EP0111019A1 - Hold-open mechanism for refrigerated display cabinet - Google Patents

Hold-open mechanism for refrigerated display cabinet Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0111019A1
EP0111019A1 EP82111346A EP82111346A EP0111019A1 EP 0111019 A1 EP0111019 A1 EP 0111019A1 EP 82111346 A EP82111346 A EP 82111346A EP 82111346 A EP82111346 A EP 82111346A EP 0111019 A1 EP0111019 A1 EP 0111019A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
door
hold
spring
open
plate
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP82111346A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0111019B1 (en
Inventor
Melvin C. Kaspar
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Ardco Inc
Original Assignee
Ardco Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ardco Inc filed Critical Ardco Inc
Priority to DE8282111346T priority Critical patent/DE3274134D1/en
Priority to EP19820111346 priority patent/EP0111019B1/en
Publication of EP0111019A1 publication Critical patent/EP0111019A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0111019B1 publication Critical patent/EP0111019B1/en
Expired legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25DREFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D23/00General constructional features
    • F25D23/02Doors; Covers
    • F25D23/028Details
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05DHINGES OR SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS
    • E05D11/00Additional features or accessories of hinges
    • E05D11/10Devices for preventing movement between relatively-movable hinge parts
    • E05D11/1028Devices for preventing movement between relatively-movable hinge parts for maintaining the hinge in two or more positions, e.g. intermediate or fully open
    • E05D11/105Devices for preventing movement between relatively-movable hinge parts for maintaining the hinge in two or more positions, e.g. intermediate or fully open the maintaining means acting perpendicularly to the pivot axis
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05DHINGES OR SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS
    • E05D7/00Hinges or pivots of special construction
    • E05D7/08Hinges or pivots of special construction for use in suspensions comprising two spigots placed at opposite edges of the wing, especially at the top and the bottom, e.g. trunnions
    • E05D7/081Hinges or pivots of special construction for use in suspensions comprising two spigots placed at opposite edges of the wing, especially at the top and the bottom, e.g. trunnions the pivot axis of the wing being situated near one edge of the wing, especially at the top and bottom, e.g. trunnions
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
    • E05Y2900/00Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof
    • E05Y2900/20Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof for furniture, e.g. cabinets
    • E05Y2900/202Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof for furniture, e.g. cabinets for display cabinets, e.g. for refrigerated cabinets
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25DREFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D2323/00General constructional features not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • F25D2323/02Details of doors or covers not otherwise covered
    • F25D2323/024Door hinges

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to commercial refrigerator door assemblies and more particularly to a releasable hold-open mechanism for maintaining the door in an open position.
  • Refrigerated display cabinets are widely used for retail sale of refrigerated and frozen food goods.
  • a typical door construction includes a hingedly mounted door having a plurality of spaced, insulating glass panels.
  • U.S. Patent Nos. 2,987,782 and 3,131,421, to Kurowski illustrate typical constructions for insulated door structures of this description.
  • door arrangements as described above are typically provided with a spring-loading arrangement so that each door of the display cabinet is self-closing.
  • a door of the display cabinet there are certain times when it is desired for a door of the display cabinet to be maintained in an open position, such as during stocking of the cabinet or maintenance.
  • one desirable feature for the door assemblies of the display cabinet is a so-called hold-open mechanism so that the door may be selectively maintained in an open position.
  • One typical type of hold-open mechanism for display cabinet door assemblies includes a plate or other abutment member movably mounted on the door frame of the display cabinet.
  • the hold-open plate is adapted to engage. a portion of the hinged door when the door is in an open position and after the plate is suitably manipulated, thus acting to maintain the door in an open position. The door may then be closed again only by first manipulating the plate so that it is moved out of engagement with the door.
  • hold-open mechanisms of this description relate to their non-yielding, positive engagement of the hinged door.
  • the hold-open plate when the hold-open plate is in the hold-open position and positively engages the door, attempts to close the door or otherwise move it from the open position may cause damage to both the door, the hold-open mechanism and/or the door frame.
  • damage to the door may include breakage of any glass panel and/or distortion of the door sufficient to require replacement.
  • occurrences of this nature are extremely undesirable.
  • a hold-open mechanism for a springloaded swinging door of a refrigerator display cabinet which may be easily used so as to maintain the door in an open position, yet which is releasable, i.e., may be overridden without causing damage, when the door is moved from the open position would be a desirable and practical improvement for refrigerated display cabinets having hingedly mounted door structures.
  • a door hold-open mechanism for a door of a refrigerated display cabinet hingedly mounted to. a door frame for swinging movement between closed and open positions.
  • the door is typically provided with spring means for urging the door toward the closed position as is well known, so that the door is self-closing and is urged into sealing engagement with the door frame.
  • the hold-open mechanism of the present invention includes a stop plate affixed to the door and movable therewith.
  • the stop plate includes a lobe portion, and is adapted to cooperate with a stop carried by a door hinge plate mounted on the door frame so that opening movement of the door is limited (usually to approximately 90 degrees).
  • the hold-open mechanism further includes a hold-open spring mounted on the door frame and engageable with the lobe portion of the stop plate.
  • the hold-open spring is mounted on the stop pin carried by one of the hinge plates mounted to the door frame.
  • the hold-open spring has a generally hook-shaped configuration, and in the preferred embodiment it is pivotally mounted on the stop pin of the hinge plate.
  • the free end portion of the spring is offset, and this end portion is adapted to engage and cooperate with the lobe portion of the stop plate so as to releasably retain the stop plate (and thus the door) when the door is in the open position.
  • the nature of the pivotal mounting of the hold-open spring to the stop pin of the hinge plate permits the spring to be manually moved from a first inactive to a second hold-open position.
  • the spring In the first position the spring does not reactively engage and retain the plate carried by the door, thus permitting the door to operate in a normal fashion.
  • the spring In the second position, the spring is adapted to releasably engage and retain the plate so that the door is maintained in the open position, yet functions in a self-releasing fashion to automatically disengage when the door is moved from the open position with sufficient force.
  • the hold-open spring is mounted on the stop pin of the hinge plate, and is pinned thereto.
  • movement of the door of the display cabinet to its fully open position automatically moves the stop plate carried by the door into engagement with the hold-open spring so that the stop plate is releasably retained thereby and the door is maintained in its open position. Movement of the door from the open position with sufficient force disengages the stop plate from the hold-open spring so that the door again may swing in a normal fashion.
  • the hold-open mechanism of the present invention may be easily fabricated and adapted to hinged door assemblies having a variety of configurations.
  • FIG. 1 there is illustrated a refrigerated display cabinet 10 such as the type found in supermarkets and the like for storage and display of refrigerated and frozen food items. While the hold-open mechanism of the present invention has been found to be particularly suited for use on display cabinets of this type, it will be appreciated that the invention is equally suited to a wide variety of applications.
  • the display cabinet 10 typically includes a generally rectangular metal frame 12 including spaced upper and lower door frame members 14, and a plurality of laterally spaced, vertically extending frame columns or mullions 18.
  • Door frame 12 supports one or more insulated glass doors 20 in side-by-side arrangement, each door 20 including a generally rectangular glass door frame 22 which supports a plurality of spaced, insulating glass panels 24.
  • each glass door 20 is hingedly mounted for swinging movement with respect to door frame 12 by upper and lower hinge assemblies.
  • the upper hinge assembly includes an upper hinge plate 26 which is adapted to be connected to a web portion 28 of upper frame member 14 by a mechanical fastener 30.
  • An upper hinge pin 32 projecting upwardly of glass door frame 22 is adapted to fit within corresponding cut-out portions 27 and 29 in hinge plate 26 and web portion 28 for support of door 20.
  • a hinge pin lock 34 is adapted to fit about upper hinge pin 32 for maintaining door 20 in position as is well known.
  • Door 20 is further supported on door frame 12 by a lower hinge assembly which includes a lower hinge plate 36.
  • Lower hinge plate 36 is adapted to be mounted on a web portion 38 of lower frame member 16 by a mechanical fastener 40.
  • a lower hinge pin 42 extending downwardly from the door frame 22 is adapted to fit within one of cut-outs 44 defined by lower hinge plate 36.
  • door 20 Installation of door 20 to door frame 12 is accomplished by respectively mounting upper and lower hinge plates 26 and 36 to upper and lower frame members 14 and 16.
  • the upper and lower hinge plates shown in the drawing are of the type which may be shifted or adjusted with respect to the frame member upon which they are mounted so that the swinging axis of door 20 may be adjusted for proper alignment, although other door mounting arrangements may be used.
  • door 20 may be lifted into door frame 12 such that upper hinge pin 32 fits into cut-outs 27 and 29 respectively defined by upper hinge plate 26 and web portion 28 of upper frame member 14.
  • lower hinge pin 42 is raised sufficiently to clear lower hinge plate 36, and door 20 may be swung inwardly of the door frame 12.
  • Hinge pin lock 34 may now be fitted about upper hinge pin 32 so that inadvertent lifting of the door out of the frame is prevented.
  • door 20 incorporates a self-closing mechanism so that it is urged toward a closed position with respect to the door frame 12, and is urged into sealing engagement with the frame.
  • a self-closing mechanism are well known.
  • a self-closing action is typically provided by a spring-loading mechanism associated with one or both of upper and lower hinge pins 32 and 42.
  • stop plate 46 is provided on door 20. As shown, stop plate 46 includes a cut-out 47 so that it fits about lower hinge pin 42, and is suitably affixed to door 20 by a mechanical fastener 48. The exact configuration and function of stop plate 46 will be further described.
  • the hold-open mechanism of the present invention further includes a hold-open spring 50 movably mounted on a spring pin 52 projecting upwardly from lower hinge plate 36.
  • Hold-open spring 50 is maintained in position on spring pin 52 by a spring guard 54 mounted on hinge plate 36 by mechanical fastener 58.
  • Spring guard 54 includes an outwardly projecting finger portion 56 which is disposed generally adjacent to and above hold-open spring 50.
  • hold-open spring 50 which may be suitably fabricated from heat treated spring steel or other suitably resilient material, has a generally hook-shaped configuration and includes several distinct portions. Specifically, spring 50 includes a mounting end portion 60 which is shaped so that it fits about spring pin 52. Spring 50 further includes a first leg 62, which includes an offset abutment portion 64, and a second leg 66 disposed at an angle to the first leg 62. The second leg 66 terminates in an offset free end portion 68 having a generally S-shaped configuration.
  • spring 50 is preferably fabricated from a single piece of material, it will be appreciated that a similar member could be provided having the requisite resiliency such as by joining substantially rigid leg portions by a resilient interconnection.
  • stop plate 46 affixed to door 20 includes a lobe portion 70 at one end thereof spaced from the swinging axis of the door.
  • the lobe portion 70 defines a pair of shoulders 72 and 74 on opposite sides thereof.
  • a cut-out portion 76 defined by the plate accommodates movement of the door without interference of the plate with other portions of the mechanism.
  • Swinging movement of door 20 from the position illustrated in Figure 3 causes rotation of stop plate 46 therewith.
  • shoulder 74 of the stop plate moves toward spring pin 52 on hinge plate 36.
  • shoulder 74 engages and abuts spring pin 52.
  • shoulder 74 actually abuts end portion 60 of hold-open spring 50 mounted on spring pin 52.
  • This cooperative interengagement of the stop plate 46 with the spring pin 52 prevents further opening movement of the door 20.
  • the position of hold-open spring 50 shown in Figure 3 is such that lobe portion 70 of the stop plate may clear the spring 50 without reactive engagement therewith, thus permitting the door to swing in a normal fashion.
  • hold-open mechanism of the present invention provides this action in a simple and straightforward fashion.
  • Stock personnel would first move door 20 toward its fully open position, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5.
  • hold-open spring 50 may be easily manipulated so that it is moved from the position shown in Figure 3 to the right, as shown by the phantom arrow in Figure 4.
  • the free end portion 68 of hold-open spring 50 is urged over lobe portion 70 of stop plate 46 such that free end portion 68 engages shoulder 72 of the stop plate 46.
  • Figure 5 illustrates hold-open spring 50 after having been so moved with respect to spring pin 52 such that free end portion 68 of the spring is in engagement with shoulder 72 of the stop plate 46.
  • hold-open spring In this position of the hold-open spring, its reactive engagement with stop plate 46 releasably retains the stop plate so that door 20 is releasably maintained in its open position. With the door 20 maintained in its opened position, stock personnel may easily stock the shelves of refrigerator display cabinet 10.
  • the hold-open mechanism of the present invention provides for essentially automatic disengagement of stop plate 46 from hold-open spring 50 so that door 20 is again biased toward its closed position by the self-closing mechanism.
  • exertion of sufficient force on door 20, such as by manually pushing the door results in stop plate 46 disengaging from hold-open spring 50.
  • This action is accomodated by reactive engagement and abutment of the portion of lobe portion 70 which defines shoulder 74 with offset abutment portion 64 of spring 50. This engagement displaces the spring such that free end portion 68 is urged out of engagement with shoulder portion 72.
  • the hold-open mechanism is provided in an extremely simple fashion.
  • the self-releasing nature of the releasable engagement of stop plate 46 with hold-open spring 50 assures that inadvertent closing movement of door 20 while the hold-open mechanism is engaged will not result in damage to the mechanism or the door.
  • the hold-open mechanism is designed to resist closing torque on the door on the order of 100 foot-pounds before disengagement of spring 50 and plate 46.
  • biasing spring 77 is disposed in a captive fashion between spring guard 54 and hold-open spring 50. In this way, spring 50 is biased and urged from its first inactive position toward its second active position for reactive engagement with stop plate 46.
  • Biasing spring 77 may comprise any suitable resilient material, with a small piece of elastomeric surgical tubing having proved durable and effective.
  • FIG. 6-8 a further modified version of the hold-open mechanism of the present invention is shown.
  • the arrangement shown in these figures is substantially the same as the hold-open mechanism illustrated in Figures 3-5.
  • hold-open spring 50 of the mechanism is shown fixedly attached to spring pin 52 of lower hinge plate 36 by a pin 78 or other suitable mechanical fastener means.
  • pin 78 prevents movement of spring 52 between a first inactive position and a second engaging, hold-open position, as previously described.
  • This modification provides a slightly different working action for the hold-open mechanism.
  • door 20 (shown in phantom) is in its closed position.
  • lobe portion 70 of stop plate 46 is moved toward free end portion 68 of hold-open spring 50.
  • the configuration of end portion 68 causes it to engage and cam against lobe portion 70 of plate 46 so that the spring "rides up” lobe portion 70.
  • Self-releasing disengagement of the hold-open mechanism of this embodiment is provided as described above. Exertion of sufficient force on door 20 results in free end portion 68 of hold-open spring 50 slipping off of and disengaging from shoulder 72 of stop plate 46. After stop plate 46 is disengaged from the hold-open spring 50, the self-closing action of door 20 again moves the door toward its closed position as the door swings closed in a normal fashion.
  • a novel and simple hold-open mechanism is disclosed for hingedly mounted door arrangements which is particularly suited for use with self-closing doors of refrigerated display cabinets.
  • the hold-open mechanism incorporating the present invention operates to permit closing of the door by overriding or self-release, thus preventing damange to the door or door frame even when the hold-open mechanism is engaged.
  • the releasable hold-open mechanism may be configured for manual or automatic engagement or operation without detracting from its releasing characteristics.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Refrigerator Housings (AREA)

Abstract

A hold-open mechanism is disclosed which is particularly suitable for use on a self-closing door assembly for a refrigerated display cabinet. The hold-open mechanism includes a stop plate (46) carried by the hinged door (20), and a hold-open spring (50) mounted on the door frame (16) which supports the door (20). In one embodiment, the hold-open spring (50) is selectively positionable so as to accomodate normal swinging movement of the door (20) in one position, and is adapted to releasably engage and retain the stop plate (46) on the door (20) in a second position so that the door (20) is maintained opened. In another embodiment, the hold-open mechanism (50) automatically operates to releasably retain the door (20) in its fully opened position whenever the door (20) is moved to that position.

Description

    Technical Field of the Invention
  • The present invention relates generally to commercial refrigerator door assemblies and more particularly to a releasable hold-open mechanism for maintaining the door in an open position.
  • Background of the Invention
  • Refrigerated display cabinets are widely used for retail sale of refrigerated and frozen food goods. A typical door construction includes a hingedly mounted door having a plurality of spaced, insulating glass panels. U.S. Patent Nos. 2,987,782 and 3,131,421, to Kurowski illustrate typical constructions for insulated door structures of this description.
  • In order to minimize the load on the refrigeration unit of the refrigerated display cabinet, and to effect sealing of the door with the door frame of the display case, door arrangements as described above are typically provided with a spring-loading arrangement so that each door of the display cabinet is self-closing. However, there are certain times when it is desired for a door of the display cabinet to be maintained in an open position, such as during stocking of the cabinet or maintenance. Thus, one desirable feature for the door assemblies of the display cabinet is a so-called hold-open mechanism so that the door may be selectively maintained in an open position.
  • One typical type of hold-open mechanism for display cabinet door assemblies includes a plate or other abutment member movably mounted on the door frame of the display cabinet. The hold-open plate is adapted to engage. a portion of the hinged door when the door is in an open position and after the plate is suitably manipulated, thus acting to maintain the door in an open position. The door may then be closed again only by first manipulating the plate so that it is moved out of engagement with the door.
  • One problem with hold-open mechanisms of this description relates to their non-yielding, positive engagement of the hinged door. Specifically, when the hold-open plate is in the hold-open position and positively engages the door, attempts to close the door or otherwise move it from the open position may cause damage to both the door, the hold-open mechanism and/or the door frame. For example, damage to the door may include breakage of any glass panel and/or distortion of the door sufficient to require replacement. Naturally, occurrences of this nature are extremely undesirable.
  • Thus, a hold-open mechanism for a springloaded swinging door of a refrigerator display cabinet which may be easily used so as to maintain the door in an open position, yet which is releasable, i.e., may be overridden without causing damage, when the door is moved from the open position would be a desirable and practical improvement for refrigerated display cabinets having hingedly mounted door structures.
  • Summary of the-Invention
  • In accordance with the present invention, a door hold-open mechanism is provided for a door of a refrigerated display cabinet hingedly mounted to. a door frame for swinging movement between closed and open positions. The door is typically provided with spring means for urging the door toward the closed position as is well known, so that the door is self-closing and is urged into sealing engagement with the door frame.
  • The hold-open mechanism of the present invention includes a stop plate affixed to the door and movable therewith. The stop plate includes a lobe portion, and is adapted to cooperate with a stop carried by a door hinge plate mounted on the door frame so that opening movement of the door is limited (usually to approximately 90 degrees).
  • The hold-open mechanism further includes a hold-open spring mounted on the door frame and engageable with the lobe portion of the stop plate. In the preferred embodiment, the hold-open spring is mounted on the stop pin carried by one of the hinge plates mounted to the door frame.
  • The hold-open spring has a generally hook-shaped configuration, and in the preferred embodiment it is pivotally mounted on the stop pin of the hinge plate. The free end portion of the spring is offset, and this end portion is adapted to engage and cooperate with the lobe portion of the stop plate so as to releasably retain the stop plate (and thus the door) when the door is in the open position.
  • The nature of the pivotal mounting of the hold-open spring to the stop pin of the hinge plate permits the spring to be manually moved from a first inactive to a second hold-open position. In the first position the spring does not reactively engage and retain the plate carried by the door, thus permitting the door to operate in a normal fashion. In the second position, the spring is adapted to releasably engage and retain the plate so that the door is maintained in the open position, yet functions in a self-releasing fashion to automatically disengage when the door is moved from the open position with sufficient force.
  • In a modification of the preferred embodiment, the hold-open spring is mounted on the stop pin of the hinge plate, and is pinned thereto. In this embodiment, movement of the door of the display cabinet to its fully open position automatically moves the stop plate carried by the door into engagement with the hold-open spring so that the stop plate is releasably retained thereby and the door is maintained in its open position. Movement of the door from the open position with sufficient force disengages the stop plate from the hold-open spring so that the door again may swing in a normal fashion.
  • As will be appreciated from the following detailed description, the hold-open mechanism of the present invention may be easily fabricated and adapted to hinged door assemblies having a variety of configurations.
  • Numerous other advantages and features of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention and embodiment thereof, from the claims and from the accompanying drawingx in which like numerals are employed to designate like parts throughout the same.
  • Brief Description of the Drawings
    • FIGURE 1 is a partial perspective view of a refrigerated display cabinet;
    • FIGURE 2 is an exploded perspective view of the door mounting arrangement of the display cabinet of Figure 1 including the hold-open mechanism of the present invention;
    • FIGURES 3-5 illustrate the hold-open mechanism of Figure 2 during swinging movement of the door of the display cabinet illustrated in Figure 1;
    • FIGURE 5a illustrates a modification of the hold-open mechanism of Figures 2;
    • FIGURES 6-8 are plan views of an alternate embodiment of the hold-open mechanism of the present invention during swinging movement of the door of the display cabinet of Figure 1.
    Detailed Description
  • While the present invention is susceptible to embodiment in different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a preferred embodiment and alternate embodiments thereof with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments illustrated.
  • With reference now to Figure 1, there is illustrated a refrigerated display cabinet 10 such as the type found in supermarkets and the like for storage and display of refrigerated and frozen food items. While the hold-open mechanism of the present invention has been found to be particularly suited for use on display cabinets of this type, it will be appreciated that the invention is equally suited to a wide variety of applications.
  • The display cabinet 10 typically includes a generally rectangular metal frame 12 including spaced upper and lower door frame members 14, and a plurality of laterally spaced, vertically extending frame columns or mullions 18. Door frame 12 supports one or more insulated glass doors 20 in side-by-side arrangement, each door 20 including a generally rectangular glass door frame 22 which supports a plurality of spaced, insulating glass panels 24.
  • As best shown in Figure 2, each glass door 20 is hingedly mounted for swinging movement with respect to door frame 12 by upper and lower hinge assemblies. The upper hinge assembly includes an upper hinge plate 26 which is adapted to be connected to a web portion 28 of upper frame member 14 by a mechanical fastener 30. An upper hinge pin 32 projecting upwardly of glass door frame 22 is adapted to fit within corresponding cut-out portions 27 and 29 in hinge plate 26 and web portion 28 for support of door 20. A hinge pin lock 34 is adapted to fit about upper hinge pin 32 for maintaining door 20 in position as is well known.
  • Door 20 is further supported on door frame 12 by a lower hinge assembly which includes a lower hinge plate 36. Lower hinge plate 36 is adapted to be mounted on a web portion 38 of lower frame member 16 by a mechanical fastener 40. A lower hinge pin 42 extending downwardly from the door frame 22 is adapted to fit within one of cut-outs 44 defined by lower hinge plate 36.
  • Installation of door 20 to door frame 12 is accomplished by respectively mounting upper and lower hinge plates 26 and 36 to upper and lower frame members 14 and 16. The upper and lower hinge plates shown in the drawing are of the type which may be shifted or adjusted with respect to the frame member upon which they are mounted so that the swinging axis of door 20 may be adjusted for proper alignment, although other door mounting arrangements may be used. After the hinge plates are in place, door 20 may be lifted into door frame 12 such that upper hinge pin 32 fits into cut- outs 27 and 29 respectively defined by upper hinge plate 26 and web portion 28 of upper frame member 14. As the door 20 is lifted into the frame, lower hinge pin 42 is raised sufficiently to clear lower hinge plate 36, and door 20 may be swung inwardly of the door frame 12. After door 20 is swung inwardly, the entire door 20 may be lowered so that lower hinge pin 42 fits within one of the cut-outs 44 defined by lower hinge plate 36, and door 22 is now supported within door frame 12. Hinge pin lock 34 may now be fitted about upper hinge pin 32 so that inadvertent lifting of the door out of the frame is prevented.
  • As noted, door 20 incorporates a self-closing mechanism so that it is urged toward a closed position with respect to the door frame 12, and is urged into sealing engagement with the frame. Such self-closing mechanisms are well known. For example, a self-closing action is typically provided by a spring-loading mechanism associated with one or both of upper and lower hinge pins 32 and 42.
  • In accordance with the present invention, a stop plate 46 is provided on door 20. As shown, stop plate 46 includes a cut-out 47 so that it fits about lower hinge pin 42, and is suitably affixed to door 20 by a mechanical fastener 48. The exact configuration and function of stop plate 46 will be further described.
  • The hold-open mechanism of the present invention further includes a hold-open spring 50 movably mounted on a spring pin 52 projecting upwardly from lower hinge plate 36. Hold-open spring 50 is maintained in position on spring pin 52 by a spring guard 54 mounted on hinge plate 36 by mechanical fastener 58. Spring guard 54 includes an outwardly projecting finger portion 56 which is disposed generally adjacent to and above hold-open spring 50.
  • With reference now to Figures 3-5, the exact configuration of the components of the hold-open mechanism of the present invention will be described. As shown, hold-open spring 50, which may be suitably fabricated from heat treated spring steel or other suitably resilient material, has a generally hook-shaped configuration and includes several distinct portions. Specifically, spring 50 includes a mounting end portion 60 which is shaped so that it fits about spring pin 52. Spring 50 further includes a first leg 62, which includes an offset abutment portion 64, and a second leg 66 disposed at an angle to the first leg 62. The second leg 66 terminates in an offset free end portion 68 having a generally S-shaped configuration.
  • While spring 50 is preferably fabricated from a single piece of material, it will be appreciated that a similar member could be provided having the requisite resiliency such as by joining substantially rigid leg portions by a resilient interconnection.
  • With further reference to Figures 3-5, stop plate 46 affixed to door 20 includes a lobe portion 70 at one end thereof spaced from the swinging axis of the door. The lobe portion 70 defines a pair of shoulders 72 and 74 on opposite sides thereof. A cut-out portion 76 defined by the plate accommodates movement of the door without interference of the plate with other portions of the mechanism.
  • Normal swinging movement of door 20 is provided with spring 50 in the position illustrated in Figure 3. As shown, door 20 (shown in phantom) is in its fully closed position. Cut-out portion 76 of stop plate 46 is defined such that the stop plate clears spring pin 52 on lower hinge plate 36 so that the spring pin is disposed within the cut-out portion. Hold-open spring 50 is illustrated in a first inactive position for normal swinging movement of the door 20 without hold-open action.
  • Swinging movement of door 20 from the position illustrated in Figure 3 causes rotation of stop plate 46 therewith. As the door is moved toward its fully opened position, shoulder 74 of the stop plate moves toward spring pin 52 on hinge plate 36. As the door is moved to its fully open position, shoulder 74 engages and abuts spring pin 52. (As shown, shoulder 74 actually abuts end portion 60 of hold-open spring 50 mounted on spring pin 52). This cooperative interengagement of the stop plate 46 with the spring pin 52 prevents further opening movement of the door 20. Notably, the position of hold-open spring 50 shown in Figure 3 is such that lobe portion 70 of the stop plate may clear the spring 50 without reactive engagement therewith, thus permitting the door to swing in a normal fashion.
  • When the open door is released, movement of the door 20 from the fully opened position is provided by the spring-loading mechanism associated therewith as is known. The lack of reactive engagement between stop plate 46 and hold-open spring 50 permits the door 20 to close in a normal fashion.
  • When it is desired that door 20 be maintained in an open position, such as during stocking of the shelves of the refrigerated display cabinet 10, the hold-open mechanism of the present invention provides this action in a simple and straightforward fashion. Stock personnel would first move door 20 toward its fully open position, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5. When the door 20 is in this position, hold-open spring 50 may be easily manipulated so that it is moved from the position shown in Figure 3 to the right, as shown by the phantom arrow in Figure 4. As this is done, the free end portion 68 of hold-open spring 50 is urged over lobe portion 70 of stop plate 46 such that free end portion 68 engages shoulder 72 of the stop plate 46.
  • Figure 5 illustrates hold-open spring 50 after having been so moved with respect to spring pin 52 such that free end portion 68 of the spring is in engagement with shoulder 72 of the stop plate 46. In this position of the hold-open spring, its reactive engagement with stop plate 46 releasably retains the stop plate so that door 20 is releasably maintained in its open position. With the door 20 maintained in its opened position, stock personnel may easily stock the shelves of refrigerator display cabinet 10.
  • When stocking of the shelves of the display cabinet is completed and it is no longer desired to maintain door 20 in its open position, the hold-open mechanism of the present invention provides for essentially automatic disengagement of stop plate 46 from hold-open spring 50 so that door 20 is again biased toward its closed position by the self-closing mechanism. Specifically, exertion of sufficient force on door 20, such as by manually pushing the door, results in stop plate 46 disengaging from hold-open spring 50. This action is accomodated by reactive engagement and abutment of the portion of lobe portion 70 which defines shoulder 74 with offset abutment portion 64 of spring 50. This engagement displaces the spring such that free end portion 68 is urged out of engagement with shoulder portion 72. When free end portion 68 of the hold-open spring has been disengaged from shoulder 72 of the top plate and ;clears lobe portion 70, the self-closing action of door 20 will again urge the door toward its closed position, and the door may again swing in a normal fashion.
  • Release of the hold-open mechanism is provided in an extremely simple fashion. The self-releasing nature of the releasable engagement of stop plate 46 with hold-open spring 50 assures that inadvertent closing movement of door 20 while the hold-open mechanism is engaged will not result in damage to the mechanism or the door. For a typical installation, the hold-open mechanism is designed to resist closing torque on the door on the order of 100 foot-pounds before disengagement of spring 50 and plate 46.
  • With reference to Figure 5a, a modification of the above-described hold-open mechanism is shown. In this modification, a biasing spring 77 is disposed in a captive fashion between spring guard 54 and hold-open spring 50. In this way, spring 50 is biased and urged from its first inactive position toward its second active position for reactive engagement with stop plate 46. Biasing spring 77 may comprise any suitable resilient material, with a small piece of elastomeric surgical tubing having proved durable and effective.
  • Operation of the hold-open mechanism as shown in Figure 5a with spring 77 in place is similar to the operation as described above, except that hold-open spring 50 is constantly urged toward its reactive disposition. Thus, during opening movement of door 20, end portion 68 of spring 50 engages lobe portion 70 of stop plate 46. As the door is moved to its fully opened position, spring 77 automatically biases spring 50 so that end portion 68 "rides up" the surface of lobe portion 70 until it clears the lobe portion and engages shoulder 72. The door is then maintained by spring 50 in its opened position as desired. In this embodiment, the hold-open mechanism operates to maintain door 20 fully opened whenever the door is moved into that position, and thus manipulation of spring 50 as described with respect to the embodiment of Figures 2-5 is unnecessary, the hold-open mechanism being self-engaging.
  • Release of the hold-open mechanism as shown in Figure 5a is essentially the same as above. Movement of door 20 urges stop plate 46 out of engagement with spring 50, the reactive engagement of the lobe portion 70 defining shoulder 74 with abutment portion 64 of spring 50 acting against biasing spring 77 to disengage end portion 68 of spring 50 from shoulder 72 of the stop plate. When portion 68 is disengaged from shoulder 72, the self-closing mechanism of the door again moves it to its closed position.
  • Referring now to Figures 6-8, a further modified version of the hold-open mechanism of the present invention is shown. The arrangement shown in these figures is substantially the same as the hold-open mechanism illustrated in Figures 3-5. However, one significant difference is illustrated in that hold-open spring 50 of the mechanism is shown fixedly attached to spring pin 52 of lower hinge plate 36 by a pin 78 or other suitable mechanical fastener means. It will be appreciated that the inclusion of pin 78 prevents movement of spring 52 between a first inactive position and a second engaging, hold-open position, as previously described. This modification provides a slightly different working action for the hold-open mechanism.
  • As shown in Figure 6, door 20 (shown in phantom) is in its closed position. As door 20 is moved toward its open position, lobe portion 70 of stop plate 46 is moved toward free end portion 68 of hold-open spring 50. As lobe portion 70 moves into engagement with the free end portion 68, the configuration of end portion 68 causes it to engage and cam against lobe portion 70 of plate 46 so that the spring "rides up" lobe portion 70.
  • Continuing movement of door 20 toward its fully opened position results in free end portion 68 of hold-open spring 50 moving across the surface of lobe portion 70 of plate 46 until portion 68 moves toward engagement with shoulder 72 of plate 46. This action is illustrated in Figures 6 and 7 wherein hold-open spring 50 is shown releasably engaging and retaining stop plate 46 (and thus door 20) as door 20 is moved to its fully opened position. Thus, hold-open spring 50 automatically cooperates with stop plate 46 so that door 20 is maintained in its fully open position whenever moved to that position. It will be appreciated that this action is similar to the action of the modified hold-open mechanism illustrated in Figure 5a.
  • Self-releasing disengagement of the hold-open mechanism of this embodiment is provided as described above. Exertion of sufficient force on door 20 results in free end portion 68 of hold-open spring 50 slipping off of and disengaging from shoulder 72 of stop plate 46. After stop plate 46 is disengaged from the hold-open spring 50, the self-closing action of door 20 again moves the door toward its closed position as the door swings closed in a normal fashion.
  • Thus, a novel and simple hold-open mechanism is disclosed for hingedly mounted door arrangements which is particularly suited for use with self-closing doors of refrigerated display cabinets.
  • The hold-open mechanism incorporating the present invention operates to permit closing of the door by overriding or self-release, thus preventing damange to the door or door frame even when the hold-open mechanism is engaged. The releasable hold-open mechanism may be configured for manual or automatic engagement or operation without detracting from its releasing characteristics.
  • From the foregoing it will be appreciated that numerous variations and modifications may be effected without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concept of the present invention. It will be understood that no limitations with respect to the specific embodiments illustrated herein is intended or should be inferred. It is, of course, intended to cover by the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims (11)

1. A door hold-open mechanism for a door (20) hingedly mounted to a door frame (12) for swinging movement between closed and opened positions, said door (20) including means for urging said door (20) toward the closed position, said mechanism comprising:
plate means (46) affixed to said door (20) and movable therewith, and
spring means (50) mounted on said frame (16) adapted to engage with said plate means (46) when said door (20) is in an opened position and adapted to disengage said plate means (46) when said door (20) is moved from said open position, whereby said door (20) is adapted to be releasably maintained in said open position.
2. A door hold-open mechanism in accordance with claim 1, wherein
said plate means comprise a plate (46) affixed to said door (20) including a lobe portion (70) releasably engageable with said spring means (50).
3. A door hold-open mechanism in accordance with claims 1 or 2, wherein
said spring means comprise a spring (50) having one end portion (60) mounted on said frame (16) and another end portion (68) adapted to engage and releasably retain said plate means (46).
4. A door hold-open mechanism in accordance with claim 3, wherein
said spring means (50) is fixedly mounted on said frame (16).
5. A door hold-open mechanism in accordance with claim 3, wherein
said spring means (50) is pivotally mounted on said frame (16) between a first inactive position and a second hold-open position wherein said spring means (50) engages said plate means (46) when said door (20) is in said opened position.
6. A door hold-open mechanism in accordance with claim 5, and
means (77) for biasing said spring means (50) toward said second position for automatic engagement of said spring means (50) with said plate means (46) when said door (20) is moved into said opened position.
7. A door hold-open mechanism in accordance with claim 1, and
a hinge plate (36) mountable on said frame (16) including an upstanding pin (52) upon which said spring means (50) is mounted, said plate means (46) cooperating with said pin (52) to limit swinging movement. of said door (20) toward said open position.
8. A door hold-open mechanism in accordance with claim 7, wherein
said plate means (46) defines a cut-out portion (76) within which said upstanding pin (52) is disposed when said door (20) is in said closed position.
9. A door hold-open mechanism in accordance with claim 1, wherein
said spring means comprise a spring (50) having a generally hook-shaped configuration including a first end portion (60) mounted on said frame (16), a second end portion (68) adapted to releasably engage said plate means (46), and an intermediate portion (66) which said plate means (46) is adapted to abut when said door (20) is moved from said opened position for displacing said spring means (50) for urging said second end portion (68) out of engagement with said plate means (46).
10. A door hold-open mechanism in accordance with claim 7, and
a spring guard (54) mounted on said hinge plate (36) including a finger (56) disposed generally adjacent said spring means (50) for retaining said spring means (50) in place.
11. A door hold-open mechanism for a door hingedly mounted to a door frame for swinging movement between closed and opened positions, said door including spring means for urging said door toward the closed position, said mechanism comprising: plate means mounted on to said door (20) and movable therewith, said plate means including a lobe portion (70) spaced from the swinging axis of said door, and
spring means mounted on a hinge plate (36) mounted on said frame, said spring means including a generally hook-shaped spring (50) having one end portion mounted on said hinge plate (36), and a free end portion (68) engageable with said lobe portion (70) of said plate means (36) whereby said spring means (50) is adapted to releasably engage and retain said plate means (36) when said door (20) is in said open position for maintaining said door (20) in said open position, and adapted to release and disengage said plate means (36) when said door (20) is moved from said open position toward said closed position.
EP19820111346 1982-12-07 1982-12-07 Hold-open mechanism for refrigerated display cabinet Expired EP0111019B1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE8282111346T DE3274134D1 (en) 1982-12-07 1982-12-07 Hold-open mechanism for refrigerated display cabinet
EP19820111346 EP0111019B1 (en) 1982-12-07 1982-12-07 Hold-open mechanism for refrigerated display cabinet

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP19820111346 EP0111019B1 (en) 1982-12-07 1982-12-07 Hold-open mechanism for refrigerated display cabinet

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0111019A1 true EP0111019A1 (en) 1984-06-20
EP0111019B1 EP0111019B1 (en) 1986-11-05

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ID=8189384

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19820111346 Expired EP0111019B1 (en) 1982-12-07 1982-12-07 Hold-open mechanism for refrigerated display cabinet

Country Status (2)

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EP (1) EP0111019B1 (en)
DE (1) DE3274134D1 (en)

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2007128839A1 (en) * 2006-05-10 2007-11-15 Deike, Ingrid Hinge
EP1879480A1 (en) * 2005-04-28 2008-01-23 Carrier Corporation Frameless door suspension
DE102007058594A1 (en) 2007-12-04 2009-06-10 Nilsson, Rickard Door locking device, in particular for insulating glass doors of refrigerated rooms and refrigerated cabinets or refrigerators
WO2009132974A1 (en) 2008-04-29 2009-11-05 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Household appliance
EP2196119A1 (en) * 2008-08-22 2010-06-16 S.W. Muller Container for food
EP2492425A1 (en) 2011-02-24 2012-08-29 Rickard Nilsson Door catching device, in particular for insulating glass doors
ITRE20110075A1 (en) * 2011-09-29 2013-03-30 Cisaplast S P A HINGE GROUP FOR DOORS OF REFRIGERATED CABINETS
CN103322749A (en) * 2013-06-17 2013-09-25 合肥华凌股份有限公司 Retaining assembly for wine cabinets and wine cabinet with same

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2987782A (en) * 1960-01-08 1961-06-13 Aluminum Refrigerator Door Co Refrigerator door
US3131421A (en) * 1962-02-07 1964-05-05 Aluminum Refrigerator Door Co Combination door check and door holder
FR1406002A (en) * 1964-06-04 1965-07-16 Simaca Automobiles Door stop device in particular for motor vehicles
DE2935460A1 (en) * 1979-09-01 1981-03-19 Gebr. Happich Gmbh, 5600 Wuppertal Adjustable hinge for glove pocket flap - has separate sliding clamps on both sides of hinge

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2987782A (en) * 1960-01-08 1961-06-13 Aluminum Refrigerator Door Co Refrigerator door
US3131421A (en) * 1962-02-07 1964-05-05 Aluminum Refrigerator Door Co Combination door check and door holder
FR1406002A (en) * 1964-06-04 1965-07-16 Simaca Automobiles Door stop device in particular for motor vehicles
DE2935460A1 (en) * 1979-09-01 1981-03-19 Gebr. Happich Gmbh, 5600 Wuppertal Adjustable hinge for glove pocket flap - has separate sliding clamps on both sides of hinge

Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1879480A4 (en) * 2005-04-28 2011-08-10 Carrier Corp Frameless door suspension
EP1879480A1 (en) * 2005-04-28 2008-01-23 Carrier Corporation Frameless door suspension
WO2007128839A1 (en) * 2006-05-10 2007-11-15 Deike, Ingrid Hinge
DE102007058594A1 (en) 2007-12-04 2009-06-10 Nilsson, Rickard Door locking device, in particular for insulating glass doors of refrigerated rooms and refrigerated cabinets or refrigerators
WO2009071039A1 (en) * 2007-12-04 2009-06-11 Rickard Nilsson Door locking device, in particular for insulating glass doors of cold rooms, refrigeration cabinets and domestic refrigerators
EP2083142A1 (en) 2007-12-04 2009-07-29 Rickard Nilsson Door catching device, in particular for insulating glass doors on cold storage rooms and refrigeration units or refrigerators
WO2009132974A1 (en) 2008-04-29 2009-11-05 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Household appliance
EP2196119A1 (en) * 2008-08-22 2010-06-16 S.W. Muller Container for food
EP2492425A1 (en) 2011-02-24 2012-08-29 Rickard Nilsson Door catching device, in particular for insulating glass doors
ITRE20110075A1 (en) * 2011-09-29 2013-03-30 Cisaplast S P A HINGE GROUP FOR DOORS OF REFRIGERATED CABINETS
EP2574870A1 (en) * 2011-09-29 2013-04-03 Cisaplast S.P.A. Hinge unit for refrigerator cabinet doors
CN103322749A (en) * 2013-06-17 2013-09-25 合肥华凌股份有限公司 Retaining assembly for wine cabinets and wine cabinet with same
CN103322749B (en) * 2013-06-17 2016-03-09 合肥华凌股份有限公司 For wine cabinet stopping element and there is its wine cabinet

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE3274134D1 (en) 1986-12-11
EP0111019B1 (en) 1986-11-05

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