Hinge Locking Mechanism for Secure UPVC Door Fitting

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing complexity of door and window edges, particularly in UPVC constructions, poses challenges in hinge design, and existing hinges lack adequate security and efficient fitting mechanisms, often compromising between security and speed of installation.

Innovation Solution

A hinge design featuring multiple locking elements, including a screw-based first locking element and a spring-biased second locking element, allows independent fixing and release of hinge parts, providing enhanced security and ease of fitting, with a datum section for secure attachment to uneven door frames.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple locking elements are added to enhance security, then security is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is divided into two independent locking elements: a first locking element at the hinge pin and a second locking element remote from the hinge pin. Each locking element can be operated independently to lock or unlock specific parts of the hinge, providing enhanced security without requiring a completely complex new system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking elements are designed to be dynamically controllable, allowing the hinge to transition between different security states. The first locking element can secure the hinge pin while the second locking element can secure the cover section, enabling flexible security management based on operational needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If the hinge is designed for high security with multiple locking elements, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the locking function into two separate locking elements, each element can be designed and operated independently. This allows users to lock or unlock specific parts of the hinge without having to manipulate an entire complex locking system, maintaining ease of operation while enhancing security

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the attachment point is moved further from the edge to accommodate complex door profiles, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge is designed with pre-positioned locking elements and structural features that accommodate the moved attachment point. The cover section and locking elements are configured in advance to work with the specific geometry required for complex door profiles, reducing the need for high-precision field adjustments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The design enhances security by preventing unauthorized removal of the hinge and allows for efficient fitting on complex door profiles, ensuring secure attachment even on warped or irregular surfaces, balancing security and installation speed.

Implementation Method 1

The second locking element may further comprise a spring, a collar and a pin

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP4345236A1hinge
Publication Date: 2024.04.03 HEYWOOD WILLIAMS COMPONENTS
  • EP4345236A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4345236A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4345236A1 patent drawingFigure 5a~6

AI summary

The present invention relates to a hinge comprising a sash section 20 securable to a sash, the sash section 20 comprising a cover section 15 and a hinge plate 10; and a frame section 22 securable to a frame, the frame section 22 comprising a hinge pin 7 and a frame part 1, wherein the sash section 20 and the frame section 22 are mounted for relative rotation, wherein the cover section 15 is releasably secured relative to the frame section 22 by means of a first locking element, and wherein the cover section 15 is releasably secured relative to the sash section 20 by means of a second locking element.