Systems and methods for co-printed or concurrently assembled hinge structures
US11408216B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 20, 2018 |
| Grant date | Aug 9, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 20, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE05Y2800/45
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Systems and methods of co-printing a unitary hinge are provided. The unitary hinge may be co-printed using an additive manufacturing process. The unitary hinge includes a hinge pin that is substantially cylindrical in shape. The unitary hinge also includes a knuckle which surrounds a portion of the hinge pin and is configured to be manipulated about the hinge pin. The hinge pin is fabricated in situ with the knuckle such that further assembly is unnecessary. The unitary hinge may also include retention mechanism to retain the hinge within the knuckle without substantially restricting the knuckle from being rotated about the hinge pin. The unitary hinge may further be configured with a fluid port which may, for example, be used to provide a lubricant to an area between the hinge pin and the knuckle or to vacuum powder material or debris from the area.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.