AU2019257456A1 - An adjustable stop - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an adjustable stop for a self-closing closure including a closure member and a closure frame, the adjustable stop comprising: a body suitable for being pivotally coupled to the closure frame, the body formed to include at least one engagement portion arranged to extend outwards from the body, wherein the at least one engagement portion is formed to selectively abut between the closure member and a closure frame to prevent the self-closing closure from closing. 114 1 12116 110 Figure 1

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention is directed to an adjustable stop for a self-closing closure to maintain the closure in at least one open position.

BACKGROUND [0002] In the past, self-closing closures, such as doors or windows, may have included a stop or stay mechanism as part of the self-closing apparatus. This may have been provided in the form of a latch device or alternatively a plate movable along a shaft or piston arm, where the piston arm is arranged to enable the door to self-close. Such mechanisms are usually provided at an upper boundary of the door or window so as to not obscure the opening provided by the window or door.

[0003] Moreover, typical stay mechanisms are usually easy to dislodge. This may occur as the mechanism slips or by the mechanism being insufficient to maintain the closure open against an application of force to the closure. As such, closures with known stay mechanisms will commonly close prematurely or slowly close overtime.

[0004] The preferred embodiments of the present invention seek to address one or more of these disadvantages, and/or to at least provide the public with a useful alternative.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an adjustable stop for a self-closing closure including a closure member and a closure frame, the adjustable stop comprising: a body suitable for being pivotally coupled to the closure frame, the body formed to include at least one engagement portion arranged to extend outwards from the body, wherein the at least one engagement portion is formed to selectively abut between the closure member and a closure frame to prevent the selfclosing closure from closing.

[0006] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an adjustable stop for a self-closing closure including a closure member and a closure frame, the adjustable stop comprising: a body pivotally coupled to the closure frame, the body formed to include at least one engagement portion, wherein

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 the body is rotatable between at least two positions including at least one open position and a closed position, whereby in the at least one open position the at least one engagement portion is arranged to abut between the closure member and the closure frame to prevent the self-closing closure from closing, and whereby in the closed position the body is rotatable such that the at least one engagement portion does not abut between the closure member and the closure frame to enable the self-closing closure to close.

[0007] In an embodiment, the at least one engagement portion includes a first engagement portion and a second engagement portion of different lengths, each arranged to extend from the body in orthogonal directions to one another, wherein the first engagement portion extends between the closure and the closure frame in a first of the at least one open positions and the second engagement portion extends between the closure and the closure frame in a second of the at least one open positions, such that the closure is maintained in two different open positions.

[0008] In a further embodiment, the body is pivotally coupled to the closure frame via a pivot fixture passing through the body to extend into the closure frame.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, the body includes an opening extending into the body.

[0010] In an embodiment, the first engagement portion includes an extension portion, where the extension portion is telescopically receivable within the opening.

[0011] In another non-limiting embodiment, the extension portion includes a head portion of increased engagement surface area.

[0012] In an example, the second engagement portion is integrally formed with the body.

[0013] In an embodiment, the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion are integrally formed with the body.

[0014] In yet another non-limiting embodiment, the second engagement portion includes a retention

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 groove for engaging with the closure.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the adjustable stop is manufactured using injection moulding manufacturing techniques.

[0016] In a non-limiting example, the adjustable stop is manufactured from a plastics material.

[0017] In an embodiment, the plastics material is at least partially comprised of nylon.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the self-closing closure is a hinged closure.

[0019] In yet another embodiment, the adjustable stop is pivotally coupled to the closure frame at a reachable height.

[0020] In an example, the closure is biased to self-close.

[0021 ] In a third aspect, a method for maintaining a self-closing closure in at least one open position using the adjustable stop is provided, wherein the method comprises the steps of: pivotally coupling the adjustable stop proximate to both the closure member and the closure frame; and rotating the adjustable stop to an at least one open position, whereby the at least one engagement portion is arranged to abut between the closure member and the closure frame so as to prevent the closure from closing, [0022] In an embodiment, the method further comprises the step of: rotating the adjustable stop to a closed position where the at least one engagement portion does not abut between the closure member and the closure frame so as to enable the closure to close.

[0023] In yet another embodiment, the at least one engagement portion including a first engagement portion and a second engagement portion of different lengths that are arranged to extend from the body in orthogonal directions to one another, wherein the method further comprises the steps of: rotating a first of the at least two engagement portions to abut between the closure and the closure frame in a first of the at least one open positions; and rotating a second of the at least two

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 engagement portions to abut between the closure member and the closure frame in a second of the at least one open positions, such that the closure may be maintained in two different open positions.

[0024] It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rational numbers within that range (for example, 1,1.1,2,3,3.9,4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9 and 10) and also any range of rational numbers within that range (for example, 2 to 8,1.5 to 5.5 and 3.1 to 4.7) and, therefore, all sub-ranges of all ranges expressly disclosed herein are hereby expressly disclosed. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner.

[0025] To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting. Where specific integers are mentioned herein, which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates; such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0026] As used herein the term '(s)' following a noun means the plural and/or singular form of that noun. Further, as used herein the term 'and/or' means 'and' or 'or', or where the context allows both. The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only.

[0027] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word comprise, and variations such as comprises or comprising, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0028] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or admission or any form of suggestion that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES [0029] The present invention is described by way of non-limiting examples within the following description and figures.

[0030] Figure 1 is a front view of an adjustable stop in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 2 is a front view of an adjustable stop in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figures 3A, 3B and 3C are each front views of an adjustable stop at various closed and open positions in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figures 4A, 4B and 4C are each top views of an adjustable stop at various closed and open positions in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 5 is front view of an adjustable stop in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figures 6A and 6B are respective front and side views of an adjustable stop in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figures 6C and 6D are respective front and side views of an adjustable stop in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figures 6E and 6F are three dimensional perspective views of an adjustable stop in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figures 7A, 7B and 7C are respective perspective, side and front views of an adjustable stop

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0039] In broad terms, the present invention provides an adjustable stop 100 for a self-closing closure including a closure member and a closure frame. Referring to Figure 1, the adjustable stop 100 comprises a body 102 suitable for being pivotally coupled to the closure frame. The body 102 may be formed to include at least one engagement portion 104 which is arranged to extend or protrude outwards from the body 102. The at least one engagement portion 104 is formed to selectively abut between the closure member and a closure frame to prevent the self-closing closure from closing.

[0040] In an embodiment, the adjustable stop 100 includes a body 102 pivotally coupled to the closure frame. The body 102 may be formed to include the at least one engagement portion 104, which is rotatable between at least two positions, including an at least one open position and a closed position. When the body 102 is rotated to an open position, the at least one engagement portion 104 is arranged to abut between the closure member and the closure frame to prevent the self-closing closure from closing. When the body 102 is rotated to a closed position, the at least one engagement portion 104 does not abut between the closure member and the closure frame to enable the selfclosing closure to close.

[0041] The at least one engagement portion 104 may include an extension portion 112. The extension portion 112 may be received within the opening 110 in the body 102. The opening 110 is complementarily sized and shaped to telescopically receive the extension portion 112. This enables the extension portion 112 to be selectively extended or retracted within the body 102. A positioner 114 maybe provided to the body 102. For example, the positioner 114 may include a locking screw, which upon tightening by a user, contacts with and applies a force to the extension portion 112, which holds the extension portion 112 at a certain position relative to the body 102. However, other positioners are within the scope of the present invention, such as but not limited to, pin locks, clamps or any other means of enabling the variation of the length of the length of the extension portion 112.

[0042] The invention described and defined herein lends itself to application with variety of selfclosing closures. A self-closing closure is one that is biased to self-close, that is, to close without

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 human intervention. Such closures may include a closure with a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder bias mechanism, a spring bias mechanism; a gravity based bias mechanism or any other suitable selfclosing closure mechanism that biases the closure to a closed position.

[0043] Self-closures may include and are not limited to hinged closures. As an example, a hinged closure may be a hinged door, with the closure member being the door and the closure frame being the door frame. Alternatively, the hinged closure may be a hinged window with the closure member being the window and the closure frame being the window frame.

[0044] Referring to Figure 2, another embodiment of an adjustable stop 200 may be provided with two engagement members. The adjustable stop 200 comprises a body 202 suitable for being pivotally coupled to the closure frame. The body 202 may be formed to include a first engagement portion 204, which is arranged to extend outwards from the body 202. The first engagement portion 204 is formed to selectively abut between the closure member and a closure frame to prevent the self-closing closure from closing. The body 202 may also include a second engagement portion 206, which is also formed to selectively abut between the closure member and the closure frame to prevent the self-closing closure from closing. The adjustable stop 200 is pivotally arranged and capable of rotation by a user to enable either the first engagement portion 204 or the second engagement portion 206, to abut between the closure member and a closure frame.

[0045] In an embodiment, the body 202 is pivotally coupled or joined to the closure frame via a pivot fixture 208 passing through the body 202, wherein the pivot fixture 208 is arranged to extend into the closure frame via an aperture. Although the aperture is not clearly shown in Figures 1 to 6D due to the pivot fixture, the feature of the aperture would be understood by the person skilled in the art to be present in embodiments including the rotation fixture to enable the pivot fixture to pass through the body.

[0046] Further, the aperture may include a raised rim formed around the edge of the aperture to provide structural reinforcement to the area surrounding the pivot fixture. For example, referring to Figure 6E, the body 602 includes a raised rim 672, which surrounds the edge of the aperture 670. Alternatively, the aperture 670 may be provided without the raised rim. In all embodiments described, the pivot fixture 208 seeks to simultaneously connect the adjustable stop 202 to the

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 closure frame and enable the rotation of the adjustable stop 202 relative to the closure frame.

[0047] The pivot fixture 208 is provided to enable rotation of the adjustable stop 200 relative to the closure frame. As such, the pivot fixture 208 may be arranged to enable the adjustable stop 200 to rotate relative to the pivot fixture 208. Alternatively, the pivot fixture 208 may be arranged to rotate along with the adjustable stop 200. As such, it is understood that the pivot fixture 208 that enables the body 202 to be pivotally coupled to the closure frame. A non-limiting example of a pivot fixture 208 may be a screw. Alternatively, other pivot fixtures 208 within the scope of the invention may include a pin, nail, or other suitable means of fixing the body 202 to the closure frame in such a way to enable rotation of the body 202 relative to the closure frame. As such, it would be understood by the skilled addressee that the aperture may include a countersunk portion to accommodate the head of the screw or other pivot fixture 208, which is best shown by 674 within Figure 6E.

[0048] The adjustable stop 200 may be pivotally coupled to the closure frame at any point along the closure frame at a reasonably reachable height so that the user may rotate the adjustable stop 200. For example, the adjustable stop 200 may be coupled low on the frame such that the adjustable stop 200 is easily reached by children or individuals with reduced movement or reach. Alternatively, the adjustable stop 200 may be positioned on the closure to restrict use from certain users, for example being coupled high on the frame to prevent unsupervised use by young children.

[0049] As would be understood by the skilled addressee, the adjustable stop may include a variety of combinations of engagements portions to suit different applications. For example, the engagement portions provided to the adjustable stop may be substantially similar to one another in terms of shape, size, relative position or construction. Alternatively, the engagement portions may be different from one another. For example, as shown in Figure 2 the two engagement portions 204 and 206 are of a different shape, length and adjustability relative to one another.

[0050] Although not shown in the figures, an embodiment is provided within the scope of the present invention where the body includes three engagement portions extending from the body as would be within the purview of a skilled addressee. Some non-limiting examples of the variations and different embodiments of the engagement portion are discussed in further detail below. Such examples are provided to demonstrate the workings of the present invention only, and as such, are not to be taken as limiting.

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 [0051] With continued reference to Figure 2, an embodiment is provided where the at least two engagement portions 204 and 206 are of different lengths and are also arranged to extend from the body 202 in orthogonal directions to one another. For example, in Figure 2, the first engagement portion 204 is provided at a length that is relatively longer than the second engagement portion 206. Further, the at least two engagement portions 204 and 206 are each arranged to extend outwards from the body 202, where the at least two engagement portions 204 and 206 are arranged in a position 90 degrees rotated from one another. When the adjustable stop 200 is arranged in situ relative to the closure frame, a first of the at least one open positions of the closure member relative to the closure frame is provided when the first of the at least two engagement portions 204 extends between the closure and the closure frame. That is, the length of the first engagement portion 204 determines the first open position of the closure.

[0052] A second of the at least two engagement positions is provided when the second of the at least two engagement portions 206 extends between the closure and the closure frame in a second of the at least one open positions. That is, the length of the second engagement portion 206 determines the second open position of the closure. Accordingly, when the engagement portions are of different lengths relative to one another, each of the engagement portions 204 and 206 enables the closure to be maintained in two different open positions upon rotation of the body 202, wherein each engagement portion abuts between the closure member and a closure frame. For example, the two different positions may be fully open and partially open. Alternatively, the two positions may be fully open and open only sufficiently to allow a pet access through the closure.

[0053] In a further embodiment referring to Figure 2, the second engagement portion 206 may be integrally formed with the body 202. Unless stated otherwise, within the context of the specification, the term integrally formed refers to and describes the formation of parts as included as part of a whole rather than formed separately and otherwise j oined. That is, an embodiment is provided where at least one engagement portion is formed as part of the body 202.

[0054] A further embodiment is provided where the second engagement portion 206 may also include a retention groove 260. The retention groove 260 is shaped for engaging with the closure. The retention groove 260 may include a small channel or groove along the closure engaging surface of the second engagement portion 206. The retention groove 260 may be shaped to retain an edge of

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 the closure member when abutted between the closure member and a closure frame to prevent the self-closing closure from closing. For example, the retention groove 260 when provided to the second engagement portion 206 may be applied for metal framed closures, as such closures are capable of deflecting away from the second engagement portion 206 resulting in the closure member sliding across the engagement portion 206 and closing the closure. The retention groove 260 may be formed on the closure engaging surface of the second engagement portion so as to capture the edge of the closure and prevent the self-closing closure from closing.

[0055] In a further embodiment, the body 202 may include an opening extending into the body so that the at least one engagement portion maybe receivable within the opening. Referring to Figure 2, the body 202 may include an opening 210. The opening 210 extends from the engagement portion into the body 202. The opening 210 may extend part of the way into the body 202 in the same manner as a pocket, or extend all the way through the body 202 in the same manner as an aperture. Another example of an opening is provided by opening 610 as shown in Figure 6A to 6F.

[0056] The at least one engagement portion 204 may include an extension portion 212. The extension portion 212 may be received within the opening 210 into the body 202. The opening 210 is complementarily sized and shaped to telescopically receive the extension portion 212. This enables the extension portion 212 to be selectively extended or retracted relative to the body 202. A positioner 214 may be provided to the body 202. For example, the positioner 214 may include a locking screw, which upon tightening by a user, contacts with and applies a force to the extension portion 212, which holds the extension portion 212 at a certain position relative to the body 202. However, other positioners are within the scope of the present invention, such as but not limited to, pin locks, clamps or any other means of enabling the variation of the length of the length of the extension portion 212.

[0057] In an embodiment, the extension portion 212 may include a recess extending along the length of the extension portion 212, which is formed to slideably engage with a corresponding rail on the interior of the opening 210 formed in and extending through the body 202. Alternatively, the inverse arrangement may be provided with the recess being provided on the interior of the opening 210 formed in the body 202 and the rail being provided to the extension portion 212. Moreover, other arrangements that facilitate the telescopic and relative movement between the extensions portion 212

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 and the body 202 would be understood by the skilled addressee as being within the scope of the invention described herein. An example of such an arrangement is shown in Figures 6A to 6D, which are described in further detail below.

[0058] In an embodiment, the extension portion 212 includes a head portion 216 of increased engagement surface area 216. The engagement surface area is the surface area of the head portion 216 that abuts between the closure member and the closure frame. In this embodiment, the head portion 216 abuts between the closure member and the closure frame to prevent the closure from closing. As the extension portion 212 is telescopic, it is sized to be receivable within the opening 210 in the body 202, and therefore has a reduced engagement surface area.

[0059] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the head portion at an extended position and a retracted position. The head portion 116, 216 is the extended position and head portion 118, 218 is the retracted position. The extended position of the head portion 116, 216 best shows that the head portion is shaped to include a greater surface area relative to the extension portion, resulting in the head portion being not receivable within the opening 210. As such, when fully retracted as shown by 218, the head portion 218 abuts against the opening 210 provided to the body 202. As such, the shape of the head portion 116, 216 provides a higher engagement surface area, which is advantageous for abutting closures with a wider closure member. Further, the formation of the head portion 216 with an increased engagement surface area may provide further structural reinforcement for strong selfclosure mechanisms, large or heavy closure members, or closures subject to strong forces, for instance in windy environments.

[0060] In a further embodiment, the extension portion 212 may include a slot or notch at an opposite end to the head portion 216, which is arranged to accommodate the pivot fixture 208 when the extension portion 212 is fully retracted within the opening 210 provided to the body 202. This feature is better shown in Figure 6C, which is described in further detail below.

[0061] Referring to Figure 3A, the adjustable stop is shown in a first open position 300. In the embodiment shown, the body 302 includes two engagement portions, namely 304 and 306. The body 302 is rotatable by means of the pivot fixture 308. The first engagement portion 304 includes an extension portion 312 receivable within an opening 310 formed in the body 302. The length of the

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 extension portion 312 is variable by means of a positioner 314. In the first open position 300, the body 302 is rotated such that the first engagement portion 304 abuts against the closure member 316 and the closure frame 318 to prevent the self-closing closure from closing.

[0062] Referring to Figure 3B, the adjustable stop is shown in a second open position 320. In the embodiment shown, the body 322 includes the two engagement portions, namely 324 and 326. The body 322 is rotatable by means of the pivot fixture 328. In the second open position 320, the body 322 is rotated such that the second engagement portion 326 abuts against the closure member 336 and the closure frame 338 to prevent the self-closing closure from closing.

[0063] Referring to Figure 3C, the adjustable stop is shown in a closed position 340. In the embodiment shown, the body 342 includes the two engagement portions, namely 344 and 346. The 342 body is rotatable by means of the pivot fixture 348. In the closed position 340, the body 342 is rotated such that the neither the first engagement portion 344 or the second engagement portion 346 abuts against the closure member 356 and the closure frame 358 to enable the self-closing closure to close.

[0064] Referring to Figures 4 A, 4B and 4C, a top view is provided illustrating an embodiment of the adjustable stop in at least one open position and a closed position shown in Figures 3A, 3B and 3C respectively.

[0065] Referring to Figure 4A, the adjustable stop is shown in a first open position 400. In the embodiment shown, the body 402 includes two engagement portions, namely 404 and 406 (not shown). The body 402 is rotatable by means of the pivot fixture 408. The first engagement portion 404 includes an extension portion 412 receivable within the opening 410 formed in the body 402, which is integrally formed with the body 402. The length of the extension portion 412 is variable by means of a positioner 414. In the first open position 400, the body 402 is rotated such that the first engagement portion 404 abuts against the closure member 416 and the closure frame 418 to prevent the self-closing closure from closing.

[0066] Referring to Figure 4B, the adjustable stop is shown in a second open position 420. In the embodiment shown, the body 422 includes the two engagement portions, namely 424 (not shown)

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 and 426. The body 422 is rotatable by means of the pivot fixture 428, which is shown to extend though the body and into the closure frame 438. In the second open position 420, the body 422 is rotated such that the second engagement portion 426 abuts against the closure member 436 and the closure frame 438 to prevent the self-closing closure from closing.

[0067] Referring to Figure 4C, the adjustable stop is shown in a closed position 440. In the embodiment shown, the body 442 includes the two engagement portions, namely 444 (not shown) and 446. The body 442 is rotatable by means of the pivot fixture 448. In the closed position 440, the body 442 is rotated such that the neither the first engagement portion 444 or the second engagement portion 446 abuts against the closure member 456 and the closure frame 458 to enable the selfclosing closure to close.

[0068] Accordingly, a method is described for using the adjustable stop for maintaining a selfclosing closure in at least one open position as shown and described in Figures 3A and 4A with reference to the first open positions 300 and 400. The method includes first pivotally coupling the body 302,402 of the adjustable stop proximate to both the closure member 316,416 and the closure frame 318, 418. In an embodiment, the body 302, 402 is pivotally coupled to the closure frame 318, 418. Once pivotally coupled, the adjustable stop is rotated to at least one open position, whereby the at least one engagement portion 304, 404 is arranged to abut between the closure member 316, 416 and the closure frame 318, 418 so as to prevent the closure from closing.

[0069] In an embodiment, the method may further comprise the step of rotating the adjustable stop to a closed position shown in Figures 3C and 4C with reference to 340 and 440 where the step includes rotating the adjustable stop to a position where neither the first engagement portion 344, 444 (not shown) or the second engagement portion 346,446 abuts between the closure member 356, 456 and the closure frame 358, 458 so as to enable the closure to close.

[0070] In an embodiment, the method may further comprise the step of rotating the adjustable stop to a second of the at least one open positions. Referring first to Figures 3 A and 4A, the at least one engagement portion includes a first engagement portion and a second engagement portion of different lengths and arranged to extend from the body in orthogonal directions to one another. That is, adjusting the length of the extension portion 312, 412 by means of the positioner 314, 414 such

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 that the first engagement portions 304, 404 and the second engagement portions 306, 406 are of different lengths. Once adjusted, the adjustable stop may be rotated until a first engagement portion 304,404 abuts between the closure member 316,416 and the closure frame 318,418 in a first of the at least one open positions [0071] Referring now to Figures 3B and 4B, the further step includes rotating the adjustable stop until a second of the engagement portions 326,426 abuts between the closure member 336,436 and the closure frame 338, 438 in a second of the at least one open positions, such that the closure may be maintained in two different open positions.

[0072] Referring to Figure 5, an alternate embodiment is provided, wherein the adjustable stop 500 includes a body 502. The body 502 includes a first engagement portion 504 and a second engagement portion 506, where the first engagement portion 504 and the second engagement portion 506 are integrally formed with the body 502. In the embodiment, the first engagement portion 504 and the second engagement portion 506 are provided at different lengths relative to one another. The adjustable stop is rotatable via a pivot fixture 508. Although not shown, the inclusion of other features described above, such but not limited to a head portion or a retention groove may also be included within the embodiment as would be understood by a person skilled in the art. This embodiment is particularly advantageous for use with aluminium frame doors, for example aluminium security doors.

[0073] The following example provides an adjustable stop with two engagement portions. However, the skilled addressee would understand that the example is not to be construed as limiting and is merely to provide an understanding of the workings of the invention. In an embodiment, an adjustable stop is provided in Figure 6A to 6F, where like reference numbers between the figures are used to denote like features.

[0074] Referring to Figure 6A, Figure 6B and Figure 6E, a body 602, which is suitable for being pivotally coupled to the closure frame, includes a second engagement portion 606, which is integrally formed with the body 602. Figure 6A provides a front view of the body 602, Figure 6B provides a side view of the body 602 from the indicated direction of B, and Figure 6E provides a three dimensional perspective view of the body 602.

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 [0075] The second engagement portion 606 includes a retention groove 660. The retention groove 660 is shaped for engaging with the closure. The retention groove 660 includes a small channel or groove along the closure engaging surface of the at least one engagement portion 606. The body 602 also includes an opening 610 extending into the body 602. The opening enables the extension portion 612 to be selectively extended or retracted within the opening 610.

[0076] Moreover, the body 602 is pivotally coupled to the closure frame via a pivot fixture 608 (shown best in Figure 6A) that passes through an aperture 670 formed to extend through the body 602 to extend into the closure frame. The body may also include a raised rim 672 formed around the edge of the aperture 670 to provide structural reinforcement to the area surrounding the pivot fixture. Further, the aperture 670 may include a countersunk portion 674 to accommodate the head of pivot fixture such as a screw.

[0077] The body 602 may also include a positioner 614, which upon tightening by a user, the positioner 614 contacts with and applies a force to the extension portion 612, which holds the extension portion 612 at a certain position relative to the opening 610 extending into the body 602.

[0078] The body 602 also includes a first engagement portion 604 shown in Figure 6C, Figure 6D and Figure 6F. Figure 6C provides a front view of the first engagement portion 604, Figure 6D provides a side view of the body 602 from the indicated direction of D, and Figure 6F provides a three dimensional perspective view of the first engagement portion 604.

[0079] The first engagement portion 604 is arranged to extend outwards from the body 602. The first engagement portion 604 may include an extension portion 612. The body 602 includes an opening 610 or pocket, which extends into the body 602 and is complementarily sized and shaped to telescopically receive the extension portion 612.

[0080] The extension portion 612 may also include an elongate recess 666 extending along the length of the extension portion 612, which is formed to slideably engage with the corresponding elongate rail 662 on the interior of the opening 610 formed by elongate pockets 664 extending into the walls of the opening 610 of the body 602. The elongate rail 662 and elongate recess 666 arrangement may be provided on one or multiple internal surfaces of the opening 610. In the

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 example provided, the elongate rail 662 and elongate recess 666 arrangement is provided on two opposing internal surfaces of the opening 610. In a further embodiment, the extension portion 612 may also include a slot 668 or notch at the end opposing the head portion 612 to accommodate the pivot fixture 608 when the extension portion 612 is fully retracted within the opening 610 provided to the body 602.

[0081] The adjustable stop may be manufactured from a number of different materials, such as but not limited to plastics, metal or timber materials. In an embodiment, the adjustable stop may be manufactured using inj ection moulding techniques. In an embodiment, the adjustable stop is at least partially comprised of nylon, as the softer plastic material provides some capacity to undergo compressive force without being subj ected to plastic deformation during impact. It also reduces the likelihood that the adjustable stop will experience cracking or chipping in use.

[0082] In an alternate embodiment, the adjustable stop may include features that aid in the manufacturing of the adjustable stop. For example, Figures 7A to 7C provide an embodiment of an adjustable stop 700 wherein, the first engagement portion 704 includes one or more first recess 776. For example, the adjustable stop 700 may include two first recesses 776 be formed on opposing faces of the first engagement portion 704. The first recess 776 may be formed to create a variety of different shaped voids. For example, the first recesses 776 may form rectangular shaped voids extending into the first engagement portion 704. Referring particularly to Figure 7B, the first recesses 776 each extend into the first engagement portion 704 to a depth that is less than half the thickness of the first engagement portion 704.

[0083] Further, the adjustable stop 700 may also include one or more second recesses 778 provided to the second engagement portion 706. The second recesses 778 maybe formed on opposing faces of the second engagement portion 706 as shown in Figures 7B and 7C. In accordance with the shorter length of the second engagement portion 706, the second recesses 778 may be square shaped voids extending into opposing sides the second engagement portion 706. Referring particularly to Figure 7B, the second recess 778 may extend into the second engagement portion 706 at depth that is less than half the thickness of the second engagement portion 706.

[0084] Each of the first recesses 776 and second recesses 778 may be arranged to reduce manufacturing defects occurring during the manufacture of the adjustable stop. For example, where

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2019257456 30 Oct 2019 the adjustable stop is injection moulded, the first recesses 776 and second recesses 778 may be arranged to prevent the likelihood of sink marks being formed. Sink marks are often undesired deformations or cavities formed due to non-ideal cooling conditions or different cooling times depending on the thickness of the injected moulding material.

[0085] As will be appreciated by the skilled addressee, the adjustable stop lends itself to being manufactured using a number of methods. For example, but not limited to injection moulding manufacturing techniques, casting techniques or additive manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing. In a further embodiment, the adjustable stop may be integrally formed of a single piece of material through one of the above manufacturing techniques.

ADVANTAGES [0086] The embodiments described herein provide a novel means of maintaining a self-closing closure, such as a self-closing door, in at least one open position. As the adjustable stop may be fitted at any height, it enables children or individuals with reduced movement or reach to access the adjustable stop. This overcomes the problem caused by traditional stop mechanisms which are normally provided at the top of the door.

[0087] Furthermore, the present invention provides a robust stop for a self-closing closure which can be fitted to left or right handed hinged closures. As such, any self-closing closure may be fitted with the present invention, which would result in a reduction of manufacturing costs and an improvement in installation procedure.

[0088] Moreover, the invention provided an improved means of selecting how much the door is to be opened. Firstly, the user is able to adjust the length of the engagement portion such that the openness of the closure can be customised. This enables any number of potential open positions to be maintained. For example, the two different positions may be fully open or partially open. Alternatively, the two positions may be fully open or open sufficiently to allow a pet access through the closure.

Claims (19)

1. THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

   1. An adjustable stop for a self-closing closure including a closure member and a closure frame, the adjustable stop comprising:

   a body suitable for being pivotally coupled to the closure frame, the body formed to include at least one engagement portion arranged to extend outwards from the body, wherein the at least one engagement portion is formed to selectively abut between the closure member and a closure frame to prevent the self-closing closure from closing.
2. 2. An adjustable stop for a self-closing closure including a closure member and a closure frame, the adjustable stop comprising:

   a body pivotally coupled to the closure frame, the body formed to include at least one engagement portion, wherein the body is rotatable between at least two positions including at least one open position and a closed position, whereby in the at least one open position the at least one engagement portion is arranged to abut between the closure member and the closure frame to prevent the self-closing closure from closing, and whereby in the closed position the body is rotatable such that the at least one engagement portion does not abut between the closure member and the closure frame to enable the self-closing closure to close.
3. 3. The adjustable stop in accordance with claim 2, wherein the at least one engagement portion includes a first engagement portion and a second engagement portion of different lengths, each arranged to extend from the body in orthogonal directions to one another, wherein the first engagement portion extends between the closure and the closure frame in a first of the at least one open positions and the second engagement portion extends between the closure and the closure frame in a second of the at least one open positions, such that the closure is maintained in two different open positions.
4. 4. The adjustable stop in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein the body is pivotally coupled to the closure frame via a pivot fixture passing through the body to extend into the closure frame.

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5. 5. The adjustable stop in accordance with claim 4, wherein the body includes an opening extending into the body.
6. 6. The adjustable stop in accordance with claim 5, wherein the first engagement portion includes an extension portion, where the extension portion is telescopically receivable within the opening.
7. 7. The adjustable stop in accordance with claim 6, wherein the extension portion includes a head portion of increased engagement surface area.
8. 8. The adjustable stop in accordance with any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the second engagement portion is integrally formed with the body.
9. 9. The adjustable stop in accordance with claims 3 or 4, wherein the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion are integrally formed with the body.
10. 10. The adjustable stop in accordance with claims 8 or 9, wherein the second engagement portion includes a retention groove for engaging with the closure.
11. 11. The adjustable stop in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustable stop is manufactured using injection moulding manufacturing techniques.
12. 12. The adjustable stop in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustable stop is manufactured from a plastics material.
13. 13. The adjustable stop in accordance with claim 12, wherein the plastics material is at least partially comprised of nylon.
14. 14. The adjustable stop in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein the self-closing closure is a hinged closure.

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15. 15. The adjustable stop in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustable stop is pivotally coupled to the closure frame at a reachable height.
16. 16. The adjustable stop in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure is biased to self-close.
17. 17. A method for maintaining a self-closing closure in at least one open position using the adjustable stop in accordance with claims 1, wherein the method comprises the steps of:

    pivotally coupling the adjustable stop proximate to both the closure member and the closure frame; and rotating the adjustable stop to an at least one open position, whereby the at least one engagement portion is arranged to abut between the closure member and the closure frame so as to prevent the closure from closing,
18. 18. The method for maintaining a self-closing closure in at least one open position in accordance with claim 17, wherein the method further comprises the step of:

    rotating the adjustable stop to a closed position where the at least one engagement portion does not abut between the closure member and the closure frame so as to enable the closure to close.
19. 19. The method for maintaining a self-closing closure in at least one open position in accordance with claims 17 or 18, the at least one engagement portion including a first engagement portion and a second engagement portion of different lengths that are arranged to extend from the body in orthogonal directions to one another, wherein the method further comprises the steps of:

    rotating a first of the at least two engagement portions to abut between the closure and the closure frame in a first of the at least one open positions; and rotating a second of the at least two engagement portions to abut between the closure member and the closure frame in a second of the at least one open positions, such that the closure may be maintained in two different open positions.