EP1654043A2

EP1654043A2 - Hinge assemblies and hinged objects

Info

Publication number: EP1654043A2
Application number: EP04731056A
Authority: EP
Inventors: John Michael Bayldon
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: BAYLDON, JOHN MICHAEL
Priority date: 2003-05-02
Filing date: 2004-05-04
Publication date: 2006-05-10
Also published as: GB0310117D0; WO2004096393A3; WO2004096393A2

Abstract

The invention relates to a hinge assembly which comprises two elements that are able to be rotated relative to each other about an axis and in which the elements are connected to each other via a U shaped spring. The ends of the U shaped spring contact the inner surfaces of the elements and passes through the elements via slots located in each element. The U bend of the U shaped spring is located within the slots along an axis that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the elements relative to each other. The hinge assembly is robust and may be used as a concealed hinge. The hinge may be used in the manufacture of a geometric toy comprising interconnected right angled tetrahedrons.

Description

HINGE ASSEMBLIES AND HINGED OBJECTS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to hinge assemblies and to hinged objects containing such assemblies. In particular it relates to hinged assemblies that may be used as a concealed hinge, to hinged assemblies that may be self latching and to hinged devices that utilise such hinged assemblies with and without self latching.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] There are many different types of hinge known in the art. One type of hinge is known as the pin-&-bush hinge. This type of hinge generally consists of three parts namely two clasps, each being a length of strong material having a partial conduit which interlinks with the partial conduit of the other part to form a continuous conduit through which a pivot pin may be located to secure the clasps to each other. The two clasps forming the hinge are then able to rotate about the axis of the pivot pin. This type of hinge suffers from a number of problems. Firstly, it allows a limited degree of rotational movement in a perfectly circular movement about the axis of the pivot pin. In addition the hinge is bulky and cannot be used in situations where a concealed hinge is desired. In addition the hinge relies upon the shear strength of the pivot pin for its strength, which may not provide adequate strength, conducive with the weight, thickness, and material type of the hinge and/or devices into which it is incorporated. Also these types of hinges are not self latching.

[0003] A second common type of hinge is the basic flexible hinge, which typically consists of a strip of flexible plastic or rubber, fixed to each of the hinged members. The key disadvantages of this form of hinge is that it allows only limited movement and it occupies space between the two, hinged parts, due to thickness of material used. It is also generally difficult to utilise in objects requiring a concealed hinge and these types of hinge are not self latching. [0004] A third common type of hinge is based on a basic ball and socket and is known as a ball and socket hinge. This type of hinge has the advantage that it may be arranged to allow a great degree of movement, but its key drawbacks are that it takes up considerable space and is difficult to use effectively as a concealed hinge and is not a self latching hinge.

[0005] It is apparent therefore that all of these hinges have drawbacks and in particular are bulky, difficult to utilise as a concealed hinge and are not self latching. All of these hinges require separate latching mechanisms associated with the devices into which they may be incorporated. There is therefore a need for new designs of hinge that overcome one or more of the forgoing problems and which may if desired be used effectively as a concealed hinge with or without self latching capabilities.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a simple hinge assembly that is capable of a great degree of movement and which may be used to provide a substantially concealed hinge when incorporated into a device.

[0007] It is a further object of the present invention to provide when deemed necessary or desirable a hinge assembly which is self latching. This simple latching mechanism allows the elements of a device, which incorporates a hinge assembly according to the present invention, to be moved relative to one another, whilst also detaining or latching them in any number of preset positions. Hinged devices such as geometric device or geometric toy of the present invention may incorporate the hinge assembly with latch. The hinged assembly with latch may be incorporated into, any movable flap, or hinged lid and the like, where a simple positive latching facility is required. Such latching may be in the closed and/or open positions and/or any number of intermediate positions. [0008] A further object of the invention is to provide devices incorporating hinge assemblies according to the present invention with or without self latching means. In particular devices that are closed, hollow and three dimensional geometric forms, which incorporate one or more of the hinge assemblies according to the present invention. Such devices having components that, as a consequence of the presence of hinge assemblies according to the present invention, may be relationally rotated about their contacting edges or corners and may have surfaces that are detained face to face, edge to edge or corner to corner or any combinations of these relative positions. Such devices include multi-formable geometric devices, in which the individual linked elements of the whole, may be quickly and easily moved relative to one another, via the hinge assembly of the present invention and which may preferably be detained in the desired position via the simple latching mechanism of the present invention, so that the whole may assume and retain a new temporary figure, until required to be reconfigured. A particular objective of the present invention is to provide a geometric toy, game or logic puzzle, incorporating the hinge assembly with or without the latching mechanism according to the present invention, and where the individual faces of the interconnected elements maybe endowed with certain colours, pictures, figures or numbers. Or with raised patterns and textures for use by the blind. So that through positioning and repositioning the individual elements, certain desired patterns or sequences may be achieved in the whole.

[0009] The hinge assembly of the present invention is simple in design, has relatively few moving parts, and is capable of being used in objects in such a manner that when the external surfaces of the hinged object are viewed the hinge assembly is not apparent and is substantially concealed. This type of hinge assembly is of great value in the design of a large number of household and industrial objects that require a hinge and is particularly valuable in the design of multi-formable geometric devices such as children's toys or puzzles that require a hinge that is easily concealed. In these sorts of objects a strong but concealed hinge enables robust devices e.g. toys to be constructed. In the case of toys for small children they may be operated safely by the child with little or no risk of injury due to the trapping of fingers in the hinged parts of the toy. [0010] Therefore in a first aspect the present invention provides a hinge assembly which comprises two hinge elements each having inner and outer surfaces and at least one connecting means for securing the hinge elements in proximity to each other to form the hinge assembly, each hinge element comprising, a hinge surface located on the outer surface of the hinge element which confronts a corresponding hinge surface on the outer surface of the other hinge element, and at least one conduit passing from and through the hinge surface to the inner surface of the element, the conduit being aligned within the hinge assembly with a corresponding conduit on the other hinge element, wherein the hinge surfaces when confronted to each other define an axis of rotation about which the hinge elements maybe rotated relative to each other during operation of the hinge assembly and each connecting means has a component that communicates between the two hinge elements via the aligned conduits and a component which is in contact with the inner surface of each hinge element.

[0011] In this arrangement the connecting means has a component that is located within both of the aligned and confronting conduits in the hinge assembly. In this alignment this component of the connecting means lies along an axis through the conduits which is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the hinge elements relative to each other during operation of the hinge assembly.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment each hinge element has at least two connected regions that are arranged at an angle to each other, preferably substantially at right angles to each other, with the hinge surface being located on the outer surface of the hinge element and traversing the angled section of the element. In a preferred embodiment the cross sectional dimensions of the conduit when viewed from the external surface of the element are such that it has a component that traverses from one connected region to the other through the hinged surface and angled section. The conduit maybe of any suitable cross-sectional shape, symmetrical or asymmetrical and may, for example be of circular, square, oval, rectangular, or rhomboid cross-section. Preferably the conduit is in the form of a slot, being a conduit that has as its longest cross-sectional dimension when viewed from the external surface in the direction traversing the hinge surface.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment the hinge assembly is designed such that during operation of the hinge assembly the component of the connecting means located within the aligned conduits, and generally aligned along an axis perpendicular to the access of rotation of the hinge assembly, is able to pass through the axis of rotation of the hinge assembly.

[0014] It is preferred that the connecting means is not in passive contact with the inner surfaces of the hinge elements but exerts a positive pressure on the inner surfaces with which it is in contact. This pressure maybe as a consequence of the design, shape and/or dimensions of the connecting means e.g. it maybe a compression spring, and/or it may be as a consequence of the materials selected to manufacture the connecting means e.g. materials that may be put under tension.

[0015] Preferably the hinge assembly has opposite facing, slotted hinge elements having approximately 'U' shaped spring elements threaded through the slots and which serve to clamp the hinge elements together while permitting rotation of the slotted hinge elements to each other. Thus in one preferred embodiment the connecting means is in the form of an interconnected approximately "U" shaped spring. It is preferred that each end of the arms of the "U" shaped spring is separately in contact with the inner surface of one of the hinge elements, the bottom section of the "U" shape of the spring is located in the aligned conduits. The arms or arm ends of the approximately 'U' shaped spring may be fitted with wheels, rollers, beads or other methods of reducing friction or to aid movement of the arms or ends of the "U" shaped spring during operation of the hinge assembly. These additions are beneficial in operation of the hinge assembly and are useful in imparting the self latching properties to the assembly as hereinafter described. [0016] In an alternative embodiment each connection means may be in the form of a toggle assembly comprising two toggles; each toggle is in contact with an inner surface of opposing hinge elements and are connected to each other by a filament that travels through the pair of aligned conduits in the hinge assembly. Each toggle has a passage through its body. The filament passes through this passage and is fixed to each toggle in a position on the toggle that is remote from the aligned conduits. Thus each end of the filament is attached to a toggle. The point at which the filament enters each toggle passage is proximate to and aligned with the conduits of the hinge assembly. The filament is not attached to this point of the toggle but is free to move within the toggle passage from this point to the point of attachment. In a preferred embodiment this exit point of the toggle passage is in the form of a hole or slot that has one cross-sectional dimension that is larger than the cross-sectional dimension of the filament, so that the filament may move relative to the toggle. In a preferred embodiment the dimensions of this exit hole or slot are larger than the cross-sectional dimensions of the conduit especially the cross-sectional dimension of the conduit, which traverses the hinge surface of the hinge element. In a preferred embodiment the toggle is in the form of a hollow tube with a hole or slot in its side, the toggle passage, then being a combination of the hole and void space within the toggle tube. The tube may be of any cross-section but is preferably of circular or oval cross-section and may be cam shaped in cross- section. When of cam shape this may assist with the self latching mechanism hereinafter described. The toggle assembly may be made of any suitable material. Preferably the toggles themselves and/or the filament are made of flexible material which may be deformed during use of the hinge assembly so that the toggle assembly is able to exert pressure on the inner surfaces of the hinge elements.

[0017] In a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a self latching hinge assembly which comprises one or more hinge assemblies of the present invention adapted to provide a rotatable or oscillating spring latch action.

[0018] In one embodiment the latch action is provided by the use, as connection means in the hinge assembly, of an adapted interconnected approximately "U" shaped spring that co-operates with the conduits of the hinge elements and the inner surfaces of the hinge elements to provide the latching action. The required adaptation relates to the relationship of the shape and dimensions of the "U" shaped spring, to the conduits size and location and the inner surfaces of the hinge elements. The relationship is especially important when the hinge assembly is in the fully opened or fully closed position or a desired pre-deterrnined intermediate holding position.

[0019] When the latching mechanism is provided through the use of an adapted

"U" shaped spring the key feature is that at least some portion of the "U" shape arms, preferably at least the ends of the arms, that is in contact directly or indirectly with the inner surface of the hinge element, is located at a greater distance from the angled section of the hinge element compared to the depth of the conduit that is aligned along the same inner surface of the hinge element and through which conduit the bottom section of the "U" shape spring is located. In this arrangement the ends of the "U" shape spring are located above the end of the conduit and exert a pressure to the inner surface of the hinge element. This pressure being matched by both ends of the "U" shaped spring on opposing hinge elements forces the hinge elements into contact and thus essentially locks or latches the hinge assembly in the contact position. In this position the hinge elements are unable to rotate relative to each other unless a force is applied to separate the surfaces of the hinge elements that are in contact with each other. This force overcomes the pressure imparted by the "U" shaped spring and forces the ends of the spring towards the jamb of the angled section thus removing the locking or latching effect. The adaptation of the arms or arm ends make take the form of wheels, rollers, beads ends or the like that are of sufficient dimensions such that, when the hinge elements are in contact, they are able to hold the ends of the "U" shaped spring above the top of the hinge element conduit (top being the point furthest from the angled section). They achieve this by being in contact at least the connected region of the hinge element that is not compressed by the "U" shaped spring. It is this contact of the adaptation with this connected region and its appropriate size which ensures that the end of the "U" shaped spring lies above the top of the conduit. At the same time the end of the "U" shaped spring including adaptation (when located at the spring end) are held in contact with the other connected region of the inner surface by the compressive force of the "U" shaped spring. The adaptations may take different forms. In one embodiment they may comprise beads or wheels that are located close to the bottom of the arms and proximate to the conduit. In this arrangement the adaptation has fulcra like properties forcing the ends of the arms above the top of the conduit as the hinge assembly is operated. The adaptations may take the form of folded elements in one or more of the arms of the spring that effectively act as fulcra on the appropriate connected regions inner surface. A further embodiment is where the ends of the "U" shaped arms are free of adaptation but the connected surfaces have raised sections or pads that force the arms of the "U" shaped spring above the conduit ends as the hinge assembly is operated. In this latch arrangement the bend of the "U" shaped spring is only able to move to the top of the conduit at which point it is retained in this position as the ends of the "U" shaped spring continue to move above the top of the conduit.

[0020] The latching mechanism may be provided through use of the toggle assembly connection means. In this embodiment the filament may deform during operation of the hinge assembly, this deformation being induced in part by contact with the top of the conduit occurs as the hinge assembly is closed or opened. In this embodiment the filament is preferably of inelastic material. As the hinge assembly is operated the filament is deformed and this deformation coupled with the fixed attachment of the end of the filament to the remote side of the toggle, causes the toggles to rotate and deform. The deformation of the toggles due to there flexibility impart the spring tension to the arrangement. The dimensions of the toggle are such that once the hinge assembly has been opened or closed the fixed end of the filament is located at a point which is past the point at which the toggle could rotate back in the opposite direction. The flexibility of the toggle coupled with the location of the fixed end of the filament on a rotating toggle provides the locking/latching effect when the hinge assembly is closed or opened. [0021] With both the "U" shaped spring and toggle based connecting means the hinge assembly is able to be self latching. This means that when the hinge assembly is operated the hinge action also results in a locking or latching of the hinge assembly.

[0022] In a further aspect of the present invention any of the foregoing aspects may also comprise a provision of internal electrical connections, linking electrically all the elements within the chain, together with electronic circuitry, power supply and light emitting diodes, so arranged that alternative configurations of the individual elements will produce correspondingly differing illuminated colours or patterns in the whole. In a further embodiment the devices of the present invention may comprise internal electrical connections, means whereby appropriate electronic circuitry may be triggered to provide sounds- such as speech via a pre recorded message or voice synthesiser, or visible display, or via a personal computer. So that information such as a score, or geometric definition of the current object produced by manipulating the individual elements, may be given. Also to facilitate enjoyment by children and the blind when the device is a multi-geometric device or toy.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment the hinge assembly and all aspects of the present invention comprising a hinge assembly further comprise a secondary securing means. This may be required in order to provide greater rigidity to the hinge especially when only a single hinge assembly is used at each combination of hinge surfaces. These secondary securing means serve the purpose of allowing rotation of the hinge elements about the hinge axis, in some embodiments by joining together of the hinge elements, whilst restricting the lateral movement between the hinge surfaces and adjacent faces of respective hinge elements. The secondary securing means may be flexible hinge elements consisting of materials having flexibility and high tensile strength such as nylon, Kevlar etc, filaments or tapes, or metal wire or strip etc. These secondary securing means maybe fastened alternately to opposite sides of the hinged assembly and may criss-cross their hinge surfaces which may be provided with grooves to accommodate the thickness of the filaments etc. This being know as a "figure of eight" filament hinge. This is the preferred form of secondary securing means and may be one or more monofilament threaded hinges that communicate between and hold together the hinge elements at the hinge surfaces. The secondary securing means may be in the form of co-operating ancillary features that are located on adjacent hinge elements that assist with alignment of the hinge surfaces. These elements may be in the form of co-operating dimples and grooves that are in contact with each other during most of the extent of rotation of the hinge elements.

[0024] In a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a multi- formable geometric device which comprises one ore more hinge assemblies according to the present invention. In a preferred embodiment the multi-formable geometric device is a toy which comprises two or more geometric elements movably connected together with a hinge assembly according to the present invention. In this aspect of the present invention the toy may be used for amusement and/or stimulation. A puzzle, or for instruction in, or construction of, geometric figures. The hinge assembly of the present invention may also be used in devices other than toys. Examples of other uses include; inspection / access panels of machinery or aircraft; folding screens and blinds; automotive glove boxes; fuel filler covers and the like; or incorporated into such as- 'Flip-up-phones' or laptop computers where the screen and its housing also function as a lid; as hinges in the manufacture of cabinets and other furniture such as kitchen units. In a further embodiment for use in all aspects of the present invention a mechanical or electro, mechanical, magnetic, locking facility may perhaps be incorporated into the hinge assembly and device. Further envisaged applications of hinge assemblies according to the present invention, other than that of the geometric toy, include such as exhibition screens and window blinds, kitchen or galley furniture, especially in aircraft, motor-home, caravan and other applications where high strength, coupled with light weight, and large amount of movement is important.

[0025] Further examples of other uses of the hinge assembly according to the present invention include its use as a switch for switching electric cuixent, especially where a firm and positive contact or/ and disconnect or wiping force is required. It may also be used as a relay and as a safety power isolation switch on electrical equipment. [0026] The present invention will now be described in detail and by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] FIGURE 1 (a) and (b) shows a multi-formable geometric device according to the present invention in plan view;

[0029] FIGURE 2 shows a side view of a whole toy according to the present invention composed of twenty-four connected right angled tetrahedrons;

[0030] FIGURE 3 Shows a side view of the toy composed of the twenty-four tetrahedrons configured as a dodecahedron, of twelve rhomboid faces;

[0031] FIGURE 4 (a) and (b) shows a perspective view of two connected hinge elements and illustrating an internal hinge assembly and in particular a "U" shaped spring as part of the hinge assembly;

[0032] FIGURE 5 (a) to (d) show various "U" shaped springs with additional fulcra;

[0033] FIGURE 6 (a) to (c) shows a schematic view of the relative location of the "U" shaped spring during operation of a hinge assembly according to the present invention; and

[0034] FIGURE 7 (a) to (c) show a hinge assembly with a toggle based connection means to provide the latching mechanism for the assembly.

[0035] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0036] With reference to Figures 1 (a) and (b) is shown a multi-formable geometric device (1) according to the present invention. In Figure 1 (a) is shown a series of hollow right angled tetrahedra (2) that are in contact with each other at their hinge edges (3). The hinge edges (3) are held in relative position to each other by means of two hinge assemblies according to the present invention (not shown). As is evident from the Figure the hinge assemblies (not shown) are concealed within the body of the tetradedra (2), the only visible evidence of the presence of the hinge assemblies (not shown) are the slots (4) proximate to the hinge edges (3) on each right angled tetrahedron segment (2). Each right angled tetrahedron (2) is able to rotate freely about the hinge edges (3) in the directions indicated by arrows A and B of Figure 1 (a). Figure 1 (b) shows the geometric device of Figure 1 (a) as viewed in the direction of arrow X indicated in Figure 1(a). Because of the free rotation of the right angled tetrahedra (2) around hinge edges (3) as facilitated by the hinge assembly design (not shown) the faces of the tetrahedra may easily come into contact with each. Thus it is possible to arrange the linked tetrahedral into a variety of shapes such as is desirable in a geometric toy as illustrated by Figures 2 and 3 where a multi-formable geometric toy (10) is shown which is made up of twenty-four connected right angled tetrahedrons (11) which are connected via concealed hinge assemblies (not shown) according to the present invention.

[0037] With reference to Figures 4 (a) and (b) a hinge assembly (20) according to the present invention is illustrated showing two hinge elements (2 land 21 ') being two halves of two connected right angled tetrahedra and a connecting means (22), which is in the form of a "U" shaped spring. The inner surface (26) is in the form of a right angle with two connecting regions (26a and 26b). The "U" shaped spring (22) is in contact with the inner surfaces (26) of the hinge elements (21 and 21 ') and connected between the two hinge elements (21 and 21') by passage of a portion of the "U" shaped spring through the conduit (27) which is formed from the alignment of two slots in each of the hinge elements (21 and 21 '). Thus it can be seen that the"U" shaped spring (22) has an axis of rotation through the conduit (27) and is therefore able to rotate about that axis and is also is able to move laterally within the conduit (27) as the conduit (27) is in the form of a slot. Operation of the hinge assembly (20) is as follows. In Figure 4 (a) the hinge assembly (20) is in one of two contact positions. In this first position the two opposing faces (23) illustrated in Figure 4(b) for hinge component (21) but not visible for hinge component (21 ') are in contact with each other. The "U" shaped spring (22) consists of a U shaped metal spring (24),which has two roller assemblies (25 only one shown) that are located towards both ends of the U shaped metal spring. The spring (24) is under compression and forces the roller assemblies (25) into contact with the connecting region (26a) of the inside surface (26) of the hinge elements (21 and 21 '). The bottom of the U shape spring (24a) is located within the conduit slot (27) and towards one end of the slot. During operation the hinge element surfaces (23) that are in contact with each other are forced apart in a direction as illustrated by the broken arrows in Figure 4 (b), and pivot relative to each other about axis X as indicated in Figure 4 (b). The application of this force acts upon the roller assemblies (25) of the U spring (22) which are in contact with the inside surface (26a) of the hinge elements. As the relative rotation progresses, the inclination of the internal walls (26a) increase relative to each other and distance between the contacted surfaces (23) increases. This increases the asymmetry of the forces acting via the 'U' shaped spring (22), while simultaneously increasing the tension of the spring acting through the rollers (25). Eventually a point in the rotation, namely the unlatch or trigger point, is reached when the asymmetry is greater than fiictional forces on the rollers, whereupon the roller assembly (25) is unable to resist further movement in the hinge assembly (20) and the connecting means (22) moves to a position where the hinge assembly (20) is unlatched from its former position, causing the rollers (25) to run freely down the inclination, into the jamb or corner made by the conjunction of the two connecting regions (26a and 26b) of the internal faces (26). Thus the forces coupled with the action of rotation and the change in the inclination of the inside surfaces (26) causes the roller assemblies (25) and the ends of the U shaped spring to move down the face of the inside surfaces (26) towards the jamb or corner formed by the conjunction of the two adjacent internal faces of the hinge element. Figure 4 (b) shows the roller assembly (25) located at the corner. If the operator continues to force apart the hinge element faces the roller assemblies (2%) continue past the jamb and are forced up the opposite connecting region (26b) of the internal face (26) until the other external surfaces of the hinge elements are in contact with each other. Once this has been achieved the hinge assembly is now latched in the new contact position. As the roller assembly (25) makes this passage from one connecting region (26a) to the other (26b) of the internal surface (26) through the corner region, the bend (24a) in the "U" shaped spring (22) rotates and at the same time traverses the conduit slot (27) so that when the other surfaces are in contact the bend is located at the opposite end of the right angled conduit slot (27). In performing this movement the bend (24a) of the "U" shaped spring (22) passes through the axis of rotation "x" of the hinge element (20). To reverse the operation one simply has to force apart the opposite faces in a similar manner and the roller assembly (25) will move back along the same path as illustrated by the solid arrows in Figure 4 (b) and the hinge assembly will move from the latched position into a free rotating phase before entering into a further latched position when the hinge element surfaces (23) make contact with each other. Also illustrated in Figures 4 (a) and (b) is a secondary securing means (29) which is a figure of eight wire monofilament connection. Also illustrated are stop members (30) which when present provide a stop point for the roller assembly (25) to prevent over rotation of the assembly. When in the latched position the arm of the roller assembly (25) should not define an angle of more than 45° in relation to the axis of rotation "x" of the hinge assembly.

[0038] The above described rotational movement of the spring assembly may be augmented still further by inclusion of one or more fulcra or modifications that have the same effect as fulcra. These fulcra maybe used with or in place of roller assemblies (25). Arrangements of spring assemblies with such fulcra are illustrated in Figures 5 (a) to (d) where (a) shows a spring assembly with incorporated fulcra (50) being such as plastic beads, cams, or levers attached to the spring arms (51), with roller assemblies

(52) towards the end of the arms (51), (b) shows a simplified spring assembly, where the rollers (52) are substituted by a kink in the wire (53), the wire may be covered in plastic tubing (54), to reduce friction and may act as an additional fulcrum, (c) shows a spring assembly with offset arms (55), in which beads (56) are substituted for rollers (52) and the arms of the spring are cranked near together, forming fulcra at point X, and (d) shows a spring assembly with rollers (57) fixed to inwardly cranked arms (58) and fulcra at Y are formed in the material. With all of the above, the latch/ unlatch characteristics maybe further augmented by the use of compression springs or elastic material at or about the fulcrum positions.

[0039] In the preferred embodiment of the toy of the present invention as illustrated in Figure 2, the two respective end elements of the chain 'A' and 'B' may incorporate magnetic or mechanical connectors, so as to enable the whole chain to be formed into a loop.

[0040] Although Figure 4 (a) and (b) illustrate right angled tetrahedral elements the elements may not necessarily be triangular based pyramids, they could be quadratic based tetrahedrons or prisms or other shapes.

[0041] Figures 6 (a), (b) and (c) schematically illustrate how the bend of a "U" shaped connecting means (40) passes through the conduit slot (41) and axis of rotation (42) of the hinge elements (43) and (44) during operation of the hinge assembly (45). With reference to Figure 6(a) in the contact position the rollers (46) are in contact with surfaces (47), (48), (49) and (50). The ends (51) of the connecting means (40) are higher than the top of the conduit slot (41) due to the relative dimensions of the rollers (46). The bar of the connecting means (40) is in contact with the top of the slot (41). The rollers (46) are in contact with surfaces (49) and (50) due to the compressive forces of the "U" shaped spring connecting means (40). The hinge assembly (45) is latched in this position. During operation of the hinge assembly (45) the hinge elements (43) and (44) move in the direction of the broken arrows X and Y. As they move in this direction surfaces (49) and (50) are forced apart and exert pressure on the rollers (46) and the "U" shaped spring (40). This causes the rollers (46) to rotate and move along the surfaces (47) and (48) forcing them in the directions of arrows X and Y. At the same the bar of the spring connecting means (40) moves from contact with the top of the conduit (41) towards the axis of rotation of the hinge (42). At some point the forces exerted on the rollers (46) and "U" shaped spring (40) are such that the rollers (46) are able to freely rotate to the position indicated in Figure 6 (b) at which point the hinge assembly (45) is unlatched from the latched state in Figure 6 (a) and is now in an intermediate latched state where the bar of the connection means (40) is now located at the axis of rotation (42) of the hinge assembly (45). As the motion is continued the bar of the connection means (40) passes through the axis of rotation (42) and the hinge assembly moves into a second latched state as illustrated in Figure 6 (c).

[0042] With reference to Figures 7 (a) to (c) a hinge assembly (60) is illustrated which comprises a toggle based connection means (61) as part of the assembly. The Assembly consist of two hinge elements (62 and 63), with slotted conduits (64 and 65) and a toggle based connection means (61) which comprises two toggles (66 and 67) which are connected to each other by a filament (68). The filament is fixed at points (69 and 70) of the toggles (66 and 67) but is free to move within the slots (71 and 72). The filament (68) connects the two toggles (66 and 67) via slotted conduits (64 and 65). The toggles are of circular cross-section and are hollow. The hollow interior and the slots (71 and 72) define a passage within each toggle for accommodating the filament (68) within the toggles (66 and 67). Figure 7 (a) illustrates the hinge assembly in one contact position in the latched state. The latching effect is provided by the deformation of the filament (68) by contact with the top (73) of the conduits (64 and 65), which in turn causes the deformable toggles to flex thus applying pressure to surfaces (74 and 75) of hinge elements (62 and 63). The effect is completed as the dimensions of the toggles (66 and 67) are such that the fixed points of the filaments (69 and 70) are located passed the points "A" indicated in Figure 7 (a), which means that as the toggles are under flexed compression the moment of force at these fixed points are in a direction towards the surfaces (74 and 75). When the hinge assembly is operated to unlatch the position in Figure 7 (a) the fixed points (69 and 70) approach points "A" and release the flexed compression of the toggles allowing the hinge assembly to unlatch into the intermediate position shown in Figure 7 (c). If pressure is further applied to the hinge assembly then the motion continues and hinge assembly moves into the latched position shown in Figure 7 (b). The hinge surfaces (76) are flattened in this illustration and assist in providing a secure intermediate latched position as illustrated in Figure 7 (c). It can be seen that the filament (68) passes through the axis of rotation (77) of the hinge assembly (60) during its operation.

Claims

1. A hinge assembly which comprises two hinge elements each having inner and outer surfaces and at least one connecting means for securing the hinge elements in proximity to each other to form the hinge assembly, each hinge element comprising, a hinge surface located on the outer surface of the hinge element which confronts a corresponding hinge surface on the outer surface of the other hinge element, and at least one conduit passing from and through the hinge surface to the inner surface of the element, the conduit being aligned within the hinge assembly with a corresponding conduit on the other hinge element, wherein the hinge surfaces when confronted to each other define an axis of rotation about which the hinge elements may be rotated relative to each other during operation of the hinge assembly and each connecting means has a component that communicates between the two hinge elements via the aligned conduits and a component which is in contact with the inner surface of each hinge element.

2. A hinge assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein the connecting means has a component that is located within both of the aligned and confronting conduits and the component lies along an axis through the conduits which is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the hinge elements relative to each other during operation of the hinge assembly.

3. A hinge assembly as claimed in either claim 1 or claim 2 wherein each hinge element comprises at least two connected regions arranged at an angle to each other.

4. A hinge assembly as claimed in claim 3 wherein the angle is approximately 90°.

5. A hinge assembly as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the hinge surfaces traverse the angled section of each hinge element.

6. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the cross sectional dimension of the conduit when viewed from the external surface of the hinge element is such that the conduit has a component that traverses from one connected region of the hinge element to the other through the hinged surface and angled section.

7. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the conduit is of circular, square, oval, rectangular, or rhomboid cross-sectional shape.

8. A hinge assembly as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the conduit is if symmetrical cross-section.

9. A hinge assembly as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the conduit is if asymmetrical cross-section.

10. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the conduit is in the form of a slot, being a conduit that has as its longest cross-sectional dimension, when viewed from the external surface, laying in the direction traversing the hinge surface.

11. A hinge assembly according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the component of the connecting means located within the aligned conduits, and generally aligned along an axis perpendicular to the access of rotation of the hinge assembly, is able to pass through the axis of rotation of the hinge assembly during its operation.

12. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the connecting means exerts a positive pressure on the inner surfaces with which it is in contact.

13. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the connecting means is an approximately 'U' shaped spring.

14. A hinge assembly as claimed in claim 13 wherein each end of the arms of the "U" shaped spring is separately in contact with the inner surface of one of the hinge elements.

15. A hinge assembly as claimed in claims 13 or 14 wherein the bottom section of the "U" shape of the spring is located in the aligned conduits of the assembly.

16. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 15 wherein the arms or arm ends of the approximately 'U' shaped spring are fitted with wheels, rollers, beads or other methods of reducing friction or to aid movement of the arms or ends of the "U" shaped spring during operation of the hinge assembly.

17. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein the connection means is in the form of a toggle assembly comprising two toggles, each toggle is in contact with an inner surface of opposing hinge elements and are connected to each other by a filament.

18. A hinge assembly as claimed in claim 17 wherein the filament travels through the pair of aligned conduits in the hinge assembly.

19. A hinge assembly as claimed in claim 17 or 18 wherein each toggle has a passage through its body.

20. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 19 wherein the filament passes through the toggles passage and is fixed to each toggle in a position on the toggle that is remote from the aligned conduits.

21. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 20 wherein the point at which the filament enters each toggle passage is proximate to and aligned with the conduits of the hinge assembly.

22. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21 wherein the exit point of the toggle passage is in the form of a hole or slot that has one cross-sectional dimension that is larger than the cross-sectional dimension of the filament.

23. A hinge assembly as claimed in claim 22 wherein the dimensions of this exit hole or slot are larger than the cross-sectional dimensions of the conduit especially the cross-sectional dimension of the conduit, which traverses the hinge surface of the hinge element.

24. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 23 wherein the toggle is in the form of a hollow tube.

25. A binge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 24 wherein the toggles has a hole or slot in its side.

26. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 25 wherein the toggle is of circular or oval cross-section or cam shaped in cross-section.

27. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 25 wherein the toggles are made of flexible/deformable material.

28. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 27 wherein the filament is made of cross-sectional dimensions that ensure it may be flexibly deformed.

29. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 26 wherein the toggle is made of flexible material and the filament made of relatively inflexible material.

30. A hinge assembly according to any one of the proceeding claims wherein the hinge assembly is self locking or latching.

31. A hinge assembly according to claim 30 wherein the self latching mechanism is provided by a hinge assembly comprising an adapted interconnected approximately "U" shaped spring that co-operates with the conduits of the hinge elements and the inner surfaces of the hinge elements to provide the latching action.

32. A hinge assembly according to claim 31 wherein the latching mechanism is provided through the use of an adapted "U" shaped spring wherein the ends of the "U" shape spring are located above the end of the conduit and exert a pressure to the inner surface of the hinge element.

33. A hinge assembly as claimed in claims 32 the ends of the "U" shape spring are adapted with wheels or rollers or beads.

34. A hinge assembly as claimed in any one of claims 31 to 33 wherein the hinge assembly comprises one or more fulcra.

35. A hinge assembly as claimed in claim 30 wherein the latching mechanism is provided through the use of a toggle based connection means.

36. A hinge assembly according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the hinge assembly further comprise a secondary securing means.

37. A multi-formable geometric device which comprises one or more hinge assemblies according to any one of claims 1 to 36.

38. A multi-formable geometric device according to claim 37 wherein the device is a toy which comprises two or more geometric elements movably connected together by one or more hinge assemblies according to claims 1 to 36.

39. A toy as claimed in claim 38 wherein the geometric elements are right angled tetrahedral.

40. A hinged device comprising one or more hinge assemblies according to claims 1 to 36.

41. A device as claimed in claim 39 wherein the device is and access panels of machinery or aircraft; folding screen or blinds; automotive glove boxes; fuel filler covers; 'Flip-up-phones' or laptop computers where the screen and its housing also function as a lid; cabinets; furniture; kitchen units.