Jig for aligning knuckles of door hinges

Abstract

The present invention discloses a method for aligning knuckles of door joints using a jig. The jig is formed such that it can be temporarily fixed to a leaf of the door joint that is installed on a door frame. The jig is shaped so that it will have a predetermined position with respect to the knuckle. The jig has a groove that can receive the counter knuckle installed on a door. The groove is positioned so that it aligns with the axis of the frame-side knuckle. By positioning the door-side knuckle in the groove, the axes are aligned, and the joint parts can be connected.

Description

Jig for aligning knuckles of door hingesTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The disclosed technology generally relates to a jig for aliging knuckles of door hinges.BACKGROUND

[0002] Door hinges are mechanical devices used to attach a door to its frame, allowing the door to swing open and closed. Door hinges commonly consist of two metal plates, commonly referred to as leafs or flaps. For each hinge, one leaf is attached to the frame where the door is to be installed and one leaf is attached to the door. Both leafs are joined together by placing a central pin inside a set of knuckles. Each leaf comprises a set of knuckles, which act as a pivot point, enabling the door to rotate smoothly.

[0003] Other types of door hinges include split hinges or loose-joint hinges. The frame- and door-side leafs of these types of hinges each only comprise a single knuckle with a pin being integrated into the frame-side knuckle.

[0004] Whichever type of hinge is being used to attach a door to its frame, installation of such door-hinge-frame setups is often a strenuous process, especially when performed by a single person. One challenge lies in the installation of the frame- and door-side leafs. These leafs have to be carefully positioned to avoid the door being misaligned, which may result in the door scratching either the floor or frame when opening and / or closing.

[0005] Another, but much more unaddressed, challenge rises after the frame- and door-side leafs have been installed, namely when aligning the frame- and door-side knuckles. The frame- and door-side knuckles have to be carefully aligned to allow for the central pin to be placed through them. Aligning these knuckles often involves lifting and carrying the door to an aligned position and placing the pin. When doing so, the user has to align the frame- and the door-side knuckles not only in the x-, y-, and z-directions, but also has to make sure that the door maintains a correct rotational alignment with the frame. Given that doors are often very heavy and comprise a difficult-to-carry shape, this task is virtually impossible to perform for a single (untrained) user.

[0006] Even though the introduction of split hinges has sought to improve the ease of alignment of knuckles by removing the need to place the central pin by incorporating it intothe frame-side leaf, the user is still required to actually align the knuckles. DE 2020- 08009019-U1 discloses a knuckles positioning aid with a central groove and slit in a generally flat panel. IT-UB20160016A1 discloses a knuckles positioning aid with a cylindrical receiving space that has longitudinal openings on opposite sides and with at least one acute mouth. DE 2021-017004953-U1 discloses a knuckles positioning aid with a receiving space that has a U-shaped cross-section and a single slit. NL 1036508 C2, EP 1041231-A2, DE 2970676-U1, DE 10-2011-1051580-B4 and ES 1071617-U disclose further knuckles positioning aids. All of the prior art positioning aids are arranged to aid in aligning a leaf with a pin or single knuckle.

[0007] The present invention aims to address the difficulty of aligning knuckles when installing door hinges by presenting a jig that allows a single user to perform this strenuous task.SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention relates to a jig and method for aligning knuckles of door joints. The jig is formed such that it can be temporarily fixed to a leaf of the door joint that is installed on a door frame. The jig is shaped so that it will have a predetermined position with respect to the knuckle. The jig comprises a body formed by two plate-like parts. Preferably the two plate-like parts are connected to each other via a connection line, such as a seam or bent. Such a jig forms a groove along the connection line of two plate-like parts. The groove / connection line positions the plate-like parts such that the one or more (counter) knuckles of the leaf installed on a door can be positioned and / or aligned and / or guided to engage the one or more knuckles of the leaf installed on the door frame. In embodiments, the jig is generally formed as an asymmetric body comprising, preferably consisting of two platelike parts. The two-plate-like parts can be of different surface areas. The jig can be formed from stainless steel. In embodiments, the jig comprises a first surface and a second surface connected to the first surface at angle, preferably of 70-135 degrees, more preferably about 90 degrees, wherein the receiving groove is formed between the first and second surface.

[0009] In embodiments, the jig allows aligning one or more knuckles of two parts of a door hinge. A door hinge can comprise at least one frame-side leaf having one or more knuckles and at least one door-side leaf having one or more knuckles. The door hinge can alsocomprise an axis pin. A two-or-more knuckles leaf can interlock with the knuckles of the counter leaf, by sidewardly shifting the knuckles into interlocking position.

[0010] In embodiments, the jig comprises a body having a first surface in which a first slit is formed between two fingers. In a jig comprising or consisting of two plate-like parts, the first plate-like part has a first surface in which a first slit is formed between two fingers. In embodiments, the first slit is arranged to receive a portion of the frame-side leaf. The slit and fingers are arranged to align the jig with the one or more knuckles of the frame-side leaf. The slit allows receiving a portion of the frame-side leaf and allows positioning the jig between the one or more knuckles and a mounting plate of the leaf. In embodiments, the first slit extends generally parallel to the connection line. The slit is positioned with respect to the groove so that the groove aligns with and / or parallel to the axis of the frame-side knuckle. In embodiments, the first slit and fingers are arranged to align the jig, and in particular the connection line, with the one or more knuckles of the frame-side leaf. In embodiments, the first slit is formed to obtain an asymmetric jig.

[0011] In embodiments, the body of the jig further comprises a receiving groove or connection line between two plate-like parts that extends parallel to the slit. The slit allows aligning the jig with the leaf and in particular with the axis of the knuckles. As the groove is aligned with the slit, the groove will be aligned with axis of the knuckles. The receiving groove is arranged for abutting the one or more knuckles of the door-side leaf of the door hinge, when the jig is installed over the frame-side leaf. By receiving knuckles of the frameside leaf part of the door hinge, the one or more counter knuckles of the door-side leaf can be guided by the groove. Such a jig allows, on the one hand, guiding and aligning the axis of a single knuckle leaf in the groove with the axis of the knuckle of the other frame-side leaf onto which the jig is positioned, and allows, on the other hand, to guiding two or more knuckles of a leaf into interlocking arrangements with the two or more knuckles of the other frame-side leaf onto which the jig is positioned.

[0012] The receiving groove can be a comer between two plate-like surfaces of the jig. The receiving groove has a length that is at least longer than the knuckles. In embodiments, both surfaces of the two plate-like parts on both sides of the connection line are arranged for guiding the one or more knuckle of the door-side leaf of the door hinge towards the connection line. By guiding the door-side one or more knuckles towards the connectionline / groove, and subsequently positioning the door-side knuckle in the groove, the groove and knuckle / knuckles axes are aligned. This will allow the joint parts to be connected.

[0013] In embodiments, the receiving groove is dimensioned according to a size of the door hinge. The receiving groove is positioned at a distance from the slit. In embodiments, the distance between slit and groove is dimensioned dependent on a cross-section of the knuckles of the door hinge.

[0014] In embodiments, the slit is formed to receive a part of the knuckles. In embodiments, the width of the slit is less than the diameter of the knuckles.

[0015] In embodiments, fingers have a thickness of less than 0.5cm. The fingers allow positioning the jig between the mounting plate of the leaf and the axis (formed by an opening or a pin) of the knuckles. In embodiment the thickness at least 0.1mm, preferably at least 0.5mm, less than a bridge between the one or more knuckles from a mounting plate of the frame-side leaf or door-side leaf of the door hinge.

[0016] In embodiments, the jig comprises a second slit. In embodiments, the second slit generally extends parallel to the first slit and wherein more preferably a distance between the first slit and the receiving groove differs from a distance between the second slit and the receiving groove.

[0017] In embodiments, the first slit and the second slit are formed in the same plate-like part of the body of the jig.

[0018] In embodiments, the first slit and / or the second slit are rectangular, preferably with rounded comers. In embodiments, the first or second slit is V-shaped. A V-shaped slit allows sliding the jig onto the leaf until further sliding is prevented / blocked.

[0019] In embodiments, the first slit and / or the second slit comprise a recess, extending the slit in a longitudinal direction, the recess having a width that is different from a width of the slit, wherein the recess is arranged to receive a second type of frame-side knuckles.

[0020] Aspects of the invention provide an assembly of door hinge and jig according to any of the disclosed embodiments. In embodiments, the door hinge may be any of the following different types of hinges: a regular hinge (such as a but hinge or piano hinges), a split hinge, lift-off hinge or loose-joint hinge (Paumelle). Embodiments of the invention, in particular the asymmetric jig comprising / consisting of two plate-like parts of which the surfaces from guiding surfaces for one or more knuckles towards the connection line / groove, allows to use the jig in combination with these three different types of hinges. The door hinge can compriseat least one frame-side leaf having one or more knuckles and at least one door-side leaf having one or more knuckles. The door hinge can also comprise an axis pin. In embodiments, the axis pin can be part of the knuckle, such as for lift-off or loose-joint hinges. The one or more knuckles can have an opening for receiving the axis pin. The axis pin is arranged to join aligned one or more knuckles of the frame side leaf and one or more knuckles of the door side leaf.

[0021] In embodiments, the frame-side leaf and / or the door-side leaf have a mounting plate for mounting the part to a door frame and / or door respectively, wherein the one or more knuckles extend away from the mounting plate.

[0022] According to further aspects a method for aligning knuckles of a door hinge is disclosed. The door hinge comprises at least one frame-side leaf having one or more knuckles and at least one door-side leaf having one or more knuckles.

[0023] In embodiments, the method comprises connecting a mounting plate of the frameside leaf to a door frame, the one or more knuckles extending away / protruding from the mounting plate. The hinging door is to be supported by the frame-side leaf.

[0024] In embodiments, the method further comprises connecting a mounting plate of the door-side leaf to a door, the one or more knuckles extending away from the mounting plate. The door will be able to pivot with the knuckles of the respective leafs are connected to each other via the axis pin.

[0025] In embodiments, the method comprises providing a jig having a slit and a receiving groove. In embodiments, an asymmetric jig is provided. The asymmetric jig can be formed by or consisting of two plate-like parts connected via a connection line. The two plate-like parts are positioned at an 70-135 degrees angle with respect to each other, preferably about 90 degrees. In embodiments, the first plate-like part having a first slit extending generally parallel to the connection line. In embodiments, the jig is positioned between the mounting plate and knuckles of the frame-side leaf of the door hinge by receiving a portion of the frame-side leaf in the slit of the jig. The slit will result in the jig taking on a predetermined position with respect to the frame-side leaf and in particular with respect to the axis of the knuckles.

[0026] In embodiments, the one or more knuckles of the door-side leaf are aligned with the one or more knuckles of the frame-side leaf by guiding the one or more knuckles of the door side leaf towards the connection line (or receiving groove) by either surfaces of the two plate-like parts. Guidance is provided because, by mounting the jig onto the door frame leaf, the two plate-like parts act as a gutter. The two-plate like parts act as a guide for the door-side leaf having one knuckle, such as a loose-joint (Paumelle) hinge as well as for leaf having multiple knuckles. The surface guide the one or more knuckles to align the door-side and frame-side leafs. The surfaces can provide a guide for the knuckles of the to-be-installed door. Independent of the angle of approach of the one or more knuckles of the door-side leaf, the surfaces will guide the one or more knuckles towards the connection line or receiving groove. The groove can help align the knuckles of the door-side leaf with the knuckles of the frame-side leaf. In case of a loose-joint (Paumelle), the knuckle will align with the pin and the hinge can be connected. In case of a but or piano hinge, the knuckles will be guided by the surface to allow interlocking of those knuckles. In embodiments, the groove extends generally parallel to the slit. The slit is shaped so at the be positioned on the frame-side leaf in a direction that generally corresponds with the axis of the knuckles of the frame-side leaf.

[0027] In embodiments, the method further comprises providing an axis pin and placing the axis pin through the at least one frame-side knuckle and the at least one door-side knuckle.

[0028] The above and the following present a basic understanding to those of skill in the art. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure and is not intended to identify key / critical elements of embodiments of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. The sole purpose of this summary is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0029] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, showing several embodiments of the invention. However, this invention should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Embodiments will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:FIG. la-d show an example embodiment of a jig for aligning knuckles of door hinges; FIG. le shows an example embodiment of a door hinge;FIG. 2 shows an example embodiment of a method for aligning frame-side knuckles with door-side knuckles of a regular hinge; andFIG. 3 shows an example embodiment of a method for aligning frame-side knuckles with door-side knuckles of a split hinge;DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] For simplicity and illustrative purposes, the present invention is described by referring mainly to exemplary embodiments thereof. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In this description, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

[0031] FIG. la-d shows an example embodiment of ajig 100 for aligning knuckles of door hinges 199. An example of a piano door hinge 199 is shown in FIG. le.

[0032] Door hinge 199 may either be a regular hinge, a split hinge, or loose-joint hinge. Regular door hinge 199 comprises two leafs: frame-side leaf 101 and door-side leaf 102. The two leafs of hinge 199 may be used interchangeably, meaning that either hinge may be a frame-side leaf or a door-side leaf.

[0033] Frame- and door-side leafs 101 and 102 are separate parts that may be attached, screwed, bolted, and / or bolted to a door and / or a door frame for receiving a door. To attach frame- and door-side leafs 101 and 102 to a door frame and / or door, one or more holes 103 and 104 are provided on mounting plates of the frame- and door-side leafs 101 and 102 respectively. Holes 103 and 104 are arranged to receive a screw or bolt for attaching frame- and door-side leafs 101 and 102 to a frame or door respectively.

[0034] Frame- and door-side leafs 101 and 102 each further comprise one or more knuckles: frame-side knuckles 105 and door-side knuckles 106 respectively. In this embodiment frame-side knuckles 105 and door-side knuckles 106 are made up of a hollow cylindrical parts arranged to receive a axis pin 107. Axis pin 107 works as an axis along which frame- and door-side leafs 101 and 102 may rotate with the door opening and closing.

[0035] Frame- and / or door-side knuckles 105 and / or 106 may each comprise only a single knuckle, commonly at least two knuckles. Most often, either the set of frame-side knuckles105 or set of door-side knuckles 106 comprises three knuckles, whereas the other set of knuckles comprises two knuckles. This is shown in FIG. le, where the three hatched knuckles 106 are part of door-side leaf 102 and the two non-hatched knuckles 105 are part of frame-side leaf 101.

[0036] After attaching frame-side leaf 101 to the door frame and door-side leaf 102 to the door, both leafs may be connected together by placement of central pin 107. To place central pin 107, the set of frame-side knuckles 105 and the set of door-side knuckles 106 have to be aligned such that the hollow openings of the knuckles are all capable of receiving central pin107 at the same time in a single unobstructed motion. In case that the set of frame-side knuckles 105 and the set of door-side knuckles 106 are not properly aligned, central pin 107 will be able to enter the first knuckle it engages, but will be obstructed by the second misaligned knuckle it tries to enter. This either leads to a failed installation attempt or will require finetuning of the knuckle-alignment, which is difficult for a single user to perform.

[0037] Besides regular hinge 199, other types of hinges exist, namely split hinges or loosejoint hinges. The frame- and door-side leafs of these types of hinges each only comprise a single knuckle with an upstanding pin being integrated into the frame-side knuckle. In turn, the door-side knuckle of such hinges comprises a hollow opening arranged to receive the upstanding pin of the frame-side knuckle. In these types of hinges, the need for manually placing a pin is removed. Instead, the frame-side knuckle and door-side knuckle have to be aligned and placed on top of each other, which is still a difficult task for a single user to perform.

[0038] To address the aligning of knuckles of frame-side leafs and door-side leafs of different types of door joints, asymmetric jig 100 is provided. FIG. la is a perspective view of jig 100. FIG. lb is a side view of jig 100. FIG. 1c is a further side view of jig 100. FIG. Id is atop view of jig 100.

[0039] Jig 100 according to this embodiment is formed from, preferably consists of, a metal plate and comprises first surface 108 and second surface 109 connected via comer 111, thereby forming an L-shaped structure when looking at jig 100 from atop-view.

[0040] First and second surfaces 108 and 109 are preferably substantially flat and square, but may also comprise curved surfaces that have other geometries. First and second surfaces108 and 109 intersect and are connected by comer 111, extending as a connection line between the two plate-like surfaces. The surfaces 108,109 can be of different sizes / surfacearea. As shown, surface 109 is larger than surface area 108. By providing different surface areas, the jig 100 is shaped asymmetrical.

[0041] First and second surfaces 108 and 109 may be perpendicular to each other, resulting in a comer 111 that is 90 degrees, but may also be smaller or larger, preferably 70-135 degrees. The inside of comer 111 may be sharp, but may also be rounded or curved.

[0042] Jig 100 may be manufactured from metals, such as (stainless) steel, but may also be made from wood and plastics.

[0043] First surface 108 of jig 100 comprises slit 110. Slit 110 forms a guide that is provided in first surface 108. By forming slit 110, two fingers 110a, 110b are formed in the first surface. By providing a slit in at most one surface of the plate-like surfaces 108,109, preferably in the smaller first surface 108, an asymmetric jig is provided.

[0044] Slit 110 extends generally straight in a first direction 120. Slit 110 preferably has a rectangular shape, optionally with rounded comers.

[0045] Slit 110 has a width 121. The width 121 is preferably smaller than 2 cm, more preferably 1 cm. The slit 110 has a length 122. The length is preferably larger than 2 cm, preferably larger than 3 cm.

[0046] Slit 110 extends generally parallel to the comer 111, which forms a receiving groove. Slit 110 and receiving groove 111 extends generally parallel to arrow 120.

[0047] Slit 110 is arranged to receive a part of the frame-side leaf 101. Slit 110 can be positioned between the mounting plate with holes 103 and knuckles 105. Slit 110 has a width 121 smaller than a width of the knuckles of hinge 199. The width 121 can be such that a part of the knuckle is received in the slit.

[0048] Slit 110 can slide between frame-side leaf 101 and frame-side knuckles 105, while at the same time being constrained by frame-side knuckles 105. To allow the jig 100 to be placed between mounting plate and knuckles, the first surface has a thickness of less than 2mm, preferably less than 1mm.

[0049] To accommodate for knuckle diameters with varying widths, slit 110 may comprise an extension or recess 113 formed at the end of slit 110. Second slit or recess 113 has a smaller width than width 121 of slit 110. In embodiments the second slit or recess 113 can be positioned offset from the central axis of slit 110 (so sidewards according to arrow 122).

[0050] In embodiment, the second slit or recess 113 is moved closer to the second surface 109. In embodiments, the second slit or recess 113 is used for classical hinges, like hinge 199.In a classical hinge, the knuckle 105 is directly connected to leaf 102, offering a small width for the slit to be positioned over. The wider slit 110 can be used for being positioned over the connection or bridge between a knuckle and plate of a split hinge or loose-joint hinge.

[0051] In embodiments, the slit 110 or 113 can be formed V-shaped, converging to the end of the slit. This allows positioning the open mouth of the slit between mounting plate and knuckles and moving the jig between the mounting plate and knuckles until the width of the V-shaped slit blocks further movement.

[0052] Recess 113 may be similarly shaped as slit 110, but with a smaller length and width. The length of slit 110 may be twice as large as the length of recess 113, The ratio of depth between slit 110 and recess 113 may be 50 / 50, but other configurations are possible, such as 60 / 40, 70 / 30, 80 / 20, 90 / 10, and any other ratio in between these ratios.

[0053] Instead of having a single recess 113, in some embodiments, another recess may be provided inside recess 113 to accommodate even more different knuckle diameters.

[0054] Besides slit 110, a second slit may be provided on surface 108 opposite to slit 110. Depending on the orientation of the door that is to be installed, specifically on which side of the door the hinges are to be installed, either slit 110 or second slit may be placed to receive frame-side knuckles 105.

[0055] As shown in the top-view of FIG. Id, a centreline of slit 110 on first surface 108 is located at a distance 112 from second surface 109 / comer / receiving groove 111. Distance 112 is dimensioned such that the distance allows positioning the knuckles of the frame-side leaf 101 close / adjacent / in the receiving groove. The axis through the one or more knuckles of the frame-side leaf will extend parallel to receiving groove 111 when the slit receives the frame-side leaf.

[0056] In case of large knuckles, the distance 112 is increased. Generally, distance 112 is larger than the radius of the knuckle, preferably at least 1mm or at least 2.5mm larger than the radius of the knuckle. Generally, the distance 112 is minimised to allow receiving the knuckles in the receiving groove. In an assembly of jig 100 and door joint 199, the distance 112 in the jig 100 is dimensioned (at least 1mm oversized) in accordance with the size of the knuckle(s) of the joint 199.

[0057] As will be shown in more detail in Figures 2a-2f, positioning the door-side knuckles 106 in the proximity of receiving groove 111, will allow to align door-side knuckles 106 in the receiving groove 111 and thus align those knuckles 106 with frame-side knuckles 105.

[0058] By sliding jig 100 over the connection between frame-side knuckles 105 and the mounting plate of frame-side leaf 101 of door hinge 199, jig 100 is temporarily positioned on the frame-side leaf 101.

[0059] Multiple frame-side leafs 101 can be connected to the frame. The knuckles of the multiple frame-side leafs 101 are mounted such that they all align their axis with arrow 120. Each of the frame-side leafs can receive a jig 100. The multiple jigs 100 will each have a receiving groove 111 and those respective receiving grooves will be aligned with each other along arrow 120. Each of the receiving grooves of the respective jigs will form an abutment surface for the knuckles of respective door-side leafs. By bringing multiple door-side leafs into abutment with the respective receiving grooves, the door as whole will assume a position in which the knuckles of the door-side leafs become aligned with the knuckles of the frameside leafs.

[0060] By positioning jig 100 over frame-side leafs 101, receiving groove 111 of jig 100 forms an abutment surface for door-side knuckles 106. In doing so, the frame-side knuckles 105 will be aligned with door-side knuckles 106. An overview of this engagement and alignment is provided in FIG. 2.

[0061] FIGs. 2A-2F show an example embodiment of a method 200 for aligning frame-side knuckles 204 with door-side knuckles 206 of a regular door hinge. FIGs 2a-2f will illustrate a door 208 in a door frame 205 connected via a regular door hinge. The regular door hinge comprises at least three parts: frame-side part 203, door-side part 207 and an axis pin 209.

[0062] In this method 200, there is provided a door frame 205. Door frame 205 will generally be rectangular. Only one standing frame bar 205 is shown in FIGs 2a-2f The door frame 205 will surround a pivoting door 208. Other (non-pivoting) kinds of joints are also possible to be installed. Door frame 205 is often made of wood, which allows easy installation of a hinge that is needed to install door 208.

[0063] When using regular door hinges, frame-side leaf 203 may be installed on an edge of frame 205 that faces door 208, as shown in FIG. 2A. Attachment of frame-side leaf 203 to frame 205 may be performed by driving screws or bolts through holes provided in frame-side leaf 203. Similarly, door-side leaf 207 may be attached to door 208 by driving screws or bolts through holes provided in door-side leaf 207.

[0064] The leafs 203, 207 are connected to their respective parts. To create a functioning hinge, the axis pin needs to be inserted through the openings in the respective knuckles. Toallow placement of axis pin 209, frame side knuckles 204 and door-side knuckles 206 have to be aligned. To overcome this challenge, jig 201 is provided. Jig 201 has many similarities with jig 100 of FIGs. la-ld.

[0065] Jig 201 comprises two main surfaces 201a, 201b, connected at an angle. The connecting line between the two surfaces forms a receiving groove 210. The first surface 201a of jig 201 comprises a slit 202 formed between two fingers 202a, 202b. The slit 202 is arranged to receive frame-side knuckles 204. The receiving groove 210 of jig 201 is arranged to form an abutment surface for door-side knuckles 206.

[0066] Connection line / receiving groove 210 and slit 202 are generally aligned. As a result, mounting the jig 201 onto the knuckles extending away from the mounting plate of the leaf 203, the receiving groove will be aligned with the axis of the knuckles.

[0067] By guiding the door-side knuckles 206 by either surfaces 20 la, 20 lb on either side of the connecting line towards the receiving groove 210 of jig 201, the door-side knuckles can interlock with frame-side knuckles 204, due to the geometry of jig 201. Both surface guide the door-side knuckles towards the knuckles held in the slit.

[0068] FIG. 2A shows one step of the method 200 for aligning frame-side knuckles 204 with door-side knuckles 206. Method 200 comprises sliding, according to arrow 220, jig 201 onto frame-side leaf 201. Slit 202 receives the portion 203 of the leaf connecting the mounting plate of leaf 201 with knuckles 204. Depending on the length of slit 202, slit 202 may either fully surround frame-side knuckles 204 or partly surround them. In any case, sliding slit 202 onto frame-side knuckles 204 comprises bringing the jig 201, and in particular receiving groove 210, in a predetermined position with respect to the frame-side knuckles 204. Jig 201 is constrained in 4 or 5 directions. One direction of freedom in accordance with arrow 220 remains. By engaging door-side knuckles 206 with jig 201, the jig, and especially the two plate-like surfaces 20 la, 20 lb, is arranged work as a stop for guiding door-side knuckles 206 to a position where they are aligned with frame-side knuckles 204.

[0069] FIG. 2B shows a top view in which jig 201 can be seen mounted on top of frameside knuckles 204 extending away from the mounting plate of leaf 203. Mounting plate 203 is connected to door frame 205. It is noted that mounting the leaf 203 can be done in many different ways. In most embodiments, the mounting plate 203 will be received in a recess formed in the door frame. In order to more clearly show the invention, such a recessed position of the mounting plate is not shown in the Figures.

[0070] FIG. 2b also shows knuckle 204 at a distance from the door frame. It will however be understood that the slit 202 can be formed so that it receives a part of the knuckle that faces the mounting plate of the leaf.

[0071] The thickness of the first surface 201a in which slit 202 is formed is such that the first surface can be positioned between door frame 205 and the opening in the knuckles that will receive the axis pin 209.

[0072] The width of slit 202 is smaller than the diameter of frame-side knuckles 204, thereby trapping jig 201 between frame 205 and frame-side knuckles 204. In embodiments, the slit is about 4-10mm, preferably 6-9mm, more preferably 7-8mm wide. Preferably the middle of the slit is positioned about 4-9mm, preferably 5-7, 5mm, more preferably 6-6, 5mm away from the connection line 210.

[0073] By sliding slit 202 of the first surface of the jig 201 onto frame-side knuckles 204, the first surface of jig 201 stands parallel to the axis of the knuckles 204. The receiving groove 210 of jig 201 stands similarly parallel to the axis of the knuckles.

[0074] In embodiments the second surface 201b is formed perpendicular to first surface 201a. In some embodiments, the angle between the first- and second surfaces 201 a, b of jig 201 may be smaller or larger than 90 degrees, resulting in the second surface of jig 201 not standing perpendicular to frame 205.

[0075] FIG. 2C shows a top view with door 208. FIG. 2C shows door 208 only partially and in cross section. Door 208 is provided with one or more door-side leafs 207 from which doorside knuckles 206 extend away. To install the door hinge that connects frame 205 with door 208, frame-side knuckles 204 and door-side knuckles 206 are aligned, allowing placement of axis pin 209.

[0076] After positioning slit 202 of jig 201 onto frame-side knuckles 204, door-side knuckles 206 may be moved in the general direction of receiving groove 210. Independent of the angle of approach, the first- and second surfaces of jig 201 are relatively large surfaces, the user merely has to reach either surface of jig 201. The surfaces 201a, 201b then act as guides to bring the knuckles towards the comer / connection line 210.

[0077] As such, method 200 further comprises engaging door-side knuckles 206 with comer 210 that connects the first and second surfaces of jig 201. This engaging step may either comprise first engaging the first and / or second surfaces of jig 201, or directly engaging groove 210 of jig 201. After engaging either surface of jig 201, door-side knuckles 206 areguided towards the groove 210 of jig 201 by pushing door 208 in the general direction of jig 201. During guidance by the surfaces 201a,201b the door may be lifted or lowered to align the knuckles to interlock into each other before allowing the knuckles to reach the connection line / receiving groove 210.

[0078] Subsequently to the first contact of the door-side knuckles with the jig, the movement of the door 208 as a whole will be guided toward the receiving groove 210. When the knuckles 206 abut the surface 201a or 201b, and in particular with knuckles 206 of multiples door-side leafs abut the respective surfaces 201a or 201b of respective jigs 201 placed on the respective frame-side leafs, the aligning with door-side knuckles 204 is in operation. The open structure of the two-plate parts jig 201 allows the shifting movement of the interlocking knuckles.

[0079] FIG. 2D shows the door-side knuckles 206 in groove 210. The axis of the door-side knuckles is generally aligned with the axis of the frame-side knuckles. For pivot joins having multiple frame side knuckles 204 and door-side knuckles 206 as the one shown in FIGs 2A- 2F, the use is to bring the door-side knuckles 206 at the desired height so that the frame side knuckles 204 and door-side knuckles 206 get between each other.

[0080] By providing the guidance and alignment, the user position the door using a single hand, which frees up its second hand to place axis pin 209, which is shown in FIG. 2E. The user can also use an auxiliary jig for holding the door in the aligned position.

[0081] Placement of axis pin 209 may comprise sliding central pin 209 through the firame- and door-side knuckles 204 and 206. It may further comprise fastening central pin 209 using a nut. To finish installation of door 208 inside frame 205, jig 201 may be removed by sliding jig 201 off in direction 221 of the installed hinge, as shown in FIG. 2F. For illustrative purposes, door 208 is not shown in FIG 2F.

[0082] The same jig 201 may also be used for aligning a frame-side knuckle with a doorside knuckle of a split hinge, lift-off or loose-joint hinge (Paumelle joint). FIGs. 3A-3E show an example embodiment of a method 300 for aligning frame-side knuckle 304 with door-side knuckle 306 of a split hinge. Split- and loose-joint hinges comprise a single knuckle 304 on the frame-side and a single knuckle 306 on the door-side. The frame-side knuckle 304 further comprises an integrated upstanding pin 311 onto which door-side knuckle 306 can be slid.

[0083] Whereas knuckles and the leafs of regular hinges are commonly directly connected to each other, split- and loose-joint hinges commonly comprise frame-side connector (orbridge) 312 and door-side connector (or bridge) 313. The connectors 312,313 connect the respective leafs 303 / 307 with the respective knuckles 304 / 306 respectively. When using split- and loose-joint hinges, slit 302 of jig 301 is slid onto frame-side connector 312.

[0084] FIG. 3 A shows one step of the method 300 for aligning frame-side knuckle 204 with door-side knuckle 306 of a split hinge or loose-joint hinge. Method 300 comprises sliding slit 302 of jig over frame-side connector 312, in between the mounting plate and frame-side knuckle 304 of leaf 303.

[0085] By sliding 320 slit 302 onto frame-side leaf 303, the jig consisting of two plate-like surfaces 301a-301b is brought into a predetermined position with respect to the knuckle 304. Jig 301 is constrained in every direction except for in direction 320 / 321. By engaging doorside knuckle 306 with jig 301, the jig is arranged work as a stop for guiding door-side knuckle 306 to a position where it is aligned with frame-side knuckle 304. Receiving groove 310 will extend generally parallel to the axis of the knuckle 304.

[0086] FIG. 3B shows a top view in which jig 301 can be seen slid on frame-side leaf 303. By sliding slit 302 onto leaf 303, the first surface 301a of jig 301 stands parallel to frame 305. Groove 310 will extend generally along frame 305.

[0087] FIG. 3C shows a top view in which door 308 is brought into proximity with the frame 305. Door 308 has door-side leaf 307 from which door-side knuckle 306 protrudes. Door-side connector 313 bridges the distance between knuckle and mounting plate. To install the door hinge that connects frame 305 with door 308, frame-side knuckle 304 and door-side knuckle 306 are aligned. After sliding slit 302 onto frame-side leaf 303, door-side knuckle 306 may be moved in the general direction of frame-side knuckle 304 and receiving groove 310.

[0088] Either of the first- and second surfaces 301a-301b of jig 301 will guide the door-side knuckle 306 towards the groove 310 of jig 301 by pushing door 208 in the general direction of jig 301.

[0089] After the door-side knuckle 306 is guided to and abuts groove 310, door-side knuckle 306 are forced in a final position in which they are aligned with frame-side knuckle 304, shown in FIG. 3D. Advantageously, the user is now only required to slightly lower door 308 such that upstanding pin 311 enters door-side knuckle 306. After upstanding pin 311 enters door-side knuckle 306, installation is completed.

[0090] As a last step, jig 301 may be removed by sliding jig 301 off according to arrow 321 of the installed hinge, as shown in FIG. 3E. For illustrative purposes, door 308 is not shown in FIG 3E.

[0091] The method of aligning and interlocking a door hinge using a jig 201, 301 as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3 show that the jig according to the invention can be used together with both a Paumelle door hinge (Figure 3) and a piano door hinge (Figure 2). This is the result of both surfaces 201a, 201b and 301a, 301b of the jig 201, 301 being arranged to guide the knuckle or knuckles of the door-side leaf towards the connection line 210, 310, while the same slit 302 is used for positioning the jig over the frame-side leaf. The asymmetric shape of jig 201, 301 results in first plate-like part 201a,301a being arranged to guide the one or more knuckles to the connection line and having a slit for receiving the frame-side leaf. The second plate-like part 201b, 301b is arranged to guide the one or more knuckles to the connection line and, preferably, does not have a slit. The jig 201,301 preferably consists of two plate-like parts

[0092] The present invention may, of course, be carried out in other ways than those specifically set forth herein without departing from essential characteristics of the invention. The present embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and all changes coming within the meaning and equivalency range of the appended claims are intended to be embraced therein.

[0093] The invention is described in the following clauses.

[0094] Clause 1. A jig for aligning knuckles of a door hinge that comprises at least one frame-side leaf having one or more knuckles and at least one door-side leaf having one or more knuckles, wherein the jig comprises a body having a first surface in which a first slit is formed between two fingers, wherein the first slit is arranged to receive a portion of the frame-side leaf, wherein the slit and fingers are arranged to align the jig with the one or more knuckles of the frame-side leaf, wherein the body of the jig further comprises a receiving groove that extends parallel to the slit, wherein the receiving groove is arranged for abutting the one or more knuckles of the door-side leaf of the door hinge.

[0095] Clause 2. The jig of clause 1 , wherein a distance between the between the parallel extending slit and receiving groove is dimensioned according to a size of the door hinge.

[0096] Clause 3. The jig of any of clause 2, wherein the distance is preferably dependent on a cross-section of the knuckles of the door hinge.

[0097] Clause 4. The jig of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the fingers have a thickness that is at least 0.1mm, preferably at least 0.5mm, less than an extension of the one or more knuckles from a mounting plate of the frame-side leaf or door-side leaf of the door hinge.

[0098] Clause 5. The jig of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the jig comprises a second slit, wherein preferably the second slit generally extends parallel to the first slit and wherein more preferably a distance between the first slit and the receiving groove differs from a distance between the second slit and the receiving groove; and / or the first slit and the second slit are formed in the same plate like part of the body; and / or the first slit and / or the second slit are rectangular, preferably with rounded comers; and / or the first slit and / or the second slit comprise a recess arranged to receive a second type of frame-side knuckles.

[0099] Clause 6. The jig of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the jig is generally formed as a plate, e.g. formed from stainless steel, and comprises a second surface connected to the first surface at angle, preferably of 70-135 degrees, more preferably about 90 degrees, wherein the receiving groove is formed between the first and second surface.

[0100] Clause 7. Kit of part of a door hinge and a jig according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the door hinge comprises: an axis pin, at least one frame-side leaf having one or more knuckles and at least one door-side leaf having one or more knuckles, wherein the axis pin is arranged to join aligned one or more knuckles of the frame side leaf and one or more knuckles of the door side leaf.

[0101] Clause 8. Assembly according to clause 7, wherein the frame-side leaf and / or the door-side leaf have a mounting plate for mounting the part to a door frame and / or door respectively, wherein the one or more knuckles extend away from the mounting plate.

[0102] Clause 9. A method for aligning knuckles of a door hinge that comprises at least one frame-side leaf having one or more knuckles and at least one door-side leaf having one or more knuckles, the method comprising: connecting a mounting plate of the frame-side leaf to a door frame, the one or more knuckles extending away from the mounting plate; connecting a mounting plate of the door-side leaf to a door, the one or more knuckles extending away from the mounting plate; providing a jig having a slit and a receiving groove; positioning the jig between the mounting plate and knuckles of the frame-side leaf of the door hinge byreceiving a portion of the frame-side leaf in the slit of the jig; aligning the one or more knuckles of the door-side leaf with the one or more knuckles of the frame-side leaf by abutting and guiding the one or more knuckles of the door-side leaf in the receiving groove.

[0103] Clause 10. The method of clause 9, further comprising providing an axis pin and placing the axis pin through the at least one frame-side knuckle and the at least one door-side knuckle.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A jig for aligning knuckles of a door hinge that comprises at least one frame-side leaf having one or more knuckles and at least one door-side leaf having one or more knuckles, wherein the jig comprises a body formed by two plate-like parts, wherein the two plate-like parts are connected to each other via a connection line, such as a seam or bent, which positions the two-plate-like parts at an angle between 70-135 degrees, preferably at a perpendicular angle, wherein the first plate-like part has a first surface in which a first slit is formed between two fingers, wherein the first slit extends generally parallel to the connection line and is arranged to receive a portion of the frame-side leaf, wherein the first slit and fingers are arranged to align the jig with the one or more knuckles of the frame-side leaf, wherein the first slit is formed to obtain an asymmetric jig, wherein both surfaces of the two plate-like parts on both sides of the connection line are arranged for guiding the one or more knuckle of the door-side leaf of the door hinge towards the connection line.

2. The jig of claim 1, wherein a distance (112) between a central line of the first slit and connection line is 5-8 mm, preferably 5,5-7 mm, more preferably 6-7 mm.

3. The jig of claim 1, wherein a distance between the first slit and the connection line is dimensioned according to a size of the door hinge, wherein the distance is preferably dependent on a cross-section of the knuckles of the door hinge.

4. The jig of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first plate-like part has a thickness of about 0,3mm-2mm, wherein preferably the fingers have a thickness that is at least 0.1mm, preferably at least 0.5mm, less than an extension of the one or more knuckles from a mounting plate of the frame-side leaf or door-side leaf of the door hinge, wherein preferably the asymmetric jig consists of two-plate like parts.

5. The jig of any of the preceding claims, wherein the jig comprises a second slit,wherein preferably- the second slit generally extends parallel to the first slit and wherein more preferably a distance between the first slit and the receiving groove differs from a distance between the second slit and the receiving groove; and / or- the first slit and the second slit are formed in the first plate-like part of the body; and / or- the first slit and / or the second slit are rectangular, preferably with rounded comers; and / or- the first slit and / or the second slit comprise a recess, formed at an end of the slit away from a mouth of the slit formed on an edge of the plate-like part, wherein the recess is arranged to receive a second type of frame-side knuckles.

6. The jig of any of the preceding claims, wherein the jig is generally formed from a plate, e.g. formed from stainless steel by bending.

7. Kit of part of a door hinge and a jig according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the door hinge comprises: at least one frame-side leaf having one or more knuckles and at least one door-side leaf having one or more knuckles, wherein the door hinge preferably comprises an axis pin that is arranged to join aligned one or more knuckles of the frame side leaf and one or more knuckles of the door side leaf.

8. Assembly according to claim 7, wherein the frame-side leaf and / or the door-side leaf have a mounting plate for mounting the part to a door frame and / or door respectively, wherein the one or more knuckles extend away from the mounting plate.

9. A method for aligning knuckles of a door hinge that comprises at least one frame-side leaf having one or more knuckles and at least one door-side leaf having one or more knuckles, the method comprising: connecting a mounting plate of the frame-side leaf to a door frame, the one or more knuckles extending away from the mounting plate;connecting a mounting plate of the door-side leaf to a door, the one or more knuckles extending away from the mounting plate; providing an asymmetric jig formed by, preferably consisting of, two plate-like parts connected via a connection line, such that the two plate-like parts are positioned at an 70-135 degrees angle with respect to each other, preferably about 90 degrees, the first plate-like part having a first slit extending generally parallel to the connection line; positioning the jig between the mounting plate and the one or more knuckles of the frame-side leaf of the door hinge by receiving a portion of the frame-side leaf in the slit of the jig; - guiding the one or more knuckles of the door-side leaf by either surfaces of the platelike parts towards the connection line, thereby aligning the one or more knuckles of the door-side leaf with the one or more knuckles of the frame-side leaf.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising providing an axis pin and placing the axis pin through the at least one frame-side knuckle and the at least one door-side knuckle.

Images