Hinge assembly for vehicle

Abstract

The hinge assembly includes a knuckle, a mounting plate, a passive arm, a bevel gear head, and an engagement arm. The mounting plate comprises a bevel gear and an input shaft. The input shaft is coupled to the knuckle. The passive arm includes a knuckle end and a passive base end. The knuckle end is operably coupled to the knuckle. The bevel gear head includes a plurality of teeth, a stop bearing assembly, and a head receptacle. A tooth of the plurality of teeth is operably coupled to the bevel gear of the mounting plate. The engagement arm includes a gear end, an engagement base end, and a stopper. The gear end is operably coupled with both the head receptacle of the bevel gear head and the knuckle. The stop portion is selectively coupled with a stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head.

Description

[0001] INTRODUCTION

[0002] The information provided in this section is for the purpose of presenting the context of the disclosure. The work of the present inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, and aspects of it that can not otherwise qualify as prior art to the disclosure, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to a hinge assembly, and in particular, to a hinge assembly for a panel of a vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0004] Many hinge mechanisms used in conjunction with panels are of the four-bar linkage variety, which allow the panel to experience rotational and translational motion as the panel is opened and closed. When the panel is open, a user can access an opening for charging and / or refueling the vehicle. When the panel is closed, the panel seals the opening. However, in order to properly seal the panel against the opening, rotational motion can hinder sealing performance.

[0005] Translational motion without rotational motion of the panel is advantageous for sealing the opening because the panel and the opening will be properly aligned during the initial stage of opening or the final stage of closing. However, rotational motion of the panel limits the amount of translation needed for the panel to move away from the opening, which results in a more compact hinge mechanism compared to hinge mechanisms that only provide translational motion. It is desirable to have a hinge mechanism attached to a panel that provides both rotational and translational motion while still providing adequate sealing capability for an opening on a flat body panel of a vehicle during the initial opening stage and the final closing stage of the panel. SUMMARY

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly includes a knuckle, a mounting plate, a passive arm, a bevel gear head, and an engagement arm. The knuckle includes an input shaft receiver, a passive arm connector, and an engagement arm connector. The mounting plate includes a bevel gear and an input shaft. The input shaft is coupled to the knuckle at the input shaft receiver. The passive arm includes a knuckle end and a passive base end. The knuckle end is operably coupled to the passive arm connector of the knuckle. The bevel gear head includes a plurality of teeth, a detent bearing assembly, and a head receptacle. Teeth of the plurality of teeth are operably coupled to the bevel gear of the mounting plate. The engagement arm includes a gear end, an engagement base end, and a detent. The gear end is operably coupled to both the head receptacle of the bevel gear head and the engagement arm connector of the knuckle. The detent is selectively coupled to the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head.

[0007] Implementations of the present disclosure can include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the engagement arm can be operable between a closed position and an open position. In some further examples, the stop portion of the engagement arm can be in an engaged state with the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head, corresponding to the open position of the engagement arm. In some other examples, the stop portion of the engagement arm can be in a disengaged state with the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head, corresponding to the closed position of the engagement arm. When the engagement arm is translated from the closed position to the open position, the stop portion of the engagement arm can be in an engaged state with the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head at a stop position. Further, when the engagement arm is translated from the open position to the closed position, the stop portion of the engagement arm can be in a disengaged state with the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head at a stop position.

[0008] In some other examples, the mounting plate can be operable between a first phase and a second phase. The first phase includes a translational motion of the engagement arm disposed between a closed position and a stop position. In some other examples, the plurality of teeth of the bevel gear head can be statically engaged with the bevel gear of the mounting plate when the engagement arm is translated between the closed position and the stop position. The mounting plate can be operable between the first phase and the second phase. The second phase includes a translational motion and a rotational motion of the engagement arm disposed between the stop position and an open position. In one configuration, the plurality of teeth of the bevel gear head can be operably coupled with the bevel gear of the mounting plate when the engagement arm is translated between the stop position and the open position.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a panel assembly. The panel assembly includes a panel and a hinge assembly coupled to the panel. The hinge assembly includes a knuckle, a mounting plate, a passive arm, a bevel gear head, and an engagement arm. The knuckle includes an input shaft receiver, a passive arm connector, and an engagement arm connector. The mounting plate includes a bevel gear and an input shaft. The input shaft is coupled to the knuckle at the input shaft receiver. The passive arm includes a knuckle end and a passive base end. The knuckle end is operably coupled to the passive arm connector of the knuckle. The bevel gear head includes a plurality of teeth, a stop bearing assembly, and a head receptacle. Teeth of the plurality of teeth are operably coupled to the bevel gear of the mounting plate. The engagement arm is operable between an open position and a closed position and includes a gear end, an engagement base end, and a stop portion. The gear end is operably coupled to each of the head receptacle of the bevel gear head and the engagement arm connector of the knuckle. The stop portion is selectively coupled to the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head.

[0010] Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure can include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the stop portion of the engagement arm can be in engagement with the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head when the engagement arm is in the open position. In some implementations, the stop portion of the engagement arm can be in disengagement from the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head when the engagement arm is in the closed position. In some aspects, the stop portion of the engagement arm can be in engagement with the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head at a stop position when the engagement arm is translated from the closed position to the open position, and the stop portion of the engagement arm can be in disengagement from the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head at the stop position when the engagement arm is translated from the open position to the closed position. In some configurations, a mounting plate is operable between a first phase and a second phase. The first phase includes a translational motion of the engagement arm disposed between the closed position and the stop position. The second phase includes a rotational motion and a translational motion of the engagement arm disposed between the stop position and the open position.

[0011] Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a vehicle. The vehicle includes a panel and a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly includes a knuckle, a mounting plate, a passive arm, a bevel gear head, and an engagement arm. The knuckle includes an input shaft receiver, a passive arm connector, and an engagement arm connector. The mounting plate includes a bevel gear and an input shaft. The input shaft is coupled to the knuckle at the input shaft receiver. The passive arm includes a knuckle end and a passive base end. The knuckle end is operably coupled to the passive arm connector of the knuckle. The bevel gear head includes a plurality of teeth, a stop bearing assembly, and a head receptacle. Teeth of the plurality of teeth are operably coupled to the bevel gear of the mounting plate. The engagement arm includes a gear end, an engagement base end, and a stop portion. The gear end is operably coupled to both the head receptacle of the bevel gear head and the engagement arm connector of the knuckle. The stop portion is selectively coupled to the stop bearing assembly of the bevel gear head.

[0012] Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure can include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the engagement arm can be operable between a closed position, a detent position, and an open position. In some further examples, the detent portion of the engagement arm can be in engagement with the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head when the engagement arm is in the open position, and the detent portion of the engagement arm is in disengagement with the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head when the engagement arm is in the closed position. In some still further examples, the detent portion of the engagement arm can be in engagement with the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head when the engagement arm is translated from the closed position to the open position at the detent position, and the detent portion of the engagement arm can be in disengagement with the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head when the engagement arm is translated from the open position to the closed position at the detent position.

[0013] In some other examples, the mounting plate can be operable between a first phase and a second phase. The first phase includes a translational motion corresponding to the engagement arm being disposed between the closed position and the detent position. The second phase includes a rotational motion and a translational motion corresponding to the engagement arm being disposed between the detent position and the open position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle including a hinge assembly;

[0016] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a hinge assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a hinge assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 3B is Figure 3A is another perspective view of the hinge assembly of

[0019] Figure 4A is a top plan view of the hinge assembly according to the present disclosure in a closed position;

[0020] Figure 4B is a top plan view of the hinge assembly of Figure 4A in a detent position;

[0021] Figure 4C is a top plan view of the hinge assembly of Figure 4B in an open position;

[0022] Figure 4D is a top plan view of the hinge assembly of Figures 4A-4C in a latched position and operable between a closed position and an open position;

[0023] Figure 5A is a side view of the hinge assembly of Figure 4A in a closed position;

[0024] Figure 5B is a side view of the hinge assembly of Figure 4B in a latched position;

[0025] Figure 5C is a side view of the hinge assembly of Figure 4C in an open position;

[0026] Figure 5D is a side view of the hinge assembly of Figures 5A-5C in a latched position and operable between a closed position and an open position;

[0027] Figure 6A is an enlarged partial top plan view of the bevel gear head and engagement arm of the hinge assembly of Figure 4A in an open position; and

[0028] Figure 6B is an enlarged partial top plan view of the bevel gear head and engagement arm of the hinge assembly of Figure 4B in a latched position.

[0029] In all of the drawings, corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize, however, that the example configurations can be practiced without the specific details given. The specific

[0031] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" can be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having," are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order

[0032] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, engaged, connected, attached, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0033] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by the terms "first," "second," and "third." These terms can be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," and other numeric terms do not imply a sequence or order to the contributed. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below can be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example configurations.

[0034] In this application, including the following claims, the term "module" can refer to, be part of, or include an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC); a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; a memory (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code for execution by a processor (shared, dedicated, or group); other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system-on-chip.

[0035] The term "code," as used in this application, can include software, firmware, and / or microcode, and can refer to programs, routines, functions, classes, and / or objects. The term "shared processor" includes a single processor that executes some or all code from multiple modules. The term "group processor" includes a processor that executes some or all code from one or more modules in combination with an additional processor. The term "shared memory" encompasses a single memory that stores some or all code from multiple modules. The term "group memory" includes a memory that stores some or all code from one or more modules in combination with an additional memory. The term "memory" can be a subset of the term "computer-readable medium." The term "computer-readable medium" does not include transitory propagating signals and thus can be considered tangible and non-transitory. Non-limiting examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include non-volatile memory, magnetic storage, and optical storage.

[0036] The apparatus and methods described in this application can be implemented partially or fully by one or more computer programs executed by one or more processors. The computer programs include processor-executable instructions stored on at least one non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium. The computer programs can also include and / or rely on stored data.

[0037] A software application (i.e., a software resource) can refer to computer software that causes a computing device to perform a task. In some examples, a software application can be referred to as an "application," an "app," or a "program." Example applications include, but are not limited to, system diagnostic applications, system management applications, system maintenance applications, word processing applications, spreadsheet applications, messaging applications, media streaming applications, social networking applications, and gaming applications.

[0038] A non-transitory memory can be a physical device that is used to temporarily or permanently store a program (e.g., a sequence of instructions) or data (e.g., program state information) for use by a computing device. A non-transitory memory can be a volatile and / or non-volatile addressable semiconductor memory. Examples of non-volatile memory include, but are not limited to, flash memory and read-only memory (ROM) / programmable read-only memory (PROM) / erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) / electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) (e.g., commonly used for firmware such as a boot program). Examples of volatile memory include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), phase change memory (PCM), and disks or tapes.

[0039] These computer programs (also known as programs, software, software applications or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level procedural and / or object-oriented programming language, and / or in assembly / machine language. As used herein, the terms “machine-readable medium” and “computer-readable medium” refer to any computer program product, non-transitory computer-readable medium, apparatus and / or device (e.g., magnetic discs, optical disks, memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)) used to provide machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term “machine-readable signal” refers to any signal used to provide machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor.

[0040] Various implementations of the systems and techniques described herein can be realized in digital electronic and / or optical circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various implementations can include implementation in one or more computer programs that are executable and / or interpretable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which can be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.

[0041] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for performing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. However, a computer need not have such devices. Computer readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media and memory devices, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

[0042] To provide for interaction with a user, one or more aspects of the disclosure can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube), LCD (liquid crystal display), or touch screen, for displaying information to the user and optionally a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input. In addition, a computer can interact with a user by sending documents to and receiving documents from a device used by the user; for example, by sending web pages to a web browser on a user’s client device in response to requests received from the web browser.

[0043] References Figure 1The vehicle 10 includes a hinge assembly 12 positioned at or near an opening 14 of the vehicle 10. The opening 14 can be positioned along a body panel 16 of the vehicle 10 that provides a user access to components housed within the opening 14. For example, the components are accessible when the opening 14 is unobstructed and the components are not accessible when the opening 14 is concealed. The hinge assembly 12 is operable between a closed position 100, a latched position 102, and an open position 104, which are described in greater detail below. Between the closed position 100 and the latched position 102, the hinge assembly 12 is in a first stage 110. For example, the first stage 110 is defined by any position of the hinge assembly 12 during a transition from the closed position 100 to the latched position 102 and / or from the latched position 102 to the closed position 100. Between the latched position 102 and the open position 104, the hinge assembly 12 is in a second stage 112. For example, the second stage 112 is defined by any position of the hinge assembly 12 during a transition from the latched position 102 to the open position 104 and / or from the open position 104 to the latched position 104. Each position 100, 102, 104 and stage 110, 112 of the hinge assembly 12 are described in greater detail below.

[0044] The panel 18 is coupled to the hinge assembly 12. For example, the panel 18 can include, but is not limited to, a door, a cover, or any viable panel that can provide selective access to the opening 14. When the opening 14 is unobstructed, the panel 18 is positioned away from the opening 14, thereby allowing access to the components housed within the opening 14. When the opening 14 is concealed, the panel 18 is positioned within the opening 14 and flush with the body panel 16 of the vehicle 10, thereby preventing access to the components housed within the opening 14. The components housed within the opening 14 can include, but are not limited to, a gas tank filler neck, a charging port, and / or a storage compartment of the vehicle 10. In some instances, the panel 18 can be configured as a door panel 18 of the vehicle 10 such that the opening 14 can provide access to an interior cabin of the vehicle 10. However, it should be noted that the opening 14 can be defined at any viable location along the vehicle 10 such that the size, positioning, and placement of the opening can vary. Furthermore, the components housed within the opening 14 can include any viable component that can be selectively covered or enclosed by the panel 18, including, but not limited to, a fuel or energy port and / or an interior cabin of the vehicle.

[0045] Referring to Figures 2-3B, the hinge assembly 12 has a double-rocker four-bar linkage configuration that allows the panel 18 coupled to the hinge assembly 12 to experience rotational and translational motion during operation of the hinge assembly 12. The hinge assembly 12 includes an engaging arm 20 and a passive arm 22. Both the engaging arm 20 and the passive arm 22 accommodate translational motion of the panel 18 during operation of the hinge assembly 12, which is described in greater detail below. The translational motion of the panel 18 is proportional to the length of each of the engaging arm 20 and the passive arm 22. For example, the greater the length of the engaging arm 20 and the passive arm 22, the greater the translational motion experienced by the panel 18. The hinge assembly 12 also includes a bevel gear head 24, a mounting plate 26, and a knuckle 28, which are described in greater detail below.

[0046] The knuckle 28 of the hinge assembly 12 includes an input shaft receiver 30, a passive arm connector 32, and an engaging arm connector 34. The knuckle 28 functions as a connector or coupler that interconnects each of the engaging arm 20, the passive arm 22, and the mounting plate 26. The respective connections of the engaging arm 20, the passive arm 22, and the mounting plate 26 at the knuckle 28 facilitate movement of the elements of the hinge assembly 12 as a single unit during articulation of the panel 18. The input shaft receiver 30 of the knuckle 28 is operably coupled to an input shaft 36 of the mounting plate 26, thereby allowing the input shaft 36 to rotate within the input shaft receiver 30. The passive arm connector 32 is operably coupled to a knuckle end 38 of the passive arm 22, allowing the passive arm connector 32 to rotate relative to the knuckle end 38 of the passive arm 22. The engaging arm connector 34 is operably coupled to a gear end 40 of the engaging arm 20, allowing the engaging arm connector 34 to rotate relative to the gear end 40 of the engaging arm 20.

[0047] Further reference is made to Figures 2-3B The mounting plate 26 of the hinge assembly 12 includes the input shaft 36, a bevel gear 42, a front surface 44 that engages the panel 18, and a rear surface 46 opposite the front surface 44. The bevel gear 42 includes a central region 48 and is positioned against the rear surface 46 of the mounting plate 26. The input shaft 36 is positioned at the central region 48 of the bevel gear 42 in a perpendicular orientation relative to the rear surface 46. The bevel gear 42 is fixed to the rear surface 46 of the mounting plate 26 as a single unit, which prevents the bevel gear 42 from rotating relative to the rear surface 46 or relative to other components of the mounting plate 26.

[0048] The bevel gear head 24 includes a plurality of teeth 50 of a bevel gear 42 operably coupled to the mounting plate 26, allowing the bevel gear head 24 to rotate along the bevel gear 42 via the plurality of teeth 50. The bevel gear 42 is arranged perpendicular to the plurality of teeth 50. As a result, the mounting plate 26 experiences rotational movement when the plurality of teeth 50 dynamically engage the bevel gear 42 during articulation of the hinge assembly 12. Articulation of the hinge assembly 12 includes rotational movement and translational movement of the mounting plate 26, which is described in greater detail below with respect to the joint arm 20. The bevel gear head 24 rotates relative to the bevel gear 42 during both rotational movement and translational movement of the mounting plate 26, and the bevel gear head 24 generally does not rotate relative to the bevel gear 42 when the mounting plate 26 does not have rotational movement, as will be described in greater detail below.

[0049] Still referring to Figures 2-3B The head receptacle 52 of the bevel gear head 24 operably couples to the gear end 40 of the joint arm 20 in conjunction with the joint arm connector 34 of the knuckle 28. For example, both the head receptacle 52 and the joint arm connector 34 are operably coupled to the gear end 40 of the joint arm 20 to facilitate movement of the joint arm 20. In addition to the knuckle end 38, the passive arm 22 of the hinge assembly 12 includes a passive base end 54. As described above, the knuckle end 38 is operably coupled to the passive arm connector 32 of the knuckle 28. The passive base end 54 is operably coupled to any feasible location at the vehicle 10 that houses the hinge assembly 12, such as within or near the opening 14. The passive base end 54 rotates relative to the vehicle 10, but is fixed and does not experience translational movement relative to the vehicle 10 during articulation of the hinge assembly 12.

[0050] The joint arm 20 of the hinge assembly 12 includes the gear end 40 operably coupled to the joint arm connector 34 of the knuckle 28, as described above. The joint arm 20 also includes a joint base end 56, similar to the passive base end 54, which is operably coupled to any location at the vehicle 10 that houses the hinge assembly 12, such as within or near the opening 14. Depending on the dimensions of the elements of the hinge assembly 12, which can vary depending on the particular application and / or vehicle 10 in which the hinge assembly 12 is installed, the joint base end 56 can be positioned in the same or different location than the passive base end 54.

[0051] Further referring to Figures 2-3B, the engagement arm 20 further includes a detent 60 that selectively engages with a detent bearing assembly 62 of the bevel gear head 24. Depending on the position of the engagement arm 20, the detent 60 can be engaged with the detent bearing assembly 62. For example, the engagement arm 20 is operable between each of a closed position 100, a detent position 102, and an open position 104, as described above and in more detail below. When the detent 60 is disengaged from the detent bearing assembly 62, the bevel gear head 24 is stationary and does not rotate relative to the bevel gear 42 of the mounting plate 26. For example, as described above, in the first stage 110 of the hinge assembly 12, the detent 60 is disengaged from the detent bearing assembly 62. As a result, the bevel gear head 24 has no rotational motion, such that the bevel gear head 24 only experiences translational motion. When the detent 60 is engaged with the detent bearing assembly 62, the bevel gear head 24 rotates relative to the bevel gear 42, allowing the mounting plate 26 to simultaneously undergo translational and rotational motion. For example, the detent 60 is engaged with the detent bearing assembly 62 in the second stage 112 of the hinge assembly 12.

[0052] The detent 60 can be a hole, cavity, or any feasible aperture sized and shaped to accommodate the detent bearing assembly 62. The detent bearing assembly 62 can be any configuration that allows for selective engagement and disengagement with the detent 60. In one non-limiting example, the detent bearing assembly 62 can include a ball bearing 62a and a spring (not shown). The ball bearing 62a and spring can be positioned within a cavity 64 within the bevel gear head 24. During operation, when the engagement arm 20 is in the detent position 102 Figure 4B ), the spring forces the ball bearing 62a to break through the cavity 64 and position the ball bearing 62a into the detent 60. The detent position 102 is defined by the detent bearing assembly 62 being in the same position as the detent 60. As the engagement arm 20 is translated out of the detent position 102, the spring is compressed and the ball bearing 62a is forced deeper within the cavity 64. When the detent bearing assembly 62 is engaged with the detent 60, the bevel gear head 24 and the engagement arm 20 move as a single unit during articulation of the hinge assembly 12. When the detent bearing assembly 62 is disengaged from the detent 60, the bevel gear head 24 moves separately from the engagement arm 20.

[0053] Referring to Figures 4A-6B , the engagement arm 20 is operable between a closed position 100 Figure 4A and Figure 5A , a detent position 102 Figure 4B and Figure 5B , and an open position 104 Figure 4C and Figure 5C . During the first stage 110 of the hinge assembly 12, between the closed position 100 and the detent position 102, the detent 60 of the engagement arm 20 is in a disengaged state 120 (Figure 6A ) When the detent 60 is in the disengaged state 120, the bevel gear head 24 and the engagement arm 20 are disengaged from each other and can move independently of each other. For example, the engagement arm 20 can move through the first stage 110 of the hinge assembly 12 independently of the bevel gear head 24. During the second stage 112 of the hinge assembly 12, between the detent position 102 and the open position 104, the detent 60 of the engagement arm 20 is in the engaged state 122 with the detent bearing assembly 62 of the bevel gear head 24 Figure 6B ) When the detent 60 is in the engaged state 122, the bevel gear head 24 and the engagement arm 20 are fixed together as a single unit and move interdependently of each other.

[0054] The detent position 102 is defined as an intermediate position between the closed position 100 and the open position 104. For example, if the articulating action of the hinge assembly travels from zero percent (0%) open at the closed position 100 to 100% open at the open position 104, the detent position 102 can be at approximately ten percent (10%) open. In other examples, depending on the configuration of the vehicle 10 and the hinge assembly 12, the detent position 102 can be defined as less than approximately ten percent (10%) open or greater than approximately ten percent (10%) open. Each of the closed position 100, the detent position 102, and the open position 104 can at least partially define a respective state of the mounting plate 26 that corresponds to the first stage 110 and the second stage 112 of the hinge assembly 12, as described above.

[0055] For example, the mounting plate 26 can operate between the first stage 110 and the second stage 112 of the hinge assembly 12 Figure 4D and Figure 5D ) The first stage 110 generally corresponds to the movement of the hinge assembly 12 between the closed position 100 and the detent position 102. For example, the first stage 110 of the mounting plate 26 can be defined as any position of the engagement arm 20 between the closed position 100 and the detent position 102. During the first stage 110, the mounting plate 26 experiences only translational motion and no rotational motion. The second stage 112 generally corresponds to the movement of the hinge assembly 12 between the detent position 102 and the open position 104. For example, the second stage 112 of the mounting plate 26 can be defined as any position of the engagement arm 20 between the open position 104 and the detent position 102. During the second stage 112, the mounting plate 26 experiences both translational motion and rotational motion between the detent position 102 and the open position 104 of the engagement arm 20.

[0056] Referring to Figure 6A and Figure 6BWhen the stop portion 60 of the engagement arm 20 is in the engaged state 122 with the stop bearing assembly 62 of the bevel gear head 24, the engagement arm 20 and the bevel gear head 24 are fixed together. For example, when the stop bearing assembly 62 is engaged with the stop portion 60, the bevel gear head 24 moves as a unit with the engagement arm 20. In other words, the engagement arm 20 and the entire hinge assembly 12 can move from the open position 104 to the stop position 102, or from the stop position 102 to the open position 104, with the engagement arm 20 moving with the bevel gear head 24. The engagement of the stop bearing assembly 62 with the stop portion 60 forces the bevel gear head 24 to rotate relative to the mounting plate 26. For example, the plurality of teeth 50 of the bevel gear head 24 are dynamically engaged with the bevel gears 42 of the mounting plate 26, which allows the mounting plate 26 to experience rotational movement.

[0057] The first stage 110 of the mounting plate is accommodated by the stop portion 60 of the engagement arm 20 in the disengaged state 120, with the stop bearing assembly 62 in the closed position 100 and the stop portion position 102 and therebetween. Due to the disengagement of the stop bearing assembly 62 with the stop portion 60, the bevel gear head 24 can experience rotational stall. In other words, the engagement arm 20 and the entire hinge assembly 12 can begin to move from the closed position 100 to the stop position 102, or from the stop position 102 to the closed position 100, with the engagement arm 20 moving independent of the bevel gear head 24. This rotational stall prevents the bevel gear head 24 from rotating relative to the mounting plate 26, as the plurality of teeth 50 of the bevel gear head 24 are only statically engaged with the bevel gears 42 of the mounting plate 26, which prevents the mounting plate 26 from experiencing any type of rotational movement.

[0058] In the following example, a scenario is described in which the hinge assembly 12 is moved from the closed position 100 to the open position 104, with the panel 18 attached to the hinge assembly 12 at the vehicle 10. When the hinge assembly 12 initially begins to travel from the closed position 100, the panel 18 and the mounting plate 26 experience translational movement as they each initially move away from the aperture 14. The initial movement of the hinge assembly 12 is generally associated with the first stage 110 of the mounting plate 26, such that the hinge assembly 12 is between the closed position 100 and the stop position 102. During this portion or first stage 110 of the movement, the engagement arm 20 moves independent of the bevel gear head 24 because the stop portion 60 is in the disengaged state 120 with the stop bearing assembly 62.

[0059] When the hinge assembly 12 reaches the stop position 102, the stop bearing assembly 62 enters the engaged state 122 and becomes engaged with the stop 60. At this time, the engagement arm 20 is fixed to the bevel gear head 24. As the hinge assembly 12 continues from the stop position 102 to the open position 104 or second stage 112, the panel 18 and mounting plate 26 undergo translational and rotational motion. From the stop position 102 to the open position 104, the panel 18 and mounting plate 26 can rotate a predetermined angle while continuing to simultaneously translate away from the opening 14. By way of example and not limitation, the predetermined rotational angle can be approximately ninety (90) degrees. The rotational motion experienced by the panel 18 and mounting plate 26 advantageously allows the panel 18 to move away from the opening 14 while maintaining a compact size of the hinge assembly 12. Once the hinge assembly 12 reaches the open position 104, the opening 14 is fully accessible for access.

[0060] In the following example, a scenario is described in which the hinge assembly 12 moves from the open position 104 to the closed position 100 with the panel 18 attached to the hinge assembly 12 at the vehicle 10. When the hinge assembly 12 initially begins to travel from the open position 104 to the closed position 100, the panel 18 and mounting plate 26 simultaneously undergo translational and rotational motion as each moves toward the opening 14. During the initial movement or second stage 112, the engagement arm 20 moves with the bevel gear head 24 when the stop bearing assembly 62 is in the engaged state 122 with the stop 60. When the hinge assembly 12 reaches the stop position 102, the stop bearing assembly 62 enters the disengaged state 120 and becomes disengaged from the stop 60. At this time, the engagement arm 20 is free and operatively independent of the bevel gear head 24.

[0061] When the hinge assembly 12 continues from the stop position 102 to the closed position 100 or first stage 110, the panel 18 and mounting plate 26 have no rotational motion and only undergo translational motion as each continues to move toward the opening 14. The lack of rotational motion experienced by the panel 18 and mounting plate 26 advantageously allows the panel 18 to fully and effectively seal at the opening 14 and become flush with the body panel 16 of the vehicle 10. Once the hinge assembly 12 reaches the closed position 100, the opening 14 is covered and not accessible for access.

[0062] Referring again to Figures 1 to 6BThe single translational movement of the mounting plate 26 in the first stage 110 advantageously provides for sufficient sealing and / or alignment of the panel 18 at the opening 14 of the vehicle 10. The alignment via translational movement is particularly beneficial when the opening 14 is positioned at a relatively flat body panel 16, such as a flat side exterior body panel 16 of the vehicle 10. The stop 60 can be defined at various positions at the engagement arm 20, depending on the extent of rotational movement possible for the panel 18 prior to sealing. For example, it is advantageous to minimize the rotational movement at the final instant of articulation of the hinge assembly 12, such that the stop 60 can be defined toward the edge of the engagement arm 20.

[0063] In other words, the sealing of the panel 18 relative to the body panel 16 is improved by the single translational movement of the hinge assembly 12 as the engagement arm 20 enters the closed position 100. Also, it is advantageous that the panel 18 only experiences translational movement to facilitate smooth and efficient opening of the panel 18. Once the panel 18 is positioned slightly away from the opening 14, the panel can experience rotational and translational movement as the panel 18 is no longer engaged with the opening 14.

[0064] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

[0065] The foregoing description is provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Various elements or features of a particular configuration were often not limited to that particular configuration but were interchangeable with other configurations as appropriate to the purposes of the disclosure. Changes can be made to the design of the application without departing from the spirit thereof and the other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A hinge assembly comprising: a knuckle comprising an input shaft receiver, a passive arm connector, and an engagement arm connector; a mounting plate comprising a bevel gear and an input shaft coupled to the knuckle at the input shaft receiver; a passive arm comprising a knuckle end operably coupled to the passive arm connector of the knuckle and a passive base end; a bevel gear head comprising a plurality of teeth operably coupled to the bevel gear of the mounting plate, a detent bearing assembly, and a head receptacle; and an engagement arm comprising a gear end operably coupled to both the head receptacle of the bevel gear head and the engagement arm connector of the knuckle, and a detent portion selectively coupled to the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head. The engagement arm is operable between a closed position and an open position.

2. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein, The detent portion of the engagement arm is in engagement with the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head corresponding to the open position of the engagement arm.

3. The hinge assembly of claim 2, wherein, The detent portion of the engagement arm is out of engagement with the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head corresponding to the closed position of the engagement arm.

4. The hinge assembly of claim 2, wherein, The detent portion of the engagement arm is in engagement with the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head at a detent position when the engagement arm is translated from the closed position to the open position.

5. The hinge assembly of claim 3, wherein, The detent portion of the engagement arm is out of engagement with the detent bearing assembly of the bevel gear head at a detent position when the engagement arm is translated from the open position to the closed position.

6. The hinge assembly of claim 3, wherein, The mounting plate is operable between a first phase and a second phase, the first phase comprising translational movement of the engagement arm corresponding to the engagement arm being disposed between the closed position and the detent position.

7. The hinge assembly of claim 2, wherein, The plurality of teeth of the bevel gear head are statically engaged with the bevel gear of the mounting plate when the engagement arm is translated between the closed position and the detent position.

8. The hinge assembly of claim 7, wherein, The mounting plate is operable between a first phase and a second phase, the second phase comprising translational movement and rotational movement of the engagement arm corresponding to the engagement arm being disposed between the detent position and the open position.

9. The hinge assembly of claim 2, wherein, 10. The hinge assembly of claim 9, wherein the plurality of teeth of the bevel gear head are operably coupled with the bevel gear of the mounting plate when the engagement arm is translated between the detent position and the open position. ​

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