AU2016201543B2 - Hydraulic Door Closer - Google Patents

Abstract

A hydraulic door closer system a jamb bracket for mounting of the jamb bracket to a jamb as required in at least two positions, a door bracket to mount to the door in the system and a hydraulic closer tube including a piston and rod assembly, each of the jamb bracket and door bracket adapted to mount the hydraulic closer tube relative thereto to close the door. 1/14 Ir~ I \ ;~ ' j ~ - ~~-; / / .~ I , / / I / / / / I I I I I I / I I I / / / / / / I / (I ( - I c-I cr~ I / ~~-----I~ c-I 1 ~ *.--.~--. ~¾2~ bv,~ --- / \ ___________ -- 7--' '-, 7 >'/' / / I c-I Ir~ ~7 ~7

Description

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HYDRAULIC DOOR CLOSER TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to door closing assemblies and in particular to a hydraulic door closer, system and components.

BACKGROUNDART

[0002] A door closer is a mechanical device that closes a door, in general after someone opens it, or after it was automatically opened. Choosing a door closer can involve the consideration of a variety of criteria including resistance to opening forces (for use by disabled or infirm), control over the rate of closing, safety, durability, risk of vandalism, anti-ligature and aesthetics.

[0003] A "manual" door closer stores the energy used in the opening of the door in a compression or torsion spring and releases it to close the door. Some closers allow for adjustment of the strength of the spring, making it easier or more difficult to push the door open. To limit the speed at which the door closes, most door closers use hydraulic (oil-filled) dampers, although spring mechanisms may also be used for damping. Some closers incorporate a back check facility which prevents the door from being opened too fast; this is useful for, for example, external doors where there is a danger of wind catching and blowing it open, something which could otherwise cause damage to the doorset and/or objects and/or people near it.

[0004] The speed at which the door closer closes the door may be adjustable Closers often feature dampers that offer control over the closing force and speed. Such dampers are usually hydraulic or pneumatic dashpots.

[0005] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0006] The present invention is directed to a hydraulic door closer, system and components, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0007] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a hydraulic door closer system including a jamb bracket for mounting to a doorjamb as required in at least two positions, a door bracket to mount to the door in the system and a hydraulic closer tube including a piston and rod assembly, each of the jamb bracket and door bracket adapted to mount the hydraulic closer tube relative thereto to close the door.

[0008] Typically, the hydraulic door closing system will include an end cap to attach to the hydraulic closer a tube and to the door bracket whilst providing an adjustment mechanism to adjust the closing power applied to the door by changing the effective volume within the hydraulic closer tube.

[0009] In an alternative form, the invention resides in a jamb bracket for a hydraulic door closing system, the jamb bracket including at least two wings, each of the at least two wings having a series of openings therethrough for mounting of the jamb bracket to a jamb as required in at least two positions and an engagement portion for mounting a door closer rod of the hydraulic door closer relative thereto.

[0010] In a further alternative form, the invention resides in a door bracket for a door closing system, the door bracket including an engagement portion for mounting a door closer relative thereto and at least two mounting wings to mount the door bracket relative to a door, each of the mounting wings including at least a first slot opening allowing a fastener to be used at a number of locations in the slot opening and a second opening for a single location fastening allowing a user to fix the position of the door bracket through the second opening of at least one of the mounting wings and adjust the location of a fastener provided on at least one other mounting wing.

[0011] In a further alternative form, the invention resides in a hydraulic door closer system including a jamb bracket for mounting of the jamb bracket to a jamb as required in at least two positions, the jamb bracket including at least two wings, each of the at least two wings having a series of openings therethrough for mounting of the jamb bracket to a jamb as required in at least two positions and an engagement portion for mounting a door closer rod of the hydraulic door closer relative thereto, a door bracket to mount to the door in the system, the door bracket including an engagement portion for mounting a door closer relative thereto and at least two mounting wings to mount the door bracket relative to a door, each of the mounting wings including at least a first slot opening allowing a fastener to be used at a number of locations in the slot opening and a second opening for a single location fastening allowing a user to fix the position of the door bracket through the second opening of at least one of the mounting wings and adjust the location of a fastener provided on at least one other mounting wing and a hydraulic closer tube including a piston and rod assembly, each of the jamb bracket and door bracket adapted to mount the hydraulic closer tube relative thereto to close the door.

[0012] It is preferred that the door closer system of the present invention is hydraulic rather than pneumatic. In particular, the fluid used in the door closer tube of the present invention will normally be an oil or similar.

[0013] The door closer system of the present invention can be mounted to any door or other panel which is moved between an open position but which is preferably biased into a closed condition. Typically, the door closer is attached to a non-sliding door but could be used for that purpose with minimal variation.

[0014] The door closer system of the present invention includes a door closer tube. The closer tube is typically elongate and as mentioned above, preferably contains a liquid such as oil or similar. The door closer tube will normally operate on the principle of a linear dashpot or similar mechanism. Linear dashpots are generally specified by stroke (amount of linear displacement) and damping coefficient (force per velocity). A dashpot is a common component in a door closer to prevent it from slamming shut. A spring applies force to close the door, and the dashpot forces fluid to flow through an orifice between reservoirs (the orifice is often adjustable), which slows the motion of the door.

[0015] The door closer tube included in the system of the present invention will normally have an elongate rod extending therefrom. The elongate rod is normally attached to the jamb bracket of the system of the present invention which is then in turn attached to the jamb surrounding the door.

[0016] The closer tube is also attached to a door bracket which is in turn attached to a door. The closer tube may be attached or mounted to the door bracket using an adapter end cap which is attached to the closer tube.

[0017] The closer tube also has normal components or mechanisms associated with it which are conventionally within the art such as the "hold open" washer or mechanism and a closing power and/or speed adjustment mechanism.

[0018] The closer tube of the present invention is typically for use in an in-line door closer rather than an articulated arm door closer.

[0019] The system of the present invention includes a jamb bracket for mounting to a jamb

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as required in at least two positions. The jamb bracket preferably includes at least two wings, each of the at least two wings having a series of openings therethrough for mounting of the jamb bracket to a jamb as required in at least two positions and an engagement portion for mounting a door closer rod of the hydraulic door closer relative thereto.

[0020] The jamb bracket is generally manufactured from metal but could be plastic or another suitable material. It is preferred that the jamb bracket be a unitary, preferably moulded or folded from a single piece of material.

[0021] As mentioned above, the jamb bracket preferably includes two main wings. The main wings are preferably substantially perpendicular to one another. In the most preferred embodiment, one of the wings will be shorter than the other of the wings and the wings will be marked with identifying indicia, typically a number or letter.

[0022] The jamb bracket is typically attached to the jamb through one of the main wings and the other main wing is used to attach to the door closer tube, preferably the elongate rod of the door closer tube. Each of the main wings preferably has a series of openings through the main wing for mounting the bracket to the jamb as required in at least two positions, that is at least one position assumed through mounting through the openings on one main wing and at least one other position assumed through mounting through the openings on the other of the main wings.

[0023] The openings in each of the wings will preferably be standard openings. To explain further, many different manufacturers of door closers use their own particular opening pattern to attach the brackets of their door closers and the openings provided on the wings of the jamb bracket of the present invention are preferably located to mimic one or more opening patterns of different manufacturers. This will allow the system of the present invention to be retrofitted using the existing openings formed in the jamb and/or door from mounting prior art systems, without requiring that new openings be formed in the jamb and/or door in different positions which may compromise the integrity of the jamb and/or door or be unsightly.

[0024] Typically, the openings in the respective main wings will be located in different positions, but at least some of the openings may be in the same respective positions. In other words, if the pattern of openings in the first main wing is overlaid with the pattern of openings in the second main wing, at least some of the openings may align with one another. More openings may be provided in either or both of the wings than are required to fix the jamb bracket to the jamb. In other words, the wings may have three or more openings where strictly speaking, only two openings may be necessarily required in order to fix the jamb bracket to the jamb.

[0025] Each main wing also preferably includes an engagement portion in order to engage with and mount the closer tube and preferably, the rod of the closer tube. Preferably, the engagement portion is substantially U-shaped, formed partially by the main wing itself to form one wall of the U-shaped portion, a second wall portion parallel to the main wing and a linking wall to space the walls of the U-shaped portion apart.

[0026] The U-shaped engagement portion will preferably be integrally formed with the remainder of the jamb bracket. An opening is preferably provided through each of the wall portions with the opening in each of the wall portions opposing one another, such that a single fastener can be inserted to extend through both openings. Normally, the rod of the closer tube will have an opening which is aligned with the openings in the respective walls and a pivot pin is typically inserted through the aligned openings to attach the rod of the closer tube to the jamb bracket.

[0027] The pivot pin is typically an elongate pivot pin with an enlarged head and preferably a cylindrical body. The pivot pin may have a circumferentially extending groove at or towards a lower end of the pivot pin. A transverse opening or bore is preferably provided through a lower portion of the pivot pin, between the circumferential groove and the end of the pivot pin. The transverse opening will typically receive a pin or clip there through, preferably an R-clip, in order to prevent the pivot pin slipping free of the aligned openings during use. In use, the pivot pin will be inserted through the opening in the rod, and then through the openings in both walls with the R-clip then inserted laterally through the transverse opening in order to retain the pin in the aligned openings attaching the rod to the jamb bracket.

[0028] Preferably, an engagement portion is provided on each of the mounting wings so that the rod of the closer tube can be attached to each wing depending upon the position or orientation of the jamb bracket. The pivot pin allows the door closer rod to pivot about the pin relative to the jamb bracket as the door is opened and closed.

[0029] Preferably, at least two fasteners are used to fix the position and orientation of the jamb bracket. Normally, elongate threaded fasteners such as screws are preferred.

[0030] The door closer rod is preferably mounted to the wing which is perpendicular to the jamb when the jamb bracket is mounted. The other of the wings will normally abut the jamb. Typically, the jamb bracket is mounted with the perpendicularly extending wing uppermost.

[0031] Each of the wings typically tapers inwardly as the wing extends toward the engagement portion with the engagement portions preferably provided at an outer or free end of each of the wings. The corners on the jamb bracket are preferably rounded and when the jamb bracket is formed, rounded corners are preferably formed between the different portions of the preferably unitary jamb bracket.

[0032] The system of the present invention also includes a door bracket to mount to the door in the system. The door bracket is generally manufactured from metal but could be plastic or another suitable material. It is preferred that the door bracket be unitary, preferably moulded or folded from a single piece of material.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the door bracket includes an engagement portion for mounting a door closer relative thereto and at least two mounting wings to mount the door bracket relative to a door, each of the mounting wings including at least a first slot opening allowing a fastener to be used at a number of locations in the slot opening and a second opening for a single location fastening, allowing a user to fix the position of the door bracket through the second opening of at least one of the mounting wings and adjust the location of a fastener provided on at least one other mounting wing.

[0034] The engagement portion is typically centrally located over the width of the door bracket. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the engagement portion is located between the two mounting wings used to mount the door bracket relative to the door. The engagement portion is preferably a planar member or portion.

[0035] The engagement portion will preferably have an appropriate engagement assembly to engage the door closer. The engagement portion may engage the door closer indirectly, that is, through an end cap mounted or attached to the door closer. The preferred engagement assembly is a slot opening to receive an attachment extension or flange of an end cap.

[0036] Typically, the flange will be inserted into the preferred slot opening before attaching the elongate rod of the door closer to the jamb bracket. When properly mounted, the spacing between the brackets will typically maintain the flange in the slot opening in the door bracket. The slot opening is preferably substantially vertically oriented in use. The flange is preferably curved or angled away from the jamb bracket. This configuration has the flange adopting a hook shape with the remainder of the end cap which assists with maintaining the flange in the slot opening. The flange generally extends at approximately 30 to the longitudinal axis of the end cap which is preferably coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the door closer tube.

[0037] The preferred planar engagement member or portion is typically offset from the plane of the wings located on either side of the engagement member or portion. The wings are preferably parallel to the plane of the engagement member or portion but offset by a distance allowing the flange to be received in the slot opening, but not to abut the door to which the door bracket is attached. In other words, the offset position of the engagement member or portion means the engagement member or portion is spaced outwardly from the door further than the wings when attached to the door. The wings are preferably coplanar with one another with a linking wall extending from each of the wings to the planar engagement member of portion. The preferred wings extend laterally in opposite directions to one another from the preferred planar engagement member or portion.

[0038] Each of the wings includes at least a first slot opening allowing a fastener to be used at a number of locations in the first slot opening. Preferably, the first slot opening is elongate. Although the first slot opening can extend in any direction, it is preferred that the first slot opening is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the wing rather than extending transversely across the longitudinal axis. This will typically allow greater flexibility in positioning the fasteners when mounting the door bracket to the door. Normally, the slot opening is located closer to the engagement member or portion than the second opening. The slot opening is also preferably spaced from the linking wall which joins the wing to the planar engagement member or portion.

[0039] The first slot opening is typically coaxial with the second opening. There is typically one first slot opening in each wing. The first slot opening is adapted to receive a fastener therethrough but the fastening in the first slot opening will typically be applied after the door bracket has been fixed in position using a fastener extending through the second opening in one of the wings. Alternatively, a fastener can be located in the approximate centre of the first slot opening initially giving a user some variation in the horizontal adjustment position of the door bracket and the fastener can be applied to the second opening once in the correct position.

[0040] Each of the wings also includes a second opening allowing the user to fix the position of the door bracket through the second opening in one mounting wing. This will typically fix the position of the bracket but allow the user some latitude in the location of the second fastener which will normally be applied through the first slot opening in the other wing. The second opening in each wing is preferably generally circular. The second opening will normally be located outboard of the first slot opening. Providing both wings with a first slot opening and a preferably circular second opening allows the user options during retrofitting to position and attach the door bracket using the existing holes (if any) in the door.

[0041] The present invention may also include an end cap for a door closer tube. Preferably, the end cap is provided relative to the door closer tube at the end opposite to the rod which is attached to the jamb bracket. The end cap is preferably provided with the curved or angled flange as explained above, used to mount the door closer tube relative to the door bracket, as well as an adjustment assembly provided to adjust the speed and/or closing power of the door closer.

[0042] The end cap is preferably hollow in order to receive an end portion of the door closer tube. An opening is preferably provided in the end wall of the end cap in order to allow a portion of the power set rod to extend out through the end cap. A transverse pin is preferably provided. Normally, the power set rod will be provided with a series of openings therein. The end cap will typically have a transverse opening in order to receive the transverse pin therethrough once aligned with an appropriate opening in the power set rod in order to adjust the closing power of the door. The user will typically adjust this upon installation or any time afterwards to adjust the power.

[0043] The transverse pin preferably has an enlarged head and a removable end cap is normally provided at the other end in order to prevent accidental movement or dislodgement of the pin from the transverse opening but not determined removal. The power set rod is typically moved as required which adjusts internal configurations of the door closer tube to adjust the closing power of the door closer. The transverse opening and the transverse pin are normally provided substantially perpendicularly to the flange that engages the door bracket.

[0044] A flattened portion is provided in the end cap and preferably, the opening and transverse pin are provided through the flattened portion.

[0045] The end cap is preferably generally cylindrical with a partially spherical outer end through which the power set rod opening is provided. The end cap can be made of plastic but is preferably made of metal and is normally unitary in configuration.

[0046] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0047] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0048] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[0049] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a hydraulic door closer system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 2 is a plan view of the jamb bracket end of the configuration illustrated in Figure 1.

[0051] Figure 3 is a plan view of a hydraulic door closer tube with an end cap according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 4 is a front elevation view of a hydraulic door closer tube with end cap according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 5 is a plan view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 4.

[0054] Figure 6A is an isometric view of an end cap according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 6B is an end view from an outer end of the end cap illustrated in Figure 6A.

[0056] Figure 6C is a plan view of the end cap illustrated in Figure 6A.

[0057] Figure 6D is a side elevation view of the end cap illustrated in Figure 6A.

[0058] Figure 6E is a sectional view of the end cap illustrated in Figure 6D along line B-B.

[0059] Figure 6F is an end view from an inner end of the end cap illustrated in Figure 6A.

[0060] Figure 6G is a detailed view of the portion identified as "F" in Figure 6E.

[0061] Figure 6H is a sectional view of the end cap illustrated in Figure 6F along line C-C.

[0062] Figure 7A is an isometric view of a door bracket according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

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[0063] Figure 7B is a plan view of the door bracket illustrated in Figure 7A.

[0064] Figure 7C is a front elevation view of the door bracket illustrated in Figure 7A

[0065] Figure 7D is an alternative front elevation view of the door bracket illustrated in Figure 7C.

[0066] Figure 7E is a side elevation view of the door bracket illustrated in Figure 7A.

[0067] Figure 8A is an isometric view of a gem bracket according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 8B is a plan view of the jamb bracket illustrated in Figure 8A.

[0069] Figure 8C is a rear view of the jamb bracket illustrated in Figure 8A.

[0070] Figure 8D is a side elevation view of the jamb bracket illustrated in Figure 8A.

[0071] Figure 8E is a front elevation view of the jamb bracket illustrated in Figure 8A.

[0072] Figure 9A is a detailed view of a first main wing of the jamb bracket illustrated in Figure 8A.

[0073] Figure 9B is a detailed view of a second main wing of the jamb bracket illustrated in Figure 8A.

[0074] Figure 10 shows the positioning of a hydraulic door closer system according to the present invention in a new fit installation.

[0075] Figure 11 shows the preparation of the jamb bracket for a new fit installation (STEP 1).

[0076] Figure 12 shows the preparation of the hold open washer for a new fit installation (STEP 2).

[0077] Figure 13 shows the door bracket preparation for a new fit installation (STEP 3).

[0078] Figure 14 shows how to test and adjust the closing speed of the door closer of a preferred embodiment of the present invention (STEP 4).

[0079] Figure 15 shows how to test and reduce the closing power of the door closer of a preferred embodiment of the present invention (STEP 5).

[0080] Figure 16 shows how to fix the door bracket position for installation of the system of the present invention (STEP 6).

[0081] Figure 17A is an isometric view of the jamb bracket of the preferred embodiment showing the two main wings used to determine which option of the retrofit installation is followed (STEP 1).

[0082] Figure 17B shows the installation template for the jamb bracket according to option one of the retrofit installation.

[0083] Figure 17C shows the installation template for the jamb bracket according to option two of the retrofit installation.

[0084] Figure 18A is an isometric view of the door bracket of the preferred embodiment.

[0085] Figure 18B shows the installation template for the door bracket in a retrofit installation (STEP 2).

[0086] Figure 19 shows the adjustment of the hold open washer in the retrofit installation (STEP 3).

[0087] Figure 20 shows the step of fitting the closer to the door bracket in the retrofit installation (STEP 4).

[0088] Figure 21 shows the step of fitting the closer to the jamb bracket in the retrofit installation (STEP 5).

[0089] Figure 22 shows the adjustment of the position of the door bracket in the retrofit installation (STEP 6A).

[0090] Figure 23 so as the repositioning of the door bracket in the retrofit installation (STEP 6B).

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0091] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, a hydraulic door closer system is provided.

[0092] As illustrated in the accompanying Figures, the hydraulic door closer system 10 of the preferred embodiment includes a jamb bracket 11 for mounting to a door jamb as required in

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at least two positions. The jamb bracket 11 is illustrated in detail in Figures 8A to 8E and includes two wings, a longer wing 12 marked "2" and a shorter wing 13 marked "1". Each of the wings 12, 13 have a series of openings 14 therethrough for mounting of the jamb bracket 11 to the door jamb as required in at least two positions and an engagement portion 15 for mounting a door closer rod 16 of the hydraulic door closer 17 relative thereto.

[0093] A door bracket 18 to mount to the door in the system is also provided, the door bracket 18 including an engagement portion 19 with a slot opening 23 for mounting the door closer 17 relative thereto and a pair of mounting wings 20 to mount the door bracket 18 relative to a door. As more clearly illustrated in Figures 7A to 7E, each of the mounting wings 20 includes a first slot opening 21 allowing a fastener 24 to be used at a number of locations in the slot opening 21 and a second circular opening 22 for a single location fastener 24, allowing a user to fix the position of the door bracket 18 through the second circular opening 22 one of the mounting wings 20 and adjust the location of a fastener provided on the other mounting wing 20 within the length of the slot opening 21.

[0094] The system of the preferred embodiment also includes a hydraulic closer tube 17 including an internal piston and rod 16. The jamb bracket 11 and the door bracket 18 are adapted to mount the hydraulic closer tube 17 relative to the door jamb and the door to close the door when it is opened.

[0095] The door closer system of the present invention can be mounted to any door or other panel which is moved between an open position but which is preferably biased into a closed condition. Typically, the door closer is attached to a non-sliding door but could be used for that purpose with minimal variation.

[0096] The door closer system is based around a hydraulic door closer 17. The closer 17 is typically elongate as illustrated in Figures 1 and 3 to 5 and as mentioned above, preferably contains a liquid such as oil or similar. The door closer 17 operates on the principle of a linear dashpot or similar mechanism. Linear dashpots are generally specified by stroke (amount of linear displacement) and damping coefficient (force per velocity). A dashpot is a common component in a door closer 17 to prevent it from slamming shut. A spring applies force to close the door, and the dashpot forces fluid to flow through an orifice between reservoirs (the orifice is often adjustable), which slows the motion of the door.

[0097] The door closer 17 included in the system of the present invention has an elongate rod 16 extending therefrom which is attached to the jamb bracket 11 which is then in turn

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attached to the door jamb 26 surrounding the door 25 as illustrated in Figure 10.

[0098] The closer 17 is also attached to the door bracket 18 which is in turn attached to the door 25. The closer 17 of the illustrated embodiment is attached or mounted to the door bracket 18 using an adapter end cap 27 which is attached to the closer 17.

[0099] The closer 17 also has normal components or mechanisms associated with it which are conventionally the art such as the "hold open" washer or mechanism and a closing power adjustment mechanism described in further detail below.

[0100] The jamb bracket 11 is generally manufactured from metal and it is preferred that the jamb bracket be unitary, preferably moulded or folded from a single piece of material.

[0101] As mentioned above, the jamb bracket 11 includes two main wings which are substantially perpendicular to one another in the illustrated embodiment.

[0102] The jamb bracket 11 is attached to the jamb through one of the main wings and the other main wing is used to attach to the door closer 17, preferably the elongate rod 16 of the door closer 17.

[0103] The openings 14 in each of the wings will preferably be standard openings. To explain further, many companies use their own particular pattern of openings and the openings provided on the wings of the jamb bracket of the present invention are preferably located to mimic one or more opening patterns of third parties. This will allow the system of the present invention to be retrofitted using the existing openings formed in the jamb from mounting prior art systems, without requiring that new openings be formed in the jamb in different positions which may compromise the integrity of the jamb.

[0104] Each main wing 12, 13 also includes an engagement portion 15 in order to engage with, and mount the closer 17 and preferably, the rod 16 of the closer 17. As illustrated in Figure 8 in particular, the engagement portion 15 is substantially U-shaped, formed partially by the main wing itself to form one wall of the U-shaped portion, a second wall portion 29 parallel to the main wing and a linking wall 30 to space the walls of the U-shaped portion apart.

[0105] An opening 31 is provided through each of the wall portions with the opening 31 in each of the wall portions opposing one another such that a single pivot pin 32 can be inserted to extend between both openings 31. Normally, the rod 16 of the closer 17 has an opening 33 which is aligned with the openings 31 in the respective walls and a pivot pin 32 is inserted through the

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aligned openings to attach the rod 16 of the closer 17 to the jamb bracket 11 as illustrated in Figure 1.

[0106] As best illustrated in Figure 12, the pivot pin 32 is typically an elongate pivot pin 32 with an enlarged head 34 and a cylindrical body 35. The pivot pin 32 has a circumferentially extending groove 36 towards a lower end of the pivot pin 32. A transverse opening 37 is provided through a lower portion of the pivot pin 32, between the circumferential groove 36 and the end of the pivot pin 32. The transverse opening 37 receives an R-clip 38 in order to prevent the pivot pin 32 slipping free of the aligned openings. In use, the pivot pin 32 is inserted through the opening 33 in the rod 16, and then through the openings 31 in both walls with the R-clip 38 then inserted laterally through the transverse opening 37 in order to retain the pin 32 in the aligned openings 31, attaching the rod 16 to the jamb bracket 11.

[0107] As illustrated in Figure 11 amongst others, an engagement portion 15 is provided on each of the mounting wings 12, 13 so that the rod 16 of the closer 17 can be attached to each wing depending upon the position or orientation of the jamb bracket 11. The pivot pin 32 allows the door closer rod 16 to pivot about the pin 32 relative to the jamb bracket 11 as the door 25 is opened and closed.

[0108] As illustrated in Figure 2 and 10, three fasteners are used to fix the position and orientation of the jamb bracket 11. Normally, elongate threaded fasteners such as screws are preferred.

[0109] As illustrated in Figure 10, the door closer rod 16 is mounted to the wing which is perpendicular to the jamb 26 when the jamb bracket 11 is mounted. The other of the wings will normally abut the jamb 26. Typically, the jamb bracket 11 is mounted with the perpendicularly extending wing uppermost.

[0110] The door bracket 18 is also generally manufactured from metal but could be plastic or another suitable material. It is preferred that the door bracket 18 be a unitary, preferably moulded or folded from a single piece of material.

[0111] The planar engagement portion 19 of the door bracket 18 is centrally located between the two mounting wings 20 used to mount door bracket 18 relative to the door 25.

[0112] The engagement portion 19 has a slot opening 23 to engage the door closer or preferably, an end cap 27 mounted to the door closer. As illustrated in Figures 1 and 16, the slot opening 23 receives an attachment flange 39 of the end cap illustrated in Figures 6A to 6H.

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[0113] As will be explained further below, the flange 39 will normally be inserted into the slot opening 23 before attaching the elongate rod 16 of the door closer 17 to the jamb bracket 11. When properly mounted, the spacing between the brackets will typically maintain the flange 39 in the slot opening 23 in the door bracket 18. As illustrated in Figure 10, the slot opening 23 is substantially vertically oriented in use. As seen in Figures 6A to 6H, the flange 39 is curved or angled away from the jamb bracket 11. This configuration has the flange 39 adopting a hook shape with the remainder of the end cap 27 which assists with maintaining the flange 39 in the slot opening 23. The flange 39 generally extends at approximately 300 to the longitudinal axis of the end cap 27 which is preferably coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the door closer 17.

[0114] As illustrated in Figure 7A, the preferred planar engagement portion 19 is typically offset from the plane of the wings 20 located on either side of the engagement portion 19. The wings 20 are parallel to the plane of the engagement portion 19 but offset by a distance allowing the flange 39 to be received in the slot opening 23, but not to abut the door 25 to which the door bracket 18 is attached. In other words, the offset position of the engagement portion 19 means the engagement portion 19 is spaced outwardly from the door 25 further than the wings 20 when attached to the door 25. The wings 20 are preferably coplanar with one another with a small linking wall 40 extending from each of the wings 20 to the planar engagement portion 19. The wings 20 extend laterally in opposite directions to one another from the planar engagement portion 19.

[0115] As illustrated in Figures 7A to 7E, each of the wings 20 includes a first slot opening 21 allowing a fastener to be used at a number of locations in the slot opening 21. Preferably, the first slot opening is elongate. Although the slot opening 21 can extend in any direction, it is preferred that the slot opening is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the wing 20 as illustrated in Figures 7C and 7D, rather than being transversely across the longitudinal axis. This will allow greater flexibility in positioning the fasteners when mounting the door bracket 18 to the door 25. As illustrated, the slot opening 21 is located closer to the engagement portion 19 than the second opening 22. The slot opening 21 is also spaced from the linking wall 40 which joins the wing 20 to the planar engagement portion 19.

[0116] Each of the wings 20 also includes a second opening 22 allowing the user to fix the position of the door bracket 18 through the second opening 22 in one mounting wing 20. This will typically fix the position of the bracket 18 but allow the user some latitude in the location of the second fastener which will normally be applied through the slot opening 21 in the other wing 20. The slot opening 21 is typically coaxial with the second opening 22. The second opening 22

I %J

in each wing is preferably circular as illustrated. The second opening 22 is located outboard of the first slot opening 21. Providing both wings 20 with a slot opening 21 and a circular second opening 22 allows the user options during retrofitting to position and attach the door bracket 18 using the existing holes in the door 25.

[0117] The preferred embodiment of the present invention also includes an end cap as illustrated in Figures 6A to 6H for the door closer 17. Preferably, the end cap 27 is provided relative to the door closer 17 at the end opposite to the rod 16 which is attached to the jamb bracket 11. The end cap 27 is preferably provided with the curved or angled flange 39 as explained above used to mount the door closer 17 relative to the door bracket 18 as well as an adjustment assembly provided to adjust the closing power of the door closer.

[0118] As illustrated in Figures 6A to 6H, the end cap 27 is hollow in order to receive an end portion of the door closer 17. An opening 41 is provided in the end wall of the end cap 27 in order to allow a portion of the power set rod 42 to extend out through the end cap 27. A transverse pin 43 is preferably provided. Normally, the power set rod 42 will be provided with a series of openings therein. The end cap 27 will typically have a transverse opening 44 in order to receive the transverse pin 43 therethrough once aligned with an appropriate opening in the power set rod 42 in order to adjust the closing power of the door as illustrated in Figure 15. The user will typically adjust this upon installation or any time afterwards to adjust the power.

[0119] The transverse pin 43 has an enlarged head 45 and a removable pin end cap 46 is normally provided at the other end in order to prevent accidental movement or dislodgement of the pin 43 from the transverse opening 44 but not determined removal. The power set rod 42 is typically moved as required which adjusts internal configurations of the door closer 17 to adjust the power and/or speed of closing. The transverse opening 44 and the transverse pin 43 are normally provided substantially perpendicularly to the flange 39 that engages the door bracket 18.

[0120] A flattened portion 47 is provided in the end cap 27 and preferably, the transverse opening 44 and the transverse pin 43 are provided through the flattened portion 47.

[0121] The end cap 27 is preferably generally cylindrical with a partially spherical outer end through which the power set rod opening 41 is provided. The end cap 27 can be made of plastic but is preferably made of metal and is normally unitary in configuration.

[0122] The system of the present invention can be installed in a standard or new fit installation as illustrated in Figures 10 to 16 or in a retrofit installation as illustrated in Figures 10

11/

and 17A to 23.

[0123] The steps undertaken by an installer in a new fit installation are illustrated in Figures 10 to 16. Figure 10 illustrates schematically the components to which the individual steps 1 to 6 apply. Step one in a new fit installation is the preparation of the jamb bracket 11. In a new fit installation, the jamb bracket face No. 2 (surface of wing 12) is placed against the jamb 26. The jamb bracket 11 is positioned approximately 40 mm below the top of the door frame and between 12 and 25 mm from the door face as shown in Figures 10.

[0124] Step two in the new fit installation is to adjust the hold open washer 28 of the door closer 17. At manufacture, the hold open washer 28 is preset and the door closer 17 is in a preset length. However, if required, a user can extend the rod 16 of the door closer 17 and fit the adjustable hold open washer 28 behind the cylinder. The user will then fit the door closer 17 to the jamb bracket 11 with the pivot pin 32 as illustrated in Figure 10 and Figure 12. Importantly, the R-pin 38 should only be fitted to the pivot pin 32 after step six of the installation is undertaken.

[0125] Step three in the new fit installation is the preparation of the door bracket 18 as illustrated in Figures 10 and 13. With the door 25 closed, the user then fixes the end of the door closer 17 to the door bracket 18 by inserting the flange 39 of the end cap 27 through the slot opening 23 in the door bracket 18. The user will then position the door bracket 18 on the door 25 to fit the closer 17 preset length. The user marks a screw hole position in the centre of one of the slot holes 21 in the door bracket as illustrated in Figure 13. It is important at this stage that the door bracket 18 and the door closer 17 should be parallel or level with the door edge as illustrated in Figure 10. The user can then remove the door closer 17 and drill a preferred 3 mm diameter screw hole. A 19 mm screw is then used to fix the door bracket 18 to the door 25 through the centre of one of the slot holes 21.

[0126] Step four in a new fit installation is to test and adjust the closing speed as illustrated in Figures 10 and 14. Firstly, the user must refit the door closer 17 and disengage the hold open washer 28 by moving it away from the closer tube. The user can then test door closing for ideal operation. To adjust the closing speed of the door 25, the user will remove the closer 17 from the door 25 and holding the end of the rod 16, rotate the door closer tube in the required direction, normally through a half turn in the required direction at each adjustment. The user can then refit the closer 17 and test the door closing.

[0127] Step five in a new fit installation is to test, and if necessary reduce, the closing power of the door 25 as illustrated in Figures 10 and 15. To adjust the closing power, the pin 43 on the end cap 27 of the door closer 27 is removed by removing the pin end cap 46 from the pin 43, and then removing the pin 43 from the end cap 27. The power set rod 42 can then be moved as required and the pin 43 reinserted.

[0128] Step six in a new fit installation is to fix the door bracket 18 position as illustrated in Figures 10 and 16. After setting the door closer 17 correctly in steps four and five, the user marks the hole position in the round hole 22 of the door bracket 18 on the opposite wing 20 to that used to attach the door bracket 18 through the slot opening 21. The user can then remove the closer 17 from the door bracket 18 and drill a 3 mm diameter screw hole, again using a 19 mm screw to fix the bracket to the door 25. Once this has been done, the R-pin 38 can then be fitted to the pivot pin 32.

[0129] In a retrofit installation, the user will first remove the existing door closer and brackets. Instructions will be provided making it clear to the user that it may be possible to retrofit the door closer system of the present invention aligning the brackets provided with the existing screw holes on the door 25 and the jamb 26. The user will typically follow steps one and two of the retrofit installation instructions and if the screw patterns do not match the existing screw hole patterns on the door and the jamb, then the user can continue with the new fit installation as described above.

[0130] Step one of a retrofit installation is to verify the jamb bracket screw hole pattern as illustrated in Figure 17A to 17C. The jamb bracket 11 of the present invention provides two screw fixing options, namely one on each of the wings 13, 12 marked as 1 and 2 respectively. The user will typically overlay the jamb bracket from the existing door closer upon the templates illustrated in Figures 17B and 17C, in order to compare the screw pattern with those provided in either option 1 or option 2 as illustrated. If the existing jamb bracket matches either of these options, then the user can fit the jamb bracket 18 of the present invention if the screw holes align. In the retrofit installation, longer screws of approximately 28 mm in length are preferably used.

[0131] Step two of a retrofit installation is to verify the door bracket screw hole pattern as illustrated in Figure 18A and 18B. To do this, the user will overlay the existing door bracket onto the template illustrated in Figure 18B to compare the screw hole positions with those of the new door bracket 18. The user can fit the new door bracket 18 if the screw holes align. Again, the user will normally fit a 19 mm screw in the centre of one of the slot holes 21 in order to allow for horizontal adjustment if required. Importantly, the user will not fix the round hole 22 screw at this stage.

[0132] Step three of the retrofit installation is to adjust the hold open washer 28 preset position as illustrated in Figure 19. Again, the hold open washer 28 typically comes in a preset position with the door closer 17 in a preset length. Again if required, the user can extend the rod 16 and fit the adjustable hold open washer 28 behind the door closer 17 cylinder or tube.

[0133] Step four of the retrofit installation is to fit the closer 17 to the door bracket 18 by attaching the flange 39 of the end cap 27 to the slot opening 23 in the door bracket 18 as illustrated in Figure 20.

[0134] Step five of the retrofit installation is to fit the closer 17 to the jamb bracket 11 as illustrated in Figure 21. The rod end opening 33 is aligned with the openings 31 in the engagement assembly 15 of the jamb bracket 11 as per the new fit installation by installing pivot pin 32. The user will then typically test and adjust the closing speed and closing power according to steps four and five in the new fit installation as described above. If the closer length is appropriate, the user can then undertake step six from the new fit installation.

[0135] If the preset closer length does not fit the separation distance between the brackets 11, 18 provided in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the user can undertake step 6A which is to adjust the position of the door bracket 18 by loosening the screw used to pin the door bracket 18 to the door 25 and adjusting the door bracket 18 using the movement allowed in the slotted hole 21 as illustrated in Figure 22.

[0136] The user can then undertake step 6B as illustrated in Figure 23 which is to reposition the door bracket 18 by removing the screw in the slotted hole 21, reposition the door bracket 18 and mark a new screw hole position if required. The user can then remove the door closer 17, drill and fix using a screw in the slot opening 21 in one of the wings 20. The user can then test and adjust the door closer closing speed and power and fix the door bracket 18 position by inserting a screw according to step six of the new fit installation.

[0137] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0138] Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0139] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims (15)

1. A hydraulic door closer system including a jamb bracket for mounting of the jamb bracket to a jamb as required in at least two positions, the jamb bracket including at least two wings, each of the at least two wings having a series of openings therethrough for mounting of the jamb bracket to a jamb as required in at least two positions and an engagement portion; a door bracket to mount to the door in the system, the door bracket including an engagement portion for mounting a hydraulic closer tube relative thereto and at least two mounting wings to mount the door bracket relative to a door, each of the mounting wings including at least a first slot opening allowing a fastener to be used at a number of locations in the slot opening and a second opening for a single location fastening allowing a user to fix the position of the door bracket through the second opening of at least one of the mounting wings and adjust the location of a fastener provided on at least one other mounting wing; and a hydraulic closer tube including a piston and door closer rod assembly, each of the jamb bracket and door bracket adapted to mount the hydraulic closer tube relative thereto to close the door, wherein the at least two wings of the jamb bracket are substantially perpendicular to one another, are of different length and have different pattern of openings, wherein the engagement portion of each of the at least two wings of the jamb bracket is adapted for mounting the door closer rod, and wherein the jamb bracket can be selectively attached to the jamb through either one of the wings and the other wing used for mounting the door closer rod.

2. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the hydraulic closer tube is elongate and operates on the principle of a linear spring and dashpot.

3. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the door closer rod is extendable from the hydraulic closer tube.

4. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein each of the at least two wings of the jamb bracket is marked with identifying indicia.

5. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in any one of preceding claims wherein the openings in each of the at least two wings of the jamb bracket are located to mimic one or more opening patterns of different manufacturers allowing the system to be retrofitted using existing openings formed in the jamb and/or door from removal of an existing door closer system, without requiring that new openings be formed in the jamb and/or door in different positions.

6. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the engagement portions of the jamb bracket is substantially U-shaped, formed partially by each wing to form one wall portion of the U-shaped portion, a second wall portion parallel to the wing and a linking wall to space the walls of the U-shaped portion apart.

7. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in claim 6 wherein an opening is provided through each of the wall portions with the opening in each of the wall portions opposing one another, such that a single fastener can be inserted to extend through both openings to receive a pivot pin is inserted through the aligned openings to attach an elongate rod of the door closer tube to the jamb bracket.

8. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first slot opening of each of the at least two mounting wings of the door bracket is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mounting wings.

9. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first slot opening of each of the at least two mounting wings of the door bracket is coaxial with the second opening of each of the at least two mounting wings of the door bracket.

10. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the second opening of each of the at least two mounting wings of the door bracket is provided to allow the user to fix the position of the door bracket through the second opening in one mounting wing.

11. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further including an end cap to attach to the hydraulic closer tube and to the door bracket whilst providing an adjustment mechanism to adjust the closing power applied to the door by changing an effective volume within the hydraulic closer tube.

12. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in claim 11 wherein the engagement portion of the door bracket includes a first slot opening to receive an attachment extension or flange of the end cap.

13. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in claim 11 or claim 12 wherein the end cap is provided with a curved or angled flange used to mount the hydraulic closer tube relative to the door bracket, and an adjustment assembly provided to adjust the speed and/or closing power of the door closer.

14. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 13 wherein the end cap includes an opening provided in an end wall of the end cap in order to allow a portion of a power set rod to extend out through the end cap.

15. A hydraulic door closer system as claimed in claim 14 wherein the power set rod is provided with a series of openings therein and the end cap has a transverse opening in order to receive a transverse pin therethrough once aligned with one opening in the power set rod in order to adjust the closing power of the door.