Hinge arrangement for tip-over prevention of furniture

Abstract

A hinge arrangement (200) for tip-over prevention of furniture (10) is provided. The hinge arrangement (200) comprises a frame (14) and at least one door (12) connected to said frame (14) by the hinge arrangement (200), wherein the hinge arrangement (200) comprises a frame part (220), a door part (204), and a support part (202) allowing the frame part (220) or door part (204) to float vertically relative the respective frame (14) or door (12) thereby causing a downward movement of the door (12) during opening.

Description

[0001] HINGE ARRANGEMENT FOR TIP-OVER PREVENTION OF FURNITURE

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention refers to a hinge arrangement for tip-over prevention of furniture, and furniture comprising such a hinge arrangement.

[0004] Technical background

[0005] Preventing tip-over of furniture such as wardrobes and cabinets with swing doors presents several significant challenges. A primary concern is the inherent instability and weight distribution of these often tall and comparatively narrow furniture items. Due to their high centre of gravity, these units are more prone to tipping over, particularly when the weight distribution shifts as doors are opened. This alteration in balance can cause the furniture to topple if it is not adequately secured.

[0006] Moreover, interaction with the environment exacerbates the risk of tip- over. As described the act of opening swing doors of a furniture piece can introduce instability. When doors are opened forcefully or multiple doors are opened simultaneously, the resultant outward force can destabilize the furniture, especially if the contents shift forward. Additionally, the presence of children and pets introduces unpredictable forces that further increase the risk. Children may climb on or pull at open doors, and pets may jump against or into the furniture, both actions significantly raising the likelihood of tip-over incidents.

[0007] The effectiveness of presently known anchoring mechanisms can vary significantly depending on the wall type and installation quality. For instance, drywall requires specific anchors that may not be as secure as those used for plaster or concrete walls. If the anchoring hardware is inadequate or improperly installed, it can fail, leading to hazardous tip-over situations.

[0008] Given these challenges, there is a clear need for improved tip-over prevention strategies.

[0009] Summary

[0010] An object of the present invention is to provide a new type of hinge arrangement which is improved over prior art and which eliminates or at least mitigates the drawbacks discussed above. More specifically, an object of the invention is to provide a hinge arrangement that mitigates and / or prevents the tip-over of furniture. These objects are achieved by the technique set forth in the appended independent claims with preferred embodiments defined in the dependent claims related thereto.

[0011] Internal In a first aspect, a hinge arrangement for tip-over prevention of furniture is provided. The furniture comprises a frame and at least one door connected to said frame by the hinge arrangement, wherein the hinge arrangement comprises a frame part, a door part, and a support part allowing the frame part or door part to float vertically relative the respective frame or door thereby causing a downward movement of the door during opening. Further, the hinge arrangement may comprise a linkage connecting the frame to the door and configured to raise the door upwards when it is closed. This is advantageous since the door may be in a lowered position only when it is opened. A lower position of the door may also lower the centre of gravity of the furniture, thus stabilizing it. Furthermore the lowered door is positioned closer to the floor on which the furniture is placed, meaning that the door will make contact with the floor earlier during a tip-over event forming a bracing and preventing the tip-over.

[0012] One of said frame part or door part may be fixedly attached to the associated frame or door, and the other one of said frame part or door part may be movably attached to the associated frame or door via the support part. This simplifies the construction, as only one part is movably attached.

[0013] The linkage may have a fixed length. This may be advantageous since, as the door closes the horizontal distance between the ends of the linkage may decrease. Therefore a vertical projection, i.e. the vertical distance between the ends of the linkage may increase to accommodate the fixed length of the linkage. The linkage may thereby push the door upwards as the door is closed.

[0014] The linkage may be connected to a fixed position at the door and to a fixed position at the frame. This may be advantageous as it may facilitate the linkage to push the door upward as the door is closed as described above.

[0015] One end of the linkage may comprises a first connector and the other end of the linkage may comprises a second connector, wherein the first connector may be configured to engage a third connector arranged on the door and the second connector may be configured to engage a fourth connector arranged on the frame. This may be advantageous since the connectors help form a connection between the door and frame by means of the linkage.

[0016] The first and third connector and / or the second and fourth connector in one embodiment form a ball and socket joint. This is advantageous since the ball and socket joint allows for smooth rotation around multiple axes without excessive tear on the joint itself. The ball and socket joint may thereby extend the lifetime of the hinge arrangement. Furthermore it may enable smooth operation

[0017] Internal of the hinge arrangement as it may enable the door to move rotationally and vertically in a smooth, simultaneous motion.

[0018] The third connector or fourth connector may be arranged on the support part, and the other of the third connector and fourth connector may be connected to the frame part or door part not being floatingly supported by the support part. This is advantageous since it may ease the installation of the hinge arrangement as the connectors are arranged on well-defined positions of the hinge arrangement. It may also reduce the number of holes necessary in the frame either formed during manufacture of the furniture or created by a user installing a piece of furniture with the hinge arrangement.

[0019] The support part may comprise a C profile fixedly attached to the door or frame. This is advantageous as the channel of a C-profile may form a secure and smooth channel for a sliding part to move vertically along. The channel of the C- profile may enable vertical motion of a sliding part while preventing horizontal movement of a sliding part.

[0020] The support part may comprise at least one rod forming a sliding rail for the frame part or door part being floatingly supported by the support part. This provides an efficient guiding of the frame part or door part.

[0021] The support part may comprise a slot integrated in the door or frame.

[0022] The door part and the frame part may be connected by a hinge arm. This is advantageous as the hinge arm may enable rotational movement of the door. The hinge arm may also form a connection between the door and frame of the furniture.

[0023] The hinge arrangement, in particular the linkage, is in one embodiment configured to counteract a pivot motion of the door if an external upward force is exerted on the door. This is advantageous as such a force may be exerted on the door in a tip-over event. In a tip-over event the hinge arrangement may therefore lock the door in an open position whereby the door becomes a form of bracing at the front of the furniture which may mitigate or entirely stop the tip-over event. The hinge arrangement may therefore improve the safety of furniture in terms of mitigating the risk of tip-over events.

[0024] The linkage, in a tip-over event, may lock the door in an open position. By preventing the door to swing, the tip-over motion will be mitigated.

[0025] The support part may comprise a spring arrangement providing an upward force on the associated frame part or door part when the door is lifted to its closed position. This is advantageous as it lessens the force needed to close the door of the furniture making the furniture easier to close.

[0026] Internal The upward force provided by the spring arrangement may be less than a downward force caused by the mass of the door. This is advantageous since the spring arrangement lessens the force needed to close the door of the furniture while it does not stop the lowering of the door due to gravity as the door is opened.

[0027] The frame part or the door part may comprise a sliding part, wherein the sliding part is configured to slide vertically along the support part.

[0028] When the sliding part forms part of the door part, the frame part and sliding part may be vertically fixed relative to each other. This provides an efficient lowering and raising of the door, since motion of the door will be compensated by the floating part.

[0029] When the sliding part forms part of the frame part, the door part and sliding part may be vertically fixed relative to each other. This provides an efficient lowering and raising of the door, since motion of the door will be compensated by the floating part.

[0030] The door part may comprise a hinge cup.

[0031] The door part may be fixedly attached to the door, and the frame part may be movably attached to the associated frame via the support part.

[0032] The frame part may be configured to be in a top position of the support part when the door is fully closed and in a bottom position of the support part when the door is opened.

[0033] The frame part may be fixedly attached to the frame and the door part may be movably attached to the associated door via the support part.

[0034] The door part may be configured to be in a bottom position of the support part when the door is fully closed and in a top position of the support part when the door is opened.

[0035] The linkage may be attached to the bottom of or below the frame part, or the linkage may be attached to the top of or above the frame part.

[0036] The linkage may be attached to the door above the door part, or the linkage may be attached to the bottom of or below the door part.

[0037] In another aspect a furniture is provided. The furniture comprises a frame, at least one door and at least one hinge arrangement according to any of the above statements is provided.

[0038] The furniture may comprise at least one additional hinge arrangement connecting the door to the frame, wherein the at least one additional hinge arrangement comprises a frame part, a door part, and a support part allowing the frame part or door part to float vertically relative the respective frame or door.

[0039] Internal The additional hinge arrangement may not comprise a linkage for pushing the door upwards when it is closed.

[0040] Brief description of the drawings

[0041] Examples are described in more detail below with reference to the appended drawings.

[0042] Fig. lA is an isometric view, including an enlarged section, of an embodiment of a hinge arrangement arranged on a piece of furniture with a door in a semi-opened position.

[0043] Fig. IB is an isometric view, including enlarged sections, of an embodiment of hinge arrangements arranged on a piece of furniture with an open door.

[0044] Fig. 1C is an isometric view, including an enlarged section, of the hinge arrangement shown in Figs. 1 A and IB and illustrating how parts of the hinge arrangement move as the door of the furniture is closed.

[0045] Figs. 2A-2B are partially exploded views of a hinge arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0046] Fig. 3 is an isometric view of a hinge arrangement according to an embodiment, arranged on a piece of furniture with an open door.

[0047] Fig. 4 is an isometric view of a hinge arrangement according to an embodiment, arranged on a piece of furniture with an open door.

[0048] Fig. 5 A is a front view of a piece of furniture in the form of a cabinet having a door in a closed position.

[0049] Fig. 5B is a front view of the cabinet shown in Fig. 5A, however the door is in an open position.

[0050] Fig. 6 is an isometric view of a piece of furniture in the form of a cabinet having a hinge arrangement according to some examples.

[0051] Fig. 7A is an isometric view of hinge arrangements of the cabinet shown in Fig. 6, the door being arranged in a closed position.

[0052] Fig. 7B is an isometric view of the hinge arrangements shown in Fig. 7A, however the door is arranged in an open position.

[0053] Fig. 8 is an isometric view of a linkage forming part of a hinge arrangement according to some examples.

[0054] Fig. 9 is an isometric view of a hinge arrangement according to some examples.

[0055] Fig. 10 is an isometric view of a support part of a hinge arrangement according to some examples.

[0056] Internal Fig. 11 is an isometric view of a frame part of a hinge arrangement according to some examples.

[0057] Fig. 12A is an isometric view of a frame part of a hinge arrangement according to further examples.

[0058] Fig. 12B is a bottom view of the frame part shown in Fig. 12A.

[0059] Detailed Description

[0060] Starting with Figs. lA-lC one embodiment of hinge arrangements 200, 200b for tipping-over prevention of furniture 10 is shown.

[0061] The furniture 10 comprises a frame 14 and at least one door 12 connected to said frame 12 using one or more hinge arrangements 200, 200b. While each hinge arrangement 200, 200b allows the door 12 to sink during opening, only the hinge arrangement 200 provides a lifting force to the door 12 during closing.

[0062] The hinge arrangement 200 comprises a frame part 220, a door part 204, a support part 202 allowing the frame part 220 to float vertically relative the respective frame 14, and a linkage 210 connecting the frame 14 to the door 12. The linkage 210 is, as will be further explained in the following, configured to raise the door 12 upwards when it is closed. The hinge arrangement 200 may in alternative embodiments also, or instead, be configured so that the support part 202 allows the door part 204 to float vertically relative the door 12.

[0063] In the shown embodiment, the door part 204 is configured to be fixedly attached to the associated door 12, and the frame part 220 is configured to be movably attached to the associated frame 14 via the support part 202.

[0064] The hinge arrangement 200 can also be embodied such that the frame part 220 is configured to be fixedly attached to the associated frame 14, and the door part 204 is configured to be movably attached to the associated door 12 via the support part 202. An alternative embodiment with such a configuration will be further described with reference to the embodiment shown in Fig. 3.

[0065] The hinge arrangement 200 allows the door 12 to be pivotally connected to the frame 14. Typically, a tall door 12 requires two or more hinge arrangements to be adequately supported, although in some examples, where the door 12 is relatively small, one hinge arrangement 200 may be sufficient to provide the required connection between the door 12 and the frame 14.

[0066] During opening of the door 12, as is shown in Fig. 1A, the hinge arrangement 200 allows the door 12 to rotate around a vertical axis, which means

[0067] Internal that one edge of the door 12 will always be close to the frame 14, while the other edge of the door 12 will move away from the frame 14.

[0068] When the door 12 is opened, as indicated by the arrows in Fig. 1A, the door 12 sinks downward. The hinge arrangement 200 enables the door to be displaced downward in height relative to the frame 14. The displacement of the door 12 preferably occurs gradually and smoothly during an opening operation of the door 12 by a user. The hinge arrangement 200 allows the door 12 to sink due to gravity as the door 12 is opened. The sinking of the door 12 may lower the centre of mass of the furniture 10 which stabilizes the furniture 10 and helps to prevent it from tipping-over. Further, as the door 12 is lowered the outer bottom edge of the door 12 will be closer to the underlying floor. In case of a tip-over the outer bottom edge of the door 12 will come into contact with the underlying floor earlier, thus providing a stop for the tip-over movement of the furniture 10.

[0069] As indicated by the arrows in Fig. lA the frame part 220 moves downward as the door is opened. The frame part 220 is configured to be in a top position of the support part 202 when the door 12 is fully closed and in a bottom position of the support part 202 when the door 12 is opened.

[0070] In the exemplary embodiment of Figs. 1A-1C the frame part 220 comprises a sliding part 222 which is configured to slide vertically along the support part 202. The door part 204 and sliding part 222 are vertically fixed relative to each other. The displacement of the sliding part 222, which in this embodiment is comprised in the frame part 220, allows the sliding part 222 and door part 204 to remain vertically fixed relative to each other while the frame 14 and door 12 are vertically displaced in relation to each other.

[0071] The linkage 210 of the embodiment in Fig. lA-lC has a fixed length. The linkage 210 is connected to a fixed position on the door 12 and to a fixed position on the frame 14. The linkage 210 is attached to the bottom of the support part 202 and the bottom of the door part 204. Furthermore, the frame part 220 and door part 204 are fixed vertically relative to each other.

[0072] The linkage 210 allows the door 12 to sink as it is opened as is illustrated by the arrows in Fig. 1A. The horizontal projection, i.e. the horizontal distance between the end of the linkage 210 coupled to the door 12 and the end of the linkage 210 coupled to the frame 14 increases during opening of the door 12. And due to the door sinking with gravity the vertical projection, i.e. the vertical distance between the ends of the linkage 210 decreases thereby accommodating the fixed length of the linkage 210. The linkage 210 thereby does not prevent the frame part 220 from sliding downward along the support part 202.

[0073] Internal Fig. IB illustrates the furniture 10 with the door 12 in an open position. In this position the door 12 is displaced in height by a distance D relative to the frame 14. The distance D is preferably such that the door 12 remains at a distance above the floor or ground on which the furniture 10 is placed even when the door 12 is in its lowest position as the door 12 is open.

[0074] In Fig. IB the furniture comprises the hinge arrangement 200 at a bottom end, and further hinge arrangements 200b at its centre height and at its upper end. Each of the hinge arrangements 200, 200b connects the door 12 to the frame 14 and comprise a frame part 220, a door part 204, and a support part 202 allowing the frame part 220 to float vertically relative the respective frame 14. In one example, the hinge arrangement 200 is identical to the hinge arrangements 200b except for the provision of the linkage 210.

[0075] As is shown in the enlarged portion of Fig. IB the uppermost hinge arrangement 200b does not comprise a linkage 210 configured to raise the door 12 upwards when it is closed. The hinge arrangements 200b thus only allow the door to sink and lift to follow the upwards displacement of the door facilitated by the hinge arrangement 200. The frame part 204 of each of the hinge arrangements 200b is allowed to slide vertically along its respective support part 202 concurrently with the frame part 220 of the hinge arrangement 200 as the linkage 210 of the hinge arrangement 200 is configured to raise the door upwards as it is closed.

[0076] The linkage 210 has a fixed length. The linkage 210 is connected to a fixed position on the door 12 and to a fixed position on the frame 14. The linkage 210 is attached to the bottom of the support part 202 and the bottom of the door part 204. Furthermore, the frame part 220 and door part 204 are fixed vertically relative to each other.

[0077] The linkage 210 is configured to raise the door 12 upwards when the door is closed as is illustrated by the arrows in Fig. 1C. The linkage 210 converts a pivot motion applied to the door 12 to a lift and pivot motion enabling the door 12 to close and lift to its closed position simultaneously.

[0078] The horizontal projection, i.e. the horizontal distance between the end of the linkage coupled to the door 12 and the end of the linkage 210 coupled to the frame 14 decreases during a closing of the door 12. Therefore, to accommodate the fixed length of the linkage 210, the vertical projection, i.e. the vertical distance between the ends of the linkage 210 increases. In the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 1A-1C the linkage 210 thereby causes the frame part 220 to slide upwards along the support part 202 which in turn pushes the door upwards

[0079] Internal as the door 12 is closed. The manner in which the linkage 210 is configured to raise the door 12 upwards may be different depending on where the linkage 210 is fixedly connected to the door 12 and frame 14. The linkage 210 may push the door 12 upward as it is closed. The linkage 210 may pull the door 12 upward as it is closed.

[0080] In the embodiment of the hinge arrangement 200 disclosed in Figs. 1A- 1C the support part 202 comprises a C-profile fixedly attached to the frame 14 of the furniture 10. The C-profile comprises a "C" shaped channel 2021. In this embodiment the sliding part 222 is configured to slide vertically along the C- profile in a smooth, controlled motion within the channel 2021 of the C-profile. The channel 2021 of the C-profile has an inner width and height that define the space in which the sliding part 222 operates. The sliding part 222 is configured to fit snugly within the channel 2021, with dimensions slightly smaller than the internal measurements of the channel 2021 of the C-profile to allow for smooth movement without excessive play.

[0081] The width of the sliding part 222 is preferably narrow enough to fit comfortably in the channel 2021 of the C-profile, leaving a small gap to reduce friction while ensuring stability. Similarly, the height of the sliding part 222 is slightly less than the internal height of the channel 2021 of the C-profile, allowing it to slide freely without binding against the top or bottom surfaces.

[0082] The hinge arrangement 200 may also comprises a pivot part 206 in the form of a hinge arm 206 configured to connect to the door part 204 and to the frame part 220 thereby forming a hinge. The hinge formed by the frame part 220, hinge arm 206 and door part 204 allow a pivot motion around the vertical axis. The frame part 220 and door part 204 are preferably fixed vertically in relation to each other by the hinge arm 206. The door part 204 in Figs 1 A-1C comprises a hinge cup wherein the hinge cup of the door part 220 is configured to form a cabinet hinge together with the hinge arm 206 and at least part of the frame part 220.

[0083] The door part 204 and / or frame part 220 may comprise some form of mounting plate configured to form part of a hinge. The door part 204 and / or the frame part 220 may be connected by a pivot part. For example the door part 204 and / or frame part 220 may comprise hinge leafs and the pivot part 206 may be formed as a pivot pin. The hinge arrangement 200 may be constructed with a range of hinge types.

[0084] The hinge arrangement 200 is configured to counteract a pivot motion of the door 12 when a vertical force is applied to the door 12. In particular the

[0085] Internal linkage 210 is configured to counteract a pivot motion of the door 12 if a vertical force is applied to the door 12.

[0086] A situation wherein a vertical force may be applied to the door 12 is in a tip-over event. The door 12 of the furniture 10 is likely the first point to make contact with the floor in a tip-over event. When the door 12 makes contact with the floor a vertical force, directed upward, will act on the door 12. The hinge arrangement 200 is configured to counteract the upward force applied to the door 12. When an upward force is applied to the door 12 the linkage 210 prevents the door 12 from pivoting thereby locking the door 12 in the open position. The open door 12 may slow down or entirely prevent a tipping-over of the furniture 10.

[0087] When the piece of furniture 10 begins tipping-over, the open door 12 can play a crucial role in slowing down or even preventing the fall. As the furniture 10 tilts, the open door 12 extends outward and makes contact with the ground or floor, increasing the overall surface area of the furniture 10. The open door 12 makes contact with the ground or floor earlier than the furniture’s frame 14 would, creating friction that resists the tipping motion.

[0088] Furthermore, the door 12, acting like a lever, also generates a counteracting force against the tipping momentum. The weight of the door 12 and the distance from the hinge arrangement 200 to where the door 12 meets the ground or floor provides leverage that helps slowing down or halt the tippingover of the furniture 10. Additionally, as the door 12 makes contact with the ground or floor, it absorbs some of the kinetic energy that would otherwise propel the furniture 10 forward.

[0089] The door 12 may function as a brace and thereby slow down or prevent the furniture from fully tipping. The open door 12 may form a stable structure with the ground or floor, halting the tipping-over. Even if the furniture 10 continues to fall, the resistance from the door 12 can reduce the impact, and speed minimizing damage to the furniture 10 and its surroundings.

[0090] The hinge arrangement 200 also prevents the door 12 sinking due to gravity in its closed position. The linkage 210 prevents the door from being displaced vertically by a vertical force applied to the door 12 when the door 12 is closed, since a pivotal motion of the door 12 is required to increase the horizontal projection of the linkage 210. When the door 12 is pivoted to an open position the hinge arrangement 200 is configured to allow gravity to displace the door 12 by a distance D.

[0091] The frame part 220 is configured to be in a top position of the support part 202 when the door 12 is closed and at a bottom position of the support part

[0092] Internal 202 when the door 12 is opened. The frame part 220 gradually slides down the support part 202 as the door is opened which causes the door 12 to also gradually slide down.

[0093] Figs. 2A-2B show partially exploded views of an embodiment of the hinge arrangement 200 disclosed in Figs. 1A-1C. Since many details have been described above with reference to Figs. 1A-1C, they will not be repeated here. The same reference numbers used for Figs. 1A-1C are used in Figs. 2A-2B

[0094] One end of the linkage 210 comprises a first connector 212d and the other end of the linkage 210 comprises a second connector 212f. The first connector 212d is configured to engage a third connector 208d arranged on the door 12. The first connector 212d and the third connector 208d may thereby form a joint. The second connector 212f is configured to engage a fourth connector 208f arranged on the frame 14. The second connector 212f and the fourth connector 208f may thereby form a joint.

[0095] In this embodiment both joints, i.e. the joint formed by the first and third connector 212d, 208d and the joint formed by the second and fourth connector 212f, 208f enable rotational movement of the linkage 210 around multiple axes. It is possible for one of the joints to only enable rotational movement of the linkage 210 around one axis. Exemplary embodiments where this is the case will be described in more detail in reference to Figs. 3-4.

[0096] The first connector 212d and / or the second connectors 212f is a ball configured to form part of a ball-and-socket joint. The third connector 208d and / or the fourth connector 208f is a socket configured to form part of a ball-and- socket joint. When engaged with each other first and third connectors 212d, 208d and / or the second and fourth connectors 212f, 218f form a ball-and-socket joint. A ball-and-socket joint allows for smooth rotation around multiple axes which accommodates the door 12 to pivot around a vertical axis and move vertically in a smooth simultaneous motion. The ball-and-socket joints may also reduce wear and tear which may lead to a longer lifespan for a piece of furniture 10 comprising at least one hinge arrangement 200.

[0097] The first, second, third and fourth connectors 212d, etc. could be configured to form part of other types of joints that would allow the door 12 to move both rotationally and vertically in a smooth simultaneous motion.

[0098] The connection of the linkage 210 to a fixed position on the door 12 and to the fixed position on the frame 14 is preferably achieved by means of the third connector 208d and the fourth connector 208f respectively. The third connector 208d may be arranged at a fixed position on the door 12 via the door part 204.

[0099] Internal The fourth connector 208f may be arranged at a fixed point on the frame 14 via the support part 202.

[0100] The third connector 208d and / or the fourth connector 208f could be arranged directly on the door 12 or frame 14 respectively. In an embodiment where the frame part 220 is fixedly attached to the frame 14 the fourth connector 208f could be arranged at a fixed point on the frame 14 via the frame part 220.

[0101] Fig. 3 discloses an embodiment of a hinge arrangement 200 wherein the support part 202 is allowing the door part 204 to float vertically relative the door 12. The frame part 220 is fixedly attached to the associated frame 14, and the door part 204 is movably attached to the associated door 12 via the support part 202. Since many details have been described above with reference to Figs. 1A-1B and / or Figs. 2A-2B they will not be repeated here. The same reference numbers used for Figs. 1A-1B and Figs. 2A-2B are used in Fig. 3.

[0102] In this embodiment the frame part 220 is configured to be fixedly attached to the associated frame 14, and the door part 204 is configured to be movably attached to the associated door 12 via the support part 202.

[0103] The support part 202 disclosed in Fig. 3 is a slot integrated in the door 12. The edges of the slot forming the support part 202 comprise some form of guide element. The guide element is configured to engage with a sliding part 222 and thereby enable the sliding part 222 to move floatingly up and down the support part 202, in this example up and down the slot integrated in the door 12. The support part 202 is preferably configured to enable vertical movement of the sliding part 222 but retaining the sliding part 222 in place horizontally. The guide element may for example comprise a groove or protrusion configured to engage a matching protrusion or groove of the sliding element 222. The door part 204 comprises the sliding part 222. The frame part 220 and sliding part 222 in this exemplary embodiment are vertically fixed relative to each other. The displacement of the sliding part 222 allows the sliding part 222 and frame part 220 to remain vertically fixed relative to each other when the door 12 and frame 14 are vertically displaced in relation to each other.

[0104] The support part 202 comprises a spring arrangement 240. The spring arrangement 240 is attached to the support part 202 at one end and to the sliding part 222 at the other. The spring arrangement 240, which may e.g. be a compression spring, is configured to be in a resting state when the door 12 is closed and in a loaded state when the door 12 is opened. The spring arrangement 240 provides an upward force on the door part 204 when the door is lifted to its closed position. The spring arrangement 240 is stretched when the door 12 is in

[0105] Internal an open position. In the embodiment disclosed in Fig. 3 the end of the spring arrangement 240 not attached to the sliding part 222 is attached to a point of the support part 202 below the sliding part 222, preferably at the bottom of the support part 202. The spring arrangement 240 may thereby provide a downward force on the door part 204 and thereby provide an upward force on the door 12 when the door 12 is lifted to its closed position.

[0106] In other embodiments one end of the spring arrangement 240 may be attached to a position above the sliding part 222, preferably the top of the support part 202. For example, if the hinge arrangement 200 comprises a spring arrangement 240 one end of the spring arrangement 240 would preferably be attached to the top of the support part 202. The spring arrangement 240 could thereby provide an upward force on the frame part 220 and thereby provide an upward force on the door 12 when the door 12 is lifted to its closed position.

[0107] The upward force provided by the spring arrangement 240 is preferably less than a downward force caused by the mass of the door 12.

[0108] The linkage 210 is attached to the door 12 above the support part 202. The linkage 210 is attached to the frame part 220 above the point of where the frame part is attached to the hinge arm 206.

[0109] One end of the linkage 210 comprises a first connector 212d and the other end of the linkage 210 comprises a second connector 212f, wherein the first connector 212d is configured to engage a third connector 208d arranged on the door 12 and thereby form a joint. The second connector 212f is configured to engage a fourth connector 208f arranged on the frame 14 and thereby form a joint.

[0110] The first connector 212d comprises a through-hole extending through an end portion of the linkage 210; preferably the end portion of the linkage 210 has a rounded edge. The third connector 208d comprises a bracket 2082d fixedly attached to the door 12 with a horizontally extending part provided with a pin 208 Id extending downward in an at least partially vertical direction. The pin 208 Id of the third connector 208d is configured to engage with the through-hole of the first connector 212d to form a pivotal joint. The first and third connectors 212d, 208f form a joint capable of rotation around multiple axes. One may denote the joint between the first and third connector 212d, 208f a multi-axis joint. The joint formed by the first and third connector 212d, 208d may thereby enable the simultaneous rotation and vertical displacement of the door 12.

[0111] The second connector 212f comprises a through-hole extending through an end portion of the linkage 210. The fourth connector 208f comprises a pin

[0112] Internal 208 If fixedly attached to the frame part 220 extending in an at least partially horizontal direction. The pin 208 If of the fourth connector 208f is configured to engage with the through-hole of the second connector 212f to form a pivotal joint. The joint formed by the second and fourth connector 212f, 208f is capable of rotation around a single axis, preferably a substantially horizontal axis, more preferably an entirely horizontal axis. In other embodiments of the hinge arrangement 200 the joint formed by the second and fourth connector 212f, 208f may be capable of rotation around multiple axes. For example, the joints of the hinge arrangement 200 shown in Fig. 3 could be replaced by the joints described with reference to Figs. 2A-2B, in which both the joint formed between the first and third connector 212d, 208d and the joint formed between the second and fourth connector 212f, 208f allow rotation around multiple axes.

[0113] The door part 204 is configured to be in a bottom position on the support part 202 when the door 12 is closed and a top position on the support part 202 when the door 12 is opened. The door part 204 gradually slides up the support part 202 as the door is opened which causes the door 12 to gradually slide down.

[0114] The details concerning the locking of the door 12 in a tipping-over event, explained above with reference to Fig. 2A-2B may readily be considered also with respect to the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 3.

[0115] Fig. 4 discloses an embodiment of the hinge arrangement 200 wherein the support part 202 is allowing the frame part 220 to float vertically relative the frame 14. The door part 204 is fixedly attached to the associated door 12, and the frame part 220 is movably attached to the associated frame 14 via the support part 202.

[0116] The support part 202 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 4 comprises two vertically arranged parallel rods 232 and a spacing bracket 234. The rods 232 are arranged on the horizontal flanges of the spacing bracket 234 at a distance from the frame 14 of the furniture. The rods 232 are preferably parallel with the frame 14. The rods 232 form a rail on which the sliding part 222 is configured to move floatingly in a vertical direction.

[0117] The first connector 212d comprises a through-hole extending through an end portion, preferably having a rounded edge, of the linkage 210. The third connector 208d comprises a bracket 2082d fixedly attached to the door 12 with a horizontally extending part provided with a pin 208 Id extending downward in an at least partially vertical direction. The pin 208 Id of the third connector 208d is configured to engage with the through-hole of the first connector 212d to form a pivotal joint. The first and third connector 212d, 208f form a joint capable of

[0118] Internal rotation around multiple axes. One may denote the joint between the first and third connector 212d, 208f a multi-axis joint. The joint formed by the first and third connector 212d, 208d may thereby enable the simultaneous rotation and vertical displacement of the door 12.

[0119] The second connector 212f comprises a through-hole extending through an end portion of the linkage 210. The fourth connector 208f comprises a bracket 2082f fixedly attached to the frame part 220 and provided with a pin 208 If. The pin 208 If of the fourth connector 208f extends in an at least partially horizontal direction. The pin 208 If of the fourth connector 208f is configured to engage with the through-hole of the second connector 212f to form a pivotal joint. The joint formed by the second and fourth connectors 212f, 208f is capable of rotation around a single axis, preferably a substantially horizontal axis, more preferably an entirely horizontal axis.

[0120] The frame part 220 is configured to be in a top position on the support part 202 when the door 12 is closed and a bottom position on the support part 202 when the door 12 is opened. The frame part 220 gradually slides down the support part 202 as the door is opened which causes the door 12 to gradually slide down.

[0121] The details concerning the locking of the door 12 in a tipping-over event, explained above with reference to Fig. 2A-2B may readily be considered also with respect to the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 4.

[0122] Now turning to Fig. 5 A and Fig. 5B another example of a piece of furniture 10 is shown. The piece of furniture 10 is in the form of a cabinet or bookcase, having a door 12 connected to a frame part 14 In Fig. 5A the door 12 is in a closed position, and in Fig. 5B the door 12 is in an open position. The door 12 is mounted to the frame 14 using at least one hinge arrangement 200. As can be clearly shown in Figs.5A-B, the vertical position of the door 12 relative the frame 14 is different; in the closed position the door 12 is in a top vertical position. During the opening sequence (i.e. when the door 12 moves from the position of Fig. 5A to the position of Fig. 5B) the door 12 will be lowered to a bottom vertical position, as indicated in Fig. 5B. The vertical motion is, as has been previously described, enabled by the one or more hinge arrangement 200.

[0123] In Fig. 6 the piece of furniture 10 is shown in further details. In the shown example, three hinge arrangements 200 are used to mount the door 12 to the frame 14. Each hinge arrangement 200 comprises a frame part 220, a door part 204, and a support part 202 allowing the frame part 220 to float, i.e. move, vertically relative the frame 14. In the shown example the bottom hinge

[0124] Internal arrangement 200 also comprises a linkage 210 arranged above the frame part 220 and the door part 204. Since the linkage 210 is arranged remote from the frame part 220 and the door part 204, the linkage 210 could equally be said to form part of the centre hinge arrangement 200 instead of the bottom hinge arrangement 200. For this example, at least one hinge arrangement 200 comprises a linkage 210. The linkage 210 has one end being connected to the frame 14, and one end being connected to the door 12. By having the linkage 210 remote from the frame part 220 and the door part 204, less constraints apply when it comes to linkage length and allowable operating angles in relation to the underlying floor. Further, it allows for improved flexibility in finding a balance between downwards movement and forces that act on the entire system.

[0125] Figs. 7A and 7B show the bottom hinge arrangement 200 in its end positions; in Fig. 7A the door 12 is closed whereby it is in its uppermost position. The frame part 220 is thereby arranged at the uppermost position of the support part 202. As the linkage 210 has a fixed length it will pivot during a closing movement of the door 12, at its connecting end positions, thereby forcing the door 12 to rise vertically.

[0126] In Fig. 7B the door 12 is fully opened whereby it is in its lowermost position. The frame part 220 is thereby arranged at the lowermost position of the support part 202. During an opening movement of the door 12, the door 12 will drop vertically by means of gravity. As the linkage 210 has a fixed length it will pivot during the opening movement of the door 12, at its connecting end positions, thereby allowing the door 12 to drop vertically.

[0127] Fig. 8 shows an example of the linkage 210. As described previously, one end of the linkage 210 comprises a first connector 212d and the other end of the linkage 210 comprises a second connector 212f. The first connector 212d is configured to engage a third connector 208d arranged on the door 12. The first connector 212d and the third connector 208d may thereby form a joint. The second connector 212f is configured to engage a fourth connector 208f arranged on the frame 14. The second connector 212f and the fourth connector 208f may thereby form a joint.

[0128] In this embodiment both joints, i.e. the joint formed by the first and third connector 212d, 208d and the joint formed by the second and fourth connector 212f, 208f enable rotational movement of the linkage 210 around multiple axes.

[0129] The first connector 212d and / or the second connectors 212f is a socket configured to form part of a ball-and-socket joint. The third connector 208d and / or the fourth connector 208f is a ball configured to form part of a ball-and-

[0130] Internal socket joint. When engaged with each other first and third connectors 212d, 208d and / or the second and fourth connectors 212f, 218f form a ball-and-socket joint. As further seen in Fig. 8 the third and fourth connectors 208d, 208f each has a screw extending away from the ball. Such screw can be used to secure the connector 208d, 208f to the door 12 or the frame 14.

[0131] Further, the first and second connectors 212d, 212f can be screwed onto a main body 214 of the linkage 210. The main body 214 is preferably provided with external threads configured to match with internal threads of the first and second connectors 212d, 212f. One end of the main body 214 has a left-hand thread, the opposite end has right-hand thread. Use of e.g. an alien key and a small hole 215 in the centre of the main body 214, allows to adjust the length of the linkage 210, and thereby the resulting door position, without loosening all bracket screws.

[0132] In Fig. 9 parts of a hinge arrangement 200 is shown. A frame part 220 is movably mounted to a support part 202, and connected to a door part 204 via a pivot part 206 in the form of a hinge arm 206 configured to connect to the door part 204 and to the frame part 220 thereby forming a hinge.

[0133] In Fig. 10 the support part 202 is shown. The support part 202 is a C- shaped profile, configured to accommodate the frame part 220.

[0134] The frame part 220, one example being shown in Fig. 11, comprises a main body 221a and two opposite lateral wings 221b-c. The main body 221a may be made of metal while the lateral wings 221b-c may be made of a plastic material The plastic material may be a coating, or casing, arranged onto the metal material of the main body 221a. The plastic material of the lateral wings 221b-c is configured to be received by the support part 202 and arranged between the material of the C-shaped profile. In the example of Fig. 11, the plastic material of the lateral wings 221b-c is smooth and relatively planar.

[0135] Another example of a frame part 220 is shown in Figs 12A-B. Here the lateral wings 221b-c are provided with a plastic material, preferably in the form of pushed-on profiles, having exterior projecting blades 22 Id. These blades 22 Id aim to form a sliding interface with the support part 202 for further facilitating the vertical moveability of the frame part 220 relative the support part 202.

[0136] Internal

Claims

CLAIMS1. A hinge arrangement (200) for tip-over prevention of furniture (10) comprising a frame (14) and at least one door (12) connected to said frame (14) by the hinge arrangement (200), wherein the hinge arrangement (200) comprises a frame part (220), a door part (204), and a support part (202) allowing the frame part (220) or door part (204) to float vertically relative the respective frame (14) or door (12) thereby causing a downward movement of the door (12) during opening.

2. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 1 further comprising a linkage (210) connecting the frame (14) to the door (12) and configured to raise the door (12) upwards when it is closed.

3. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one of said frame part (220) or door part (204) is fixedly attached to the associated frame (14) or door (12), and wherein the other one of said frame part (220) or door part (204) is movably attached to the associated frame (14) or door (12) via the support part (202).

4. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the linkage (210) has a fixed length.

5. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the linkage is connected to a fixed position at the door (12) and to a fixed position at the frame (14).

6. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one end of the linkage (210) comprises a first connector (212d) and the other end of the linkage (210) comprises a second connector (212f), wherein the first connector (212d) is configured to engage a third connector (208d) arranged on the door (12) and the second connector (212f) is configured to engage a fourth connector (208f) arranged on the frame (14).

7. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 6, wherein the first and third connector (212d, 208d) and / or the second and fourth connector (212f, 208f) form a ball and socket joint.Internal8. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the third connector (208d) or fourth connector (208f) is arranged on the support part (202), and the other of the third connector (208d) and fourth connector (208f) is connected to the frame part (220) or door part (204) not being floatingly supported by the support part (202).

9. Hinge arrangement according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the linkage (210) is arranged remote from the frame part (220), the door part (204), and the support part (202) of the hinge arrangement (200).

10. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support part (202) comprises a C profile fixedly attached to the door (12) or frame (14).

11. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of claims 1-8 wherein the support part (202) comprises at least one rod (232) forming a sliding rail for the frame part (220) or door part (204) being floatingly supported by the support part (202).

12. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of claims 1-8 wherein the support part (202) comprises a slot integrated in the door (12) or frame (14).

13. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the door part (204) and the frame part (220) are connected by a hinge arm (206).

14. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hinge arrangement (200), in particular the linkage (210), is configured to counteract a closing pivot motion of the door (12) if an external upward force is exerted on the door (12).

15. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the linkage (210), in a tip-over event, locks the door (12) in position.

16. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support part (202) comprises a spring arrangement (240) providingInternalan upward force on the associated frame part (220) or door part (204) when the door (12) is lifted to its closed position.

17. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 16, wherein the upward force provided by the spring arrangement (240) is less than a downward force caused by the mass of the door (12).

18. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame part (220) or the door part (204) comprises a sliding part (222), wherein the sliding part (222) is configured to slide vertically along the support part (202).

19. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 18, wherein the door part (204) comprises the sliding part (222), and wherein the frame part (220) and the sliding part (222) are vertically fixed relative to each other.

20. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 18, wherein the frame part (220) comprises the sliding part (222), and wherein the door part (204) and the sliding part (222) are vertically fixed relative to each other.

21. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of claims 18-20, wherein the sliding part (222) comprises a metal body (221a) and two lateral wings (221b-c) comprising a plastic material.

22. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 21, wherein each lateral wing (221b-c) comprises one or more outwardly projecting blades (221 d).

23. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the door part (220) comprises a hinge cup.

24. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the door part (204) is fixedly attached to the door (12), and wherein the frame part (220) is movably attached to the associated frame (14) via the support part (202).

25. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 24, wherein the frame part (220) is configured to be in a top position of the support part (202) when the doorInternal21(12) is fully closed and in a bottom position of the support part (202) when the door (12) is opened.

26. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of claims 1-23, wherein the frame part (220) is fixedly attached to the frame (14), and wherein the door part (204) is movably attached to the associated door (12) via the support part (202).

27. Hinge arrangement (200) according to claim 26, wherein the door part (204) is configured to be in a bottom position of the support part (202) when the door (12) is fully closed and in a top position of the support part (202) when the door (12) is opened.

28. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the linkage (210) is attached to the bottom of or below the frame part (220).

29. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of claims 1-27, wherein the linkage (210) is attached to the top of or above the frame part (220).

30. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the linkage (210) is attached to the door (12) above the door part (204).

31. Hinge arrangement (200) according to any of claims 1-30, wherein the linkage (210) is attached to the bottom of or below the door part (204).

32. Furniture (10) comprising a frame (14), at least one door (12) and at least one hinge arrangement (200) according to any of the preceding claims.

33. Furniture (10) according to claim 32 further comprising at least one additional hinge arrangement (200b) connecting the door (12) to the frame (14), wherein the at least one additional hinge arrangement (200b) comprises a frame part (220), a door part (204), and a support part (202) allowing the frame part (220) or door part (204) to float vertically relative the respective frame (14) or door (12).Internal34. Furniture (10) according to claim 33, wherein the additional hinge arrangement (200b) does not comprise a linkage (210) for pushing the door (12) upwards when it is closed.

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