Hydraulic hinges for controlled rotational movement of doors, leaves etc.

Abstract

A hydraulic hinge device for the controlled rotational movement of a closure element (P) which can be fixed to a fixed support structure (S), comprising a shell (111), at least one pivot (200) defining a first axis (X) rotatably coupled to the shell for rotation about the first axis (X), and means (1) for controlling the flow of a working fluid, the means comprising at least one first and one second hydraulic working chambers (11, 12) fluidly connected to each other and at least one first and one second stem (20', 20'') slidable along respective second and third axes (Y', Y''). The shell (111) contains therein at least one compartment (112) comprising the pivot (200) and the control means (1). The compartment (112) comprises a hydraulic portion (10) including the working chambers (11, 12) and a dry portion (113) including the pivot (200) and the ends of the stems (20', 20"). The pivot (200) is provided with cam means (215, 210) capable of selective and alternating dry interaction with corresponding cam follower means (25', 25") integrally connected to the stems (20', 20").

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the mechanical technical field, and in particular to a hinge arrangement for controlled rotational movement of doors, door leaves and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, hinges for rotatable movement of a door, door leaf or the like are known which comprise a hinge body and a pivot rotatably connected to each other for mutual rotation between a door open position and a door closed position. The known hinges can be improved, especially with regard to cost, ease of construction, and functionality. In particular, state of the art hinges suffer from the fact that in the event of a wind gust acting on the door, the door may collide with possible obstacles and may become damaged or broken as a result. Summary of the Invention

[0003] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT An object of the present invention is to at least partially overcome the above indicated drawbacks by providing a highly functional and cost effective hydraulic hinge arrangement.

[0004] Another object of the present invention is to provide a hydraulic hinge arrangement which ensures control of both the opening and closing of the closure element. Another object of the present invention is to provide a hydraulic hinge arrangement that has high durability over time. Another object of the present invention is to provide a hydraulic hinge assembly that is easy to manufacture. Another object of the present invention is to provide a hydraulic hinge arrangement that is small in size. Another object of the present invention is to provide a hydraulic hinge assembly having a minimum number of components. Another object of the present invention is to provide a safe hydraulic hinge arrangement. Another object of the present invention is to provide a hydraulic hinge assembly that is easy to install. These and other objects which will become more apparent hereinafter are accomplished by the hydraulic hinge arrangement as described, illustrated and / or claimed herein. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0005] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent in the light of the detailed description of preferred but non-exclusive embodiments of the invention, given as non-limiting examples in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is an axonometric schematic assembly view of a first embodiment of a control unit 1. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an axonometric schematic exploded view of a first embodiment of the control unit 1. [Figure 3A] 3A and 3B are axial cross-sectional views of the embodiment of the unit 1 of FIGS. 1 and 2 during opening and closing of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 3B] Some enlarged details are shown. [Figure 3C] Some enlarged details are shown. [Figure 4A] 3A and 3B are axial cross-sectional views of the embodiment of the unit 1 of FIGS. 1 and 2 during opening and closing of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 4B] Some enlarged details are shown. [Figure 5A] FIG. 3 is an axonometric exploded view of a first embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 5B] FIG. 3 is an axonometric view of a first embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 1 and 2, in a partially assembled view without the shell 111. [Figure 5C] FIG. 3 is an axonometric assembly view of a first embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 6] 3 is an exploded axonometric schematic view of another embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 1 and 2 without a spring. FIG. [Figure 7] 5A, 5B and 5C in axial cross-section, respectively, of the embodiment of the hinge device of FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C in the open and closed positions of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 8] 5A, 5B and 5C in axial cross-section, respectively, of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIG. 5A, 5B and 5C in the open and closed positions of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 9A] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a counterclockwise (left) opening pivot 200 suitable for the embodiment of the hinge 100 of FIGS. 5 and 6. [Figure 9B] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a counterclockwise (left) opening pivot 200 suitable for the embodiment of the hinge 100 of FIGS. 5 and 6. [Figure 9C] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a counterclockwise (left) opening pivot 200 suitable for the embodiment of the hinge 100 of FIGS. 5 and 6. [Figure 10A] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a clockwise (right) opening pivot 200 suitable for the embodiment of the hinge 100 of FIGS. 5 and 6. [Figure 10B] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a clockwise (right) opening pivot 200 suitable for the embodiment of the hinge 100 of FIGS. 5 and 6. [Figure 10C] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a clockwise (right) opening pivot 200 suitable for the embodiment of the hinge 100 of FIGS. 5 and 6. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is an axonometric schematic exploded view of a second embodiment of the control unit 1. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is an axonometric schematic assembly view of a second embodiment of the control unit 1. [Figure 13A] 13A and 13B are axial cross-sectional views of the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 11 and 12 during opening and closing of closure element P. FIG. [Figure 13B] Some enlarged details are shown. [Figure 14A] 13A and 13B are axial cross-sectional views of the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 11 and 12 during opening and closing of closure element P. FIG. [Figure 14B] Some enlarged details are shown. [Figure 15]FIG. 13 is an axonometric schematic exploded view of a second embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 11 and 12. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is an axonometric schematic assembly view of a second embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 11 and 12. [Figure 17] 17 is a top view of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 15 and 16 in a closed position of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 18A] A cross-section along the plane XVIIIA-XVIIIA is shown. [Figure 18B] A cross-sectional view along the plane XVIIIB-XVIIIB is shown. [Figure 18C] A cross-section along the plane XVIIIC-XVIIIC is shown. [Figure 19] 17 is a top view of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 15 and 16 in a 90° open position of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 20A] A cross-sectional view along the plane XXA-XXA is shown. [Figure 20B] A cross-sectional view along the plane XXB-XXB is shown. [Figure 20C] A cross-sectional view along the plane XXC-XXC is shown. [Figure 20D] Some enlarged details are shown. [Figure 21] FIG. 17 is an axonometric, partially exploded view of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 15 and 16. [Figure 22] 17 is a partial exploded radial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG. [Diagram 23] FIG. 13 is an exploded axonometric schematic view of a further embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 11 and 12 without a spring. [Figure 24] FIG. 17 is an axonometric schematic diagram of an embodiment of the cam follower elements 25', 25'' and pivot 200 of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 15 and 16. [Diagram 25]FIG. 17 is an axonometric schematic diagram of an embodiment of the cam follower elements 25', 25'' and pivot 200 of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 15 and 16. [Figure 26] FIG. 17 is an axonometric schematic diagram of an embodiment of the cam follower elements 25', 25'' and pivot 200 of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 15 and 16. [Figure 27] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of a closure element P in the form of a frameless glass door fitted with the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 15 and 16. [Figure 28A] 24 is a schematic axonometric view of an example of a folding table TP in a closed position including the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIG. 23. FIG. [Figure 28B] 24 is a schematic axonometric view of an example of a folding table TP in an open position including the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIG. 23. FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. 11 is an axonometric schematic assembly view of a third embodiment of the control unit 1. [Diagram 30] FIG. 11 is an axonometric schematic exploded view of a third embodiment of the control unit 1. [Figure 31A] 31 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 29 and 30 during opening and closing of closure element P. FIG. [Figure 31B] Some enlarged details are shown. [Figure 32A] 31 shows an axial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 29 and 30 during opening and closing of closure element P. FIG. [Figure 32B] Some enlarged details are shown. [Diagram 33] FIG. 31 is a schematic axonometric exploded view of a third embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 29 and 30. [Diagram 34] FIG. 31 is an axonometric schematic assembly view of a third embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 29 and 30. [Diagram 35] 35 is a view of the embodiment of the hydraulic hinge device 100 of FIGS. 33 and 34 with the upper half-shell of the hinge body 110 removed and with the internal components in axial cross section in the open and closed positions of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 37] 35 is a view of the embodiment of the hydraulic hinge device 100 of FIGS. 33 and 34 with the upper half-shell of the hinge body 110 removed and with the internal components in axial cross section in the open and closed positions of the closure element P. FIG. [Diagram 36] 33 and 34 in axial section with a section substantially perpendicular to the sections of FIGS. 35 and 37 in the open and closed positions of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 38] 33 and 34 in axial section with a section substantially perpendicular to the sections of FIGS. 35 and 37 in the open and closed positions of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 39] FIG. 31 is an exploded axonometric schematic view of a fourth embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 29 and 30. [Figure 40A] 40 is an axial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the hydraulic hinge device 100 of FIG. 39 in a closed position of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 40B] Some enlarged details are shown. [Diagram 41] FIG. 38 is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the hydraulic hinge device 100 of FIGS. 35 and 37 fixed to a closure element P and fixed to a floor S. [Diagram 42] A partial cutaway view is shown to highlight the bushing B adjustment system. [Diagram 43] FIG. 11 is an axonometric schematic assembly view of a fourth embodiment of the control unit 1. [Diagram 44] FIG. 11 is an axonometric schematic exploded view of a fourth embodiment of the control unit 1. [Figure 45A] 45 is a schematic side view of the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 43 and 44 during forced closing and opening of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 45B] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of some enlarged details along the plane XLVB-XLVB. [Figure 45C] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of some enlarged details along the plane XLVC-XLVC. [Figure 46A]45 is a schematic side view of the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 43 and 44 during forced closing and opening of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 46B] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of some enlarged details along the plane XLVIB-XLVIB. [Figure 46C] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of some enlarged details along the plane XLVIC-XLVIC. [Figure 47] FIG. 44 is an axonometric schematic assembly view of a fifth embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including an embodiment of unit 1 of FIG. 43. [Figure 48] FIG. 44 is an axonometric schematic exploded view of a fifth embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIG. 43. [Figure 49] 49 is an axial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 47 and 48 in a closed position of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 50] 49 is an axial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the hinge device 100 of FIGS. 47 and 48 in an open position of the closure element P. FIG. [Figure 51] FIG. 49 is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the hydraulic hinge device 100 of FIGS. 47 and 48 fixed to a closure element P. [Figure 52] FIG. 13 is an axonometric schematic assembly view of a fifth embodiment of the control unit 1. [Figure 53] FIG. 11 is an axonometric schematic exploded view of a fifth embodiment of the control unit 1. [Figure 54] FIG. 54 is an axial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 52 and 53 during closure of the closure element P. [Figure 55] FIG. 54 is an axial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 52 and 53 during opening of the closure element P. [Figure 56] FIG. 54 is an axonometric schematic exploded view of a sixth embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 52 and 53. [Figure 57] FIG. 54 is an axonometric schematic assembly view of a sixth embodiment of a hydraulic hinge device 100 including the embodiment of unit 1 of FIGS. 52 and 53. [Figure 58]FIG. 54 is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of the hydraulic hinge device 100 of FIGS. 52 and 53 fixed to a closure element P. [Figure 59] FIG. 2 is an exploded axonometric schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the control unit 1. [Figure 60A] 59 in axial cross-sectional views of the control unit 1 of FIG. 59 in two different operating positions. [Figure 60B] 59 in axial cross-sectional views of the control unit 1 of FIG. 59 in two different operating positions. [Figure 61] FIG. 2 is an exploded axonometric schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the control unit 1. [Figure 62A] 62A-62C are axial cross-sectional views of the control unit 1 of FIG. 61 in two different operating positions. [Figure 62B] 62A-62C are axial cross-sectional views of the control unit 1 of FIG. 61 in two different operating positions. [Figure 63] FIG. 2 is an exploded axonometric schematic diagram of a further embodiment of the control unit 1. [Fig. 64A] 64A-64C are axial cross-sectional views of the control unit 1 of FIG. 63 in two different operating positions. [Figure 64B] 64A-64C are axial cross-sectional views of the control unit 1 of FIG. 63 in two different operating positions. [Figure 65] 1 is an exploded axonometric schematic view of a further embodiment of the hydraulic hinge device 100 in which the unit 1 is assembled into the hinge body 110 without a spring. [Figure 66] FIG. 66 is an assembled axonometric schematic diagram of the embodiment of the hydraulic hinge device 100 of FIG. [Figure 67] FIG. 66 is an axial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the hydraulic hinge device 100 of FIG. [Figure 68] 66 is an axial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the adjustment element 40 included in the hydraulic hinge device 100 of FIG. 65. [Figure 69A] FIG. 2 is a radial cross-sectional view taken along the plane of line LXIXA-LXIXA of the figure. [Figure 69B] FIG. 68 is a radial cross-sectional view taken along the plane of line LXIXB-LXIXB in FIG. 67. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the present specification describes a control unit 1 that is particularly useful for controlling the flow of a working fluid, preferably an incompressible working fluid, such as oil. The control unit 1 may be used for any purpose, for example, as a single-sided reducer as shown in FIGS. 59 to 60B, or as a double-sided reducer as shown in FIGS. 61 to 64B.

[0008] The control unit 1 may be used in any device. For example, the reducer shown in Fig. 59 to Fig. 64B may be used in a machine tool or a slidable door. In particular, the control unit 1 can be used in a closing or controlling hinge device 100 as shown in Figures 5 to 8, 15 to 28B, 33 to 41, 47 to 51, 56 to 58 and 65 to 69B.

[0009] It is clear that the reference to one or more figures with respect to a particular embodiment of the invention should be considered as an illustrative and non-limiting example of the invention, the same embodiment may be shown in other figures, although not specifically mentioned. Basically, the control unit 1 may consist of a body 10 into which two or more stems 20', 20'' are slidably inserted.

[0010] In the following, reference is made to a control unit 1 having two stems 20', 20'', but it is clear that the control unit 1 may comprise more than two stems without departing from the scope of protection of the appended claims. Obviously, a control unit 1 comprising more than two stems is constructed as a result.

[0011] The present invention may include various parts and / or similar or identical elements, and unless otherwise specified, similar or identical parts and / or elements are indicated using a single reference number, and it is clear that the described technical features are common to all similar or identical parts and / or elements.

[0012] The main body 10 can include two working chambers 11 and 12 arranged side by side and defining respective axes Y' and Y'', which are preferably substantially parallel, as shown in the embodiment of Figures 63 to 64B, but may also be substantially coincident, or may be substantially perpendicular, as shown in the embodiments of Figures 59 to 60B and 61 to 62B.

[0013] Such axes Y' and Y'' may define the sliding axes of the two stems 20', 20''. The working chambers 11, 12 may contain a working fluid flowing therein under the thrust of the stems 20', 20''. Each working chamber 11, 12 may include a respective end opening 13', 13'' and 14', 14'', which may preferably be disposed along an axis Y' and Y''. The two stems 20', 20'' may be inserted through the openings 13', 14' into the working chambers 11, 12 so as to have ends 21', 22' inside the working chambers 11, 12 and opposite ends 21'', 22'' outside the working chambers. Alternatively, openings 13'', 14'' may be fluidly connected to each other by a duct 15 which is preferably substantially perpendicular to axes Y' and Y'', as shown in the embodiment of Figures 61 to 62B, but may also be parallel to only one of those axes.

[0014] The geometry and the relative positions of the components shown above should not be considered limiting, but merely illustrative of the invention. The geometry and the relative positions of the components may be of any type without departing from the scope of protection of the appended claims.

[0015] Thanks to the above features, sliding of the stem 20' along the axis Y' from opening 13' towards opening 13'' may correspond to sliding of the stem 20'' in the opposite direction along the axis Y'' from opening 14'' towards opening 14'', and vice versa. The flow of working fluid through the fluid connection line defined by openings 13", 14" and duct 15 is such that in practice sliding of stem 20" in the opposite direction along axis 20" from an end position 22' proximal to opening 14' as shown, for example, in FIG. 3A to a proximal end position as shown, for example, in FIG. 3B corresponds to sliding of stem 20' along axis Y' from an end position 2 distal to opening 13' as shown, for example, in FIG. 3A to a proximal end position as shown, for example, in FIG. 3B.

[0016] Basically, the working fluid transmits a thrust force acting on one of the two stems 20', 20'' from the outside to the inside of the body 10 to the other stem, and the other stem is pushed from the inside to the outside. In a preferred but non-exclusive embodiment, the control unit 1 may include one or more elements 40 for regulating the flow of working fluid between the working chambers 11,12.

[0017] Although in the following reference is made to a single adjustment element 40, it is clear that the control unit 1 may comprise two or more adjustment elements without departing from the scope of protection of the appended claims. Obviously, a control unit 1 comprising two or more adjustment elements is constructed as a result. Suitably, the adjusting element 40 is at least partially inserted into the fluid connection line defined by the openings 13'', 14'' and the duct 15 so as to interact with at least one passage section thereof and thus be able to adjust the flow of the working fluid.

[0018] For example, in a preferred but non-exclusive embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 8, the adjustment element 40 may be a shutter element, for example a pin with a diameter D40 movable between two upper and lower passage sections 15', 15'' of the duct 15 having diameters D15' and D15'', respectively.

[0019] Suitably, diameter D40 is slightly smaller than diameter D15', for example by a few tenths of a millimetre, and diameter D15' is slightly smaller than diameter D15'', for example by a further few tenths of a millimetre. By virtue of the above configuration, when the pivot 40 is in the lower passage section 15', the flow rate of working fluid flowing through the gap between the pivot 40 and the lower passage section is less than the flow rate of working fluid flowing through the gap between the pivot 40 and the upper passage section 15''.

[0020] Alternating sliding of the pivot 40 between the two upper and lower passage sections 15', 15'' may occur due to hydraulic pressure provided by the movement of the stems 20', 20''. In a further preferred but not exclusive embodiment, for example as shown in Figures 11 to 64B, the adjustment element 40 may comprise a screw element 41 which is engaged with the nut screw 17 for widening / narrowing the passage section 15''' of the duct 15. To that end, a plug element 42 may be provided which is elastically pressed against the end 41" of the screw element 41 by a spring 43, which may further have an opposite empty end 41' which can be controlled externally by an operator. It is clear that the plug element 42 may also simply be slidable without the spring 43, without departing from the scope of protection of the appended claims.

[0021] Suitably, the passage section 15''' of the duct 15 may have a substantially frusto-conical shape, the same applies to the end 41 of the screw element 41. Preferably, the passage section 15''' may be calibrated. A passage opening 44'', which may be placed in fluid communication with the opening 13'', may be selectively closed by a plug element 42 and may be provided in the end 41''. Additionally, a passage opening 44' may be provided at end 41' which may be placed in fluid communication with opening 14'. Additionally, the screw element 41 may include an internal duct 45 extending between the passage openings 44', 44'' placing them in fluid communication with each other. Suitably, the plug element 42 may have a substantially mushroom-like shape, with an enlarged end 42 ′ and a stem 42 ″ of an end 44 ″ slidably inserted into an internal duct 45 of the screw element 41 . The spring 43 can be suitably sized so that when the stem 20'' slides from a distal position, e.g. as shown in FIG. 13A, to a proximal position, e.g. as shown in FIG. 14A, the plug element 42 opens, clearing the passage opening 44'' and allowing the working fluid to controllably flow through the gap between the internal duct 45 and the stem 42'' of the plug element 42.

[0022] However, upon passage in the reverse direction, the plug element 42 closes to block the passage opening 44'' and force the working fluid through the passage section 15'' in a controllable manner. Thus, essentially, the spring 43-plug element 42 assembly functions as a one-way valve means for controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid. The flow of working fluid through the duct 15 is always controlled in both directions: the diameter difference between the inner duct 45 and the stem 42'' of the plug element 42 actually controls the flow of working fluid in one direction, while the size of the passage section 15'''' controls the flow of working fluid in the opposite direction.

[0023] To protect the control unit 1 from possible pressure surges therein, an overpressure valve element 50 may be provided which is located in the duct 18 which is fluidly connected to the duct 15 . The overpressure valve element 50 may comprise a spring 51 and a shutter 52, for example a ball shutter, which are resiliently pressed against a seat provided in the duct 18. The spring 51 and the shutter 52 may be held in an operative position by a grub screw 53. Suitably, the spring 51 may be sized such that the shutter 52 only opens when the pressure in the working chambers 11 , 12 or in the duct 15 exceeds a predetermined threshold calculated to cause damage to the control unit 1 . Advantageously, the control unit 1 may include elastic reaction means, for example one or more helical springs 30 . Depending on the function of the device in which the control unit 1 is inserted, the one or more springs 30 may be thrust springs or return springs. Preferably, each spring 30 may be coaxially inserted onto a respective stem 20', 20" and interposed between the abutment surface 16 of the body 10 and the abutment surface 23 of such spring 20', 20". Alternatively, the springs 30 may be located inside the stems as shown in Figures 59 to 60B. Suitably, the one or more springs 30 may act only on one of the stems, e.g. stem 20'', while the other stem, e.g. stem 20', is free to slide along its respective axis Y' without the aid of any elastic reaction means.

[0024] For this purpose, in the case of a control unit 1 including two springs 30, as in the embodiments shown in Figures 29, 43 and 52, an abutment element 31 can be provided which is fixed to the stem on which the springs 30 act, for example the stem 20''. The abutment element 31 may comprise an abutment surface 23 for the spring 30 and may also comprise a through seat 32 for the stem 20'. In this way, the stem 20' can slide freely along the axis Y' without elastic reaction means. Advantageously, as will be better shown below, the abutment element 31 may include a cam follower means 25'' while the stem 20' may include the cam follower means 25' or be integrally joined thereto.

[0025] In view of the above, the action of the one or more springs on the stem 20'' is irrelevant to the action exerted by the control unit 1 on both stems 20', 20'' to control the fluid flow. As a result, thanks to the functional independence between the spring and the stem, even if sudden pressure is applied from the outside to one of the stems, the other stem is always under control and the stem acted upon by the spring always returns to its maximum distal position.

[0026] In a preferred, but non-exclusive embodiment, the control unit 1 may be particularly useful for controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic hinge arrangement 100. The hydraulic hinge device 100 may be particularly useful for the controlled rotational movement of a closure element P, for example a door, door leaf, etc., relative to a fixed support structure S, such as a floor, a frame, etc. In the following, reference is made to a door P and a floor or frame S according to various embodiments of the hinge device 100, but it is clear that the hinge device 100 can be connected to any closure element and any fixed support structure without departing from the scope of protection of the appended claims. A control unit 1 in the hinge device 100 can hydraulically control the movement of the door P between a closed position, as shown, for example, in Figures 8, 18A, 31A and 49, and an open position, as shown, for example, in Figures 7, 20A, 32A and 50. Depending on the configuration, the hinge device 100 may be a closing hinge, for example as shown in FIG. 5A or FIG. 15, or a hydraulically controlled hinge, for example as shown in FIGS. 6, 65-69B, 6, 23.

[0027] In the former case, the hinge 100 may include one or more thrust springs 30, and in the latter case, the hinge 100 may include a return spring or may preferably be springless. In use, two or more hinge assemblies 100 may be mounted on the door P without any particular limitation, for example two closing hinges or one closing hinge and one hydraulically controlled hinge, or a closing controlled hinge assembly 100 and joint. As a non-limiting example, one or more hydraulically controlled hinge devices 100 may be attached to a folding glass table TP, as shown in Figures 28A and 28B. For example, in a preferred but non-exclusive embodiment shown in Figures 5A-10C, the hinge apparatus 100 may be a flat hinge that is particularly adapted for concealed insertion into the tubular frame of a refrigerator door.

[0028] In further preferred but not exclusive embodiments shown, for example, in Figures 15 to 27 and 65 to 69B, the hinge device 100 may be a double-supported hinge for a frameless glass door. In a further preferred but not exclusive embodiment, as shown for example in Figures 33 to 41, the hinge device 100 may be a hinge for an interior door, which is tiltable to make it ambidextrous, as fixed to a floor S by means of a bushing B known per se. In a further preferred but not exclusive embodiment, for example as shown in Figures 47 to 51, the hinge device 100 may be an ambidextrous hinge for a frameless glass door pivotally mounted so as to be fixed to a floor S. In a further preferred but not exclusive embodiment, for example as shown in Figures 56 to 58, the hinge arrangement 100 may be an ambidextrous recessed door closure for an interior door secured to the frame S of the door by a pivot arm A as known per se.

[0029] Suitably, the hinge device 100 may generally comprise a hinge body 110 which may be integrally fixed to a door P or a fixed support structure S depending on the embodiment according to the accompanying drawings. For example, in preferred but non-exclusive embodiments shown in Figures 15 to 27, the hinge body 110 may be fixed to the frame S, whereas in preferred but non-exclusive embodiments shown in Figures 47 to 51, the hinge body 110 may be fixed to the door P.

[0030] As will be better seen below, the hinge body 110 can have a variety of configurations depending on the embodiment. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 58, the control unit 1 is removably insertable into the compartment 112 to define the hydraulic section, with the ends 21'', 22'' of the stems 20', 20'' protruding from the body 10 to remain in the dry section 113 of the compartment 112, where they interact with the pivot 200. In such an embodiment, the hinge body 110 may comprise or consist of a shell 111, possibly consisting of two or more half shells 111', 111'', as in the preferred but non-exclusive embodiment shown in Figures 47 to 51. The shell 111 may include at least one compartment 112 therein, into which the control unit 1 and the pivot 200 can be inserted.

[0031] Alternatively, for example, as shown in the embodiment of Figures 65-69B, the control unit 1 can be incorporated into the compartment 112 to define the aforementioned hydraulic section. In other words, the control unit 1 can be provided in the hinge body 110 such that the hinge body includes the control unit 1. The pivot 200 may define an axis X that also serves as an axis of mutual rotation between the pivot 200 and the hinge body 110 . The pivot 200 may have one or more portions 201 for coupling with a door P or a fixed support structure S and first and second cam means 210,215. The door P or fixed support structure S and the first and second cam means 210, 215 may be arranged alongside one another or may be overlapped and may have a configuration to selectively and alternately interact with the stem 20'' and corresponding first and second cam follower means 25'', 25'', which are preferably integrally connected to the stem, respectively, as will be better explained below.

[0032] In particular, the first and second cam follower means 25', 25" may be provided as an integral part with the first and second stems 20', 20" so as to define respective opposite ends 22', 22", for example as in the embodiment of Figures 1-10C or 65-69B, or may be integrally connected to the respective opposite ends 22', 22", for example as in the embodiment of Figures 11-58. This facilitates reciprocating movement of stems 20', 20", whereby sliding of stem 20' from opening 13' towards opening 13'', i.e., from a position distal to a position proximal to end 21'', corresponds to sliding of stem 20'' from opening 14'' towards opening 14'', i.e., from a proximal position to a distal position of end 22'', and vice versa, and sliding of stem 20'' from opening 14' towards opening 14'', i.e., from a distal position to a proximal position of end 22'', corresponds to sliding of stem 20' from opening 13'' towards opening 13'', i.e., from a proximal position to a distal position of end 21''. As previously discussed, during such passage, the hydraulic fluid hydraulically damps the closing and / or opening movement of the door.

[0033] In the following, reference will be made to the hinge device 100 which automatically closes the door P and hydraulically damps its opening and closing movement; however, it will be apparent that the hinge device 100 can also hydraulically damp the opening and closing movement of only the door P, for example as shown in the embodiment of Figure 6 or Figure 23 in Figures 65 to 69B, without departing from the scope of protection of the appended claims. The pivot 200 and the control unit 1 may be configured such that the distal and proximal positions of each of the stems 20'', 20' correspond to those of a closed door P, and the proximal and distal positions of each of the stems 20'', 20' correspond to those of an open door P.

[0034] For this purpose, the cam means 210, 215 may be suitably configured. In particular, depending on the embodiment of the hinge device 100 and the relative pivot 200, the cam means 210, 215 may define respective axes or planes that are substantially perpendicular to each other. In either case, the cam means 210, 215 and the stems 20", 20' are capable of interacting and mutually rotating about axis X between a door closed position and a door open position in which the stems 20", 20' can slide along their respective axes Y", Y' in the aforementioned positions. It will be apparent that, depending on the embodiment, one of the cam means 210, 215 and the stems 20", 20' rotates and the other one is stationary.

[0035] In particular, when opening the door P, the cam means 210 can urge the stem 20" to slide along the axis Y" from a distal position of its end 22" to a proximal position. At the same time, the oil present in the chambers 11, 12 urges the stem 20' to slide along Y' from a proximal position of its end 21" to a distal position. During such movement, the cam means 215 rotates relative to the stem 20' to enable said sliding, and the one or more springs 30, if present, are compressed from a maximum extended position to a maximum compressed position. Suitably, during such movement the cam means 215 and the end 21'' of the stem 20' are spaced apart from each other and may not be in contact. The pressure in the circuit causes the plug element 42 to open or the pin 40 in the portion 15 ″ of the duct 15 to assume a larger diameter, allowing oil to flow through the duct 15 . In the embodiment in which a spring 43-plug element 42 assembly is present, such passage takes place through the tubular gap between the internal duct 45 and the stem 42'' of the plug element 42, as previously described.

[0036] Such a tubular gap therefore defines the maximum opening force acting on the door P, even in the case of a sudden forcing, for example by a gust of wind or an inattentive user. Indeed, even in this case, the door is always controlled and protected from undesired impacts and possible damage. Conversely, when closing the door P, the one or more springs 30, if present, may urge the stem 20'' from a proximal position of its end 22'' along axis Y to a distal position and rotation of the door P to a closed position. At the same time, the cam means 215 urges the stem 20'' to slide along axis Y' from a distal position of its end 21'' to a proximal position. The pressure in the circuit closes the plug element 42 or forces the pin 40 of the portion 15' of the duct 15 to a smaller diameter, allowing the oil to act to hydraulically damp the closing movement of the door P, as previously described.

[0037] It will be appreciated that in embodiments in which the hinge device 100 does not have a spring, the biasing force may be applied by an external force, such as an external closing hinge or gravity, and the hinge device 100 essentially acts as a hydraulic brake to hydraulically damp the closing movement of the door P. In this way, even in the event of a sudden force acting on the door P, such as a gust of wind or a careless user's thrust, the movement of the door is always controlled both open and closed. On the other hand, if such a thrust poses a danger to the entire hinge device 100, the overpressure valve element 50 opens to protect it.

[0038] When the door is closed, the one or more springs 30, if present, act on the cam follower means 25'', which in turn acts on the cam means 210 to move the pivot 200 and the door P. Such movement is independent of hydraulic movement of the stems 20', 20''. In particular, the spring 30-cam follower 25"-cam 210 assembly is independent of the movement of the stem 20". In fact, the stem 20" is pushed to slide along the axis Y" only by the action of the other stem 20', which in turn is pushed by the cam 215 acting on the cam follower 25'.

[0039] Such independent movement, together with the particular configuration of the cam follower 25', makes it possible to obtain a closure mechanical snap, as will be better shown below. The hinge device 100 may suitably be substantially planar. In particular, the axes Y', Y" may define a plane π that is substantially perpendicular to the axis X, e.g., as in the embodiments of Figures 5A-10C and 33-42, or parallel to the axis X, e.g., as in the embodiments of Figures 15-27, 48-51, 56-58 and 65-69B. In the latter embodiment, the first and second cam means 215, 210 and the first and second cam follower means 25', 25'' may be superimposed on one another along a plane π defined by the axes Y', Y.

[0040] In particular, the cam means 210 may include or consist of a compartment having a plane 211 substantially perpendicular and parallel to the plane π, respectively, in positions for opening and closing the door P, as shown, for example, in Figures 18C and 20C, respectively. Alternatively, the cam follower means 25'' may include or consist of a flat surface 260 that is substantially perpendicular to the plane π in both the closed and open positions of the door P, as further shown, for example, in Figures 18C, 20C, and 69A, respectively. Further, the cam means 215 may include or consist of a compartment having a pair of opposing flat walls 216 that are substantially parallel and perpendicular to the plane π, respectively, in positions for opening and closing the door P, as shown, for example, in Figures 18B, 20B and 69B, respectively.

[0041] An end 217 designed to be in contact with the cam follower means 25' in a closed position, e.g. as shown in Fig. 18B, and to be spaced apart from the cam follower means so as not to be in contact with them in an open position, e.g. as shown in Fig. 20B, may be located between the two walls 216. More precisely, the contact area 217', which may be centrally located relative to the two flat tapered surfaces 217'' and 217'''' of the end 217, may be substantially flat and perpendicular to the walls 216. Alternatively, the cam follower means 25' may include a flat surface 26' that is substantially perpendicular to the plane π in both the closing and opening positions of the door P, as still shown, for example, in Figures 18B and 20B, respectively. Such a flat surface 26' may be located in a central position relative to the two tapered flat surfaces 26'', 26''' and may contact the cam means 215 to define the 0° and 90° stop positions.

[0042] More precisely, the flat surface 26' may contact a contact area 217' of the end 217 in the closed position, for example as shown in FIG. 18B, and may contact one of the walls 216 in the open position, for example as shown in FIG. 20B. This not only provides stable stopping positions in the closed and open positions, but also provides a mechanical snap of the door P towards the closed position. Starting from the open position, for example as shown in Figure 20B, the cam means 215, which is initially in contact with one of the walls 216, actually rotates about axis X and pushes against the cam follower means 25'. Such rotation can cause the flat surface 26' to first contact one of the surfaces 217'' or 217''', depending on the opening direction, and then contact the contact area 217' of the end 217. When transitioning from one of the surfaces 217'' or 217'''' to the contact area 217', the flat surface 26' does not contact a surface, but does contact a point, as shown in Figure 20D.

[0043] As a result, the cam means 215 undergoes a sudden and uncontrolled tilt about the point of contact with the cam follower means 25' until the flat surface 26' and the contact area 217' no longer contact each other to define the closed stop position. Due to the fact that the thrust of the spring 30 is continuous and independent of hydraulic control, this causes a mechanical snap of the hinge arrangement 100 towards the closed position. By appropriately configuring the contours of the cam means 215 and the cam follower means 25' it is possible to predetermine the point at which such snapping occurs. The force of the snap is in turn determined by the force of the spring 30. It will also be apparent that by configuring the cam follower means 25' or the cam means 215 so that there is no flat surface 26', the hinge arrangement can be made snap-free. In the embodiments of Figures 5A-10C and 33-42, the cam means 215, 210 and cam follower means 25', 25'' may lie in a plane substantially parallel to or coincident with the plane π defined by the axes Y', Y''. Suitably, the cam means 215, 210 extend perpendicularly from the first axis X and contact the first and second cam follower means 25', 25'' to move the stems 20', 20'' as previously described.

[0044] In particular, the cam means 215, 210 may have surfaces 26, 26'' designed to interact with the surfaces 217 and 211 of the cam follower means 25', 25''. As before, near the closed position, the cam means 215 tilts about the point of contact between surfaces 26 and 26'' until surface 26' loses contact with surface 217, defining a closed stop position. It will be apparent that the cam and cam follower profiles of the embodiments are shown herein by way of example only, and may be configured depending on the motion imparted to the door P to open or close. With particular reference to the embodiment of Figures 33 to 38, the block 31 may include cam means 25'' which may be removably fitted onto the stem 20'. This maximises ease of installation of the hinge. In such an embodiment, the pivot 200 can be configured to strike the shell 111 to open and close, as shown in figures 35 and 37. For closing, this makes it possible to provide a preload on the door P which presses the relative door leaves. For opening, such a solution then serves as a system for preventing the door P from unhinging and for preventing the impact of the door P against an obstacle. For this purpose, both cam followers 25', 25'' can be provided with a system for ejecting the cams 210, 215.

[0045] Instead of a cam and cam follower means, for example in a preferred but non-exclusive embodiment shown in Figures 39-40B, the pivot 200 can have a pinion means 220 which can interact with a corresponding rack and pinion means 27', 27" which are integrally connected to the stems 20', 20", respectively. The rack and pinion means 27" can be included in a block 31 which can be inserted by a pin on the stem 20". Alternatively, the rack and pinion means 27' can be removably inserted in the stem 20' which can slide freely through the opening 32. Such an embodiment allows for maximum control of the door P, which will always close from any open position.

[0046] The hinge device 100 is very easy to install, considering that the control unit 1 with the cam follower means and pivot 200 entirely preassembled as a pack is essentially inserted into the compartment 112 and then the shell 111 is closed using a closure element. Optionally, a finishing cover may be provided. Preferably, the adjustment element 40 is accessible even with the hinge assembly attached, allowing the finishing cover to be removed if necessary. In the embodiments of Figures 15-27, 33-38, 39-40B, 56-58 and 65-69B, the adjustment element 40 may actually be accessible through opening 160, whereas in the embodiments of Figures 48 and 51, the adjustment element 40 may be accessible by removing cover 161. With particular reference to the embodiment of Figures 15 and 27, the shell 111 may have sliding guides 125', 125'' into which the cam follower means 25', 25'' are slidably inserted. This makes the hinge installation very easy and the movement very smooth. Further referring to such an embodiment, after inserting the pivot 200 into the shell 111 and the cam follower means 25', 25'' into the guides 125', 125'', it is sufficient to screw the control unit 1 to the shell 111 using the screw 130 passing through the body 10.

[0047] At that point, to complete the installation, it is sufficient to screw said assembly to the fixed plate 140 by means of the screws 141. Such a type of installation makes such a hinge device particularly versatile, given that the assembly can be attached to various types of plates 140. The screws 130 can pass through the fixed plate 140 so that, when in the operating position, the heads of the screws rest on the plate 140 which supports the weight of the plate P. Considering that in the embodiment of Figures 65 to 69B the control unit 1 is integrated into the hinge body 110 defining means for hydraulically controlling the flow of actuating fluid, such an embodiment may be without the screw 130 but may include a pin 131 passing through the plate 140 to support the weight of the door P. Suitably, such an embodiment may provide an adjustment element configured as in FIG. 68, comprising an adjustment screw 41, a plug element 42 and a spring 43, or just an adjustment screw 41.

[0048] Additionally, such an embodiment may provide a finishing cover 162 . In light of the above, it is apparent that the present invention accomplishes its set objectives. The present invention is susceptible to numerous modifications and variations, all within the scope of protection of the appended claims. All details can be replaced with other technically equivalent elements, and materials can be varied as necessary, without departing from the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A hydraulic hinge device for the controlled rotational movement of a closure element (P), in particular a door, door leaf or the like, which can be fixed to a fixed support structure (S), in particular a frame or a floor, comprising: a hinge body (110) that can be fixed integrally to one of said closure element (P) and said fixed support structure (S); at least one pivot (200) which can be fixed integrally to the other of said closure element (P) and said fixed support structure (S), said at least one pivot (200) defining a first axis (X), said hinge body (110) and said at least one pivot (200) being mutually rotatably coupled to each other such that one rotates relative to the other about an axis substantially parallel to or coincident with said first axis (X) between at least one open position and at least one closed position of said closure element (P); - a means (1) for controlling the flow of a working fluid, The means (1) comprises: at least one first and one second hydraulic working chamber (11, 12) containing said working fluid, said at least one first and one second hydraulic working chamber (11, 12) having at least one respective inlet port (13', 14'); - a line (15) for the fluid connection of said at least one first and one second working chamber (11, 12); at least one element (40) for regulating the flow of said working fluid, arranged in said fluid connection line (15); at least one first and one second stem (20', 20") slidably inserted in a sealing manner into said respective inlet port (13', 14') to slide along respective second and third axes (Y', Y"), each of said at least one first and one second stem (20', 20") having a respective end (2, 22') inside said respective at least one first and one second hydraulically actuating chamber (11, 12) and a respective opposite end (21", 22") outside said respective hydraulically actuating chamber, said respective at least one first and one second stem (20', 20") being slidable along said respective second and third axes (Y', Y") between respective positions distal and proximal to said respective inlet port (13', 14'); Equipped with the hinge body (110) includes at least one compartment (112) therein, the compartment (112) including the at least one pivot (200), the at least one compartment (112) further including the control means (1) or the control means (1) is removably insertable into the at least one compartment (112); The hydraulic hinge device, wherein the working fluid is exclusively contained in the at least one first and one second working chambers (11, 12) and in the fluid connecting line (15), and the at least one compartment (112) comprises a dry part (113) including the at least one pivot (200) and the opposite ends (21'', 22'') of the at least one first and one second stems (20', 20''), said at least one pivot (200) comprises at least first and second cam means (215, 210) selectively and alternately capable of dry interacting with corresponding at least first and second cam follower means (25', 25") integrally coupled with said opposite ends (21", 22") of said at least one first and one second stem (20', 20"), respectively; said at least one first and one second hydraulic working chamber (11, 12) each having at least one first and one second opening (13', 13") and at least one third and one fourth opening (14', 14"), said at least one first and at least one third opening (13', 14') defining said inlet port, said fluid connection line being composed of said at least one second and at least one fourth opening (13", 14") and a duct (15) for fluidly connecting the latter to each other, whereby the working fluid transmits a thrust force exerted on one of the at least one first and second stems (20', 20") to the other of the at least one first and second stems (20', 20") such that a sliding of one of the opposite ends (21") along the respective second or third axis (Y') from the respective distal position towards the respective proximal position and a simultaneous sliding of the other of the opposite ends (22") along the respective second or third axis (Y') from the respective proximal position towards the respective distal position corresponds to a mutual rotation of the hinge body (110) and the at least one pivot (200) about the axis substantially parallel to or coinciding with the first axis (X) between the at least one open position and the at least one closed position of the closure element (P), and vice versa. Hydraulic hinge device.

2. The hinge body (110) and the at least one pivot (200) - sliding of one of said opposite ends (21'') along said respective second or third axis (Y'') from said respective distal position towards said respective proximal position and simultaneous sliding of the other of said opposite ends (22'') along said respective second or third axis (Y'') from said respective proximal position towards said respective distal position corresponds to a rotation from one of said at least one open and at least one closed positions towards the other; - sliding of one of said opposite ends (21'') along said respective second or third axis (Y'') from said respective proximal position towards said respective distal position and simultaneous sliding of the other of said opposite ends (22'') along said respective second or third axis (Y'') from said respective distal position towards said respective proximal position corresponds to a rotation of the other of said at least one open and at least one closed positions towards said one, 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and second electrodes are rotated relative to each other such that the first and second electrodes rotate relative to each other.

3. The hinge body (110) and the at least one pivot (200) a sliding of said at least one first stem (20') along said second axis (Y') from said at least one first opening (13') towards said at least one second opening (13'') and a corresponding sliding of said at least one second stem (20'') along said third axis (Y'') from said at least one fourth opening (14'') towards said at least one third opening (14'') corresponds to a rotation from one of said at least one open position towards the other of said at least one closed position; a sliding of the at least one second stem (20'') along the third axis (Y'') from the at least one third opening (14'') towards the at least one fourth opening (14'') and a corresponding sliding of the at least one first stem (20') along the second axis (Y'') from the at least one second opening (13'') towards the at least one first opening (13') corresponds to a rotation of the at least one open position towards the one of the other of the at least one closed position, 3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second electrodes are rotated relative to each other so as to rotate relative to each other.

4. 4. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least first and second cam follower means (25', 25'') are integral with or removably coupled to the at least one first and one second stem (20', 20'') so as to define respective opposite ends (22', 22'').

5. 5. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising resilient reaction means (30) acting on one of said first and second cam follower means (25'') to urge them against the corresponding first or second cam means (210), the other of said first and second cam follower means (25') not having resilient reaction means.

6. The at least one first and one second stem (20', 20'') each comprises a respective first and second elastic reaction means (30) coaxially coupled thereto, the control means (1) having a respective second abutment surface (16), an abutment element (31) being fixed to the one of the at least one first and one second stem (20', 20'') including the corresponding first or second cam means (215, 210) and the respective first abutment surface (23).

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first and second elastic reaction means (30) are interposed between the respective first and second abutment surfaces (16, 23) so as to act on the one of the at least one first and one second stems (20', 20''), the abutment element (31) having at least one passage (32) for the other of the at least one first and one second stems (20', 20'').

7. 5. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein both said first and second cam follower means (25') are free of elastic reaction means.

8. 8. The device according to claim 1, wherein the control means (1) consists of a control unit (1) having a body (10) containing the at least one first and one second hydraulic working chambers (11, 12), the fluid connection line (15), the at least one adjusting element (40) and the at least one first and one second stems (20', 20'') are slidably inserted in a sealing manner into inlet ports (13', 14') of the first and second hydraulic working chambers (11, 12), respectively, and the control unit (1) is removably insertable into the at least one compartment (112).

9. 9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the hinge body (10) comprises a shell (111) into which the at least one pivot (200) and the control unit (1) can be inserted, the at least one pivot and the control unit (200, 1) being preferably removably insertable into the shell (111).

10. 10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the at least one adjusting element (40) comprises at least one threaded element (41) engaged with a nut screw (17) for widening / narrowing at least one passage section (15''') inserted in the fluid connection line (15), the at least one threaded element (41) having an empty end (4) which can be controlled externally by a user and an opposite end (41'') which is inserted in the fluid connection line (15).

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