Improvements in hinges or the like

Abstract

A hinge assembly is disclosed comprising a first hinge leaf assembly and a second hinge leaf assembly, each assembly having their respective hinge leaf. The first hinge leaf assembly is connectable to the second hinge leaf assembly and when so connected the first hinge leaf assembly is rotatable about an axis relative to the second hinge leaf assembly. The hinge assembly further comprises at least one mounting member mountable to a moveable screen or structure by a securing arrangement. The first and / or second hinge leaf is connectable to the at least one mounting member for adjustment in at least one direction relative to the mounting member. A locking arrangement is also included for releasably locking the first and / or second hinge leaf to the at least one mounting member. The locking arrangement is operable to adopt a retaining state in which relative movement between the first and / or second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member is prevented and a release state in which the first and / or second hinge leaf is adjustable relative to the at least one mounting member. The locking arrangement comprises a locking element which is disposed between the first and / or second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member and is movable relative to the first and / or second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member to cause the locking arrangement to adopt the retaining state or the release state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a hinge assembly that can be mounted onto a structure. Background Technology

[0002] Various forms of hinges have been proposed previously, such as U.S. Patent No. 5,584,100 (Doyle et al.) and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0075720A1 (Caffin et al.).

[0003] US 5,584,100 (Doyle et al.) discloses a self-closing hinge assembly in which a torsion spring is disposed within a cylindrical housing to connect one hinge leaf to another via coupling elements located at each end of the cylindrical housing, such that the torsion spring can provide a closing force. As disclosed in US 5,584,100 (Doyle et al.), one of the coupling elements can be adjusted about the axis of the torsion spring to change the spring ratio and thus change the closing force of the spring.

[0004] U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0075720A1 (Caffin et al.) discloses a self-closing hinge assembly in which two coupled portions at each end are adjustable about the axis of a torsion spring, making it easy to adjust the closing force of the spring.

[0005] It should be understood that if any prior art is mentioned herein, such mention does not constitute an acknowledgment in Australia or any other country that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to the first aspect, a hinge assembly is disclosed, comprising:

[0007] A first hinge leaf assembly and a second hinge leaf assembly, each hinge leaf assembly having its respective hinge leaf, wherein the first hinge leaf assembly is connectable to the second hinge leaf assembly, and when so connected, the first hinge leaf assembly is rotatable about an axis relative to the second hinge leaf assembly.

[0008] At least one mounting member, which can be fixed to a movable barrier or structure by a fixed arrangement, wherein a first hinge leaf and / or a second hinge leaf can be connected to the at least one mounting member so as to be adjustable relative to the at least one mounting member in at least one direction; and

[0009] A locking arrangement is provided for releasably locking the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf to the at least one mounting member. The locking arrangement operates to employ a holding state and a released state, in which relative movement between the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member is prevented; in the released state, the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf are adjustable relative to the at least one mounting member.

[0010] The locking arrangement includes a locking element disposed between the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member, and is movable relative to the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member to enable the locking arrangement to assume the holding state or the releasing state.

[0011] Advantageously, once the hinge assembly is mounted on the structure, it facilitates adjustment, which simplifies installation and improves functionality. For example, the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf can be adjusted relative to the at least one mounting member to ensure proper alignment and positioning of the hinge assembly components.

[0012] In some embodiments, the locking arrangement further includes a drive member that operates to move the locking element so that the locking arrangement is in the held state or the released state.

[0013] In some embodiments, the at least one mounting member and the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf are interconnected via a guide arrangement, wherein the guide arrangement includes: one or more rails disposed on the at least one mounting member or the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf; and one or more complementary rails disposed on another of the at least one mounting member or the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf.

[0014] In some embodiments, when in the released state, the guide arrangement prevents the hinge leaf from completely separating from the mounting member in a direction parallel to the mounting member mounted to the movable barrier or structure.

[0015] In some embodiments, the movement of the locking element between the held state and the released state is perpendicular or transverse to the pivot axis of the hinge leaf assembly.

[0016] According to a second aspect, a hinge leaf assembly that can be mounted to a movable barrier or structure is disclosed, the hinge leaf assembly comprising:

[0017] A hinge leaf and at least one mounting member, wherein the hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member are connected by a guide arrangement to allow movement of the hinge leaf relative to the at least one mounting member.

[0018] A locking element operable to adapt to a holding state and a released state is disposed in the hinge leaf or the at least one mounting member, and when the locking element is in the holding state, it prevents relative movement between the hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member, and when the locking element is in the released state, the hinge leaf is movable relative to the at least one mounting member.

[0019] In some embodiments, when the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member are in more than one position, the locking arrangement can employ the holding state to allow the first hinge leaf assembly and / or the second hinge leaf assembly to be repositioned relative to the at least one mounting member to a selected position when the locking arrangement is in the released state, at which the locking arrangement moves to the holding state.

[0020] In some embodiments, the drive member is used to move the locking element between the holding state and the released state.

[0021] According to a third aspect, a hinge assembly comprising one or more hinge leaf assemblies is disclosed.

[0022] In some embodiments, when the locking element of the first hinge leaf assembly is in the released state, the leaf moves relative to the mounting member in a direction parallel to the pivot axis of the hinge assembly, and when the locking element of the second hinge leaf assembly is in the released state, the leaf moves relative to the mounting member in a direction perpendicular or transverse to the pivot axis of the hinge assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Referring to the figure below, embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail by way of example only.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of a hinge assembly using existing technology;

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Rear perspective view of existing hinge components;

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 Exploded view of existing hinge components;

[0027] Figure 4This is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the hinge assembly;

[0028] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Rear perspective view of the hinge assembly;

[0029] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of the hinge assembly;

[0030] Figure 7 This is a rear perspective view of the hinge leaf;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a front perspective view of the hinge leaf;

[0032] Figure 9 It is a rear 3D view of the installed components;

[0033] Figure 10 This is a front perspective view of the installed components;

[0034] Figure 11 It is a 3D diagram of the locking element;

[0035] Figure 12 It is a 3D view of the driving components;

[0036] Figure 13 The diagram illustrates the first assembly stage. Figure 5 An exploded isometric view of the hinge assembly;

[0037] Figure 14 The diagram illustrates the second assembly stage. Figure 5 An exploded isometric view of the hinge assembly;

[0038] Figure 15 The diagram illustrates the third assembly stage. Figure 5 An exploded isometric view of the hinge assembly;

[0039] Figure 16 The diagram illustrates the final assembly stage. Figure 5 An exploded isometric view of the hinge assembly;

[0040] Figure 17a It is a detailed perspective view of the driving component and locking element in the released state;

[0041] Figure 17b yes Figure 17a Detailed perspective view of the drive components and locking elements in the holding state;

[0042] Figure 18a This is when the driving component and locking element are in the released state. Figure 4 and Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly, including a non-sectioned view of the drive member;

[0043] Figure 18b It is when the driving component and locking element are in the holding state. Figure 4 and Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the hinge leaf assembly, including a non-sectioned view of the drive member;

[0044] Figure 19 The diagram shows the adjustment indicator. Figure 5 Rear perspective view of the hinge assembly;

[0045] Figure 20 It is a perspective view of a hinge assembly including two hinge leaves mounted to the structure.

[0046] Figure 21 This is a front view illustrating an embodiment of the hinge assembly for adjusting the indicator;

[0047] Figure 22 This is a front view illustrating yet another embodiment of the hinge assembly for adjusting the indicator;

[0048] Figure 23 It is installed on the structure Figure 22 Front view of the two hinge components; and

[0049] Figure 24 This is a front view of yet another embodiment of a hinge assembly with a cover. Detailed Implementation

[0050] In the following description, functionally similar parts are referred to by the same reference numerals in different embodiments. The drawings are intended to be illustrative and, unless otherwise indicated, dimensions, scale, and / or angles may not be accurately determined from them.

[0051] It should be understood that, unless otherwise specified, upward and downward refer to the orientation of the latch when mounted on a substantially vertical surface.

[0052] It should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, left and right directions refer to the orientation of the latch when mounted on a substantially vertical surface.

[0053] It should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, linear direction means that an object, component, or sub-component can move from one position to another in substantially direct motion along any plane (but not limited to horizontal, vertical, or angular planes).

[0054] It should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, the structure may include a movable barrier, gate, fence, panel, post, or any other suitable structure for mounting latching components.

[0055] It should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, the terms bracket and fastener are intended to have their common meaning.

[0056] It should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, the term rotation is not limited by its direction and may cover either clockwise or counterclockwise directions or a combination of clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0057] It should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, the term installation includes temporary fastening, attachment, removable fixing, and securing, wherein the term is intended to describe the placement of one component onto another component or body and is not limited to the type of fixing used or whether the fixing is permanent or temporary.

[0058] It should be understood that, unless otherwise specified, the term "movable barrier" includes, for example, structures, hatches, doors, skylights, or windows, i.e., components suitable for closing or opening openings, but not limited to pivoting or directions of movement. For example, such components may pivot or slide horizontally and / or vertically.

[0059] It should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, the terms "alignment" and / or "alignment" are not limited to concentric alignment, horizontal alignment, vertical alignment, and planar alignment, etc.

[0060] It should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, the terms guiding device or guiding arrangement are not limited to tracks, rails, guides or slots, but include any means for limiting movement between two or more interfacing objects, parts or assemblies.

[0061] Figure 1 and Figure 2 These are the front and rear perspective views of the existing self-closing hinge assembly A. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of a prior art hinge assembly. (See image below.) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, line XX indicates the pivot axis of the prior art self-closing hinge assembly A.

[0062] refer to Figures 1 to 3 The prior art self-closing hinge assembly A includes two mounting brackets B fastened to a hinge C via a series of nuts D, the nuts engaging their respective threads E disposed on the mounting brackets B. This arrangement allows the mounting brackets B to be fastened to the hinge C. For a user to fasten the hinge assembly A to a structure or door, the user needs to remove the hinge assembly A to allow the mounting brackets B to be installed onto the structure or door first. Once the mounting brackets are fastened in place, the hinge C is presented to the mounting brackets to allow the threads E to pass through their respective slots F in the hinge C, so that the nuts can engage with the threads E and fasten the hinge C to the mounting brackets B.

[0063] Existing self-closing hinges are provided with a series of ribs G, which are arranged on the mounting bracket B and the hinge C to allow forced engagement between the mounting bracket and the hinge. For example... Figure 2 As shown, during assembly, the mounting brackets B reside in their respective cavities H located in the hinges B. Figure 2 As illustrated, there is a gap between the mounting brackets B and their corresponding cavities H, and the combination of the gap and the slot F allows for horizontal and / or vertical adjustment between the hinge C and the mounting brackets B.

[0064] As described above, existing hinge technologies have the following drawbacks:

[0065] i. In order to install hinge assembly A to the structure or door, the user needs to disassemble the hinge assembly to allow mounting bracket B to be tightened to the structure or door first. This increases installation time and makes installation cumbersome, and also increases the chance of losing nut D during the installation process.

[0066] ii. If the user wishes to make minor horizontal and / or vertical adjustments, this requires the user to loosen nut D, causing rib G of hinge C to disengage from rib G of mounting bracket B, allowing hinge A to be adjusted relative to mounting bracket B. Once correctly adjusted, the user then tightens nut D. The presence of multiple nuts D in hinge assembly A makes the adjustment process cumbersome and carries the risk of losing a nut D.

[0067] It can be assumed that the existing hinge assembly A lacks security or tamper resistance because it can be easily removed by unfastening the nuts D, since these nuts can be easily accessed from the front.

[0068] This disclosure relates to providing hinge assemblies to alleviate installation and adjustment problems of prior art hinge assemblies.

[0069] Figure 4 and Figure 5 These are front and rear perspective views of the hinge leaf assembly 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of the hinge leaf assembly. (See image below.) Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, line XX indicates the pivot axis of the hinge leaf assembly 10.

[0070] refer to Figures 4 to 6The hinge leaf assembly 10 includes a leaf 20, a mounting member 30, a locking element 40, a drive member 50, and a spring ring 60. The details and function of each part of the hinge leaf assembly 10 will be described in more detail below. For clarity, the hinge leaf assembly 10 may include known features disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0075720A1 (Caffin et al.), such as a coupling arrangement connecting the first and second hinge parts to a biasing member to limit relative rotation of the hinge parts, wherein the coupling arrangement includes means for adjusting the biasing force of the biasing member to allow the hinge assembly to have a self-closing mechanism. Such features will not be described further herein.

[0071] Figure 7 This is a detailed rear perspective view of leaf 20. Leaf 20 includes a front portion 20a and a rear portion 20b. The front portion 20a is arranged to be visible when mounted in and on the hinge assembly 100. The rear portion 20b is arranged to mate with mounting member 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 20b of leaf 20 includes a pair of tracks 22 forming part of a guide arrangement, and a space 24 is defined between the pairs of tracks. The tracks 22 are in the form of L-shaped grooves complementary to another portion of the guide arrangement. The tracks 22 are defined by the inner surface of leaf 20. The tracks 22 allow leaf 20 to receive another portion of the guide arrangement disposed on mounting member 30. Space 24 allows hinge leaf 20 to receive locking element 40. Channel 26 is arranged to access space 24 and is defined for receiving locking element 40 and drive member 50. The wall of defining channel 26 of leaf also defines a recess 27 for receiving a protrusion 48 disposed on locking element 40. When the recess 27 and the protrusion 48 engage, the locking element 40 cannot rotate relative to the leaf 20. Details regarding how to assemble the hinge leaf assembly 10 will be described in more detail below.

[0072] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, leaf 20 is also provided with a series of holes 28 to allow the user to access the screw holes 38a in mounting member 30. Figure 8 As shown, indicator 29a indicates the held state and indicator 29b indicates the rotation direction of the drive member 50. As shown, indicator 29a indicating the held state is illustrated with a padlock in the locked state.

[0073] Figure 9 and Figure 10 These are detailed rear and front perspective views of mounting component 30. Figure 20 In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge assembly 100 includes two mounting members 30, one of which is mountable to each hinge leaf 20. Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, the mounting member 30 includes a portion 31a and a flange 31b extending from said portion. The flange 31b is designed to abut the structure and is mounted to the side of the structure.

[0074] The first portion 31a includes a rear portion 31c and a front portion 31d. The rear portion 31c abuts the structure and is mounted to the surface of the structure. The front portion 31d is arranged to mate with the blade 20. The mounting member 30 also includes a portion of a guide arrangement. In the illustrated embodiment, the portion of the guide arrangement is in the form of a pair of rails 32 extending on the front portion 31d of portion 31a to engage with each other on a track 22 on the blade 20. Each rail 32 is an L-shape complementary to each track 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide arrangement operates to allow relative movement of the mounting member 30 and the blade 20 along an axis (e.g., along a longitudinal axis that allows vertical movement or a transverse axis that allows lateral movement). The guide arrangement also holds the mounting member 30 and the blade 20 together. In this way, when mounted together, the relative movement of the mounting member 30 and the blade 20 is restricted to movement along the directions of the rails 32 and the track 22.

[0075] Located on a portion of each rail 32 are multiple alternating recesses 34 and ribs 34a in the form of a set of locking teeth 35. The teeth 35 engage the corresponding molding surfaces of the locking element 40. Details regarding how the locking teeth 35 engage the locking element 40 will be described in more detail below.

[0076] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the mounting member 30 also includes a groove 36 with a flange 36a for receiving the drive member 50 and the spring ring 60. The spring ring 60 holds the drive member 50 to the mounting member 30 at the rear portion of the mounting member 30.

[0077] Mounting member 30 also includes screw holes 38a, 38b that allow the user to fasten mounting member 30 to the structure. As shown, screw hole 38a includes a recess to allow the head of each screw (not shown) to substantially reside therein, so that the screw does not obstruct the insertion of hinge leaf 20.

[0078] Figure 11This is a perspective view of the locking element 40. As shown, the locking element 40 includes a substrate 41 and a protrusion 46 extending from the substrate 41. The substrate 41 and the protrusion 46 include a channel 43 passing through them for receiving the drive member 50. The substrate 41 also includes a shaped surface comprising a series of alternating recesses 34 and ribs 34a in the form of locking teeth 42 on one face. The shaped surface of the locking element 40 is complementary to the shaped surface (e.g., teeth 35) of the mounting member 30. The protrusion 46 includes internal threads formed in an inner diameter / inner surface for engagement with corresponding threads 52 formed on the drive member 50.

[0079] The stop arrangement includes a stop 44 disposed on the annular wall 46 to limit or prevent further rotation of the drive member 50, which will be described in more detail below. A protrusion 48 is disposed on the outer portion of the annular wall 46 to guide or control the movement of the locking element 40 with the hinge leaf 20.

[0080] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the drive member 50. As shown, the drive member 50 includes a head 51a and a shank 51b extending from the head. A thread 52 is formed around the shank 51b. The stop arrangement also includes a stop 54 disposed on the drive member 50 adjacent to the stop 44 of the locking element 40 to limit or prevent further rotation of the drive member 50. An annular groove 56 is provided on the drive member 50 for receiving a spring ring 60, which will be described in more detail below.

[0081] A drive interface 58a is provided on the head 51a to allow instruments to be inserted therein and to rotate the drive member 50. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the drive interface 58a is illustrated by a slot for receiving a flathead screwdriver. Other drive interfaces may be used, such as the crosshairs of a Phillips head screwdriver or the hexagonal recess of an Allen wrench. An indicator 58b is also provided on the head 51a to indicate the position of the drive member 50 relative to the hinge leaf assembly 10, which will be described in more detail below.

[0082] Figure 13This is an exploded isometric view of the hinge leaf assembly 10 in the first assembly stage, wherein a locking element 40 is inserted into a space 24 provided on the leaf 20. When the locking element 40 is inserted into the space 24, a protrusion 48 of the locking element 40 resides in a recess 27, such that the locking element 40 can only be inserted and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, the locking element can only be inserted and operated in a specific orientation such that the thread 52 of the drive member 50 can be properly aligned with the thread 47 of the locking element 40. This allows the drive member 50 to operate with the correct rotational envelope and direction, as indicated by the indicator 58 on the drive member 50 and the indicators 29a, 29b on the hinge leaf 20. The space 24 is deeper than the locking element 40 to allow the teeth of the locking element to be moved through the drive member to engage and disengage with the teeth of the mounting member. Additionally, the protrusion 48 allows the channel 43 to be aligned or concentric with the channel 26 of the hinge leaf 20. Figure 13 As shown, the locking element 40 resides in the space 24 to restrict rotational movement between the hinge leaf 20 and the locking element 40.

[0083] Figure 14 This is an isometric view illustrating the hinge leaf assembly 10 in the second assembly stage. (See diagram below.) Figure 14 As shown, when the locking element 40 is in the proper position, the channel 43 of the locking element 40 is substantially aligned with the channel 26 provided in the hinge leaf 20. Figure 14 As illustrated, the locking element 40 resides substantially in the same plane as the track 22 of the hinge leaf 20, so that the locking element does not obstruct the insertion of the mounting member 30. During the second assembly stage, the mounting member 30 slides into engagement with the hinge leaf 20 via guide arrangements (e.g., rails 32 / tracks 22 respectively disposed on the mounting member 30 and the hinge leaf 20), wherein the rails 32 / tracks 22 are designed to engage with each other.

[0084] Figure 15 This is an isometric view illustrating the hinge leaf assembly 10 in the third assembly stage, wherein the drive member 50 is mounted to the hinge leaf assembly 10. The head 51a has a diameter larger than the channel 26 of the hinge leaf 20 to allow the drive member 50 to abut the channel 26 and to prevent the drive member 50 from passing through the channel. A stop 26a is provided on the channel 26 of the hinge leaf 20, which also serves to guide the rotation of the drive member 50 and will be described in further detail below.

[0085] The shank 51b of the drive member 50 protrudes through channels 26, 43 and slot 36. When the drive member 50 is mounted to the hinge leaf assembly 10, the thread 47 of the locking element 40 engages with the thread 52 provided on the drive member 50. It is conceivable that the slot 36 controls / restricts the movement of the mounting member 30 relative to the hinge leaf 20. In this embodiment, the slot 36 controls / restricts the vertical movement of the mounting member 30 relative to the hinge leaf 20.

[0086] Figure 16 This is an isometric view illustrating the hinge leaf assembly 10 in its final assembly stage, wherein a spring ring 60 is fastened to an annular groove 56 provided on the drive member 50. It is conceivable that the combination of the head 51a of the drive member 50 and the spring ring 60 of the flange 36a of the adjacent groove 36 prevents the drive member 50 from dislodging or becoming misaligned.

[0087] Figures 17a to 17b This is a detailed perspective view of the drive component 50 and the locking element 40. For clarity, the hinge leaf 20 and the mounting component 30 are omitted from these views. Figure 17a As shown, the drive member 50 and the locking element 40 are in the released state. Figure 17b The image shows the drive member 50 and the locking element 40 in a held state, wherein rotating the drive member 50 allows the locking element 40 to be displaced by rotation of the thread 52 of the drive member 50 relative to the thread 47 of the locking element 40.

[0088] When the locking element 40 moves between the holding state and the releasing state, the protrusion 48 provided on the locking element 40 resides in the recess 27 of the hinge leaf 20 for further operation as a guiding device.

[0089] The drive member 50 and the locking element 40 are threadedly engaged. When the drive member 50 rotates from the released state to the held state, the engaged threads pull the components together and engage the shaped surfaces. The locking element 40 is pulled abutting against the rail of the mounting member, and the corresponding teeth are also pulled into engagement. Rotational movement of the drive member 50 actuates linear movement of the locking element 40. The drive member 50 rotates until a stop is arranged in the held state to prevent any further rotation in one direction. In the held state, the components of the hinge assembly cannot move relative to each other. A stop 54 on the drive member 50 abuts against a corresponding stop 44 on the locking element to limit or prevent further rotation of the drive member 50.

[0090] Figure 18a and Figure 18b This is a cross-sectional view of the hinge leaf assembly 10 illustrating the operation of the drive member 50 and the locking element 40 on the hinge leaf assembly 10. For clarity, the drive member 50 is not sectioned. Figure 18aAs shown, in the released state, the drive member 50 and locking element 40 allow the mounting member 30 to move relative to the hinge leaf 20. Figure 18a As shown and described above, a set of locking teeth 35 is formed by a plurality of recesses 34 and ribs 34a. In the released state, guide arrangements 22, 32 keep the blade 20 and mounting member 30 aligned relative to each other, but allow movement (e.g., sliding movement) along the direction of track 32 and rail 22 for repositioning the blade 20 and mounting member 30 relative to each other. Corresponding teeth 35 / 42 are not engaged. This allows the hinge assembly 100 to be realigned to optimize the position of the hinge relative to the structure. The drive member 50 does not need to be completely removed from the hinge assembly 100 in the released state, but needs to be released. The drive member 50 rotates in the opposite direction until the blade 20 can move relative to the mounting member 30. It should be understood that the drive member 50 can be removed if necessary. In this way, the spring ring 60 may also need to be removed.

[0091] Figure 18b The diagram shows the drive member 50 and locking element 40 in a held state, wherein the drive member 50 rotates and the locking teeth 42 of the locking element 40 engage the locking teeth 35 of the mounting member 30 to limit the movement of the hinge leaf 20 relative to the mounting member 30. Multiple teeth 42 and teeth 35 may be present and can be engaged in more than one position in the held state.

[0092] like Figure 18a and Figure 18b As shown, the annular wall 46 extends into the channel 26 of the hinge leaf 20.

[0093] Figure 19 This is a rear perspective view of the hinge leaf assembly 10, wherein the mounting member 30 is substantially positioned in the central position of the hinge leaf assembly 10, and the holes 28 of the hinge leaf 20 and the screw holes 38a of the mounting member 30 are substantially aligned. When these holes 28 and screw holes 38a are aligned, it is conceivable that the hinge leaf assembly 10 can be fastened to the structure via the screw holes of the mounting member 30. The mounting member 30 can also be further fastened to the structure via screw holes 38b provided on the flange 31b. As shown, the mounting member 30 is pre-assembled to the hinge leaf 20 to form the hinge leaf assembly 10. Furthermore, this simplifies the installation process because it does not require the user to completely remove the mounting member 30 from the hinge leaf assembly 10 during installation.

[0094] After the hinge leaf assembly 10 is fastened to the structure, the user may wish to adjust the position of the hinge leaf 20 without having to completely separate the hinge leaf assembly 10 from the structure. Adjustment can be made during or after the installation of the hinge assembly 100. In this case, the user can disengage the locking element 40 from the hinge leaf 20 by rotating the drive member 50 and can adjust the position of the hinge leaf 20 relative to the mounting member 30. Once the hinge leaf assembly 10 is correctly positioned, the user can rotate the drive member 50, thus engaging the locking element 40 with the hinge leaf 20. Figures 4 to 19 In the embodiments illustrated and described above, the user may wish to change the vertical position of the hinge leaf 20 relative to the mounting member 30 without completely separating the hinge leaf assembly 10 from the structure. Furthermore, the user only needs to unlock the drive member 50, which is the opposite of loosening multiple screws in prior art hinge assemblies and makes the adjustment process simpler and more efficient. As described above, a spring ring 60 is provided to prevent the drive member 50 from dislodging or misaligning during the adjustment process.

[0095] like Figure 19 As shown, alignment marks 70, 72 are provided on the hinge leaf 20 and the mounting member 30, respectively, to indicate the range of vertical adjustment.

[0096] Figure 20 Another embodiment of this disclosure is shown, wherein the hinge assembly 100 includes two hinge leaf assemblies 10, 110 respectively mounted to movable barriers or structures 210a, 210b. Figure 20 As shown, line XX indicates the pivot axis of hinge assembly 100. In the embodiment shown, one leaf assembly can be mounted to a fixed post, such as a fence post, and the other leaf assembly can be mounted or fixed to a gate. Hinge leaf assembly 110 includes a locking arrangement similar to that of hinge leaf assembly 10, except that the guide arrangement (not shown) of hinge leaf assembly 110 resides in a plane substantially perpendicular to the tracks / rails 22, 32 of hinge leaf assembly 10. It is conceivable that in this embodiment, the locking arrangement of hinge assembly 100 allows a user to make both vertical and horizontal adjustments to hinge assembly 100 without completely separating hinge assembly 100 from structures 210a and 210b.

[0097] Furthermore, it is conceivable that hinge assembly 100 offers improved security or tamper resistance compared to prior art hinge assembly A, because the combination of the screw hole 38b on flange 31a and spring ring 60 prevents hinge leaf 20 from being disassembled from hinge leaf assemblies 10, 110. Once the door is opened, access to the screw hole 38b on flange 31a is provided.

[0098] Advantageously, the spring ring 60 also prevents the drive member 50 from dislodging when the door is subjected to vibration during operation, thus preventing the hinge leaf 20 from separating from the mounting member 20 and improving security. Furthermore, when the locking element 40 is in the released state, the interlocking tracks / rails 22, 32 prevent the leaf 20 from completely separating from the mounting member 20, for example, preventing the hinge leaf 20 from completely separating from the mounting member 20 in a direction parallel to the mounting member 20 to the movable barrier or structure 210a, 210b. Unlike prior art hinge assembly A, the hinge C can completely separate from the mounting member B when the nut D is loosened.

[0099] like Figure 20 As shown, each hinge leaf assembly 10, 110 is provided with an indicator 29a to indicate the position of the drive members 50, 50b. As illustrated in this embodiment, the indicator 29a displays a closed padlock symbol, which indicates that the locking element 40 is engaged with the leaf 20, thus securing the leaf 20 to the structures 210a, 201b via the mounting member 30. In another embodiment, an open padlock symbol can be used to indicate that the locking element is disengaged from the leaf.

[0100] like Figure 20 As shown, the hinge assembly 100 is provided with a coupling portion 114 as part of a self-closing mechanism, as described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0075720A1 (Caffin et al.). The coupling portion 114 has a drive interface similar to the drive interface 58a of the drive member 50, allowing for the adjustment / drive of both the coupling portion 114 and the drive member 50 using a common tool, thus reducing the number of tools required when installing the hinge assembly 100. Prior art hinge A requires two separate tools for tension adjustment and tightening the nut D.

[0101] Furthermore, there are existing hinges that utilize rack and pinion mechanisms to achieve vertical and horizontal adjustments; however, access to such mechanisms is only possible from the side. Therefore, such existing hinges are unsuitable for wall-mounted applications where the wall restricts access to the adjustment mechanism.

[0102] like Figure 20 As shown, the user can make vertical and horizontal adjustments from the front of the hinge assembly 100, so the hinge assembly 100 can be used for wall-mounted applications.

[0103] In another embodiment, it is conceivable that the hinge assembly (not shown) may only be provided with horizontal adjustment.

[0104] Figure 21Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated. As shown, the first hinge leaf assembly 10 further includes a directional indicator 29c indicating the adjustment direction, and in this case, a directional indicator 29d indicating the vertical adjustment. The second hinge leaf assembly 110 further includes a directional indicator 29d indicating the adjustment direction, and in this case, a directional indicator 29d indicating the horizontal adjustment. Advantageously, the directional indicators 29c, 29d provide the user with visibility into which drive members 50, 50b need to be unlocked for appropriate adjustment; for example, only drive member 50b needs to be unlocked for horizontal adjustment, and only drive member 50 needs to be unlocked for vertical adjustment.

[0105] like Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown and referenced above Figure 18b As described, when the indicator 58b of the drive members 50, 50b is aligned with their respective holding state indicator 29a, this indicates that the locking teeth 42 of the locking element 40 engages with the locking teeth 35 of the mounting member 30 to restrict the movement or adjustment of each hinge leaf 20, 120 relative to their mounting members 30, 130.

[0106] As referenced above Figure 18a As described, when the drive members 50, 50b are rotated such that the indicator 58b of the drive members 50, 50b is no longer aligned with their respective holding state indicator 29a, the drive members 50, 50b and their locking elements 40 are in a released state. In this case, the locking teeth 42 of the locking element 40 engage with the locking teeth 35 of the mounting member 30 to allow each hinge leaf 20, 120 to move or adjust relative to its mounting member 30, 130.

[0107] Figure 22 Another embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the drive members 50, 50b may be color-coded to distinguish one drive member from another. The advantage of color-coding each drive member 50, 50b is that when a pair of hinge assemblies 100 are mounted to... Figure 23 When the movable barriers or structures 210a, 210b shown are used, the user can visualize the correct orientation of each hinge assembly 100 during installation.

[0108] like Figure 23 As shown, the drive members 50b of the two hinge assemblies 100 are located on the structure 210a, and the other drive member 50 is located on the movable barrier 210b. This allows for horizontal adjustment of the movable barrier 210b and vertical adjustment of the structure 210a, such that the pivot axis XX of the two hinge assemblies 100 is maintained and the movable barrier 210b can operate with minimal or no disturbance.

[0109] Color-coded drive components 50, 50b can provide visual indicators for the user to avoid reversing the orientation of one hinge component 100 from that of another hinge component.

[0110] In such Figure 24 In another embodiment shown, an aesthetic cover 80 may be provided to cover the screw hole 28 and the drive members 50, 50b. The aesthetic cover 80 can prevent the drive members 50, 50b from being tampered with after installation. Advantageously, the aesthetic cover 80 can snap-fit ​​onto each hinge leaf 20, 120.

[0111] application

[0112] Although the embodiments disclose vertical or horizontal adjustment of the hinge, it can be understood from the above disclosure that the present invention can be applied to any one or more linear or nonlinear adjustments along any plane, angular plane or direction.

[0113] Although the embodiments disclose linear or non-linear adjustment of the hinge, it can be understood from the above disclosure that the present invention can be applied to any product, component, etc. that needs to be installed or fastened to a structure, fixture, substrate, etc.

[0114] Although the embodiments disclose teeth 35, 42 for limiting movement between the hinge leaf 20 and the mounting member 30, it is conceivable that friction surfaces or materials could be used.

[0115] Although the embodiments disclose a hinge assembly for use on a gate, it is conceivable that the hinge assembly can be used in other applications, such as security fences, area restriction fences, gates, security barriers, nursing homes, garden gates, swimming pools, and child care applications.

[0116] In the following claims and in the foregoing disclosure, the word “comprising” or variations such as “including” or “encompassing” are used in an inclusive sense, except where the context requires otherwise due to the language of expression or necessary meaning, that is, to specify the presence of the said feature but not to exclude the presence or addition of further features in the various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0117] Therefore, this disclosure should not be limited to the specific embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrative of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its scope, and will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of this disclosure, in addition to those listed herein, will also be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. This disclosure is limited only by the terminology of the appended claims and the full scope of their equivalents. It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific methods that can, of course, be varied. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be restrictive.

[0118] As will be understood from the foregoing, various embodiments of this disclosure have been described herein for illustrative purposes, and various modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Therefore, the various embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting, and the true scope is indicated by the following claims.

[0119] Example

[0120] Example 1: According to one embodiment, a hinge leaf assembly is provided that can be mounted to a movable barrier or structure including a leaf and a mounting member, wherein the leaf and the mounting member are connected by a guide arrangement to allow the hinge leaf to move relative to the mounting member, wherein a locking element operable to accommodate a held state and a released state is provided in the hinge leaf or the mounting member, and when the locking element is in the held state, it prevents relative movement between the hinge leaf and the mounting member, and when the locking element is in the released state, the hinge leaf is movable relative to the mounting member.

[0121] Example 2: The hinge leaf assembly according to Example 1, wherein the locking element includes a shaped surface, and when the locking element is in the holding state, the shaped surface engages with a complementary shaped surface disposed on the leaf or mounting member and prevents movement between the leaf and the mounting member, and when the locking element is in the releasing state, the shaped surface engages with the complementary shaped surface disposed on the hinge leaf or mounting member to allow movement of the leaf relative to the mounting member.

[0122] Example 3: A hinge assembly according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the locking element includes a protrusion, and when assembled, the protrusion extends into a channel formed in the hinge leaf or mounting member to allow the locking element to be properly oriented with either the leaf or the mounting member.

[0123] Example 4: The hinge leaf assembly according to Example 3, wherein the protrusion resides in the recess of the leaf.

[0124] Example 5: A hinge leaf assembly according to any of the previous embodiments, wherein the movement of the locking element between the holding state and the releasing state is perpendicular or transverse to the pivot axis of the hinge leaf assembly.

[0125] Example 6: A hinge leaf assembly according to any of the previous embodiments, wherein the locking element resides in a space disposed in the hinge leaf, wherein the space guides the locking element between the holding state and the releasing state.

[0126] Example 7: The hinge leaf assembly according to Example 6, which is attached to Example 2, wherein the complementary molded surface is disposed on the mounting member.

[0127] Example 8: The hinge leaf assembly according to Example 7, wherein the shaped surface includes a plurality of recesses and / or ribs provided on the guide device of the mounting member.

[0128] Example 9: A hinge leaf assembly according to any of the previous embodiments, wherein a drive member is used to move the locking element between the holding state and the releasing state.

[0129] Example 10: The hinge leaf assembly according to Example 9, wherein the drive member includes a head and a shank, and an external thread is formed on the shank, wherein the external thread engages with a complementary thread disposed on the locking element to convert rotational movement of the locking element into linear movement.

[0130] Example 11: The hinge leaf assembly according to Example 11, wherein the head is adjacent to a channel disposed on the leaf, and the distal end of the handle is provided with an annular groove for receiving a spring ring guided by a groove disposed in the mounting member, wherein the combination of the head and the spring ring prevents the drive member from disengaging or misaligning.

[0131] Example 12: The hinge leaf assembly according to Example 11, wherein the handle passes through a channel provided in the locking element, and the complementary thread is provided on the inner surface of the channel for thread engagement with the handle.

[0132] Example 13: A hinge leaf assembly according to any one of Examples 9 to 12, wherein the drive member is provided with a stop arrangement to limit or control the rotation of the drive member.

[0133] Example 14: A hinge leaf assembly according to any one of Examples 9 to 13, wherein an indicator is disposed on the hinge leaf and the drive member, wherein the alignment of the indicator indicates the holding state and the releasing state between the locking element and the hinge leaf or the mounting member.

[0134] Example 15: A hinge leaf assembly according to any one of Examples 9 to 15, wherein an indicator indicating the rotation direction of the drive member is disposed on the hinge leaf.

[0135] Example 16: A hinge leaf assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein, when the locking element is in the released state, the leaf moves relative to the mounting member in one or more of the following directions:

[0136] The pivot axis parallel to the hinge leaf assembly; and

[0137] Perpendicular or transverse to the pivot axis of the hinge leaf assembly.

[0138] Example 17: A hinge leaf assembly according to any of the previous embodiments, wherein a position indicator indicating the position of the leaf relative to the mounting member is provided on the leaf and the mounting member.

[0139] Example 18: A hinge assembly comprising two or more hinge leaf assemblies as described in any one of Examples 1 to 17.

[0140] Example 19: The hinge assembly according to Example 18, wherein the first hinge leaf assembly can be connected to the second hinge leaf assembly, and when so connected, the first hinge leaf assembly can rotate about an axis relative to the second hinge leaf assembly.

[0141] Example 20: The hinge assembly according to Example 19, wherein when the locking element of the first hinge leaf assembly is in the released state, the leaf moves relative to the mounting member in a direction parallel to the pivot axis of the hinge assembly, and when the locking element of the second hinge leaf assembly is in the released state, the leaf moves relative to the mounting member in a direction perpendicular or transverse to the pivot axis of the hinge assembly.

Claims

1. A hinge assembly, comprising: A first hinge leaf assembly and a second hinge leaf assembly, each hinge leaf assembly having its respective hinge leaf, wherein the first hinge leaf assembly is connectable to the second hinge leaf assembly, and when so connected, the first hinge leaf assembly is rotatable about an axis relative to the second hinge leaf assembly. At least one mounting member, which can be fixed to a movable barrier or structure by a fixed arrangement, wherein a first hinge leaf and / or a second hinge leaf can be connected to the at least one mounting member so as to be slidably adjustable relative to the at least one mounting member in at least one direction; and A locking arrangement is provided for releasably locking the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf to the at least one mounting member. The locking arrangement operates to employ a holding state and a released state, in which relative movement between the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member is prevented; in the released state, the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf are slidably adjustable relative to the at least one mounting member. The locking arrangement includes a locking element disposed between the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member, and is movable relative to the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member to enable the locking arrangement to assume the holding state or the releasing state.

2. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The locking arrangement further includes a drive member that operates to move the locking element so that the locking arrangement is in the held state or the released state.

3. The hinge assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, When the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member are in more than one position, the locking arrangement can adopt the holding state to allow the first hinge leaf assembly and / or the second hinge leaf assembly to be repositioned relative to the at least one mounting member to a selected position when the locking arrangement is in the released state, at which the locking arrangement moves to the holding state.

4. The hinge assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one mounting member and the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf are interconnected via a guide arrangement, wherein the guide arrangement includes: one or more rails disposed on the at least one mounting member or the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf; and one or more complementary rails disposed on another of the at least one mounting member or the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf, wherein, in the released state, the guide arrangement allows sliding along the rails and the direction of the rails, while also preventing the hinge leaf from completely separating from the mounting member in a direction parallel to the mounting member to the movable barrier or structure.

5. The hinge assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The guide arrangement aligns the at least one mounting member and the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf relative to each other, and when so aligned, the drive member operates to pull the at least one mounting member, the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf, and the locking element together into the holding state, and the components are held relative to each other to allow the at least one mounting member to be guided relative to the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf in the direction of the guide arrangement in the released state.

6. The hinge assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The one or more rails include shaped surfaces configured to engage with corresponding shaped surfaces formed on the locking element.

7. The hinge assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The shaped surfaces of the one or more rails and the corresponding shaped surfaces of the locking element include a plurality of teeth configured to mesh with each other.

8. The hinge assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The first hinge leaf assembly and / or the second hinge leaf assembly define the space in which the locking element is housed.

9. The hinge assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The space is defined in the guide arrangement such that when the at least one mounting member and the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf are assembled, the locking element is disposed between the at least one mounting member, the corresponding leaf, and the guide arrangement.

10. The hinge assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The locking element includes a protrusion that, when assembled, extends into a channel formed in the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf.

11. The hinge assembly of claim 10, wherein, The drive member is rotatable to move the locking arrangement between the held state and the released state, and the drive member is threadedly engaged with the locking element.

12. The hinge assembly according to claim 11, wherein, The drive member includes a head and a handle, and an external thread is formed on the handle.

13. The hinge assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The locking arrangement further includes a stop arrangement defining the holding state, wherein the drive member is prevented from any further rotation in one direction relative to the locking element, the at least one mounting member, and the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf.

14. The hinge assembly according to claim 13, wherein, The stop arrangement includes an abutment surface formed on the locking element and one or both of the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf, and a corresponding abutment surface formed on the drive member, such that the locking arrangement is in the holding state when the abutment surfaces are abutted.

15. The hinge assembly according to claim 14, wherein, The hinge assembly further includes an anti-rotation arrangement to prevent the locking element from rotating relative to the first hinge leaf assembly and / or the second hinge leaf assembly.

16. The hinge assembly according to claim 15, wherein, The anti-rotation arrangement includes a protrusion formed on one of the channels of the protrusion of the locking element or the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf, and a corresponding recess formed on the other of the channels of the protrusion of the locking element or the first hinge leaf and / or the second hinge leaf.

17. The hinge assembly of claim 16, wherein, The at least one mounting member includes a slot extending in the same direction as the guide arrangement, and the slot is configured to receive the handle of the drive member.

18. A hinge leaf assembly that can be mounted to a movable barrier or structure, the hinge leaf assembly comprising: A hinge leaf and at least one mounting member, wherein the hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member are connected by a guide arrangement to allow the hinge leaf to slide relative to the at least one mounting member. A locking element operable to adapt to a holding state and a released state is disposed in the hinge leaf or the at least one mounting member. When the locking element is in the holding state, it prevents relative movement between the hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member. When the locking element is in the released state, the hinge leaf is capable of sliding relative to the at least one mounting member. The locking element is disposed between the hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member, and is movable relative to the hinge leaf and the at least one mounting member to allow the locking element to assume either the holding state or the released state.

19. The hinge leaf assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The locking element is included in a locking arrangement, the locking arrangement further including a drive member that operates to move the locking element so that the locking arrangement is in the held state or the released state.

20. The hinge leaf assembly according to claim 18 or 19, wherein, The at least one mounting member and the hinge leaf are interconnected via a guide arrangement, wherein the guide arrangement includes: one or more rails disposed on the at least one mounting member or the hinge leaf; and one or more complementary rails disposed on another of the at least one mounting member or the hinge leaf, wherein, in the released state, the guide arrangement allows sliding along the direction of the rails while preventing the hinge leaf from completely separating from the at least one mounting member in a direction parallel to the at least one mounting member mounted to the movable barrier or structure.

21. A hinge assembly comprising two hinge leaf assemblies as described in any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein, The first hinge leaf assembly can be connected to the second hinge leaf assembly, and when so connected, the first hinge leaf assembly can rotate about an axis relative to the second hinge leaf assembly.

22. The hinge assembly according to claim 21 when dependent on claim 19, wherein, Each drive component is color-coded.

23. The hinge assembly of claim 21, further comprising a cover for concealing each hinge leaf assembly.

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