined position of the hinge flap (4). According to the invention, the built-in switch (7) can be adjusted relative to the switching element (2) for adjusting the switching point. Particularly, a precision adjustment can be carried out so that an adaptation to the respective installation situation becomes possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Bernstein AG
    Inventors: Joachim Ulfik, Markus Finger, Lothar Pedron
  • Patent number: 7268306
    Abstract: A temporary clamping structure for electronics includes a bracket fastened to a ceiling surface of the interior of a room, an electronic device body connected to the ceiling surface by screwing down to the bracket, fitting holes formed on the bracket side, and a fitting pawl provided on the electronic device body and fittable into the fitting holes. The temporary clamping structure for electronics is arranged such that the fitting pawl is unfixed from the fitting hole by bending the tip end of second protrusion of the electronic device body in the direction in which the second protrusion goes away from the first protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takahiro Ikunami
  • Patent number: 7238900
    Abstract: A switching hinge having a hinge housing at which a hinge flap is swivellably disposed about an axis. A switching element is coupled to the hinge flap, which switching element triggers a switching operation at a built-in switch in a predetermined position of the hinge flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Bernstein AG
    Inventors: Joachim Ulfik, Markus Finger, Lothar Pedron
  • Patent number: 7230191
    Abstract: In a hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a first housing and a second housing of an electronic apparatus, the hinge apparatus includes a first rotating portion adapted to be connected to the first housing and a second rotating portion adapted to be connected to the second housing and rotatable with respect to the first rotating portion. The second rotating portion unrotatably holds a switch. A cam member is disposed to face the switch. The cam member is rotatable with respect to the second rotating portion and adapted to be engaged with the second housing in a rotating direction of the hinge apparatus. The switch includes a conductive first contact and a conductive second contact faced to the first contact and adapted to be connected to and disconnected from the first contact. The cam member has a cam portion for pressing the second contact following the rotation of the cam member to connect and disconnect the second contact to and from the first contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Limited
    Inventors: Kazuaki Ibaraki, Masao Higuchi
  • Patent number: 7141750
    Abstract: A switch mechanism includes a switch body including a sensing button placed to protrude from a surface, a switch plate placed to face the sensing button and connected to the switch body, and a coil spring for biasing the switch body. The switch mechanism is formed such that when a protruding portion presses the switch plate, the switch plate presses the sensing button. The switch body is formed to be turnable in accordance with a direction along which the switch plate presses the sensing button. The coil spring is formed to bias the switch body in a direction opposite to the direction along which the sensing button is pressed, out of turning directions of the switch body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masahiro Yamada
  • Patent number: 7071428
    Abstract: A self-adjusting interlock actuator assembly for a hinged cover is composed of a cover hinge attaching the cover to the apparatus and a pivoting switch actuator. A spring means connects the cover hinge to the pivoting switch actuator. The spring means is arranged such that the pivoting switch actuator is driven by the cover hinge via the spring means to actuate the interlock switch when the cover is closed. In this way, rotating the cover hinge about the hinge axis causes the pivoting switch actuator to rotate about its pivot axis, thereby causing the pivoting switch actuator to actuate the interlock switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Unisys Corporation
    Inventor: Johan P. Bakker
  • Patent number: 7049533
    Abstract: Disclosed is a hood switch of a front end module carrier, which employs a contactless-type proximity switch installed on an inner panel of a hood in order to inform the driver of an opened state of the hood installed on the front end module carrier in a vehicle, thus improving aesthetic appearance and durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Dae-sung Park
  • Patent number: 6953903
    Abstract: A signal transfer assembly supplies a signal to unlock a door by controlling a lock of the door. The signal transfer assembly includes a transfer strip assembly in the door frame for receiving a deactuation signal, for passing the deactuation signal to a transfer tip assembly in the door, and for passing the deactuation signal to the lock to unlock the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Securitech Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Berger, Simon Berger, Peter Zoltan
  • Patent number: 6906698
    Abstract: A data processing apparatus includes a main body, a cover unit having a display such as an LCD, and a detecting mechanism for detecting the opening and closing of the cover unit in relation to the main body. The detecting mechanism includes a cam mounted coaxially to and rotating together with a pivot shaft that can rotate together with the cover unit, and a detecting switch mounted to the main body and directly or indirectly actuated by the action of the cam as the cover unit opens and closes to detect the opening and closing of the cover unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Tadanori Tachikawa, Sonomasa Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 6867382
    Abstract: A modular contact switch adapted to be readily assembled from a plurality of contact modules is provided. Both active contact modules and passive contact modules comprise coupling features, including but not limited to, engagement tabs and mating surfaces, to enable a removable coupling of multiple active contact modules to form active contact assemblies and passive contact modules of a passive contact assembly. The active contact modules provide a spring-biased contact that responds to the position of passive contacts of the passive contact modules. As the active and passive contact modules come into abutment and urging engagement, an electrical connection is made between the corresponding contacts. The spring-bias of the active contacts ensures that the electrical contact is made regardless of variations in tolerances and position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: Lawrence Andrew Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6857249
    Abstract: A safety catch device of a sealing machine has a baffle and a probe set. The baffle is pivotally arranged at the opening of the machine body. A conducting sheet is provided at the rear side of the baffle. The probe set has a first probe and a second probe, which are connected to a circuit unit with signal cables. The front end of the first probe exceeds the front end of the second probe by a certain distance. The front end of the first probe contacts the conducting sheet. The front end of the second probe keeps a certain distance from the conducting sheet. When the baffle swings backwards, the conducting sheet contacts the front end of the second probe to transfer signals to the circuit unit for stopping the film sealing operation. The safety of operation can thus be greatly enhanced to effectively avoid occurrence of hazards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Che Ting Hsu