WO2007113655A2

WO2007113655A2 - Device for compensating for the tilt of a sliding wing and item of furniture comprising this device

Info

Publication number: WO2007113655A2
Application number: PCT/IB2007/000877
Authority: WO
Inventors: Massimo Migliorini
Original assignee: Koblenz S.P.A.
Priority date: 2006-04-04
Filing date: 2007-03-27
Publication date: 2007-10-11
Also published as: WO2007113655A3; ITRN20060021A1

Abstract

A device for compensating for the tilt of a sliding wing (2), applicable to a sliding wing (2) able to move relative to a frame (3) of an item of furniture (30) comprises means (5) for balancing at least one component of a moment of forces generated by the weight of elements (20) constrained at one end of the sliding wing (2), the balancing means (5) being applicable between the sliding wing (2) and the frame (3). An item of furniture (30), for example a wardrobe, an element of a piece of modular furniture and/or a wall unit, comprises a sliding wing (2), a frame (3) and such a device for compensating for the tilt of the sliding wing (2).

Description

Device for compensating for the tilt of a sliding wing and item of furniture comprising this device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a device for compensating for the tilt of a sliding wing and an item of furniture comprising this device. The term item of furniture refers to furniture such as wardrobes, or elements or parts of a piece of modular furniture, such as wall units.

Background Art

There are prior art doors, made between brickwork partition walls, comprising a sliding element which can move relative to a counterframe recessed in a wall. The sliding elements rest on a guide integral with the frame and are free to move along the guide .

In particular, some such doors comprise a sliding wing to which a wing which opens by turning and which folds over the sliding wing is constrained. Starting with a configuration in which the door is completely closed, a partly open configuration is achieved by folding the wing which opens by turning over the sliding wing. In contrast, a completely open position is achieved starting from the partly open position, by moving the sliding wing and the wing which opens by turning integral with it so that they are inserted in the appropriate recess in the wall.

Such a solution could also be useful in furniture and wardrobes (although, in such cases a recess cannot be created for recessing the sliding wing with the wing which opens by turning hinged to it) .

Said solution has several disadvantages. In particular, due to the weight of the wing which opens by turning, in the configurations between the closed configuration and the partly open configuration the sliding wing tends to tilt at an angle to the normal position, obstructing the movement of the sliding wing itself . The unwanted tilt of the sliding wing relative to the normal configuration occurs both in the plane in which the sliding wing lies and in a plane at a right angle to the line of movement. In both cases, said tilt is mainly due to the moment of forces generated by the weight of the wing which opens by turning.

Disclosure of the Invention

The aim of the present invention is to overcome the above- mentioned disadvantages by providing a device for compensating for the tilt of a sliding wing which allows uniform movement of the sliding wing irrespective of the presence of external loads applied to it.

Another aim of the present invention is to provide a device which can easily be operated by anyone.

The present invention also has for an aim to provide an item of furniture which uses this device.

Accordingly, the present invention achieves these aims and others, more apparent in the description which follows, with a device for compensating for the tilt of a sliding wing and an item of furniture comprising this device, having the structural and functional features described in the independent claims herein, further embodiments being described in the dependent claims herein.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate a preferred, non-limiting embodiment and in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective schematic view of an item of furniture equipped with the device;

Figure 2 is a second perspective schematic view of the item of furniture of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a detail of the item of furniture of Figures 1 and 2 with the rear part cut away, from a different angle;

Figure 4 is a detail from Figure 3 with some parts cut away to better illustrate others, showing part of the compensating device in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 5 is an enlarged side view of the device of Figure 4, with one side of the item of furniture cut away for clarity;

Figure 6 is a perspective schematic view of a preferred configuration of the device in accordance with the present invention;

Figures 7 (a) , 7 (b) , 7 (c) are schematic front views of three alternative embodiments of a preferred configuration of the present invention;

Figures 8 and 9 are side views of part of the device of Figures 4 and 5 in two different operating positions;

Figure 10 is a cross-section in the plane A - A of Figure 12;

Figures 11 and 12 are respectively a front view and a top view of the part of the device illustrated in Figures 8 and 9;

Figures 13 and 14 are side views of a first alternative embodiment of the part of the device of Figures 8 and 9, in two different operating positions;

Figures 15, 17 and 18 are respectively a perspective schematic view, a top view and a front view, of the part of the device illustrated in Figures 13 and 14;

Figure 16 is a cross-section in the plane A - A of Figure 17;

Figures 19 and 20 are side views of a second alternative embodiment of the part of the device of Figures 8 and 9, in two different operating positions;

Figures 21 and 22 are respectively a perspective schematic view and a top view of the part of the device illustrated in Figures 19 and 20;

Figures 23 and 24 are respectively a cross -section in the plane A - A and a cross-section in the plane B - B of Figure 22;

Figures 25 and 26 are side views of a third alternative embodiment of the part of the device of Figures 8 and 9, in two different operating positions;

Figures 27, 28 and 29 are respectively a perspective schematic view, a front view and a top view, partly in cross - section to better illustrate the components, of the part of the device illustrated in Figures 25 and 26;

Figures 30 to 37 illustrate another alternative embodiment of a part of the device in accordance with the present invention, in particular another alternative embodiment of the device whose part is illustrated in Figures 19 to 24. Specifically:

Figure 30 is a perspective schematic view of the part of the device illustrated in Figures 36 and 37;

Figure 31 is a front view of the device of Figure 30 with some parts cut away to show the relationship between some internal components;

Figure 32 is a top view of the part of the device illustrated in Figures 36 and 37;

Figure 33 is a cross-section in the plane A - A of Figure 32 and of Figure 35;

Figure 34 is a front view, partly in cross -section in the plane B - B of Figure 32, of the device of Figure 30, showing the internal components;

Figure 35 is the same view as Figure 34, with some parts cut away to better illustrate others and showing with a dashed line the presence of some of the components illustrated in Figure 34;

Figures 36 and 37 are side views of the alternative embodiment of Figures 30 to 37, in two different operating positions.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments of the Invention With reference to the accompanying drawings the numeral 1 denotes a tilt compensating device. Said compensating device 1 can be applied to a sliding wing 2 able to move relative to a frame 3 of an item of furniture 30.

The compensating device 1 comprises means 5 for balancing at least one component of a moment of forces generated by the weight of elements 20 constrained at one end of the sliding wing 2. The balancing means 5 can be applied between the sliding wing 2 and the frame 3. In the examples shown in Figures 1 to 3 , the elements 20 are represented by a wing 21 of the type which opens by turning, hinged to one end of the relative sliding wing 2.

In the item of furniture 30 (which may be a wardrobe, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, but may also be an element of a piece of modular furniture, or a wall unit or the like) there may be two or more sliding wings 2, with one or more of them connected to a relative wing 21 of the type which opens by turning. The presence of the balancing means 5 tends to prevent the sliding wing 2 from tilting (either in its own plane or in a plane perpendicular to it) under the action of the weight of the constrained elements 20, thus preventing jamming or difficulty in the sliding wing 2 opening and/or closing movement.

In particular, advantageously, the balancing means 5 balance a first component of the moment of forces generated by the weight of the elements 20 constrained at one end of the sliding wing 2, said first component being identified by a vector Ml, Ml' at a right angle to a plane P in which the sliding wing 2 lies (see Figure 6 for an indication of the vectors and of the plane in which the wing lies) . The plane P in which the sliding wing 2 lies is normally a vertical plane. Said first component exerts a twisting action on the sliding wing 2, which would tend to make it rotate in the plane P in which it lies, causing it either to jam or to become detached from any translatory motion guides (therefore, something compensated for by the balancing means 5) .

Moreover, advantageously, the balancing means 5 balance a second component of the moment of forces generated by the weight of the elements 20 constrained at one end of the sliding wing 2, said second component being identified by a vector M2 , M2 ' parallel with a line of translatory motion T of the sliding wing 2 (again see Figure 6) .

Said second component exerts a bending action on the sliding wing 2 which would tend, amongst other things, to rotate the plane P in which it lies. In this case, this is compensated for by the action of the balancing means 5.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the compensating device 1 comprises :

- first means 4 for facilitated sliding of the wing 2;

- a sliding guide 40 for the first means 4 for facilitated sliding;

- second means 51 for facilitated sliding;

- a contact element 52 for the second means 51 for facilitated sliding; such that, at least when applied between the sliding wing 2 and the frame 3 :

- there is at least a first contact point 400 between the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide 40 ;

- there is at least a second contact point 520 between the second means 51 for facilitated sliding and the contact element 52; the constraining reactions generated in the first and in the second contact points 400, 520 defining a moment of constraining forces having a component identified by a vector with the same orientation and opposite direction relative to a vector identifying the at least one component of the moment of forces generated by the weight of the elements 20 constrained at one end of the sliding wing 2.

In particular, the second means 51 for facilitated sliding and the contact element 52 are part of the balancing means 5 and combine their action with that due to the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and to the sliding guide 40.

There are various possible assembly configurations for the first means 4 for facilitated sliding, the relative sliding guide 40, the second means 51 for facilitated sliding and the relative contact element 52. For example, the sliding guide 40 and the contact element 52 may be applied on the sliding wing 2, whilst the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the second means 51 for facilitated sliding may be applied on the frame 3. Mixed configurations are also possible, in which the sliding guide 40 and the second means 51 for facilitated sliding can be applied on the frame 3 (or on the sliding wing 2) whilst the contact element 52 and the first means 4 for facilitated sliding can be applied on the sliding wing 2 (or on the frame 3) .

In a preferred embodiment of the invention (which is also that illustrated in the accompanying drawings) , the sliding guide 40 and the contact element 52 can be applied on the frame 3, whilst the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the second means 51 for facilitated sliding can be applied on the sliding wing 2.

Advantageously, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the sliding guide 40 and the contact element 52 extend parallel with a line of translatory motion T of the sliding wing 2.

The second means 51 for facilitated sliding can move along the contact element 52.

The sliding guide 40 and the contact element 52 may be inserted between the first and the second means 4, 51 for facilitated sliding.

However, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in particular Figures 5 to 37, the first and second means 4, 51 for facilitated sliding are preferably inserted between the sliding guide 40 and the contact element 52.

Advantageously (as illustrated in particular in Figures 9, 13, 20, 26, 36), an operative surface 401 of the sliding guide 40 and an operative surface 521 of the contact element 52 are at least partly opposite one another. In this way, it is possible to identify a plane transversal to the line of movement of the first and second means 4, 51 for facilitated sliding (and, in particular, transversal to the line of translatory motion T of the sliding wing 2 where the contact element 52 and the sliding guide 40 extend parallel with it) in which there are at least two contact points between an element integral with the frame 3 and an element integral with the sliding wing 2.

In the embodiments of the invention in which both can be applied on the same part of the item of furniture 30 (in particular either both on the frame 3 or both on the sliding wing 2) , advantageously the guide 40 and the contact element 52 are integrated in a single element. In this case, appropriately (as illustrated in particular in Figures 5, 8, 9, 13, 14, 19, 20, 25, 26, 36, 37), the compensating device 1 comprises a single box- shaped body 53 in turn comprising the guide 40 and the contact element 52. This box-shaped body 53 comprises a section which is transversal to the line of movement and which roughly has the shape of a letter "C". Therefore there are two tabs 531, 532, advantageously parallel, each of which is connected at one end to a shared vertical element 533. The guide 40 is preferably positioned at the lower tab 532, whilst the contact element 52 is consequently positioned at the upper tab 531. In a particular and non-limiting construction solution, not illustrated, the first means 4 for facilitated sliding comprise a sliding block.

In another construction configuration, the first means 4 for facilitated sliding comprise a rolling element (for example, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, where the rolling element consists of one or more wheels 41) .

In a particular non-limiting construction solution, not illustrated, the second means 51 for facilitated sliding comprise a sliding block.

In another construction configuration, illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the second means 51 for facilitated sliding comprise a rolling element, for example one or more wheels.

The first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the relative sliding guide 40 may be part of the normal hardware used to support the sliding wing 2 and allow it to slide along its line of translatory motion T. In particular, the first means 4 for facilitated sliding may comprise at least one carriage 42 for supporting the sliding wing 2.

The second means 51 for facilitated sliding may also comprise at least one carriage for supporting the sliding wing 2. In this case, at least part of the second means 51 for facilitated sliding is part of the first means 4 for facilitated sliding, or, vice versa, at least part of the first means 4 for facilitated sliding is part of the second means 51 for facilitated sliding. This case covers a specific embodiment of the invention, described in more detail below.

As schematically illustrated in Figure 6, in general preferably:

- the first contact point 400 lies on a first straight line 4000;

- the second contact point 520 lies on a second straight line 5200 parallel with the first straight line 4000 and separated from the first straight line 4000 by a predetermined distance which is other than zero .

When the device is applied, the first and the second straight lines 4000, 5200 are perpendicular to a plane P in which the sliding wing 2 lies, the moment of constraining forces having a component identified by a vector with the same orientation and opposite direction relative to a vector Ml, Ml' at a right angle to the plane P in which the sliding wing 2 lies, and in turn identifying a first component of the moment of forces generated by elements 20 constrained at one end of the sliding wing 2.

As already indicated, the plane P in which the sliding wing 2 lies is normally a vertical plane. Said first component exerts a twisting action on the sliding wing 2, which would tend to make it rotate in the plane P in which it lies, causing it either to jam or to become detached from any translatory motion guides (something which, in this embodiment of the device and its balancing means 5 , is therefore compensated for by the constraining reactions generated in the first and second contact points 400, 520) .

Moreover, very appropriately, as schematically illustrated in Figure 6 :

- the first contact point 400 lies on a third straight line 4001;

- the second contact point 520 lies on a fourth straight line 5201 parallel with the third straight line 4001 and separated from the third straight line 4001 by a predetermined distance which is other than zero.

When the device is applied, the third and the fourth straight lines 4001, 5201 are parallel with a sliding wing 2 line of translatory motion T, the moment of constraining forces having a component identified by a vector with the same orientation and opposite direction relative to a vector M2, M2 ' parallel with the sliding wing 2 line of translatory motion T, and in turn identifying a second component of the moment of forces generated by elements 20 constrained at one end of the sliding wing 2.

As already indicated, said second component exerts a bending action on the sliding wing 2, which would tend to make it rotate in the plane P in which it lies (something which, in this embodiment of the device and its balancing means 5, is therefore again compensated for by the constraining reactions generated in the first and second contact points 400, 520) . As illustrated in Figures 7 (a) to 7 (c) , the first contact point 400 is preferably part of a plurality of contact points 4002 between the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide 40. The points of the plurality of contact points 4002 separate from the first contact point 400 are indicated in Figures 7 (a) , 7(b) and 7(c) by "X"s. The points of the plurality of contact points 4002 between the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide 40 are positioned one after another along a reference line 5202 which, when the device 1 is applied, is parallel with a sliding wing 2 line of translatory motion T.

The plurality of contact points 4002 may be made, for example, of a plurality of sliding blocks or, preferably rolling elements and, in general, could also correspond with a plurality of carriages for supporting the sliding wing 2 which are part of the first means 4 for facilitated sliding.

Advantageously, the second contact point 520 precedes or follows, along the reference line 5202, the plurality of contact points 4002 between the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide 40.

Very appropriately, in a preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 7 (b) and 7 (c) , the device 1 comprises a pair of second means 51 for facilitated sliding and relative contact elements 52 to form, at least when applied between the sliding wing 2 and the frame 3, a pair of relative second contact points 520 positioned on opposite sides of the first contact point 400 along a reference line 5202 which, when the device 1 is applied, is parallel with a sliding wing 2 line of translatory motion T. In this case, the constraining reactions generated in the first contact point 400 and in the pair of second contact points 520 define a corresponding pair of moments of constraining forces having a component defined by respective vectors positioned parallel with one another and with the same or opposite directions .

If the element 20 constrained to the sliding wing 2 is a wing 21 of the type which opens by turning, this configuration is very advantageous. Due to irregularities in the manufacture, assembly or calibration of both the wings and of the compensating device itself, conditions may be created during rotation of the wing 21 which opens by turning in which the moment of forces which tends to rotate the sliding wing 2 in the plane P in which it lies becomes the opposite of what it was previously. The presence of a pair of second means 51 of facilitated sliding as described above prevents a situation in which, even only for one stretch of the rotation of the wing 21 which opens by turning, said moment is not balanced, allowing sliding wing 2 movement or jamming problems to be avoided.

Obviously, there may be two different contact means 52. However, when both of the second means 51 for facilitated sliding in the pair can be applied on the same side of the sliding wing 2 (or the frame 3, depending on the assembly configuration selected) , advantageously, both of the second means 51 for facilitated sliding use the same contact element 52.

Moreover, advantageously, as illustrated in particular in Figure 7 (c) (and in Figures 1 and 2), the device 1 comprises a pair of first means 4 for facilitated sliding and relative sliding guides 40 so that, at least when they are applied between the sliding wing 2 and the frame 3, they form a pair of relative first contact points 400, the two second contact points 520 being positioned on opposite sides of the pair of first contact points 400 along the reference line 5202. In this case, the constraining reactions generated in the pair of first contact points 400 and in the pair of second contact points 520 form a corresponding pair of moments of constraining forces having a component defined by respective vectors positioned parallel with one another and with the same or opposite directions.

If the element 20 constrained to the sliding wing 2 is a wing 21 of the type which opens by turning, this configuration is very advantageous for the same reasons as stated above. Moreover, having a first contact point 400 which can be used as a reference for each of the second contact points 520, compensating and balancing is simpler.

Obviously, there may be two different sliding guides 40. However, when both of the first means 4 for facilitated sliding in the pair can be applied on the same side of the sliding wing 2 (or the frame 3, depending on the assembly configuration selected), advantageously, both of the first means 4 for facilitated sliding use the same sliding guide 40.

Consider the case in which the first contact point 400 (if there is only one) or the first contact points 400 (if there is at least one pair) are part of a plurality of contact points 4002 between the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide (or guides) 40, the points of said plurality of contact points 4002 being positioned one after another along a reference line 5202 which, when the device 1 is applied, is parallel with a sliding wing 2 line of translatory motion T. Advantageously, in this case, in a preferred embodiment of the invention (illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 7 (c) ) the two second contact points 520 of the pair of second contact points 520 are on opposite sides, along the reference line 5202, of the plurality of contact points between the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide or guides 40 (as illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 7 (c) ) .

With reference to Figure 5 and to Figures 8 to 37, in the device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second means 51 for facilitated sliding comprise at least one element 512 for contact with the contact element 52, forming the at least one second contact point 520 between the second means 51 for facilitated sliding and the contact element 52. The element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 may be a sliding block, or a rolling element, in particular a wheel as illustrated by way of example in the drawings referred to. The balancing means 5 comprise means S for adjusting the distance between the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 and the contact element 52 itself, the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 being able to move between a first, disengaged position (illustrated in Figures 5, 9, 13, 20, 26, and 36) and a second, operating position (illustrated in Figures 8, 14, 19, 25, 37) in which it makes contact with the contact element 52 to generate the moment of constraining forces .

The means 6 for adjusting the distance comprise means 61 for adjusting the tilt, relative to a predetermined line, of a straight line joining a predetermined point of the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and a predetermined point of the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52.

In the particular configurations described below, the means 6 for adjusting the distance may coincide with the means 61 for adjusting the tilt.

Reference should be made to the non-limiting construction solution provided by way of example and illustrated in Figures 8 to 12 (as well as in Figure 5) .

The means 6 for adjusting the distance comprise a rotary element 62 having an axis of rotation. The rotary element 62 is constrained to the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52. The straight line joining the geometric barycentre of the rotary element 62 and the geometric barycentre of the element 512 for contact with the contact element is separate from the straight line identifying the axis of rotation of the rotary element 62. The rotary element 62 is preferably integral with the sliding wing 2. Advantageously, the rotary element 62 is integral with a supporting block 620. The supporting block 620 may in turn be stably connected to the sliding wing 2. In the case illustrated in Figures 8 to 12, the supporting block 620 is inserted in such a way that it is guided in a shaped plate 6201 (and secured there by two screws 6200) , in turn fixed to the sliding wing 2 by relative fixing screws. The supporting block 620 could be inserted in the same way, or similarly, in one of the carriages supporting the sliding wing 2. The supporting block 620 may be made integral with the first means 4 for facilitated sliding.

Advantageously, as already indicated, the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 is a rolling element. In this case, in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 8 to 12, its axis of rotation is parallel with, but off centre relative to the axis of rotation of the rotary element 62 of the means 6 for adjusting the distance. Thus, a rotation of the rotary element 62 in one direction or in the opposite direction corresponds to a motion of the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 having a movement component in two correspondingly opposite directions . Advantageously, said movement is along a line which, when the device 1 is applied, is transversal (and, preferably, perpendicular) to the sliding wing 2 line of translatory motion T. Appropriately, the means 6 for adjusting the distance comprise means 63 for locking and releasing rotation of the rotary element 62 relative to its axis of rotation, said rotation being inhibited during normal operation, and only being allowed to change the distance between the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 and the contact element 52 itself. The locking means 63 may for example consist of a grub screw 630. Advantageously, moreover, the rotary element 62 comprises at least one lateral surface 621 which is at least partly multi-faceted to promote the grip of a tool which facilitates rotation of the rotary element 62. In said particular solution the first means 4 for facilitated sliding are advantageously integral with the sliding wing 2.

Reference is now made to the non-limiting construction solution provided by way of example and illustrated in Figures 13 to 18.

The element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 slides in such a way that it is guided, under the action of the means 6 for adjusting the distance, along a line (labelled Tl in the drawings) transversal to a reference line 5202 which, when the device is applied, is parallel with a sliding wing 2 line of translatory motion T. The transversal line Tl is preferably perpendicular to the reference line 5202. For example, the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 may be constrained (rotatably, if it is a rolling element, for example a wheel) to a support 622 inserted in a relative guide groove 6220 extending along the transversal line Tl. The guide groove 6200 is made in a flange or supporting block 6221. The latter, if the second means 51 for facilitated sliding can be applied to the sliding wing 2, may be fixed directly to the sliding wing 2 or to a relative supporting carriage. The supporting block 6221 may be made integral with the first means 4 for facilitated sliding. Threaded means 6222 engage on the support 622, the rotations of the former in opposite directions defining the movement of the support 622 (and, therefore, of the element 512 for contact) in opposite directions along the transversal line Tl.

Reference is now made to the non-limiting construction solution provided by way of example and illustrated in Figures 25 to 29.

The means 6 for adjusting the distance in this case comprise

- a body 67;

- a rocking element 68 hinged at a first point of the body 67 and integral with the element 512 for contact of the second means 51 for facilitated sliding with the contact element 52;

- threaded means 681 operatively connecting, at a second point positioned at a predetermined distance from the first point, a portion of the body 67 and the rocking element 68.

A rotation of the threaded means 681 causes rotation of the rocking element 68 relative to the body 67 in one direction or in the opposite direction. A rotation of the threaded means 681 causes a portion of the body 67 to move towards or away from the rocking element 68.

Thus, a rotation of the rocking element 68 in one direction or in the opposite direction corresponds to a motion of the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 having a movement component in two correspondingly opposite directions . Advantageously, said movement is along a line which, when the device 1 is applied, is transversal (and, preferably, perpendicular) to a sliding wing 2 line of translatory motion T. Advantageously, in the configuration in which the second means 51 for facilitated sliding can be applied to the sliding wing 2, the body 67 is made integral with the latter. The body 67 may be made integral with a carriage for supporting the sliding wing 2. The body 67 may be made integral with the first means 4 for facilitated sliding. The rocking element 68 is integral with the second means 51 for facilitated sliding. The rotation of the threaded means 681 in one direction or in another causes the second means 51 for facilitated sliding to move towards or away from the contact element 52.

Reference is now made to the non-limiting construction solution provided by way of example and illustrated in Figures 19 to 20, as well as the construction solution provided by way of example and illustrated in Figures 31 to 37 which is an alternative embodiment of it . The means 6 for adjusting the distance comprise a movable actuator 64 comprising a first shaped surface 641, operatively in contact with a first body 65 integral with the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52. The means 6 for adjusting the distance comprise an element 66 for constraining the first body 65 integral with the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52. The constraining element 66 causes the first body 65 integral with the element 512 for contact to move along a line T2 transversal to that of the movement of the actuator 64. Appropriately, when the device 1 is applied, said transversal line T2 is also transversal to a sliding wing 2 line of translation motion T and is preferably perpendicular to the latter. In this way, the movement of the actuator 64 (for example under the action of a threaded grub screw 6500, opposite rotations of the grub screw causing opposite movements of the actuator 64) activates, through the action of the shaped surface 641, a corresponding motion of the first integral body 65 (and, therefore, of the element 512 for contact) along the transversal line T2. Advantageously, the movement of the movable actuator 64 is along a line which, when the device 1 is applied, is parallel with the sliding wing 2 line of translation motion T.

Advantageously, between the actuator 64 and the first body 65 integral with the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52, on the first shaped surface 641 a coupling with sliding inclined planes is created, a movement of the actuator 64 in one direction along its line of movement causing a movement of the first integral body 65 in a corresponding direction along the line transversal to that of the actuator 64 movement.

Referring specifically to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 19 to 23, the movable actuator 64 and the first integral body 65 are made from two wedge-shaped bodies opposite one another and inserted in a first box-shaped element 6501 in which the threaded grub screw 6500 is inserted and which provides a sliding guide for the movable actuator 64. Two guide elements 6502 slidably engage with the first integral body 65 and constrain it to slide along the line T2 transversal to the movable actuator 64 line of movement. Advantageously (as illustrated in particular in Figure 23) the movable actuator is hollow to allow the two guide elements 6502 to pass through it without preventing the movement of the actuator 64.

In particular with reference to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 31 to 37, the constraining element 66 comprises a first slot 661 extending transversally to the line of actuator 64 movement (labelled T3 in Figures 31 and 34) . Inserted in the first slot 661 is at least one guide portion 650 of the first body 65 integral with the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52. The actuator 64 is free to move along a line of translation motion (in particular, in the example in Figures from 31 to 37, in a second box-shaped element 6503 which may, for example, have a cross-section substantially having the shape of an inverted "U"). It is advantageously operated by a threaded connection. In particular, said threaded connection comprises a threaded grub screw 6500 coupled to a corresponding female screw. Said female screw is advantageously made on the actuator 64 (and the threaded grub screw 6500 is, for example, guided inside a corresponding hole 6504 made in the second box-shaped element 6503) . A clockwise rotation of the grub screw corresponds to an actuator 64 movement in a predetermined direction, whilst an anticlockwise rotation of the grub screw corresponds to an actuator 64 movement in the opposite direction.

In a preferred embodiment of this alternative embodiment, the first means 4 for facilitated sliding comprise an element 412 for contact with the sliding guide 40, forming the at least one first contact point 400 and the actuator 64 comprises a second shaped surface 642 operatively in contact with a second body 651 integral with the element 412 for contact of the first means 4 for facilitated sliding with the sliding guide 40.

Simultaneously with the movement of the first integral body 65, the actuator 64 causes a movement of the second integral body 651 in the opposite direction to that of the first integral body 65.

In a non-limiting example configuration the actuator 64 comprises two arms 643, 644 extending from a shared central element 645. The first shaped surface 641 is made on the first arm 643, whilst the second shaped surface 642 is made on the second arm 644. The second shaped surface 642 is in contact with the second component 651 integral with the first means 4 for facilitated sliding. The tilt of the two arms 643, 644 relative to the line of translation motion is such that an actuator 64 movement in one direction causes a lowering of the first element 65 in contact with the first shaped surface 641 and a lifting of the second element 651 at the second shaped surface 642 or vice versa.

The constraining element 66 comprises a second slot 662 extending transversally to the actuator 64 line of movement . Inserted in the second slot 662 is at least one guide portion 6510 of the second integral body 651.

The coupling between the movable actuator 64 and the second integral body 651 can also be created by coupling inclined planes (one of which is made on the second shaped surface 642).

The element 412 for contact with the sliding guide 40 can be integrated in the second means 51 for facilitated sliding, as illustrated in Figures 31 to 37. In this case, both the element 512 for contact with the contact element 52 and the element 412 for contact with the sliding guide 40 may be integrated in a single carriage for supporting the sliding wing 2.

The present invention also relates to an item of furniture 30 comprising a sliding wing 2, a frame 3 and a compensating device 1 of the type described above. The term item of furniture 30 refers to furniture such as wardrobes, or even an element of a piece of modular furniture or a wall unit.

Said item of furniture 30 usually comprises a wing 21 of the type which opens by turning, hinged to the sliding wing 2.

The compensating device 1 can be applied at the upper portions 32, 22 of the frame 3 and the sliding wing 2. In such a case, guide means for facilitating movement of the sliding wing 2 can preferably be applied at the lower portions 33, 23 of the frame 3 and the sliding wing 2.

Alternatively, the compensating device 1 can be applied at the lower portions 33, 23 of the frame 3 and the sliding wing 2. In such a case, guide means for facilitating movement of the sliding wing 2 can preferably be applied at the upper portions 32, 22 of the frame 3 and the sliding wing 2. In another configuration the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the second means 51 for facilitated sliding are positioned respectively at the upper and lower portions 22, 23 of the sliding wing 2 or vice versa.

In a configuration illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the second means 51 for facilitated sliding are integral with the sliding wing 2. In such a case the guide 40 and the contact element 52 are integral with the frame 3.

In an alternative configuration the first means 4 for facilitated sliding and the second means 51 for facilitated sliding are integral with the frame 3. In such a case the guide 40 and the contact element 52 are integral with the sliding wing 2.

The invention brings important advantages .

Firstly, it allows the use of thick sliding wings or allows particularly heavy wings or accessories to be constrained to them, without this compromising sliding wing 2 movement. The invention allows easy and rapid movement of the sliding wing, without jamming or resistance to the motion.

Another, important advantage is that the device can easily and immediately be used by all users.

A no less important advantage is that the device is economical and easy to install and maintain.

The invention described can be modified and adapted in several ways without thereby departing from the scope of the inventive concept .

Moreover, all details of the invention may be substituted by other technically equivalent elements.

In practice, all of the materials used, as well as the dimensions, may be any, depending on requirements.

Claims

1. A device for compensating for the tilt of a sliding wing (2) , applicable to a sliding wing (2) able to move relative to a frame (3) of an item of furniture (30) , characterised in that it comprises means (5) for balancing at least one component of a moment of forces generated by the weight of elements (20) constrained at one end of the sliding wing (2) , the balancing means (5) being applicable between the sliding wing (2) and the frame (3) .

2. The device according to claim 1, characterised in that the balancing means (5) balance a first component of the moment of forces generated by the weight of the elements (20) constrained at one end of the sliding wing (2) , said first component being identified by a vector (Ml, Ml') at a right angle to a plane (P) in which the sliding wing (2) lies.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2 , characterised in that the balancing means (5) balance a second component of the moment of forces generated by the weight of the elements (20) constrained at one end of the sliding wing (2) , said second component being identified by a vector (M2, M2') parallel with a sliding wing (2) line of translation motion (T) .

4. The device according to claim 1, characterised in that it comprises :

- first means (4) for facilitated sliding wing (2) sliding;

- a sliding guide (40) for the first means (4) for facilitated sliding;

- second means (51) for facilitated sliding;

- a contact element (52) for the second means (51) for facilitated sliding; such that, at least when applied between the sliding wing (2) and the frame (3) :

- between the first means (4) for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide (40) there is at least a first contact point (400 ) ;

- between the second means (51) for facilitated sliding and the contact element (52) there is at least a second contact point (520) ; the constraining reactions generated in the first and in the second contact points (400, 520) defining a moment of constraining forces having a component identified by a vector with the same orientation and opposite direction relative to a vector identifying the at least one component of the moment of forces generated by the weight of the elements (20) constrained at one end of the sliding wing (2) .

5. The device (1) according to claim 4, characterised in that:

- the first contact point (400) lies on a first straight line (4000) ;

- the second contact point (520) lies on a second straight line (5200) parallel with the first straight line (4000) and separated from the first straight line (4000) by a predetermined distance which is other than zero; when the device is applied, the first and the second straight lines (4000, 5200) being perpendicular to a plane (P) in which the sliding wing (2) lies, the moment of constraining forces having a component identified by a vector with the same orientation and opposite direction relative to a vector (Ml, Ml') at a right angle to the plane (P) in which the sliding wing (2) lies, and in turn identifying a first component of the moment of forces generated by elements (20) constrained at one end of the sliding wing (2) .

6. The device (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterised in that:

- the first contact point (400) lies on a third straight line (4001);

- the second contact point (520) lies on a fourth straight line (5201) parallel with the third straight line (4001) and separated from the third straight line (4001) by a predetermined distance which is other than zero; when the device is applied, the third and the fourth straight lines (4001, 5201) being parallel with a sliding wing (2) line of translation motion (T) , the moment of constraining forces having a component identified by a vector with the same orientation and opposite direction relative to a vector (M2, M2 ' ) parallel with the sliding wing (2) line of translation motion (T) , and in turn identifying a second component of the moment of forces generated by elements (20) constrained at one end of the sliding wing (2) .

7. The device (1) according to any of the claims from 4 to 6, characterised in that it comprises a pair of second means (51) for facilitated sliding and relative contact elements (52) to form, at least when applied between the sliding wing (2) and the frame (3) , a pair of relative second contact points (520) positioned on opposite sides of the first contact point (400) along a reference line (5202) which, when the device (1) is applied, is parallel with a sliding wing (2) line of translation motion (T) , the constraining reactions generated in the first contact point (400) and in the pair of second contact points (520) defining a corresponding pair of moments of constraining forces having a component defined by respective vectors positioned parallel with one another and with the same or opposite directions.

8. The device (1) according to claim 7, characterised in that both of the second means (51) for facilitated sliding use the same contact element (52) .

9. The device (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterised in that it comprises a pair of first means (4) for facilitated sliding and relative sliding guides (40) to form, at least when applied between the sliding wing (2) and the frame (3) , a pair of relative first contact points (400) , the two second contact points (520) being on opposite sides of the pair of first contact points (400) along the reference line (5202) , the constraining reactions generated in the pair of first contact points (400) and in the pair of second contact points (520) defining a corresponding pair of moments of constraining forces having a component defined by respective vectors positioned parallel with one another and with the same or opposite directions.

10. The device (1) according to claim 9, characterised in that both of the first means (4) for facilitated sliding use the same sliding guide (40) .

11. The device (1) according to any of the claims from 4 to 10, characterised in that the first contact point, or first contact points (400) are part of a plurality of contact points (4002) between the first means (4) for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide or guides (40) , positioned one after another along a reference line (5202) which, when the device (1) is applied, is parallel with a sliding wing (2) line of translation motion (T) .

12. The device (1) according to claim 11 when it is dependent on any of the claims from 4 to 6, characterised in that the second contact point (520) precedes or follows, along the reference line (5202) , the plurality of contact points (4002) between the first means (4) for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide (40) .

13. The device according to claim 11 when it is dependent on any of the claims from 7 to 10, characterised in that the two second contact points (520) of the pair of second contact points (520) are on opposite sides, along the reference line (5202), of the plurality of contact points between the first means (4) for facilitated sliding and the sliding guide or guides (40) .

14. The device (1) according to any of the claims from 4 to 13, characterised in that the sliding guide (40) and the contact element (52) can be applied on the frame (3) and in that the first means (4) for facilitated sliding and the second means (51) for facilitated sliding can be applied on the sliding wing (2) .

15. The device (1) according to claim 14, characterised in that the guide (40) and the contact element (52) are integrated in a single element.

16. The device (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterised in that the first means (4) for facilitated sliding comprise at least one carriage (42) for supporting the sliding wing (2) .

17. The device (1) according to claim 14 or 15 or 16, characterised in that second means (52) for facilitated sliding comprise at least one carriage for supporting the sliding wing (2) .

18. The device (1) according to any of the claims from 4 to 17, characterised in that the second means (51) for facilitated sliding can move along the relative contact element (52) .

19. The device according to any of the claims from 4 to 18, characterised in that the first means (4) for facilitated sliding comprise a sliding block.

20. The device according to any of the claims from 4 to 18, characterised in that the first means (4) for facilitated sliding comprise a rolling element.

21. The device according to any of the claims from 4 to 20, characterised in that the second means (51) for facilitated sliding comprise a sliding block.

22. The device according to any of the claims from 4 to 20, characterised in that the second means (51) for facilitated sliding comprise a rolling element.

23. The device according to any of the claims from 4 to 22, characterised in that the first and second means (4, 51) for facilitated sliding are inserted between the sliding guide (40) and the contact element (52) .

24. The device according to any of the claims from 4 to 22, characterised in that the sliding guide (40) and the contact element (52) are inserted between the first and second means (4, 51) for facilitated sliding.

25. The device according to any of the claims from 4 to 24, characterised in that an operative surface (401) of the sliding guide (40) and an operative surface (521) of the contact element (52) are at least partly opposite one another.

26. The device according to any of the claims from 4 to 25, characterised in that the sliding guide (40) and the contact element (52) extend parallel with a sliding wing (2) line of translation motion.

27. The device according to any of the claims from 4 to 26, characterised in that:

- the second means (51) for facilitated sliding comprise at least one element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) , forming the at least one second contact point (520) between the second means (51) for facilitated sliding and the contact element (52);

- the balancing means (5) comprise means (6) for adjusting the distance between the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) and the contact element (52) itself, the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) being able to move between a first, disengaged position and a second, operating position in which it makes contact with the contact element (52) to generate the moment of constraining forces.

28. The device according to claim 27, characterised in that the means (6) for adjusting the distance comprise means (61) for adjusting the tilt, relative to a predetermined line, of a straight line joining a predetermined point of the first means (4) for facilitated sliding and a predetermined point of the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) .

29. The device according to claim 27 or 28, characterised in that the means (6) for adjusting the distance comprise a rotary- element (62) having an axis of rotation and constrained to the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) , the straight line joining the geometric barycentre of the rotary element (62) and the geometric barycentre of the element (512) for contact with the contact element being separate from the straight line identifying the axis of rotation of the rotary element (62) .

30. The device according to cla.im 29, characterised in that the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) is a rolling element whose axis of rotation is parallel but off centre relative to the axis of rotation of the rotary element (62) of the means (6) for adjusting the distance.

31. The device according to claim 29 or 30, characterised in that the means (6) for adjusting the distance comprise means (63) for locking and releasing rotation of the rotary element (62) relative to its axis of rotation, said rotation being inhibited during normal operation, and only being allowed to change the distance between the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) and the contact element (52) itself.

32. The device according to claim 29 or 30 or 31, characterised in that the rotary element (62) comprises at least one lateral surface which is at least partly multi-faceted to promote the grip of a tool which facilitates rotation of the rotary element (62) .

33. The device according to claim 27 or 28, characterised in that the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) slides in such a way that it is guided, under the action of the means (6) for adjusting the distance, along a line transversal to a reference line (5202) which, when the device is applied, is parallel with a sliding wing (2) line of translation motion (T) .

34. The device according to claim 27 or 28, characterised in that the means (6) for adjusting the distance comprise a movable actuator (64) comprising a first shaped surface (641) , operatively in contact with a first body (65) integral with the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) .

35. The device according to claim 34, characterised in that the means (6) for adjusting the distance comprise an element (66) for constraining the first body (65) integral with the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) , said constraining element (66) causing the first body (65) integral with the element (512) for contact to move in a line transversal to that of the actuator (64) movement.

36. The device according to claim 35, characterised in that between the actuator (64) and the first body (65) integral with the element (512) for contact with the contact element (52) , on the first shaped surface (641) a coupling with sliding inclined planes is created, a movement of the actuator (64) in one direction along its line of movement causing a movement of the first integral body (65) in a corresponding direction along the line transversal to that of the actuator (64) movement.

37. The device according to claim 35 or 36, characterised in that the constraining element (66) comprises a first slot (661) extending transversally to the line of actuator (64) movement, there being inserted in the first slot (661) at least one guide portion (650) of the first body (65) integral with the element

(512) for contact with the contact element (52) .

38. The device according to claim 35 or 37, characterised in that:

- the first means (4) for facilitated sliding comprise an element (412) for contact with the sliding guide (40), forming the at least one first contact point (400) ;

- the actuator (64) comprises a second shaped surface (642) operatively in contact with a second body (651) integral with the element (412) for contact of the first means (4) for facilitated sliding with the sliding guide (40) ; simultaneously with the movement of the first integral body (65) , the actuator (64) causing a movement of the second integral body (651) in the opposite direction to that of the first integral body (65) .

39. The device according to claim 38, characterised in that the constraining element {66) comprises a second slot (662) extending transversally to the actuator (64) line of movement, there being inserted in the second slot (662) at least one guide portion (6510) of the second integral body (651) .

40. The device according to claim 38 or 39, characterised in that the element (412) for contact with the sliding guide (40) is integrated in the second means (51) for facilitated sliding.

41. The device according to claim 28 or 29, characterised in that the means (6) for adjusting the distance comprise:

- a body (67) ;

- a rocking element (68) hinged at a first point of the body (67) and integral with the element (512) for contact of the second means (51) for facilitated sliding with the contact element (52);

- threaded means (681) operatively connecting, at a second point positioned at a predetermined distance from the first point, a portion of the body (67) and the rocking element (68) ; a rotation of the threaded means (681) causing rotation of the rocking element (68) relative to the body (67) in one direction or in the opposite direction.

42. The compensating device according to claim 41, characterised in that the body (67) is integral with the first means (4) for facilitated sliding.

43. An item of furniture (30) comprising a sliding wing (2) and a frame (3) , characterised in that it comprises a device for compensating for the tilt of the sliding wing (2) according to any of the foregoing claims .

44. The item of furniture (30) comprising a sliding wing (2) and a frame (3) , characterised in that it comprises a device (1) for compensating for the tilt of the sliding wing (2) according to any of the claims from 4 to 42.

45. The item of furniture according to claim 43 or 44, characterised in that it comprises a wing (21) of the type which opens by turning hinged to one end of the sliding wing (2) .

46. The item of furniture according to claim 43 or 44 or 45, characterised in that the compensating device (1) can be applied at the upper portions of the frame (3) and the sliding wing (2) .

47. The item of furniture according to claim 43 or 44 or 45, characterised in that the compensating device (1) can be applied at the lower portions of the frame (3) and the sliding wing (2) .

48. The item of furniture according to claim 44, characterised in that the first means (4) for facilitated sliding and the second means (51) for facilitated sliding are positioned respectively at the upper portion and the lower portion of the sliding wing (2) or vice versa.

49. The item of furniture according to claim 44 or 48, characterised in that the first means (4) for facilitated sliding and the second means (51) for facilitated sliding are integral with the sliding wing (2) .

50. The item of furniture according to claim 49, characterised in that the sliding guide (40) and the contact element (52) are integral with the frame (3) .

51. The item of furniture according to claim 44 or 48, characterised in that the sliding guide (40) and the contact element (52) are integral with the sliding wing (2) .

52. The item of furniture according to claim 51, characterised in that the first means (4) for facilitated sliding and the second means (51) for facilitated sliding are integral with the frame (3) .

53. The item of furniture according to any of the claims from 43 to 52, characterised in that it is a wardrobe.

54. The item of furniture according to any of the claims from 43 to 52, characterised in that it is an element of a piece of modular furniture.

55. The item of furniture according to any of the claims from 43 to 52, characterised in that it is a wall unit.