Innovative spherical door and window hinge with mechanical and electromechanical positioning, locking function and integrated security and smart module

Abstract

(Main claim): Spherical hinge for doors or windows, consisting of - a ball mounted centrally in the door or window frame, - two corresponding pressure plates arranged on the door or window leaves, - a spring that constantly presses one or both plates against the ball, - and a cable pull system guided in the sash, which is connected to an ergonomic handle or button above the door / window handle, in such a way that by operating the handle via the cable pull, the pressure of the spring on the plates can be released and the door or window element can thus be continuously positioned around the ball and then safely blocked again.

Description

1. Naming the technical solution

[0001] Innovative spherical door and window hinge with mechanical and electromechanical positioning, locking function and integrated security and smart module. 2. Description

[0002] The "Innovative Spherical Door and Window Hinge" is a sophisticated hinge for doors and windows. It consists of a central ball mounted between two plates and held in place by a spring. An integrated cable pull system is connected to the door handle and allows the spring to be released or released by operating the handle. This allows the ball to be locked or released, allowing the door or window to be locked in any desired position or moved freely.

[0003] Optionally, the system can be expanded with an integrated smart module, which includes the following components: An alarm sensor to detect unauthorized access or strong vibrations, A miniature camera for visual monitoring of the door area (e.g. automatic photo or live transmission when the door moves), A micro weather station with sensors for temperature, humidity and air flow to provide environmental data, An automatic control system that automatically triggers the door to close based on weather data, for example, in the event of strong airflow (drafts), a sudden drop in temperature, or precipitation. All of these modules are integrated into the design of the hinge or door leaf and communicate with the central control system, e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other smart home standards. 2.1 Detailed content and functions Structure:

[0004] Ball (central rotation and adjustment element), two plates (surrounding the ball), spring (provides sustained pressure), housing, cable pull system with ergonomic handle. Function:

[0005] When the door handle is operated, the cable releases the pressure of the plates on the ball, allowing the door or window to be freely adjusted. When the handle is released, the spring restores the pressure, thus locking the element in the adjusted position. Additional modules and smart functions:

[0006] Optionally, the plates can be adjusted electrically via an integrated electric motor or a shape memory wire. Power is supplied by a small low-voltage battery in the door leaf. The system allows the door to be precisely guided into two programmable positions: Position 1:

[0007] Allows the door leaf to navigate smoothly into the desired intermediate position (e.g. automatic opening and closing), Position 2:

[0008] Secures the door firmly in a desired end position (safe position) so that accidental adjustment is not possible.

[0009] A safety module detects when the door frame comes into contact with a hand, finger or foreign object and prevents it from closing or being forced shut, reliably preventing injury or damage.

[0010] The smart module also integrates: An alarm mechanism in case of burglary or improper operation, A camera for automatic recording or live images when doors move, A weather station with continuous climate and air data collection; the system can automatically close or lock the door accordingly, or issue a warning if, for example, a drop in temperature, rain, or strong draft is detected while the door is open (energy efficiency, comfort, and security). 3. State of the art

[0011] Ball and ball bearing hinges currently exist on the market. However, existing solutions use passive bearings without flexible locking options. Traditional hinges require precise assembly and usually offer only two positions: open / closed. 4. Comparison with previous systems

[0012] Conventional spherical hinges allow only limited freedom of movement, without the easy, freely selectable positioning and locking via central, intuitive controls that come with a cable-pull system with a handle. Installation is more complex and limits subsequent adjustments. 5. Novelty and advantages over the state of the art

[0013] Simple, quick positioning and continuous locking of the door or window with just one handle movement.

[0014] Quick assembly, without precisely pre-drilled hinge holes.

[0015] Flexible, long-lasting fixation with spring and ball.

[0016] Easy integration of motor and sensor technology for safety, comfort and automation.

[0017] The innovative spherical door and window hinge offers significantly greater flexibility in the opening angle and enables larger and more precise positioning of the door or window than conventional hinges. This allows for optimal use of the opening area, increasing ease of use and adaptability. 6. Sensory control and interactivity

[0018] Optionally, the plates can be automatically released or retracted using an electric motor or memory wire, powered by an internal low-voltage battery. Sensors detect when release or retraction is necessary—for example, via smart home systems or remote control. 7. Safety function

[0019] A sensor module prevents locking or forceful closing if a hand, body part, or object is detected in the area of ​​the moving door / window. Upon contact, the door remains open or moves to a safe intermediate position to prevent injuries from being trapped. An automatic door lock can be integrated upon obstacle detection. 8. Modular design, material & sustainability

[0020] The innovative spherical door and window hinge features a modular design; all parts are easy to replace and maintain. Materials used include anodized aluminum, high-strength plastics, robust steel, and anti-friction coatings (e.g., PTFE). All components are recyclable; durable materials minimize the need for replacement. 9. Advantages over the state of the art

[0021] Significantly faster and easier assembly.

[0022] Precise, continuous and repeatable positioning.

[0023] Improved security and usability.

[0024] Modularity and easy integration into modern automation systems. 10. Electrical supply and control

[0025] The basic mechanical version operates exclusively manually. Models with a motor and memory wire are powered by low-voltage sources (battery, rechargeable battery, USB) whose housing is integrated into the door leaf. Control via sensor, button, or mobile app is possible. Fig.1 Description of the mechanical function of the innovative spherical door and window hinge

[0026] The innovative spherical door and window hinge consists of the following main elements: • a ball centrally integrated into the door frame, • two pressure plates that are mounted on the door side and enclose the ball on both sides, • one spring per plate, which exerts constant pressure on the ball, • a cable connection (Bowden cable) that is operated by a control element (push button or lever) above the door handle.

[0027] By activating the control element (e.g., pressing a button above the door handle), the Bowden cable reduces the pressure of the springs on the pressure plates and thus on the ball. As soon as the pressure is released, the plates can slide freely around the ball, allowing the door leaf to be moved to any desired position. When the control element is released, the springs press the plates firmly against the ball again, mechanically and securely fixing the current position of the door or window.

[0028] The entire mechanism is integrated into the door leaf, eliminating the need for complex alignment or precise drilling required for traditional hinges. The system allows for continuous, precise adjustment of the opening angle and stable locking at any desired location.

[0029] Optionally, a safety device can be integrated, for example a sensor that detects whether a hand or a foreign object is in the area of ​​the door and thus prevents it from locking until the area is clear.

[0030] The innovative spherical door and window hinge offers maximum flexibility in positioning and maximum control over the door or window leaf - without any complex adjustment or conventional hinge fastening. Fig.2 Description of the innovative spherical door and window hinge with electric motor, memory wire and safety sensor

[0031] The innovative spherical door and window hinge combines innovative mechanical and electronic functionality for doors or windows with increased security and automation. Structure and functionality: • There is a fixed ball in the center of the door or window frame. • Two pressure plates mounted on the door side enclose the ball on both sides, with a spring exerting a constant pressure on each plate. • In addition, both an electric motor and a memory wire (shape memory wire) are integrated into the door leaf, which can optionally adjust the pressure of the plates automatically via a control module. • The system is controlled by buttons or control elements above the door handle as well as by connected sensors. Electronic components and automation: • The electric motor enables the pressure plates to be loosened or tightened on the ball at the push of a button or automatically, so that the door leaf can be continuously positioned or securely locked in a desired position. • The memory wire offers a power-saving alternative to the electric motor to transmit the mechanical force in a finely dosed and quiet manner. • Various sensors are integrated into the door leaf and frame. • A safety sensor in the door frame reliably detects the presence of hands, fingers, or other body parts in the danger zone. If the sensor detects a potential hazard, it automatically prevents the hinge from locking or closing. • Additional sensors in the door leaf can detect the door status (open / closed), mechanical load or external influences. Additional safety and comfort: • The entire opening and closing process can be carried out either manually via the control panel or fully automatically via the sensors and control unit. • The system reliably protects against accidental pinching of fingers or hands and increases operating comfort through continuous, gentle movement and locking of the door. • The combination of mechanical, electrical and sensory design makes the system a modern, safe and flexible hinge solution for demanding door and window applications. A notice:

[0032] The structure shown in the Fig. visualizes the integration of all components - mechanical hinge function, electric drive and sensor-supported safety logic - compactly in the door leaf and frame.

[0033] The Fig. shows the geometric principle of tangential contact between two identical, horizontally arranged plates and a sphere. A sphere is centered between two identical plates. The plates are exactly parallel to each other, so that they each touch the sphere at a single point—in the upper and lower areas of the sphere, respectively. These contact points are represented by markings and indicate the points of tangential contact. List of reference symbols: 1 door frame 2. Rope or memory wire 3 plates 4 balls 5 spool(roll) 6 levers 7 spring 8 door handle 9 Door 10 Engine 11 Finger Hand Detector 12 sensors (camera, weather, locking system with chip)

Claims

[1] (Main claim): Spherical hinge for doors or windows, consisting of - a ball mounted centrally in the door or window frame, - two associated pressure plates arranged on the door or window sashes, - a spring that constantly presses one or both plates against the ball, - as well as a cable pull system guided in the wing, which is connected to an ergonomic handle or button above the door / window handle, such that by actuating the handle via the cable pull, the pressure of the spring on the plates can be released, allowing the door or window element to be positioned steplessly around the ball and subsequently securely locked again. [2] Combined door / window hinge with outer housing, central ball, two plates, spring and integrated locking mechanism via handle and cable, wherein actuating the handle releases the ball, thus enabling free adjustment and re-locking at any angle. In an electrified version, the pressure of the plates on the ball can be varied by motor or by a shape memory wire, with an integrated sensor module for safe operation. [3] Hinge according to claim 1, characterized by that the plates and / or the printing unit can additionally be controlled by an electric motor or by means of a memory wire (shape memory wire), with the electrical supply being provided by a low-voltage battery or accumulator unit integrated in the wing. [4] Hinge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a sensor system is provided for the detection of obstacles (especially human fingers, hands or other foreign objects) which prevents the hinge from being blocked or closed in the event of a collision. [5] Hinge according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least two operating modes are programmable: - a “guiding mode” for the movable positioning of the door leaf and - a "safety mode" with a fixed end lock for the door / window. [6] Hinge according to one of the preceding claims, wherein all main components (ball, plate, housing, spring) are modular and individually replaceable. [7] Hinge according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least part of the components are made of recyclable and durable material - preferably anodized aluminium, high-strength plastic or stainless steel. [8] Hinge according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control of the electromechanical or memory wire-based mechanism can be carried out via a button on the door leaf, optionally via a mobile app or a smart home integration. [9] Hinge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the hinge or the door or window system connected to it includes an integrated smart module consisting of - a mini camera to monitor the area around the door or window, - an alarm sensor for detecting unauthorized movements or tampering, - as well as a micro weather station with sensors for temperature, humidity and airflow. [10] Hinge according to claim 8, characterized by, that the smart module is coupled to the hinge system in such a way that the detection of certain environmental parameters (temperature, drafts, weather changes) can automatically trigger the independent closing or locking of the door or window element. [11] Hinge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that when the alarm is triggered or motion is detected, the mini camera automatically takes a picture or video and optionally sends a notification to a connected device (e.g. smartphone). [12] Hinge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the KUGTEL system offers significantly greater flexibility in the opening angle, thus enabling greater and more precise positioning of the door or window than conventional hinges.

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