US 5,208,945 A · Mechanism for openable/closeable means

Abstract

This invention relates to a mechanism or hinge for use in a structural glass assembly. In particular the mechanism is attachable to a glass unit, e.g. a double glazing unit, to enable it to open or close. The mechanism has essentially two parts, a stationary part and a movable part. The stationary part which is attachable to the glass structure incorporates two blade-like plates between which the movable part is slideably located. The stationary part has two arcuate tracks (open and closed) over which a pair of roller bearings are guided during operation of the mechanism whereas the movable part which is attachable to e.g. a double glazed unit, has a single arcuate track over which a single roller bearing is guided during operation of the mechanism. The mechanism has a virtual pivot point on the glazing unit to which the mechanism is attachable. One embodiment of the invention includes a centring arrangement FIG. 5 where a pair of tapered roller bearings are guided on arcuate tapered surfaces of a closed track.

Claims27

Dependent claims

A two-part mechanism serving as a hinge for openable/closeable means mounted in a structure, the mechanism comprising in combination:

a stationary part including first locating means for accommodating first attachment means for facilitating attachment of said stationary part to the structure, first arcuate track means and first roller bearing means;
a movable part including second locating means for accommodating second attachment means for facilitating attachment of the movable part to the openable/closeable means, second arcuate track means and second roller bearing means;
the first and second roller bearing means respectively making contact with the second and first arcuate track means;
wherein in operation of the mechanism to enable opening/closing of the openable/closeable means with respect to the structure, the relative movement of the movable part with respect to the stationary part is such that the second roller bearing means is guided progressively over the first arcuate track means while the second arcuate track means is guided progressively over the first roller bearing means, the effective pivot point of the mechanism being defined as a virtual pivot point which is the center of curvature of the first and second arcuate track means.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Mechanism for openable/closeable means

Life of this patent

Mechanism for openable/closeable means

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims27