Multiple Links Angularly Related Patents (Class 49/248)
  • Patent number: 11820184
    Abstract: A land-and-air vehicle configured to switch between a ground traveling mode and an aerial flight mode incudes a body, a wing, a wheel, a suspension, and a lock mechanism. The wing is attached to the body. The wheel is provided on a lower side of the body. The suspension is configured to support the body via the wheel on ground, and to contract due to self-weight of the land-and-air vehicle. The lock mechanism is configured to limit expansion of the suspension from a state in which the suspension has contracted due to the self-weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: SUBARU CORPORATION
    Inventors: Daisuke Hirabayashi, Keisuke Tajiri
  • Patent number: 11760244
    Abstract: An armrest includes a frame, a mounting portion included in the frame and having a mounting surface with which the mounting portion is mounted on a bracket of a seat, an armrest-side wire harness arranged in the frame, and an armrest-side connector connected to the armrest-side wire harness and being open in a direction from the mounting surface toward the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignees: AUTONETWORKS TECHNOLOGIES, LTD., SUMITOMO WIRING SYSTEMS, LTD., SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD., SUMITOMO RIKO COMPANY LIMITED, TOKAI CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Satoshi Yamamoto, Kaho Hayashi, Hideki Oshima, Takemasa Okumura, Takahiko Endo, Jun Jin, Keiji Makino
  • Patent number: 11585137
    Abstract: A door opening assembly is provided for moving a door of a vehicle between an open position and a closed position. The assembly includes a frame member coupled to the vehicle, a link is coupled to the frame member, and a link arm pivotally coupled to the link. A pivot arm is pivotally coupled to the frame member and a pivot bracket is pivotally coupled to the door and the pivot arm. The pivot bracket includes a slot such that a pin on the link arm slides therethrough. The assembly includes a gear rack and a gear operably coupled to the gear rack. The gear is driven by a motor as the door moves between its open and closed positions. The assembly further includes a guide track coupled to the vehicle and a roller rotatably driven along the guide track as the door moves between its open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: The Braun Corporation
    Inventors: Michael T. Zindler, Adam D. Wojdyla, Robert E. Bettcher, III, James Stoner, Jon Beck
  • Patent number: 11542739
    Abstract: A door closer mechanism includes a base attached to a door frame, a housing attached to a door panel and a groove formed in the housing, a lever includes one end slidably engaged with the base and another end connected to the housing with a pivot axle, a rotary member is pivotally connected to the housing with the pivot axle, a shaft is slidably engaged in the housing and pivotally connected to the rotary member with a pivot pin, and a spring biasing member is disposed in the housing and engaged with the shaft for applying a spring biasing force onto the shaft and for biasing the shaft toward one end portion of the channel of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Inventor: Jui Chung Liao
  • Patent number: 11512512
    Abstract: An aircraft door translation hinge assembly connects a passenger door of an aircraft to the aircraft fuselage structure and enables the passenger door to move through a desired opening motion. The opening motion of the passenger door is controlled by a simplified mechanism that utilizes a pair of linkages connected by a cam surface follower that engages in sliding engagement with a cam surface. The simplified mechanism controls a pivoting movement of the passenger door as the passenger door is first opened, and then controls a translation movement of the passenger door as the passenger door is continued to be opened from a passenger door opening in the aircraft fuselage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Ryan M. Means, Kenny K. Huynh, Wayne H. Peterson, Michael A. Fleming
  • Patent number: 11384660
    Abstract: A gooseneck hinge assembly includes a first gooseneck hinge portion having a first portion first end coupled to a first surface, a first portion second end having a first portion aperture to receive a pin, and a first gooseneck curve between the first portion first end and the first portion second end. The assembly further includes a second gooseneck hinge portion being a mirror image of the first hinge portion and having a second portion first end coupled to the first surface, a second portion second end having a second portion aperture to receive the pin, and a second gooseneck curve between the second portion first end and the second portion second end. The assembly further includes the pin coupled to a second surface and to extend through the first portion aperture and the second portion aperture to facilitate rotation of the second surface relative to the first surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventors: Win On, Mohamedali Limalia
  • Patent number: 11214997
    Abstract: A multi-linkage vehicle door hinge and door hinge system for use in passenger vehicle entry/exit doors. The door hinge includes a first four bar linkage connected to a second four bar linkage. The door hinge operates to move a vehicle door panel between a closed position and an open position along a path of travel in a movement envelope that is parallel to the exterior surface of the vehicle. In one aspect, the door hinge provides twice as much lift as is required to package the door hinge in the vehicle. In another aspect, the door panel further rotates toward the vehicle centerline for applications having low vertical clearance. In another aspect, the door hinge includes a six-bar linkage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Ali Tavakoli Targhi, Donald R. Monroe, Johan Karlsson, Steven H. Klotz
  • Patent number: 10781614
    Abstract: A safety device for a motor vehicle, which has a striker, a pawl, a rotary latch having an opening direction of rotation, a closing direction of rotation, and a main locking position, and preferably a front hood, wherein the safety device has a blocking element, which has a blockage position and a release position, and the rotary latch is blocked in the closing direction of rotation in the blockage position of the blocking element, wherein the rotary latch is released in the closing direction of rotation by the blocking element in the release position of the blocking element and lowering of the striker is enabled in the main locking position of the rotary latch and movement of the blocking element from the release position to the blockage position is controlled by means of the pawl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Kiekert AG
    Inventors: Ömer Inan, Holger Schiffer, Michael Scholz, Thomas Schönenberg
  • Patent number: 10648210
    Abstract: A multi-linkage vehicle door hinge and door hinge system for use in passenger vehicle entry/exit doors. The door hinge includes a first four bar linkage connected to a second four bar linkage. The door hinge operates to move a vehicle door panel between a closed position and an open position along a path of travel in a movement envelope that is parallel to the exterior surface of the vehicle. In one aspect, the door hinge provides twice as much lift as is required to package the door hinge in the vehicle. In another aspect, the door panel further rotates toward the vehicle centerline for applications having low vertical clearance. In another aspect, the door hinge includes a six-bar linkage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Ali Tavakoli Targhi, Donald R. Monroe, Johan Karlsson, Steven H. Klotz
  • Patent number: 10087669
    Abstract: A front door assembly for a beverage dispenser includes a front door, a linkage subassembly, and a piston. The linkage subassembly includes: a first member having a distal end pivotally connected to a cabinet of the beverage dispenser and a proximal end; and a second member having a distal end pivotally connected to the front door and a proximal end pivotally connected to the first member at a position intermediate the distal end and the proximal end of the first member. The piston is pivotally connected to and extends between the front door and the proximal end of the first member, with the piston providing a force that, in combination with the linkage subassembly, creates a torque that partially offsets a weight of the front door, such that the piston effectively assists the user in moving the front door from a closed position to an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Grindmaster Corporation
    Inventors: Errin Whitney Gnadinger, Gregory K. Thompson, Brandon Kristopher Shell
  • Patent number: 9470029
    Abstract: A casement window includes a lower hinge that has an oil-impregnated roller to facilitate easy opening and closing of the window, particularly with larger, heavier casement windows. In some instances, the lower hinge includes a housing having a roller portion and a guide portion. A roller can be disposed within the roller portion and a guide can be snap fitted into the guide portion. In some cases, a removable shipping spacer fits under the lower hinge and helps to support the weight of the sash during transport and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: Pella Corporation
    Inventors: Jaden Vos, Evan Vande Haar, Andrew P. Schirz
  • Patent number: 9428909
    Abstract: A mounting bracket (1, 41, 91, 121) for a roof window has a frame mountable member (2, 2a, 93, 123), a roof mountable member (3, 3a, 94, 124) and a hinge arrangement (22, 34, 95, 125) for mechanically coupling the roof mountable member (3, 3a, 94, 124) and the frame mountable member (2, 2a, 93, 123) together so that the roof mountable member (3, 3a, 94, 124) is movable between an out of use storage position and an in use mounting position. The location of the pivotal point of the hinge arrangement (22, 34, 95, 125) is movable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Inventor: Sean Coyle
  • Patent number: 8950115
    Abstract: A method and mechanism for moving an element, such as a sliding door (1), is disclosed. In the movement a first end of the element is first turned outwards, a second opposite end is then turned out placing the element in parallel with the original location of the element. The element is then displaced by extending a pull-out guide (4). The mechanism comprises a housing (2), the pull-out guide rail (4), a lock-and-release mechanism (19) and at least two lever arms (8, 11, 14, 16, 27, 30, 33, 39, 42). One end of a first lever arm (8, 27, 39) is received in a pivoting point (10, 29, 41) at the pull-out guide rail (4) and the opposite end of said lever arm (8, 27, 39) is received in a pivoting point (9, 28, 40) at the housing (2). The pivoting point (10, 29, 41) at the pull-out guide rail (4) is placed at a first end of the pull-out guide rail (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.
    Inventors: Benny Andersson, Hakan Persson
  • Patent number: 8776437
    Abstract: An operator for a casement window is disclosed which includes a hub that frictionally receives a spindle. The hub is pivotally connected to a proximal end of a pivoting handle. The hub is disposed within a cavity that extends through the proximal end of the handle and terminates at a back wall. The cavity partially accommodates a biasing element, an actuator and the hub. The biasing element is disposed between the actuator and the back wall and biases the actuator towards the hub. The hub includes at least one open position recess and open position protrusion and the actuator includes a complementary protrusion and a recess wherein the protrusion is received in the at least one open position recess of the hub and the recess of the actuator receives the at least one open position protrusion of the hub when the handle is pivoted to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Roto Frank of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Bourgoin
  • Patent number: 8769873
    Abstract: A casement window with multi-angle window sash includes a window frame (2) and a window sash (5). The window sash (5) is connected with the window frame (2) by a window hinge mechanical structure and a locking mechanism (7), wherein the mechanical structure of the window hinge includes a quadrilateral link mechanism (4), a movable sliding block (10), a gear (9), and a hinge seat (3); the locking mechanism (7) includes a screw rod (75) with an axial plane (78) and a thread (77). The screw rod (75) realizes the locking of the window sash (5) by meshing the thread (77) with the gear (9), and realizes the opening and closing of the window sash (5) by the axial plane (78). The casement window is simple in structure, low in cost, convenient to install and use, and provides high safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Shenzhen Qichuangmei Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Lin Feng, Hoichi Leung, Lok Shun Leung
  • Patent number: 8733021
    Abstract: A casement window unit including a fixed frame (2); a movable sash (3) connected to the fixed frame by a pair of hinged members (4, 5) joined to respective members of the fixed frame and of the sash so as to allow the movable sash to move between a closed position, where the fixed frame and the sash are in contact with each other, and an open position, where at least one stile (3c) of the sash is at a certain distance from the fixed frame towards the outside of the room where the window unit (1) is installed, and vice versa; and a movement arm (7) acting on the sash in such a way that it moves the sash from the closed position to the open position, and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: GSG International S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Lambertini
  • Patent number: 8707621
    Abstract: A window assembly including a frame having an interior portion with an inner surface, and a sash having an interior portion and an exterior portion. The window assembly includes an operational mode and a wash mode. In the operational mode, the sash is movable from a closed position to a position in which the sash is generally perpendicular with the frame. In the wash mode, the sash is movable to a position where the exterior of the sash faces toward the interior frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Marvin Lumber and Cedar Company
    Inventors: Daniel J. Curtis, Gregory J. Vetter
  • Patent number: 8683746
    Abstract: An awning window unit which includes a fixed frame (2); a movable frame (3) connected to the fixed frame by a pair of hinged members (4, 5) joined to respective members of the fixed frame and of the movable frame so as to allow the movable frame to move between a closed position, where the fixed and movable frames are in contact with each other, and an open position, where at least one lower rail (3c) of the movable frame is at a certain distance from the fixed frame towards the outside of the room where the window unit (1) is installed, and vice versa; and a movement arm (7) configured to move the movable frame from the closed position to the open position, and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: GSG International S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Lambertini
  • Patent number: 8555548
    Abstract: A window operating system for casement and awning windows has two actuators that are connected to be controlled by one crank to operate simultaneously. The system is modular and the crank is preferably part of a crank assembly that is a separate component from the actuators. In a further embodiment, the operating system has at least one actuator with a crank assembly to operate the actuator being located at a different location on a window frame from the actuator. With a modular system, there are numerous variations for location and number of locks and the location of the crank assembly as well as other components. The system still further describes a lock for a window operating system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Gregory George Carter
  • Patent number: 8505240
    Abstract: A device to limit an opening of a window having a hinged sash coupled to a window frame including a window opening limiting structure having a first member and a second member. One of them is securable to the sash and the other of the first member and the second member being securable to the frame. A selectively releasable coupler by which the first member and the second member are couplable is shiftable between a coupled status and a released status. The first member and the second member bridge a preselected distance such that the sash is inhibited from opening beyond a predetermined distance. The coupler is releasable so that the sash can be opened beyond the predetermined distance and re-engages automatically when the sash is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Truth Hardware Corporation
    Inventors: Nghi Christopher Nguyen, Derek Ronald Gramstad, Scot J. Berkley
  • Patent number: 8434265
    Abstract: A window operator moves a sash between an open and closed position. The window operator includes a track member and a sliding member. A gear member has a second end adapted and configured to be operatively connected to the window sash and a first end has a plurality of radially spaced gear members. A rack member is positioned proximate the track and is positioned to engage the gear teeth. One of the gear members and rack member is operatively connected to the sliding member. The other is positioned proximate the track and has no longitudinal movement relative to the track. A drive member is connected to the sliding member, wherein actuation of the drive member moves the sliding member longitudinally and causes the gear teeth to engage the track, thereby resulting in rotational movement of a gear member to move the sash between an open and closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventors: Frank W. Campbell, John J. Micinski
  • Patent number: 8230644
    Abstract: A hinge unit for hopper/awning window units (1), the window unit comprising a fixed frame (2) and a sash (3) capable of rototranslation between open and closed positions. The hinge units (4) each comprise: a supporting element (5) integral with the fixed frame (2); an arm (6) one end of which pivots at the sash (3); a first slide (7) slidable along the supporting element (5); connecting rods (8, 9) connecting the first slide (7) to the arm (6); a joint rod (10) between the arm (6) and the supporting element (5), its ends respectively pivoting at a distal point of the supporting element (5) and at the arm (6), so as to form a second connecting point (F2); there being adjusting means (11) to allow a variation of the connecting point (F2) along the supporting element (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: GSG International S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Lambertini
  • Patent number: 8141295
    Abstract: An operator for a casement window, the operator comprising a base, at least one arm for securement to the base, an upper securement member extending through an aperture in the base and an end of the arm with the securement member having a threaded recess therein. A lower screw securement member is screw threadedly engaged with the upper one to assist in drawing the arm into the desired position. A monocoque housing surrounds the operator and has sealing members to prevent air infiltration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventor: Christian Carrier
  • Patent number: 8099904
    Abstract: A mechanism for the installment of a door or other similar closure having a rotational-sliding movement, of the type comprising the following elements to associate to a shutter: first pivot means defining a first vertical axis for the pivoting of a shutter, in a substantially central region thereof, to translation means arranged so as to slide in a corresponding guide associated to the upper strut of a frame of a door; second pivot means with an axis parallel to the axis of the first pivot means, for the pivoting of two arms, a first upper one and a second lower one, that are both pivoted with one of their ends to the frame of the door or closure in proximity to a jamb to define a second rotation axis, and have the opposite ends reciprocally rigidly coupled by means of a rod, defining a third rotation axis interposed between the first axis and the second axis, passing through the shutter in the direction of the height thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Inventor: Sandro Saccon
  • Patent number: 8046954
    Abstract: A window assembly including a frame having an interior portion with an inner surface, and a sash having an interior portion and an exterior portion. The window assembly includes an operational mode and a wash mode. In the operational mode, the sash is movable from a closed position to a position in which the sash is generally perpendicular with the frame. In the wash mode, the sash is movable to a position where the exterior of the sash faces toward the interior frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignees: Marvin Lumber and Cedar Company, Truth Hardware Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel J. Curtis, Gregory J. Vetter
  • Patent number: 8006435
    Abstract: A safety gate system having an electronic display for seamless integration into a barrier with electronic display capabilities. The safety gate system includes a post and a gate hinged to the post. The gate face and post carry electronic display modules which appear when the gate is closed, as continuous with and seamlessly integrated into the display of the barrier. Preferably, the hinges are four-bar hinges, most preferably two sets of paired four-bar hinges. The safety gate also includes a lower chase or sill which allows both signal wiring and power to pass under the gate. Braced rear legs compensate for the cantilever forces of the gates when open. A latch, preferably an electromagnetic latch, auto-releases in response to a pre-set sufficient force level, such as arising crowd surge forces, being applied to the gate, as well as being remotely releasable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay C. DeBlonk, Kent Shane Miller, Douglas John Criddle
  • Patent number: 7997028
    Abstract: An internal swivel door for an aircraft compartment. A door frame for entering the compartment includes a horizontal element and at least one door leaf which is mounted inside the door frame wherein the door leaf is turned about a vertical door rotational axis. The vertical door rotational axis is moved in parallel along a predetermined local curve. In order to take up less space during opening and closing of the door and to be able to operate the door with the least possible force, the door has a rotary sliding joint between the door leaf and the horizontal element. The door leaf has a rotational movement about a momentary rotational axis running through the rotary sliding joint wherein the momentary rotational axis is moved in parallel both in relation to the horizontal element and the door leaf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Christian Holst
  • Patent number: 7883058
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a specially designed hinge mechanism, which makes it possible to construct an aircraft door that can be fitted in a fuselage so as to be displaceable and swivellable on the fuselage. Furthermore, the invention relates to an aircraft door comprising at least one such hinge mechanism designed in this way, to a fuselage with at least one aircraft door that is linked to at least one hinge mechanism, designed in this way, on the fuselage, as well as to the use of at least one hinge mechanism for installation of an aircraft door at a fuselage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Konrad Erben, Jan Wijnia
  • Patent number: 7832686
    Abstract: The present application relates to a specially designed hinge mechanism (4) which makes it possible to construct an aircraft door (2) that can be fitted in a fuselage (3) so as to be displaceable and swivellable on the fuselage (3). Furthermore, the invention relates to an aircraft door (2) comprising at least one such hinge mechanism (4) designed in this way, to a fuselage (3) with at least one aircraft door (2) that is linked to at least one hinge mechanism (4), designed in this way, on the fuselage (3), as well as to the use of at least one hinge mechanism (4) for installation of an aircraft door (2) on a fuselage (3). The hinge mechanism (4) essentially comprises a displacement mechanism (5, 6) as well as a telescopic scissor-type mechanism (7-12). The displacement mechanism (5, 6) can be linked to an aircraft door (2) and is kinematically designed such that as a result of its activation the aircraft door (2) can be displaced from its home position in the direction of the fuselage (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Konrad Erben, Jan Wijnia
  • Patent number: 7765740
    Abstract: A sliding door for a vehicle comprises a guide rail, a sliding carriage which is longitudinally displaceably on the guide rail and a hinge bow which is rotatably supported at the sliding carriage and at a body flange. To improve such a sliding door, an intermediate layer is provided which is rotatably supported at the sliding carriage, a control lever which is rotatably supported at the intermediate lever and at a body flange and a drive rod for the drive of the control lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Dura Automotive Body & Glass Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Heuel, Michael Krehmke, Ralf Rottmann
  • Patent number: 7611190
    Abstract: A vehicle door articulating and sliding mechanism is provided that includes a swing arm pivotally mounted via a first bracket to a vehicle structure at one end and a sliding assembly comprising a rotating second bracket mounted at an opposite end of the swing arm. The sliding assembly is slidably engaged to a vehicle door. The mechanism also includes a first flexible link at least partially encircling a first sprocket connected to the vehicle structure and a second sprocket fixed to the vehicle door. The mechanism further includes a second flexible link fixed to the vehicle door at one end and fixed to the vehicle structure at the opposite end. The second flexible link at least partially encircles a cam, wherein the first flexible link and cam provide a catch that engages the cam to accelerate movement of the door during opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Adrian Nicholas Alexander Elliott, Jason Falenski, Justin Thales Johnson, Dave Michael Lechkun
  • Patent number: 7469447
    Abstract: A vehicle hinge for coupling a flap to a vehicle body, comprises a first link, a second link, a first spring, wherein one of the first link and the second link are to be arranged pivotably on a body of a vehicle and on a flap of a vehicle, respectively, wherein, when the flap is closed, the first spring pretensions the flap in an opening direction, a tensioning device for tensioning the first spring in a second opening phase of the flap, and a locking device for retaining the tensioned first spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Edscha AG
    Inventor: Peter Schlegel
  • Patent number: 7396068
    Abstract: An apparatus for attaching a door to a passenger vehicle body having a lift arm and a hinge assembly. The lift arm rotatably connects the door to the vehicle body. The lift arm imparts upward rotational movement to the door relative to the vehicle body as upward pressure is applied to the arm. The hinge assembly allows the door to open horizontally about a pair of hinges connected to the hinge assembly. A stop pin assembly dictates whether the door can be opened vertically or horizontally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Inventor: Eric L. McRobert
  • Patent number: 7255039
    Abstract: A closure mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a fixed lower part and an upper part rotatable relative to the lower part, the upper part being moveable from an open position, in which the upper part is disengaged from the lower part, and a closed position, in which the upper part is engaged with the lower part, the closure mechanism further comprising a clamping lever operable to retain the upper part in the closed position, wherein the clamping lever comprises a first member being pivotably connected at a first pivot to the upper part and a second member having a first end pivotable about a second pivot, an end of the first member and a second end of the second member being pivotably connected together at a third pivot such that the clamping lever has first and second positions of stability, wherein on operation of the clamping lever to move the upper part from the open position to the closed position the clamping lever moves from the first to the second position of stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Kraft Foods R & D, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Halliday, Steve Carter
  • Patent number: 7143548
    Abstract: A flap drive for a flap includes two identical lever joint arrangements which are arranged in pairs at a distance from one another. The flap can be moved out of its closing position into its opening position and back by the flap drive. In this case, the lever joint arrangements are articulated pivotably with one of their ends in each case on a side region of the flap and with their other ends at a fixed location on the motor vehicle. The mutually corresponding pivot axes of the articulation points extend coaxially to one another. Movement transmission devices for the pivotable drive of a driven lever of each lever joint arrangement are guided by a common motive drive unit, the driven levers being articulated at a fixed location on the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Stabilus GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Kleinmann, Andreas Ritter
  • Patent number: 7137174
    Abstract: An activating mechanism is provided for use with a four-link hinge of the type typically used for closure of a vehicle movable deck, such as a trunk lid or engine compartment hood. A lower link bracket is secured to the vehicle body and an upper link bracket is secured to the movable deck. Pivoting links may be connected between the upper and lower link brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Gecom Corp
    Inventors: Lester Derbis, Darek Barczynski, Keith Julien
  • Patent number: 7104588
    Abstract: A mechanism for moving a door relative to an access opening in a door frame includes three links pivotally connected between the door and the door frame permitting outward and lateral movement of the door. A structural member or pillar releasably secured to the door frame can move with the door and the mechanism can include a supporting member extending beneath and supporting the door during movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Toto Tech, INC
    Inventors: Michael George, Kyle Brookes, Stephen Derby
  • Patent number: 7000977
    Abstract: A slidable and hinged door, e.g., in a motor vehicle, in which the door is displaceable from the plane of a door opening by at least one swivel arm developed as a double hinge, and, for the sliding function, is displaceable into a plane arranged in front of it that is approximately parallel to it and is slidable in the plane arranged in front of it by a parallel guidance, may be simple to handle and to be operated by motor, at the same time as having a simple arrangement from a construction point of view. The swiveling motions and/or the swiveling possibilities for the operation of the door are able to be activated or determined within the double hinge by servomotors engaging at the first and the second hinge of the double hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventor: Michael Anders
  • Patent number: 6974177
    Abstract: A dual-axis door hinge assembly for a vehicle includes a body side strap adapted to be connected to a vehicle body of the vehicle. The dual-axis door hinge assembly also includes a door side strap adapted to be connected to a door of the vehicle. The dual-axis door hinge assembly further includes an intermediate link pivotally connected to the body side strap to form a first pivot axis and pivotally connected to the door side strap to form a second pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Brian V. Castillo
  • Patent number: 6971439
    Abstract: An agricultural machine is described with a screen for protecting a part of a cooling system of a motor mounted on the agricultural machine, the screen being mounted in its operational position adjacent the cooling system, wherein the screen is movable from the operational position next to the cooling system of the motor to a position in which the screen lies outside the envelope defining the outer form of the agricultural machine, the screen being hingedly connected to the agricultural machine so that the initial trajectory of the screen is horizontal and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the agricultural machine, and that a further second trajectory of the screen is horizontal and substantially circular, having its centre of curvature on or adjacent a first hinge position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: Dirk J. Desnijder
  • Patent number: 6928697
    Abstract: A hinge for supporting a vent between a closed position in which it lies within a fixed frame and an open position in which it extends substantially perpendicularly to the fixed frame comprises a support track, a slider mounted on the support track and a vent arm attached to the support track via the slider by a plurality of links. The hinge further comprises a restricting member for acting between the support track and the vent arm wherein upon movement of the vent arm, the restricting member acts to further restrict movement of the vent arm. The slider includes a body portion and a restricting device for engaging the track, in use, to limit movement of the slider, wherein a portion of the restricting device extends into the body portion of the slider to provide reinforcement thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Securistyle Limited
    Inventors: Clive W. M. Brain, James M. Browne
  • Patent number: 6860543
    Abstract: A mechanism for moving a door relative to an access opening in a door frame includes three links pivotally connected between the door and the door frame permitting outward and lateral movement of the door. A structural member or pillar releasably secured to the door frame can move with the door and the mechanism can include a supporting member extending beneath and supporting the door during movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Toto Tech, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael George, Kyle Brookes, Stephen Derby
  • Patent number: 6647664
    Abstract: A control panel, which might be enclosed within an openable housing, can be movably supported on a pivotable support structure. The support structure which incorporates one or more pivot points facilitates movement of the control panel from a normal operational position to a displaced maintenance/service position the control panel can be moved both arcuately and linearly on the support element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Metropolitan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Kochan, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6643896
    Abstract: There is provided an improved connecting member for use in connecting a sash support arm and a sash arm in a hinge assembly for a casement window, the connecting member having a cylindrical stud portion which extends through a sash arm cylindrical aperture and a cylindrical shaft extending from the cylindrical stud portion, the cylindrical shaft being eccentric with respect to the stud portion and extending through to a sash support arm opening, the cylindrical shaft having a recess formed therein designed to receive a tool to prevent rotational movement of the connecting member to thereby permit change of a sash support arm pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Germain Carrier
  • Patent number: 6644884
    Abstract: A rotational spring clip is provided for connecting a male component to a female component. The spring clip is pivotally secured to a female component. The male component includes a male member that extends through a hole in the female component. The spring clip is then rotated to engage the male component with a structure that includes two spaced apart legs that define an open mouth. The legs of the clip are trapped between a flange formed at the outer distal end of the male member that extends through and beyond the female component. The legs of the clip are then frictionally trapped between the flange of the male member and an outer surface of the female component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Roro Frank of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Anthony Gledhill
  • Publication number: 20030172591
    Abstract: A motorized operator for opening and closing a window sash relative to a window frame via an arm mechanism connected to the window frame and being adapted to be installed in a cavity defined in the window frame. The operator comprises a motor, a drive axle rotated by the motor, and first and second gears in meshed engagement. The first gear is mounted on the drive axle, while the second gear is mounted to the arm mechanism such that motorized rotation of the first gear rotatably drives the second gear thereby causing the arm mechanism to pivot for opening and closing the window sash. A manual operator is adapted to disengage the first and second gears from one another while becoming engaged to the second gear for manually rotating the second gear and so manually operate the arm mechanism. The manual operator comprises a handle and a manual actuator which includes a sprocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Andre Labarre
  • Patent number: 6618995
    Abstract: A window closure system comprising a closure member for connecting a window sash to a window frame. The closure member comprises a corrosion resistant elongated rigid rectangular body portion formed from a single continuous stainless steel sheet or a single continuous stainless steel alloy sheet. The body portion having a planar layer and two metal members folded over into substantial abutting contact with the planar layer. One or more keeper members are used to engage the metal layers and prevent their movement from away from the abutting contact with the planar layer. The closure member may comprise part of a swivel arm, a hinge arm and a tie bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Giuseppe De Marco
  • Patent number: 6382705
    Abstract: A four bar linkage is configured in non parallelogram form as a hinge for pivotally guiding a closure panel in a predetermined opening motion between a closed position closing an access opening and a fully open position longitudinally adjacent one side edge of the opening and generally parallel with a side of a vehicle or compartment body. In the opening motion, one edge of the panel first moves outward to clear a structural body member at one edge of the opening and another edge of the panel first rotates and moves longitudinally away from the opposite side of the opening as the panel pivots outward and then inward to the fully open position. The closure panel may be paired with a conventionally hinged front door of a vehicle to allow both the door and the panel to be independently opened or closed regardless of the position of the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Steven Craig Lang, Paul D. Wilkins, Michael E. Bodner
  • Patent number: 6308650
    Abstract: A hatch cover structure for a personal watercraft, wherein a hatch cover is attached to a deck of the personal watercraft via a hinge unit having a double action mechanism, which moves the hinge shafts apart from a hull surface during the continued opening action of the pivotally moving hatch cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshinori Tsumiyama, Kenichi Nakagawa, Masafumi Ikeyama
  • Patent number: 6282847
    Abstract: An improved workcell is provided with a door hinged at a midpoint between the opposite sides and maintained in a parallel relationship to the workcell access opening, thereby minimizing the clearance space required to open and close the door. The workcell is formed of a plurality of posts and wall panels which can be quickly and easily assembled and disassembled, such that the workcell is portable. The wall panels are pinned to the posts and include hollow ribs to receive cabling, wiring, and tubing for work functions within the workcell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Genesis Systems Group, Ltd.
    Inventors: Jan C. Mangelsen, Fred K. Remley