CN213953316U

CN213953316U - Hinge and door assembly including installation part and hinge body

Info

Publication number: CN213953316U
Application number: CN201990000151.3U
Authority: CN
Inventors: 邹忠; 余绍恩; 邹智深
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-02-15
Filing date: 2019-02-15
Publication date: 2021-08-13
Anticipated expiration: 2029-02-15
Also published as: WO2019158122A1; GB201802482D0; GB2571098B; TWM592900U; GB2571098A

Abstract

The utility model relates to a hinge comprising a mounting piece and a hinge body (4), wherein the mounting piece is suitable for being fixed on a fixed facility; an arm (2) having a first end and a second end, the arm (2) being connected to the mount at the first end; a collar (3) connected to the second end of the arm (2), the collar (3) having an axial bore (5); -an articulated shaft (7) located on an articulated axis and rotatably mounted in said eyelet (5); the hinge body (4) comprising a vane comprising one or more shells (53), the or each shell (53) comprising an aperture (6) to receive the hinge axis (7) to allow the vane to rotate about said axis in use; the blade further comprises a clamping member (14), the clamping member (14) being configured such that the hinge body (4) and the clamping member (14) can securely engage a door panel (12); wherein the collar (3) and one or more shells (53) constitute a hinge joint; and wherein the hinge body (4) and the clamping member (14) are arranged such that when a door panel has an aperture (13) communicating between opposite sides of the door panel (12), the aperture (13) is located at or adjacent an edge of the door panel (12), the door panel (12) being engageable between the hinge body (4) and the clamping member (14), wherein the knuckle is located wholly or partially within the aperture (13); wherein the arm (2) is located at one side of the mount and the collar (3) is offset from the arm (2) in a lateral direction; and in the closed position of the hinge, the hinge axis (105a) and the sealing strip (9) lie in a common plane. The utility model discloses still relate to a door assembly including foretell hinge.

Description

Hinge and door assembly including installation part and hinge body

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a hinge of the type which provides a leak-proof seal for a door or other closure. The invention relates particularly, but not exclusively, to a hinge for a shower or other door which provides a water or air tight seal. The hinge can also be used for doors in sauna or steam bathrooms.

Background

Previously known watertight hinges are provided with a flexible polymer strip covering the gap between the movable parts of the hinge or between the door and the frame. Wind leakers are a common example. In other arrangements, the knuckles extend outwardly from the hinges, which can be unsightly and can allow for dust ingress.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a hinge comprises a mount adapted to be fixed to a fixed installation and a hinge body;

an arm having a first end and a second end, the arm being connected to the mount at the first end;

a collar connected to the second end of the arm, the collar having an axial bore;

a hinge shaft located on the hinge axis and rotatably mounted in the eyelet;

the hinge body comprising a vane comprising one or more shells, the or each shell comprising an aperture to receive a hinge shaft to allow the vane to rotate about an axis in use;

the blade further includes a clamping member configured such that the hinge body and the clamping member can securely engage the door panel;

wherein the collar and the one or more housings form a hinge joint; and is

Wherein the hinge body and the clamping member are arranged such that when the door panel has an aperture communicating between opposite sides of the door panel, the aperture being at or adjacent an edge of the door panel, the door panel is engageable between the hinge body and the clamping member with the knuckle wholly or partially within the aperture;

wherein the arm is located at one side of the mount and the collar is laterally offset from the arm; and is

In the closed position of the hinge, the hinge axis and the sealing strip lie in a common plane.

The mount may have a contact face extending parallel to the hinge axis and adapted to form a water-tight seal with the sealing strip when the hinge is in the closed position;

wherein in the closed position of the hinge the contact surface of the mounting, the hinge axis and the sealing strip lie in a common plane.

The hinge may further comprise a sealing strip configured to receive and engage a vertical edge of the door panel adjacent the mount in the closed position of the hinge.

In a variant embodiment, the sealing strip can be integral with the mounting element, or can be fixed to the mounting element, for example, during or after assembly.

The seal may be provided as a unitary component or as a separate component, for example as an elongate portion which is cut to size when the door is assembled. The entire seal length may be sufficient to cover the entire height of the door edge. Thus, the length of the sealing strip may be at least 1.5 meters, preferably 2-3 meters or more.

The sealing strip may comprise an elongated receiving portion configured to receive an edge of a door panel and further comprising a sealing surface.

The collar may comprise one or more tubular or annular structures having an axial bore extending axially through the collar and configured to receive the articulated shaft. In use, the hinge shaft is caused to rotate axially as the hinge moves between the open and closed positions. Alternatively, the hinge shaft may be clamped against rotation by a collar in use.

A single generally cylindrical or annular collar may be disposed along the hinge shaft axis. Alternatively, two or more annular collar members may be located on the hinge axis, as is known from the construction of conventional door hinges.

The collar may be integral with the arm or may be releasably secured to the arm.

The hinge body may further comprise one or more housings to accommodate the hinge shaft, e.g. both ends of the hinge shaft, such that in use the hinge body is rotatable relative to the collar and the mounting. The upper and lower cases may support the upper and lower ends of the hinge shaft, respectively.

The combination of the hinge shaft, the collar, and the upper and lower cases may constitute a hinge joint.

The door panel receiving portion may be a socket notch or a rectangular notch adapted to receive an edge or corner of the door panel. The portion of the door panel that is received may be secured to the door panel by a friction fit or by an adhesive.

The hinge shaft may comprise a simple pin, e.g. a cylindrical rod, or alternatively may be an elongate member having one or more cam surfaces arranged to cooperate with the spring-actuated piston to provide a self-closing function and/or a damping function.

The hinge body and the clamping member may be secured together by a fixing member, such as two or more bolts, screws or clips, arranged to pass through one or more apertures in the door panel in use. The fixing member is adjustable between a relaxed configuration in which the door panel is movable relative to the hinge body toward and away from the mounting plate, and a tightened configuration in which the door panel is fixed against movement relative to the hinge body.

The arm may be located at one side of the mount and the collar may be displaced laterally from the arm towards the contact face such that, in the closed position of the hinge, a centre line of the contact face of the mount, the hinge axis, the sealing strip and the door panel fixed between the clamping members lie in a common plane. This plane may be at right angles to the mounting position of the contact surface, and it is particularly advantageous for the hinge axis to lie in the same plane as the door plate.

Preferably, two fixing members, such as bolts, one above the hinge shaft or pin and one below the hinge shaft or pin. The fixing member may be disposed to pass through the axis of the hinge shaft above and below both ends of the hinge shaft or pin.

The collar on the hinge body and the housing may form a knuckle arranged to be received wholly or partially in the aperture of the door panel. This reduces the thickness of the hinge. The hinge joint is prevented from protruding outward, the appearance of the hinge is improved, and the possibility of hurting a user when the user comes into or out of the shower room due to the collision with the protruding joint is reduced.

The mounting member may comprise a mounting plate adapted to be secured to a door frame, wall or other fixed facility, for example using bolts, screws or clips.

Alternatively, the mounting plate may comprise a clamping device adapted to be fixed to a door panel adjacent a wall, a door frame or e.g. a glass panel, the clamping device extending parallel to or at an angle to the door panel in the closed position of the hinge.

The door panel may be laminated glass, polymer sheet material or wood sheet material, for example a shower door, having an aperture extending between opposite sides thereof, the aperture being adjacent to or at an edge adjacent the mounting member in use, and the aperture being dimensioned to receive a bolt, screw, clip or other fastener, and being of sufficient width and depth to receive a knuckle with clearance to allow the position of the door panel and attached sealing strip to be adjusted relative to the interface of the mounting member when the hinge is assembled or adjusted.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a door assembly comprises a hinge according to the first aspect of the invention in combination with a door panel having an aperture as disclosed above.

The aperture may be located adjacent a proximal edge of the door panel, or the aperture may comprise a cut-out extending inwardly from the proximal edge of the door panel relative to the mount.

Preferably the collars and the housing at either end of the hinge axis are arranged, in use, to lie wholly or partially within the aperture of the door panel such that the hinge axis is located at or adjacent the centre of the thickness of the door panel. Preferably, the hinge axis extends within the body of the door panel.

In a preferred embodiment, the knuckle is partially or fully received in an aperture in the door panel in use.

In a horizontal cross-sectional profile, the contact surface of the mount may be a substantially concave part-cylindrical shape. The radius of the cylindrical profile may be substantially equal to or slightly greater than the distance of the surface from the hinge axis, and the contact surface of the sealing strip has a corresponding radius to allow a tight engagement to form a water-tight seal in the closed position of the hinge.

The sealing strip may be generally U-shaped in cross-section and has a central portion with a generally cylindrical outwardly facing surface which joins parallel spaced apart side portions to define a channel to receive the edge of the door panel in use. The side portion may have a distal edge facing away from the mounting member. The hinge body and the clamping member may have inwardly facing notches or grooves which are dimensioned to accurately receive and locate the two sides of the sealing strip.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hinge including a mounting member adapted to be fixed to a fixing facility, and a hinge body;

wherein the radially outer surface of the collar or hinge shaft comprises one or more engagement structures, the one or more engagement structures being at an angular orientation relative to a respective one or more of the hinge axes;

the blade includes an engagement member movable between an engaged position and a released position; an engagement position closer to the hinge axis than the release position, the engagement member being biased towards the engagement position;

wherein engagement of the engagement member with the engagement formation in the engaged position maintains the hinge in a certain angular orientation of the blade to apply a resistance to movement to the hinge to produce a stop position in which free movement of the hinge is resisted.

The hinge of this aspect of the invention differs from conventional hinges in that the stop mechanism and any damping or self-closing mechanism of the hinge are on the hinge body outside the hinge, as opposed to being located in the mounting body. The stop mechanism is located on the movable clamping side of the hinge so that it is easier to replace the mechanism when, for example, maintenance or adjustment is required, without having to remove or disassemble the entire hinge. This arrangement also facilitates the adaptation to different sized doors. For example, a weaker spring may be used when a smaller door is assembled, or a stronger spring may be used when a heavier door is fitted, depending on the conditions at the assembly site. Since the mechanism is arranged on the clamping side, a simple connection between the mounting body and the axial bore can be provided. This improves production efficiency, simplifies production processes and reduces manufacturing costs.

Two angular orientations may be provided. The angular orientations may be separated by an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the hinge axis. The two orientations are located at the closed position and the open position of the hinge, respectively.

The rest position may be preset to a fully closed rest position. This provides a rigid retention force which is advantageous for outdoor applications and applications where the door may be exposed to strong winds. However, the stop position can be set to an arbitrary position by convenient adjustment as needed.

The hinge according to the invention for glass doors is particularly advantageous. When the door is opened, the door may collide with a wall or other fixtures. A door stopper is generally used. However, in many cases, the door stopper is not ideal. The invention can avoid using door stopper. The hinge may be used to provide an unobstructed passage during which the door may need to remain open for long periods of time, for example, in order for many people to pass through, or for use by elderly or disabled people.

The or each engagement formation may comprise a region of reduced or increased radial profile relative to the outer surface of the collar.

For example, the or each engagement formation may comprise a cut-out, groove or channel extending inwardly from the outer surface of the collar, parallel to the hinge axis, along a part of the length or the entire length of the collar.

Alternatively, the or each engagement formation may comprise a projection, ridge or other outwardly extending formation. Alternatively, a plurality of outwardly extending formations may extend from a surface of the collar to form a configuration extending parallel to the hinge axis.

The outer surface of the collar may be wholly or partially cylindrical with the cylindrical axis aligned with the hinge axis.

The engagement member may comprise a resilient member, such as a spring, to urge the engagement member to engage the surface of the collar. Alternatively, the engagement member may comprise one or more pistons, the spring urging the pistons towards the surface of the collar.

In an embodiment, the engagement member comprises a leaf spring having a projection arranged, in use, to extend radially inwardly towards the hinge axis and configured to be received by and engage the engagement structure of the collar.

In embodiments, the engagement structure of the collar may comprise a notch, e.g., a V-shaped notch or groove; a U-shaped cut or groove, a partial cylindrical cut or groove, or a concave cut or groove; the engagement member has a complementary V-or U-or cylindrical end arranged to be received in the cut-out or groove when the hinge is in an angular orientation corresponding to, for example, an open or closed position.

The engagement member may comprise a rotating roller, for example a cylindrical roller, mounted for rotation on the engagement structure.

Alternatively, the engagement member may comprise one or more balls, for example steel ball bearings captively retained in blind bores and urged outwardly into contact with the collar by one or more springs.

In an advantageous embodiment, the engaging member may comprise an elastic strip, for example formed of spring steel, at the end of which a roller is mounted; wherein the roller is resiliently biased towards the engaging formation such that in the or each stop position the roller engages within the cut-out, recess or groove of the engaging formation.

The use of rollers is particularly preferred because the larger contact area reduces frictional wear over long periods of use compared to ball bearings. In addition, the vertically extending contact between the cylindrical surface in the collar and the corresponding vertically extending cylindrical groove provides mechanical integrity to the assembled hinge, reducing the tendency of the component to twist about the hinge axis during prolonged use.

The proximal end of the elastic band may be secured to the clamping member, for example, using screws or bolts.

The construction, assembly and adjustment of the closing and hold-opening mechanism is simplified and is more robust in use than previously known devices. The displacement of the engagement member from the hinge axis is independent of the angular orientation of the hinge, and therefore a uniformly controllable closing force or hold-open force can be applied. The wear on the elastic member is reduced, thus providing a longer working life for the hinge.

In an advantageous embodiment, the hinge body may also comprise one or two self-closing or damping devices, such as disclosed in UK 2472883, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference into this specification for all purposes.

The mounting member may extend along the entire height of the door frame and may comprise two or more hinge units having contact surfaces that extend continuously from the bottom of the door to the top of the door.

The mounting may be configured to extend parallel to a wall or door frame or a door panel, such as a glass panel, having holes to receive bolts or screws.

Alternatively, two or more separate hinges may be connected to the contact surface by the strip, thereby forming a continuous contact surface. Strips may further be provided above and below the upper and lower hinges, respectively, to completely seal the edge of the door when in use.

The hinge according to the invention has a number of advantages over the previously disclosed hinges. An effective waterproof seal is provided without the need for a flexible elastomeric strip that may lose its elasticity after extended use. The seal strip may extend continuously without interruption for the entire height of the door, thus reducing the likelihood of leakage. The sealing device is self-cleaning and provides a clean, neat appearance. The adjustment can be easily performed at the time of assembly or after assembly. Providing a seal between the fixed and movable parts of the hinge reduces energy losses due to the escape of hot water or hot gas.

The hinge according to the invention has a number of advantages over the previously disclosed hinges. The invention provides a simple structure which is smooth in operation and can be reliably used for a long time. The engaging member directly or indirectly cooperates with the hinge shaft to provide a force to hold the door open in a predetermined position or to push the door fully into a closed position. A small number of parts are required, which reduces the risk of tolerance mismatch and the complexity of assembly. The hinge may be adapted to work in a variety of different situations. Furthermore, the engagement member may be replaced to adjust the pressure provided and the force to hold open. The hinge shaft serves as a rotation shaft that determines an operation direction, thereby reducing wear and extending the working life of the hinge.

When the door mounted on the hinge is opened, the door may be damaged by contact with a wall or other fixed facilities. Therefore, a door stopper may be employed. However, in some cases, the use of a door stopper may not be desirable. Therefore, a built-in opening holding device is preferable. This has advantages for unobstructed passages where, for example, the door needs to remain open for a long time, for example for elderly or disabled people.

The stop position may be preset to the rest position. Furthermore, the hinge can be used in an outdoor environment, and thus, the door can be kept open in windy conditions.

The location of the engagement members in the leaf for gripping the door panel allows for easy replacement of parts without the need to disassemble the entire hinge. This is advantageous for repair and maintenance. In addition, the hinge is convenient for use with various doors of different sizes. Weaker springs or other engagement members may be used when assembling smaller doors, while stronger springs may be replaced by installers when assembling heavier doors. Since the mechanism is arranged on the vane side of the hinge axis, a simple connection between the mounting body and the axial bore can be provided. This contributes to efficient production and reduces manufacturing costs.

Drawings

The invention will be further described, by way of example and not in a limiting sense, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first hinge according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the hinge shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an elevational and sectional view of the hinge and door panel;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second hinge according to the present invention;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the hinge shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an elevational and sectional view of the hinge and door panel;

FIG. 7 is a further exploded view;

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of yet another hinge according to the present invention;

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a hinge similar to that shown in FIG. 2 with the door panel provided with a cut-out;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of yet another hinge according to the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a view of the hinge of FIG. 10 with the clamp removed;

FIG. 12 is a further view of the hinge shown in FIG. 11;

fig. 13 is an exploded view of a hinge member;

FIG. 14 is a further exploded view of the hinge member;

figure 15 shows a plan view of the hinge in three stages of opening;

figure 16 shows a perspective view of the hinge in three stages of opening;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a modified hinge;

FIG. 18 is a further view of the hinge shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the components of the hinge shown in FIGS. 17 and 18;

FIG. 20 is an exploded view of the components of yet another modified hinge;

FIG. 21 shows a plan view of the hinge of FIG. 20 in three stages of opening; and

FIG. 22 is a view of the hinge shown in FIG. 13 mounted to a door panel with an aperture at an edge of the door panel.

Detailed Description

The hinge shown in figures 1 to 3 comprises a mounting member which may be a mounting plate 1 and may be provided with fixings, for example holes into which bolts or screws may be inserted to secure the mounting plate to a door frame, wall or other structure. In another embodiment, the mount may comprise a clamping arrangement for adjacent door panels. The arm 2 extends perpendicularly from the mounting plate 1. The first end of the arm 2 is fixed to the mounting plate. The second end of the arm 2 is integral with a collar 3 having an axial hole 5, in which axial hole 5a hinge shaft or pin 7 is rotatably housed. The contact surface 8 extends perpendicularly across the surface of the mounting plate 1, parallel to the hinge axis. The arm 2 is located on one side of the contact surface 8 and the collar 3 is located on the same side of the arm 2, so that in the closed position of the hinge the plane of the door panel 12 is located on or adjacent to the centre line of the contact surface 8.

The hinge body 4 has upper and lower housings with eyelets 6, the eyelets 6 being arranged to receive both ends of a pin or hinge shaft 7 so that the hinge body 4 can pivot with respect to the mounting plate 1.

The collar 3 and the housing form the joint of the hinge.

The door panel 12 may be a glass or wooden panel, for example a glass shower door, having an aperture 13 of the housing which receives the collar 3 and the aperture 6 in use. A clamping member, for example a plate 14, secures the door panel 12 to the hinge body 4 with an adjustable bolt 15. The bolt 15 passes through the aperture 13. A sealing strip 9 comprising a central portion 11 and two sides 10 is received on the edge of the door panel 12 to engage the contact surface 8 of the mounting plate 1 in the closed position. The sealing strip may be formed from an elastomeric polymer material, such as a vinyl polymer. The central portion may have a part cylindrical or curved outer surface with a radius substantially equal to the radius of the hinge axis to form a water-tight seal with the contact surface 8. The contact surface 8 may have a part-cylindrical concave configuration with a corresponding radius of the curved central portion 11 accommodating the sealing strip 9.

The radial dimension of the aperture 13 is selected to allow the door panel 12 and sealing strip 9 to move towards the contact surface 8 of the mounting plate 1 when installed, while the knuckle is fully or partially received within the aperture. The radial distance is chosen such that the central portion 11 contacts the contact surface 8 when the door is in the closed position to form a watertight and leak-proof seal. When the position of the door panel has been adjusted, the bolt 15 may be tightened to prevent further movement of the door panel relative to the hinge. The hinge knuckle, comprising collar 3 and the housing comprising eyelet 6, is located in opening 13 of door panel 12 to provide a hinge with a thin cross-section and minimal protruding parts.

The rectangular channel 16 is dimensioned to receive the side 10 of the sealing strip to positively locate the sealing strip and hold it securely in place against movement over prolonged use.

Fig. 4 to 7 show a second hinge according to the invention. The hinge is of a substantially similar construction to that shown in figures 1 to 3, but incorporates a self-closing mechanism.

The mounting plate 21 is provided with screw or bolt holes. A first end of the arm 22 is connected to the mounting plate 21, while a second end of the arm 22 is integral with a collar 23, the collar 23 having a cylindrical aperture for an axial articulation shaft 27. Collar 23 is offset from arm 22 so that the axis of hinge shaft 27 at least partially overlaps contact surface 28 of mounting plate 21. The hinge body 24 has eyelets 44 contained in a housing 45 to receive the upper and lower ends of the hinge shaft 27 to allow the hinge body 24 to pivot relative to the mounting plate, arms and

collars

21, 22, 23.

The door panel 32 having the aperture 33 is clamped to the hinge body 24 by means of a clamp 34 and a bolt 35 engaged with the back surface of the hinge body 24 through the aperture 33. A sealing strip 29 having a central portion 31 and two sides 30 is received on the proximal edge of a door panel 32.

Rectangular notches

46, 47 in the clamp 34 and hinge body 24, respectively, positively engage the two sides 30 of the seal strip. The collar 23 and the upper and lower shells 45 form a hinge joint. In use the knuckle is received within the aperture 33 of the door panel 32 such that the hinge axis extends through the body of the door panel 32 such that the door panel is closely aligned with the pivot axis. The transverse or radial width of the aperture 33 is sufficiently large to allow the door panel 32 and the sealing strip 29 to move away from or towards the contact surface 28 during assembly and subsequent adjustment. In the desired position, the central curved body 31 of the sealing strip 29 engages most of the part of the cylindrical concave contact surface 28 to provide a water-tight seal.

The hinge shaft 27 has upper and lower cam surfaces 48, 49 against which the fixed plate 43 is held in position by the

screws

40, 41, 42, the

pistons

36, 38 being urged by the

springs

37, 39 against the fixed plate 43 against the upper and lower cam surfaces 48, 49. The movement of

pistons

36, 38 on cam surfaces 48, 49 of hinge shaft 27 provides a return force to urge the doors into the closed position. The

pistons

36, 38 are slidably mounted in

cylindrical bores

25, 26 communicating with the axial bore 90, and the hinge shaft 27 is rotatably mounted in the axial bore 90, as shown in fig. 7.

Fig. 8 is another embodiment, in which the construction of the middle mounting plate 50, the arms 51 and the collar 52 is the same as in the previous embodiment. The articulated shaft housing 53 has upper and lower

cylindrical sleeves

54, 55 and

orthogonal eyelets

56, 57 for housing pistons 58, 59 driven by springs 60, 61. The hinge shaft housing is fixed to the back surface of the hinge body 62 with bolts 63. The pistons 58, 59 and the springs 60, 61 are held by a fixing plate 64 and a locking screw 65.

The door panel, which may be a glass sheet 66, has a circular aperture 67, and a cylindrical plate 69 having a central aperture 70 is inserted into the circular aperture 67. The plate 69 may be constructed of any convenient material such as a polymeric material, metal, or toughened glass. The knuckle, including collar 52 and

cylindrical sleeves

54, 55, are received in an aperture 70, the aperture 70 having sufficient lateral clearance to allow adjustment of the position of the door panel 66 and plate 69 so that, when properly assembled, the sealing strip 74 contacts the contact surface 75 of the mounting plate 50.

In another arrangement, one or both of the closure pistons 58, 59 may be replaced by a damping piston, for example as disclosed in british patent No. 2472883 or patent application No. 1407351, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference into this specification for all purposes. Alternatively, separate hinges of the door means may be provided with respective closing and damping piston means.

An illustrative damped hinge may include: a hinge shaft installed on the axis and rotatable with respect to the housing; a housing containing a damping piston engaged with a hinge shaft having a cam surface; the damping piston is movable within an orifice extending radially with respect to the hinge axis; the damping piston has a driven surface or cam driven surface urged by a spring into engagement with the cam surface of the hinge shaft; the cam surface is configured to push the damping piston away from the hinge shaft axis when the hinge is moved to the closed position; the damping device further comprises a hydraulic liquid circuit arranged such that movement of the damping piston away from the closed position causes free flow of liquid within the circuit, and further arranged such that movement of the damping piston from the open position to the closed position causes restricted flow of liquid, thereby damping the closing movement; wherein the cam follower surface is at right angles to the piston axis and has a raised follower head located at the center of the piston; and wherein the configuration of the cam surface and the driven surface are selected such that the displacement of the damping piston resulting from incremental angular rotation of the hinge shaft is at a maximum when the closed position is reached.

Fig. 9 shows another arrangement in which the hinge is as disclosed and shown in fig. 1 to 3 and the centre panel 76 is cut out instead of an aperture to accommodate the articulation of the hinge. The cut-out includes upper and

lower edges

77, 78, an inner side 70 and an opening 80. This arrangement facilitates assembly of the door.

The hinge shown in figures 10 to 14 and 22 includes a mounting member which may be a mounting plate 101 and may be provided with fixings, for example holes into which bolts or screws may be inserted to secure the mounting plate to a door frame, wall or other structure. In another embodiment, the mount may include a clamping device for providing proximity to the door panel. Arm 102 extends orthogonally from mounting plate 101. A first end of the arm 102 is fixed to the mounting plate. The second end of the arm 102 is integral with a collar 103 having an axial eyelet 104, a hinge shaft or pin 105 being rotatably housed in the axial eyelet 104, so that the hinge shaft or pin 105 is located on a hinge axis 105 a.

The hinge body 106 has upper and lower housings with eyelets 107, the eyelets 107 being arranged to receive both ends of the pin or hinge axis 105 so that the hinge body 106 can pivot relative to the mounting plate 101.

The collar 103 is part-cylindrical with an axial bore 104 disposed along the axis of the collar. The collar 103 includes a pair of engagement formations in the form of an inner notch 108 and an outer notch 109. The inner and

outer notches

108, 109 extend inwardly from the outer surface of the collar 103, along the entire length of the collar 103, parallel to the hinge axis 105 a. The inner cutout 108 and the outer cutout 109 are arranged at different angular orientations relative to the hinge axis 105a such that the inner cutout 108 is located closer to the mounting plate 101 than the outer cutout 109. The cuts may be substantially V-shaped, U-shaped, or partially cylindrical or concave. The

cuts

108, 109 are symmetrical or asymmetrical. The collar 103 includes further engagement structure in the form of a ridge cam surface 110a, which ridge cam surface 110a is arranged between the inner and

outer notches

108, 109. The ridge cam surface 110a extends parallel to the hinge axis 105a along the entire length of the collar 103.

The door panel 111 may be a glass or wood panel, for example a glass shower door, having an aperture 112 which receives the collar 103 and housing in use. A clamping member, for example, a clamping plate 113, secures the door panel 111 to the hinge body 106 with an adjustable bolt 114. The bolt 114 passes through the aperture 112.

When the position of the door panel 111 has been adjusted, the bolt 114 may be tightened to prevent further movement of the door panel 111 relative to the hinge. The collar 103 and housing position within the aperture 112 of the door panel 111 provides a thin cross-sectional hinge with minimal protruding parts.

The hinge further comprises an engaging member in the form of a resilient clip 116. The spring clip includes a base 116a, the base 116a being integrally formed with a side plate 116b, the side plate 116b extending away from the base 116 a. The side plate 116b may be oriented orthogonal to the base plate 116 a. Alternatively, the side plate 116b may be inclined with respect to the base plate 116 a. The base plate 116a is provided with a fixture, such as a hole into which a bolt or screw can be inserted to secure the spring clip 116 to the hinge body 106. The side plate 116b has an integrally formed end joint 117 at a free end remote from the base plate 116 a. The end engagement 117 is complementary in shape to the inner and

outer notches

108, 109 of the collar 103. For example, the end joint 117 may be substantially V-shaped, U-shaped, partially cylindrical, or partially concave. The end joint 117 is symmetrical or asymmetrical. The end engagement 117 is adapted to be biased into the

notches

108, 109 to maintain the hinge in a certain angular orientation relative to the arm 102, thereby applying a motion resistive force to the hinge to create a stop position against free movement of the hinge. Two stop positions are provided in this particular embodiment, but the collar 103 may include additional cutouts and, thus, additional stop positions.

Fig. 15 and 16 show three stages of opening of the hinge described with reference to fig. 10 to 14. In the first phase, i.e. the first stop position, the engagement portion 117 is located in the inner cut 108 and, therefore, in the engaged position. In the first stop position, the angular orientation of the blade relative to the arm is 0 degrees, and therefore the door is in the closed position. In the second stage, the engagement portion 117 is located on the ridge cam surface 110a and, therefore, is in the release position. In the release position, the angular orientation of the blade relative to the arm is 45 degrees, and thus the door is in the open position. In a third stage, i.e. the second stop position, the engagement portion 117 is located in the outer cut 109 and, therefore, in the engaged position. In the second stop position, the angular orientation of the blade relative to the arm is 90 degrees, and therefore the door is in a further open position.

To move the door from the closed position to the further open position, the user applies a force sufficient to overcome the bias applied by the end engagement 117, causing the end engagement 117 to displace from the inner notch 108, ride up the ridge cam surface 110a, and then bias into the outer notch 109.

Fig. 17 to 19 show a second hinge according to the invention. The hinge has a configuration substantially similar to that shown in figures 10 to 16. The hinge comprises a collar 203. The collar 203 is partially cylindrical with an axial bore 204 disposed along the axis of the collar. Collar 203 includes engagement structure in the form of a notch 208. The cutout 208 extends inwardly from the outer surface of the collar 203, along the entire length of the collar 203, parallel to the hinge axis 105 a. The cutout 208 is adjacent to the mounting plate 101. The cutout 208 may be substantially V-shaped, U-shaped, partially cylindrical, or concave. The notch 208 may be symmetrical or asymmetrical. Collar 203 includes further engagement structure in the form of a ridge cam surface 210a extending away from cutout 208. The ridge cam surface 210a extends parallel to the hinge axis 105a along the entire length of the collar 203.

The hinge also includes an engagement member in the form of a resilient clip 216. The spring clip 216 includes a base plate 216a, the base plate 216a being integrally formed with a side plate 216b, the side plate 216b extending away from the base plate 216 a. The side plate 216b may be oriented orthogonal to the base plate 216 a. Alternatively, the side plate 216b is inclined with respect to the base plate 216 a. The base plate 216a is provided with a fixture, such as a hole into which a bolt or screw may be inserted to secure the spring clip 216 to the hinge body 106. The side plate 216b has a pair of integrally formed spaced apart end engaging portions 217 at a free end remote from the base plate 216 a. The end joint 217 defines a gap 218. The gap 218 is sized to receive a roller 219. The end joint 217 and the drum 219 have axial bores 220, 221, respectively, in which hinge shafts or pins 222 are rotatably received, such that the hinge shafts or pins 222 are located on the hinge axis 105 a. The drum 219 is free to rotate about a hinge shaft or pin 222 relative to the end joint 217.

The end joint 217 and the roller 219 have complementary shapes with the cut-out 208 of the collar 203. For example, the end joint 217 and the drum 219 may be substantially V-shaped, U-shaped, partially cylindrical, or concave. The end joint 217 is symmetrical or asymmetrical. The drum 219 is symmetrical or asymmetrical. The end joint 217 and the barrel 219 are adapted to be biased into the cutout 208 to maintain the hinge in a certain angular orientation relative to the arm 102 such that resistance to movement is applied to the hinge, thereby creating a stop position in which free movement of the hinge is resisted. In this particular embodiment a stop position is provided.

The movement of the door from the closed position to the open position is similar to that described with reference to figures 15 and 16. The rollers 219 assist in movement of the end joint 217 into and out of the cutout 208.

Fig. 20 and 21 show a third hinge according to the invention. The hinge has a configuration substantially similar to that shown in figures 10 to 16. The hinge includes a mounting member which may be a mounting plate 301 and which may be provided with a fixture such as a hole into which a bolt or screw may be inserted to secure the mounting plate to a door frame, wall or other structure. In another embodiment, the mounting member may comprise a clamping means for adjacent door panels. An arm 302 extends orthogonally from the mounting plate 301. A first end of arm 302 is secured to the mounting plate. The second end of the arm 302 is integral with the collar 303. The collar 303 includes a pair of partial cylindrical portions 323, which are juxtaposed with a gap 324 therebetween. Each collar portion 323 comprises an axial bore 304 arranged along the collar axis, a hinge shaft or pin 325 being rotatably received in the axial bore 304 such that the hinge shaft or pin 325 lies on the hinge axis.

The hinge shaft or pin 325 includes an integrally formed, partially cylindrical disc 326 centrally located along the hinge shaft or pin 325. The disks 326 are sized to be positioned in the gaps 324 between the partially cylindrical portions 323 when the hinge shaft or pin 325 is positioned in the axial bore 304.

The disk 326 includes a pair of engagement structures in the form of an inner cutout 308 and an outer cutout 309. The inner and

outer notches

308, 309 extend inwardly from the outer surface of the disc 326, along the entire length of the disc 326, parallel to the hinge axis. The inner cutout 308 and the outer cutout 309 are arranged in different angular orientations relative to the hinge axis such that the inner cutout 308 is located closer to the mounting plate 101 than the outer cutout 309. The

cutouts

308, 309 may be substantially V-shaped, U-shaped, partially cylindrical, or concave. The

cuts

308, 309 are symmetrical or asymmetrical. The disc 326 includes engagement structure in the form of a first ridge cam surface 310a, which first ridge cam surface 310a is arranged between the inner and

outer notches

308, 309. The ridge cam surface 310a extends parallel to the hinge axis along the entire length of the collar 103.

Each collar portion 323 further includes a restraining groove, notch 327 or flat surface that extends inwardly from the outer surface of the collar portion 323, along the entire length of the collar portion 323, parallel to the hinge axis 105a, such that each groove or notch 327 is aligned with the other. A restraining groove or notch 327 is disposed adjacent the second end of the arm 302 so that it coincides with the outer notch 309. Each collar portion 323 may also include one or more additional constraining grooves or notches as described above, e.g., the constraining grooves may be located coincident with the inner notch 308.

The hinge further comprises an engagement member in the form of a resilient clip 116, as described with reference to figures 10 to 14.

Fig. 21 shows three opening phases of the hinge described with reference to fig. 20, which are similar to the three opening phases described with reference to fig. 15 and 16. In the first stage, i.e. the first stop position, the engagement portion 117 is located in the inner cut-out 308 and, therefore, in the engaged position. In the first stop position, the angular orientation of the blade relative to the arm is 0 degrees, so that the door is in the closed position. In the second stage, the engagement portion 117 is located on the ridge cam surface 310a and a portion of the outer surface in each collar portion 323, and thus, is in the release position. In this release position, the angular orientation of the blade relative to the arm is 45 degrees, and thus the door is in the open position. In the third stage, i.e., the second stop position, the engagement 117 is located in the outer cutout 309 and the groove, notch 327 or flat surface. In the second stop position, the angular orientation of the blade relative to the arm is 90 degrees, so that the door is in a further open position.

To move the door from the closed position to the further open position, the user applies a force sufficient to overcome the bias applied by the end engagement 117, causing the end engagement 117 to displace from the inner notch 308, ride up the ridge cam surface 310a and the outer surface in each collar portion 323, and then bias into the outer notch 309. An advantage of locating the engagement portion, for example, within the outer notch 309 and the restraining groove or notch 327 is that the user must impart a greater force to move the engagement portion 117 away from the outer notch 309 than the force required to move the engagement portion 117 away from the inner notch 308.

Claims

1. A hinge comprising a mount and a hinge body, the mount being adapted to be secured to a fixed installation;

a hinge shaft located on a hinge axis and rotatably mounted in the eyelet;

the hinge body comprising a vane comprising one or more shells, the or each shell comprising an aperture to receive the hinge shaft to allow the vane to rotate about the axis in use;

the blade further includes a clamp configured to securely engage the hinge body and the clamp with a door panel;

wherein the collar and one or more housings form a hinge joint; and is

Wherein the hinge body and the clamping member are arranged such that when a door panel has an aperture communicating between opposite sides of the door panel, the aperture being at or adjacent an edge of the door panel, the door panel engages between the hinge body and the clamping member with the knuckle located wholly or partially within the aperture;

2. The hinge of claim 1, wherein the mount has a contact face extending parallel to the hinge axis and adapted to form a water-tight seal with the sealing strip when the hinge is in the closed position;

wherein in the closed position of the hinge, the contact surface of the mount, the hinge axis and the sealing strip lie in a common plane.

3. A hinge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein two fixing members are respectively located above and below the hinge axis.

4. The hinge according to claim 1, wherein the collar and housing of the hinge body form a knuckle arranged to be received wholly or partially in the aperture in the door panel.

5. A hinge according to claim 2, wherein in horizontal cross-sectional profile the contact surface of the mount is a concave part-cylindrical shape.

6. A hinge according to claim 5, wherein the radius of the cylindrical profile is equal to or greater than the distance of the contact surface from the hinge axis.

7. A hinge according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the sealing strip is U-shaped in cross-section, the sealing strip having a central portion with a cylindrical outwardly facing face which connects spaced side portions arranged to define a channel to receive, in use, an edge of a door panel.

8. The hinge of claim 1, wherein the hinge body and clamp have inward facing notches or grooves sized to receive the two sides of the seal strip.

9. A hinge according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a sealing strip configured to receive and engage a vertical edge of a door panel adjacent the mount in the closed position of the hinge;

wherein the mount has a contact face extending parallel to the hinge axis and adapted to form a water-tight seal with the sealing strip when the hinge is in the closed position.

10. A hinge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sealing strip comprises an elongate receptacle configured to receive an edge of a door panel and further comprising a sealing surface.

11. A hinge according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a sealing strip, the sealing strip being integral with or secured to the mounting member.

12. A hinge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said collar comprises one or more tubular or annular structures having an axial bore extending axially through said collar and configured to receive said hinge shaft.

13. A hinge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the hinge body further comprises one or more housings adapted to receive the hinge shaft such that, in use, the hinge body rotates relative to the collar and mount.

14. The hinge according to claim 13, wherein the upper and lower housings are arranged to support upper and lower ends of the hinge shaft, respectively.

15. The hinge according to claim 14, wherein the hinge shaft, the collar, and the upper and lower housings constitute a joint of the hinge.

16. A hinge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the panel receiving portion of the sealing strip is a socket or rectangular slot adapted to receive an edge or corner of a panel in use.

17. A hinge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the hinge shaft comprises an elongate member having one or more cam surfaces arranged to cooperate with the spring-actuated piston to provide a self-closing function or a damping function.

18. The hinge of claim 2, wherein the hinge body and the clamping member are secured together by a fastener, the fastener being disposed through an aperture in the door panel, the aperture being of sufficient width and depth to accommodate the knuckle with clearance to allow adjustment of the position of the door panel and attached sealing strip relative to the interface of the mount when the hinge is assembled or adjusted.

19. The hinge of claim 18, wherein the clamping member is adjacent to or covers the sealing strip.

20. The hinge of claim 1, wherein a radially outer surface of the collar or the hinge shaft includes one or more engagement structures at an angular orientation relative to a respective one or more of the hinge axes;

the blade includes an engagement member that moves between an engaged position and a released position; the engagement position being closer to the hinge axis than the release position, the engagement member being biased towards the engagement position;

configured such that engagement of the engagement member with the engagement structure will maintain the hinge in a certain angular orientation of the blade so as to apply a resistance to movement to the hinge to create a stop position in which the hinge is resisted from free movement.

21. A hinge according to claim 20, wherein two angular orientations are provided, the angular orientations being separated by an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the hinge axis and being located at the closed and open positions of the hinge, respectively.

22. A hinge according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the or each engagement formation comprises a region of reduced or increased radial profile relative to the outer surface of the collar.

23. A hinge according to claim 22 wherein the or each engagement formation comprises a cut, groove or channel extending inwardly from the outer surface of the collar along a part of the length or the entire length of the collar, parallel to the hinge axis.

24. A hinge according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the or each engagement formation comprises an outwardly extending formation; or a plurality of outwardly extending formations extending from the surface of the collar to form a configuration extending parallel to the hinge axis.

25. A hinge according to claim 24 wherein the outwardly extending formations are projections or ridges.

26. The hinge according to claim 20, wherein said engagement member comprises an elastic member adapted to urge said engagement member to engage a surface of said collar.

27. A hinge according to claim 26, wherein the resilient member is a spring.

28. A hinge according to claim 20, wherein the engagement member comprises one or more plungers, a spring urging the plungers towards a surface of the collar.

29. A hinge as claimed in claim 20, further comprising a leaf spring having a projection arranged, in use, to extend radially inwardly towards the hinge axis and configured to be received by and engage the or each engagement formation of the collar.

30. A hinge according to claim 20, wherein the or each engagement formation comprises a cut-out or groove, wherein the cut-out is a V-shaped cut-out, a U-shaped cut-out, a part-cylindrical cut-out or a concave cut-out, the engagement member having complementary V-shaped, U-shaped or cylindrical ends arranged to be received in the cut-out or groove when the hinge is in an angular orientation corresponding to the open or closed position.

31. A hinge according to claim 30, wherein the engaging member comprises an elastic strip formed of spring steel, a roller being mounted to a distal end of the elastic strip; wherein the roller is resiliently biased towards the or each engagement formation such that in the or each stop position the roller engages within the cut-out or groove of the engagement formation.

32. A hinge according to claim 20, wherein the or each engagement formation comprises a rotatable roller mounted for rotation on the engagement member; wherein the rotating roller is a cylindrical roller.

33. A door assembly comprising a hinge according to any preceding claim in combination with a door panel having an aperture according to any preceding claim.

34. The door assembly of claim 33, wherein the aperture is located adjacent a proximal edge of the door panel.

35. The door assembly of claim 33, wherein the aperture comprises a cut-out extending inwardly from a proximal edge of the door panel.

36. A door assembly as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein, in use, the collar and housing are located wholly or partially within the aperture such that the hinge axis is located at or adjacent the centre of the thickness of the door panel.