Closure mechanism

Abstract

A closure mechanism is described, the closure mechanism comprising: a base; a carriage movable along the base; a catching mechanism movable along the carriage; a first resilient mechanism connecting the base and the catching mechanism; and a second resilient mechanism connecting the carriage and the catching mechanism.

Claims

1. A closure mechanism comprising: a base; a carriage movable along the base; a catching mechanism movable along the carriage; a first resilient mechanism connecting the base and the catching mechanism; a second resilient mechanism connecting the carriage and the catching mechanism; and a linking mechanism connected to the catching mechanism; wherein the first resilient mechanism connects to the catching mechanism via the linking mechanism.

2. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 1 further comprising linkage catching mechanism connectable to the linking mechanism and wherein the first resilient mechanism connects to the linking mechanism via the latching mechanism.

3. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 2 further comprising a damping mechanism for damping movement of the linkage catching mechanism in at least one direction along the base.

4. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 3 wherein the damping mechanism has a fixed end and a free end, the free end of the damping mechanism being connected to the linkage catching mechanism.

5. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first resilient mechanism is selected from the group consisting of at least one spring and at least two springs; and the second resilient mechanism is selected from the group consisting of at least one spring and at least two springs.

6. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 1 wherein the closure mechanism is operable to position a positionable object.

7. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 1 wherein the closure mechanism is operable to close a closable object within a body and wherein the closure mechanism catching mechanism cooperates with a catch trigger to close the closable object.

8. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 7 wherein the closable object is selected from the group consisting of a door, a window, a partition, a gate and a drawer.

9. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 1 further including a resilient force adjusting mechanism for simultaneously adjusting the tension of all the resilient mechanisms wherein the resilient force adjusting mechanism includes: a driven gear associated with each resilient mechanism configured to adjust the tension of the associated resilient mechanism; and at least one drive gear engageable with the driven gears of the resilient mechanisms, the at least one drive gear operable to simultaneously adjust the tension of all the resilient mechanisms, each at least one drive gear is movable from a first position in which it is engaged with the driven gears to a second position in which it is disengaged from the driven gears and wherein the drive gear is biased towards the disengaged position.

10. A closure mechanism comprising: an elongated member; a catch slidable along the elongated member; and a force providing mechanism operable to provide a force to the catch as the catch slides along the elongated member, wherein the maximum force provided by the force providing mechanism in a first direction is greater than the maximum force provided by the force providing mechanism in the second opposite direction; wherein the force providing mechanism includes at least two resilient mechanisms and wherein in a first direction all of the at least two resilient mechanisms operate together to provide a force and in the second direction each of the at least two resilient mechanisms operate separately, each resilient mechanism providing force for only part of the slide in the second direction.

11. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 10 further comprising a damper operable to dampen the force applied to the catch in the first direction.

12. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 11 wherein the closure mechanism is operable to position a positionable object.

13. The closure mechanism as claimed in claim 10 further including a resilient force adjusting mechanism for simultaneously adjusting the tension of all the resilient mechanisms wherein the resilient force adjusting mechanism includes: a driven gear associated with each resilient mechanism configured to adjust the tension of the associated resilient mechanism; and at least one drive gear engageable with the driven gears of the resilient mechanisms, the at least one drive gear operable to simultaneously adjust the tension of all the resilient mechanisms, each at least one drive gear is movable from a first position in which it is engaged with the driven gears to a second position in which it is disengaged from the driven gears and wherein the drive gear is biased towards the disengaged position.

14. A closing device for a panel comprising: a base; the base having: first and second ends; and a guide path, the guide path extending at least partially from the first end to the second end of the base; a carriage, wherein the carriage is movable along the first guide path, the carriage having; first and second ends; and a carriage guide path, the carriage guide path extending at least partially from the first end to the second end of the carriage; a catching mechanism, wherein the catching mechanism is movable along on the carriage guide path; a connecting link having first and second ends, wherein the catching mechanism is connected to the connecting link at the second end; a first resilient mechanism; a linkage catching mechanism connectable with the first end of the connecting link, the first resilient mechanism connecting to the connecting link via the linkage catching mechanism; a second resilient mechanism connecting the first end of the carriage and the catching mechanism; and a damping mechanism, for damping movement of the catching mechanism as it moves towards the first end of the base.

15. The closing device for a panel as claimed in claim 14 further including at least one third resilient mechanism connectable to the catching mechanism.

16. The closing device for a panel as claimed in claim 14 wherein the damping mechanism has a fixed end and a free end, the free end of the damping mechanism being connected to the linkage catching mechanism.

17. The closing device for a panel as claimed in claim 14 wherein the closing device is operable to position the panel.

18. The closing device for a panel as claimed in claim 14 further including a resilient force adjusting mechanism for simultaneously adjusting the tension of all the resilient force mechanisms wherein the resilient force adjusting mechanism includes: a driven gear associated with each resilient mechanism configured to adjust the tension of the associated resilient mechanism; and at least one drive gear engageable with the driven gears of the resilient mechanisms, the at least one drive gear operable to simultaneously adjust the tension of all the resilient mechanisms, each at least one drive gear is movable from a first position in which it is engaged with the driven gears to a second position in which it is disengaged from the driven gears and wherein the drive gear is biased towards the disengaged position.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

(2) FIG. 1 is a view of the closure mechanism;

(3) FIG. 2 is a partial assembly view of the closure mechanism;

(4) FIG. 3 is an assembly view of the carriage sub assembly of the closure mechanism;

(5) FIG. 4 is a view of the closure mechanism in position showing the latch engaged;

(6) FIG. 4A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 4 in position showing the latch engaged;

(7) FIG. 5 is a view of the closure mechanism in position showing the latch disengaged;

(8) FIG. 5A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 5 in position showing the latch disengaged;

(9) FIG. 6 is a view of a door and the closure mechanism mounted on a door;

(10) FIG. 6A is a front partial cross sectional view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 6 mounted on a door;

(11) FIG. 7 is a front view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a fully closed position;

(12) FIG. 7A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 7, illustrating the mechanism in a fully closed position;

(13) FIG. 8 is a front view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially open position;

(14) FIG. 8A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 8, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially open position;

(15) FIG. 9 is a front view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a fully open position;

(16) FIG. 9A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 9, illustrating the mechanism in a fully open position;

(17) FIG. 10 is a front view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially closed position;

(18) FIG. 10A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 10, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially closed position;

(19) FIG. 11 is a front view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a second partially closed position;

(20) FIG. 11A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 11, illustrating the mechanism in a second partially closed position;

(21) FIG. 12 is a front view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a third partially closed position;

(22) FIG. 12A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 12, illustrating the mechanism in a third partially closed position;

(23) FIG. 13 is a top view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a fully closed position;

(24) FIG. 14 is a top view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially open position;

(25) FIG. 15 is a top view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a fully open position;

(26) FIG. 16 is a top view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially closed position;

(27) FIG. 17 is a top view of the closure mechanism, illustrating the mechanism in a second partially closed position;

(28) FIG. 18 is a top view of an alternative closure mechanism having three sets of resilient members in a fully open position;

(29) FIG. 19 is a top view of an alternative closure mechanism having three sets of resilient members in a fully closed position;

(30) FIG. 20 is a view of an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism having an adjustable resilient mechanism, illustrating the adjustment mechanism disengaged and adjusted to provide the least tension;

(31) FIG. 20A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 20, illustrating the adjustment mechanism disengaged and adjusted to provide the least tension;

(32) FIG. 20B is a close up view of part B of the closure mechanism of FIG. 20, illustrating the adjustment mechanism disengaged and adjusted to provide the least tension;

(33) FIG. 21 is a view of an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism having an adjustable resilient mechanism, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the least tension;

(34) FIG. 21A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 21, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the least tension;

(35) FIG. 21B is a close up view of part B of the closure mechanism of FIG. 21, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the least tension;

(36) FIG. 22 is a view of an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism having an adjustable resilient mechanism, illustrating the adjustment mechanism disengaged and adjusted to provide the most tension;

(37) FIG. 22A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 22, illustrating the adjustment mechanism disengaged and adjusted to provide the most tension;

(38) FIG. 22B is a close up view of part B of the closure mechanism of FIG. 22, illustrating the adjustment mechanism disengaged and adjusted to provide the most tension;

(39) FIG. 23 is a view of an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism having an adjustable resilient mechanism, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the most tension;

(40) FIG. 23A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 23, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the most tension;

(41) FIG. 23B is a close up view of part B of the closure mechanism of FIG. 23, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the most tension;

(42) FIG. 24 is a partial assembly view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment;

(43) FIG. 25 is an assembly view of the carriage sub assembly of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment;

(44) FIG. 26 is a top view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a fully closed position;

(45) FIG. 26A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 26, illustrating the mechanism in a fully closed position;

(46) FIG. 27 is a top view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially open position;

(47) FIG. 27A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 27 illustrating the mechanism in a first partially open position;

(48) FIG. 28 is a top view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a fully open position;

(49) FIG. 28A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 28 illustrating the mechanism in a fully open position;

(50) FIG. 28B is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 28 illustrating the mechanism in a fully open position;

(51) FIG. 29 is a top view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially closed position;

(52) FIG. 29A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 29 illustrating the mechanism in a first partially closed position;

(53) FIG. 30 is a top view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a second partially closed position;

(54) FIG. 30A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 30 illustrating the mechanism in a second partially closed position;

(55) FIG. 31 is a view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment;

(56) FIG. 32 is a partial assembly view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment;

(57) FIG. 33 is an assembly view of the subassembly of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment;

(58) FIG. 34 is a partial view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment in position showing the latch engaged;

(59) FIG. 34A is a close up view of part A of the closure mechanism of FIG. 34 in position showing the latch engaged;

(60) FIG. 35 is a partial view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a fully closed position;

(61) FIG. 36 is a partial view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially open position;

(62) FIG. 37 is a partial view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a second partially open position;

(63) FIG. 38 is a partial view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in fully open position;

(64) FIG. 39 is a partial view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a first partially closed position;

(65) FIG. 40 is a partial view of the closure mechanism of an alternative embodiment, illustrating the mechanism in a second partially closed position;

(66) FIG. 41 is a view of an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism having an adjustable resilient mechanism, illustrating the adjustment mechanism disengaged and adjusted to provide the most tension;

(67) FIG. 42 is a view of an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism having an adjustable resilient mechanism, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the most tension;

(68) FIG. 43 is a view of an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism having an adjustable resilient mechanism, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the least tension;

(69) FIG. 44 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism having an adjustable resilient mechanism, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the least tension; and

(70) FIG. 45 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism having an adjustable resilient mechanism, illustrating the adjustment mechanism engaged and adjusted to provide the most tension.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(71) Referring to FIGS. 6 and 6A the closure mechanism 1 is shown within a door 30, the door being slidably mounted within a frame 31. While the closure mechanism 1 is illustrated mounted in the top of the door 30, it is to be understood that the closure mechanism 1 could be mounted in the bottom of the door 30 or the closure mechanism 1 could be mounted in either the top 32 of the frame 31 or the bottom 33 of the frame 31.

(72) Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3 the closure mechanism 1 of the present invention is illustrated. The closure mechanism 1 includes an elongated closure mechanism body 2. The closure mechanism body 2 consists of an upper closure mechanism body 11 and a lower closure mechanism body 13. The closure mechanism 1 has a first end 18 which in use is located in the direction that the slidable object moves to close and a second end 17 which in use is located in the direction in which the slidable object moves to open.

(73) A carriage 3 is movable along the closure mechanism body 2 in a track or guide path 14. Slidable within the carriage 3 is a catching mechanism or catch 9. The catching mechanism 9 in use, catches a trigger 10. If the closure mechanism 1 is mounted in the slidable object, then the trigger 10 is mounted on the frame. However as discussed above the closure mechanism could be mounted on or in a frame and so the trigger 10 could be mounted on the slidable object.

(74) A first resilient mechanism 6 connects the closure mechanism 1 at the closed end 18 and at the other end the first resilient mechanism 6 connects to the linkage catching mechanism 8. The first resilient mechanism 6 is operable to provide a closing force. The linkage catching mechanism 8 is movable along a track or guide path 16 in the closure mechanism body 2 and is connectable to a linkage 12.

(75) A damping mechanism 4 having a damping mechanism shaft 41 is situated at the first end 18 of the closure mechanism 1 and is in one embodiment adjustable depending on the load. The damping mechanism shaft 41 is connected to the linkage catching mechanism 8 and is operable to dampen the movable object as the object moves to a closed position.

(76) A carriage 3 is slidable on a track or guide path 14 in the closure mechanism body 2. The carriage 3 has an upper body 21 and a lower body 23. The carriage 3 has a first end 20 nearest the closed end 18 of the closure mechanism 1 and a second end 19 nearest the open end 17 of the closure mechanism 1. The carriage 3 includes a carriage catch track or guide path 24 along which slides the catching mechanism 9. In use the catching mechanism 9 catches the trigger 10. The catching mechanism 9 is connected to the linkage 12. A second resilient mechanism 22 connects between the catching mechanism 9 and first end 20 of the carriage 3. The second resilient mechanism 22 is operable to provide a closing force. The linkage 12 connects the linkage catch 8 and the catching mechanism 9.

(77) Referring to FIGS. 4, 4A, 5 and 5A a latch 15 assists in securing the carriage 3 in position at the furthest extent it can travel on the track or guide path 14 towards the first end 18. As can be seen in FIG. 4A when the carriage is at the further extent it can travel in track 14 towards the first end 18 the latch 15 applies a force to the carriage 3 to assist the carriage 3 to stay in position. Referring to FIG. 5A as the catching mechanism 9 reaches the furthest extent it can travel in track 24 towards the first end 18 the latch 15 is pushed down by the catching mechanism 9 allowing the carriage 3 to move in track 14.

(78) The resilient mechanisms 6 and 22 may be a spring or any other suitable resilient mechanism such as a rubber spring. In one embodiment the resilient mechanisms 6 and 22 each consist of a pair of springs.

(79) The closure mechanism body 2 and other components may be made of plastic or metal or any other suitable material. Preferably the tracks 14, 16 and 24 offer low resistance to the sliding components of the closure mechanism 1.

(80) Referring to FIGS. 7 to 17 the operation of the closure mechanism 1 will now be described. Referring particularly to FIGS. 7, 7A and 13 starting from the closed position where the catching mechanism 9 is nearest the first end 20 of the carriage track or guide path 14 and the carriage 3 is nearest the closed end 18 of the closure mechanism 1 in track or guide path 14. Both resilient mechanisms 6 and 22 are in a relaxed position. The damping mechanism shaft 41 is substantially within the damping mechanism 4 body. The linkage catch 8 is connected to the linkage 12. The latch 15 is pushed down by the catching mechanism 9 allowing the carriage 3 to move in track 14.

(81) The resilient mechanisms 6 and 22 are described as in a relaxed position when they are applying little force on the catching mechanism 9 and in a primed or extended position when they are able to apply force to the catching mechanism 9.

(82) In use when a moveable object is opened the trigger 10 is held by the catching mechanism 9, and as the trigger 10 moves towards the open end 17 of the closure mechanism 1, the first resilient mechanism 6 is extended to a stretched/primed position and the damping mechanism shaft 41 is extended.

(83) Referring to FIGS. 8, 8A and 14 the first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 are extended as the first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 are connected to the linkage catch 8 which is in turn connected to the catching mechanism 9 via the linkage 12. Thus the first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 are extended as the linkage catch 8 moves along the linkage catch track or guide path 16 towards the open end of the closure mechanism body 2.

(84) The carriage 3 having been released from the sprung latch 15 also moves along the carriage track or guide path 14 to the end of the carriage track or guide path 14 nearest the open end 17 of the closure mechanism 1. At this stage the closure mechanism has only extended the first resilient mechanism 6, the second resilient mechanism 22 has not been extended at all. A force sufficient to extend the first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 is only required. As the second resilient mechanism 22 is not extended at the same time no force is acting on the second resilient mechanism 22.

(85) As the trigger 10 moves further towards the open end 17 of the closure mechanism 1, the linkage catch 8 disengages from the linkage 12 and the catching mechanism 9 slides along towards the second end of the closure mechanism body in track or guide path 24. The first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 remain in an extended position held by the linkage catch 8.

(86) Referring to FIGS. 9, 9A and 15 as the trigger 10 moves towards the open end 17 of the closure mechanism 1 the catching mechanism 9 moves along the carriage track or guide path 14 and extends the second resilient mechanism 22. As the trigger 10 moves further away from the closed position the catching mechanism 9 releases the trigger and the catching mechanism 9 holds the second resilient mechanism 22 in an extended position. As the first resilient mechanism 6 is not extended at this time no force is acting on the first resilient mechanism 6 while the second resilient mechanism 22 is extended, thus the full force available from closing has not been required to open/prime the closure mechanism 1.

(87) From an open position seen in FIGS. 9, 9A and 15 as a panel in use is moved towards the closed end 18 of the closure mechanism 1 the trigger 10 connects with the catching mechanism 9. As seen in FIGS. 10, 10A and 16 the carriage 3 slides along the carriage track or guide path 14 until the linkage 12 connects with the linkage catch 8 and the latch 15 operates to hold the carriage 3 at the furthest extent of the carriages travel along track 14 in the direction of end 18.

(88) At this stage the first resilient member 6 and the second resilient member 22 are still fully extended. Then as the linkage 12 connects with the linkage catch 8 the first resilient member 6 and the second resilient member 22 begin to simultaneously compress/close applying the force of both resilient mechanisms 6, 22 at the same time. The damping mechanism shaft 41 moves within the damping mechanism 4 and provides a damping force as the panel closes. This can be seen in FIGS. 11, 11A, 12, 12A and 17. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 12A the latch 15 is still operable to secure the carriage 3 in position until the catching mechanism 9 returns to the closed position seen in FIGS. 7, 7A and 13 and the latch 15 is pushed down by the catching mechanism 9 allowing the carriage 3 to move in track 14.

(89) A further embodiment of the invention can be seen in FIGS. 18 and 19. The closure mechanism 1 seen in FIGS. 18 and 19 has an additional third resilient mechanism 71, a second carriage 73 slidable along a second carriage track or guide path 74, a second carriage track or guide path 74 and a second linkage 75. The additional resilient mechanism 71 allows substantially one third of the force available from closing an object to be used to prime the closure mechanism when opening a panel. While a third extra resilient mechanism has been illustrated it is to be understood that any number of extra resilient mechanisms could be used. Further it could be that multiple resilient mechanisms may be extended/primed at the same time while opening. For example, if four resilient mechanisms are used it may be that two of the resilient mechanisms may be extended/primed at the same time, while on closing the force of all four would be used to close the panel.

(90) A further embodiment of the invention can be seen in FIGS. 20 to 23. The closure mechanism 1 includes an adjustment mechanism to enable the pre-tension of the resilient mechanisms 6, 22 to be adjusted. The adjustment is made when the first end 20 of carriage 3 is at the furthest extent it can travel on the track or guide path 14 towards the first end 18.

(91) The resilient mechanisms 6, 22 are connected to tensioning blocks 54, 58. The tensioning blocks 54, 58 have an internal thread and move along threaded rods 51, 57 as the rods are rotated, the movement of the tensioning blocks 54, 58 adjusting the tension of the resilient mechanisms 6, 22. The least tension can be seen in 20, 20A, 20B, 21, 21A, and 21B. The most tension can be seen in 22, 22A, 22B, 23, 23A, and 23B where the tensioning blocks 54, 58 have expanded resilient mechanisms 6, 22.

(92) The threaded rods 51, 57 have driven gears 50, 56 which rotate the rods 51, 57. The driven gears 50, 56 are driven by drive gears 52, 55. The drive gears 52, 55 are connected by a rotatable shaft 59.

(93) The rotatable shaft 59 and thus the drive gears are rotated using a tool at the shaft end 49. A resilient mechanism 53, in one embodiment a spring forces the shaft to a position where the drive gears 52, 55 are disengaged from the driven gears 50, 56. This can be seen in FIGS. 20, 20A, 20B, 22, 22A, and 22B.

(94) To adjust the tension resilient mechanism 53 is forced, typical using a tool and the drive gears 50, 56 are engaged with the driven gears 50, 56 as seen in FIGS. 21, 21A, 21B, 23, 23A, and 23B. Thus the tension on both resilient mechanisms 6, 22 can be adjusted simultaneous and equally.

(95) This simultaneous adjustment ensures that when an operator opens the door they feel the same amount during the stretching of the resilient mechanism as they do when they open the second set (and subsequent sets if present) of resilient mechanisms, creating a consistent feel during opening. The closure mechanism would still work (the door would still close) if there is an adjustment difference between one resilient mechanism and another (i.e. one resilient mechanism set strong, another resilient mechanism set weak) but the operators perception of the closure mechanism would be an uneven and inconsistent feel during opening. Further, the presence of an adjustment difference between resilient mechanism sets will reduce the range of force that the closure mechanism can be adjusted to work with (i.e. the closure mechanism would not be able to be adjusted to the absolute maximum or to the absolute minimum to suit a very sluggish or a very free-moving door, respectively.

(96) FIGS. 24 and 25 show an alternative embodiment of the closure mechanism that includes an adjustment mechanism to enable the pre-tension of the resilient mechanisms 6, 22 to be adjusted. An alternative latch 15 is shown.

(97) Referring to FIGS. 26 to 30 the operation of the alternative closure mechanism 1 will now be described. Referring particularly to FIGS. 26, and 26A starting from the closed position where the catching mechanism 9 is nearest the first end 20 of the carriage track or guide path 24 and the carriage 3 is nearest the closed end 18 of the closure mechanism 1 in track or guide path 14. Both resilient mechanisms 6 and 22 are in a relaxed position. The linkage catch 8 is connected to the linkage 12. The latch 15 is pushed away by the catching mechanism 9 allowing the carriage 3 to move in track 14.

(98) The resilient mechanisms 6 and 22 are described as in a relaxed position when they are applying little force on the catching mechanism 9 and in a primed or extended position when they are able to apply force to the catching mechanism 9.

(99) In use when a moveable object is opened the trigger 10 is held by the catching mechanism 9, and as the trigger 10 moves towards the open end 17 of the closure mechanism 1, the first resilient mechanism 6 is extended to a stretched/primed position and the damping mechanism shaft 41 is extended.

(100) Referring to FIGS. 27 and 27A the first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 are extended as the first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 are connected to the linkage catch 8 which is in turn connected to the catching mechanism 9 via the linkage 12. Thus the first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 are extended as the linkage catch 8 moves along the linkage catch track or guide path 16 towards the open end of the closure mechanism body 2.

(101) The carriage 3 having been released from the sprung latch 15 also moves along the carriage track or guide path 14 to the end of the carriage track or guide path 14 nearest the open end 17 of the closure mechanism 1. At this stage the closure mechanism has only extended the first resilient mechanism 6, the second resilient mechanism 22 has not been extended at all. A force sufficient to extend the first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 is only required. As the second resilient mechanism 22 is not extended at the same time no force is acting on the second resilient mechanism 22.

(102) As the trigger 10 moves further towards the open end 17 of the closure mechanism 1, the linkage catch 8 disengages from the linkage 12 and the catching mechanism 9 slides along towards the second end of the closure mechanism body in track or guide path 24. The first resilient mechanism 6 and the damping mechanism shaft 41 remain in an extended position held by the linkage catch 8.

(103) Referring to FIGS. 28, 28A and 28B as the trigger 10 moves towards the open end 17 of the closure mechanism 1 the catching mechanism 9 moves along the carriage track or guide path 24 and extends the second resilient mechanism 22. As the trigger 10 moves further away from the closed position the catching mechanism 9 releases the trigger and the catching mechanism 9 holds the second resilient mechanism 22 in an extended position. As the first resilient mechanism 6 is not being extended at this time no force is acting on the first resilient mechanism 6 while the second resilient mechanism 22 is extended, thus the full force available from closing has not been required to open/prime the closure mechanism 1.

(104) From an open position seen in FIGS. 28, 28A and 28B as a panel in use is moved towards the closed end 18 of the closure mechanism 1 the trigger 10 connects with the catching mechanism 9. As seen in FIGS. 29 and 29A the carriage 3 slides along the carriage track or guide path 14 until the linkage 12 connects with the linkage catch 8 and the latch 15 operates to hold the carriage 3 at the furthest extent of the carriages travel along track 14 in the direction of end 18.

(105) At this stage the first resilient member 6 and the second resilient member 22 are still fully extended. Then as the linkage 12 connects with the linkage catch 8 the first resilient member 6 and the second resilient member 22 begin to simultaneously compress/close applying the force of both resilient mechanisms 6, 22 at the same time.

(106) The damping mechanism shaft 41 moves within the damping mechanism 4 and provides a damping force as the panel closes. As shown in FIGS. 30 and 30A the latch 15 is still operable to secure the carriage 3 in position until the catching mechanism 9 returns to the closed position seen in FIGS. 26 and 26A and the latch 15 is pushed away by the catching mechanism 9 allowing the carriage 3 to move in track 14.

(107) Further while the closure mechanism 1 has been described as closing a closable object the closure mechanism 1 can also be used to position an object for example positioning a door in an open position. Additionally, multiple closure mechanisms could be used so that one closure mechanism positions a door in a closed position and another positions the door in an open position. Such an example would be a door mounted in a hidden frame. The closure mechanism could also be used to position an object in a position that is neither open nor closed, such as positioning a dividing panel of a room. Closing is to be understood to refer to closing an object and to positioning an object in a closed position or any other position.

(108) Referring to FIGS. 31 to 33 the configurable closure mechanism 100 of the present invention is illustrated. The configurable closure mechanism 100 includes an elongated closure mechanism body 102. The closure mechanism body 102 consists of an upper closure mechanism body 111 and a lower closure mechanism body 113. The configurable closure mechanism 100 has a first end 118 which in use is located in the direction that the slidable object moves to close and a second end 117 which in use is located in the direction in which the slidable object moves to open.

(109) A plurality of subassemblies 183A, 183B. 183C are located in a path 114 in the lower closure mechanism body 113. One of the subassemblies 183A is fixed near the first end while other subassemblies 183B and 183C are movable along the closure mechanism body 102 in guide path 114. Stops 195, 196 and 197 located in the guide path limit the movement of the subassemblies 183A, 183B. 183C respectively.

(110) Slidable within each subassembly 183 is a carriage 191 having at least one connecting mechanism and optionally two connecting mechanisms 192, 193. When referring to a part of a specific subassembly A, B or C the letter associated with the subassembly has been added to the reference numeral, when referring to the parts of all the subassemblies or a representative subassembly the letter associated with the subassembly is left off.

(111) One of the subassemblies 183C has a carriage 191C with a connecting mechanism 193C which acts as a catch, which in use, catches a trigger 110. If the configurable closure mechanism 100 is mounted in the slidable object, then the trigger 110 is mounted on the frame. However as discussed above the closure mechanism could be mounted on or in a frame and so the trigger 110 could be mounted on the slidable object.

(112) A damping mechanism 104 may also be provided to dampen the movable object as the object moves to a closed position.

(113) Each subassembly 183 has an upper body 121 and a lower body 123, spacers 159, 187 assist in keeping the upper 121 and lower body 123 apart. Each subassembly 183 has a first end 120 nearest the closed end 118 of the closure mechanism 100 and a second end 119 nearest the open end 117 of the closure mechanism 100. The subassembly 183 includes a subassembly track or guide path 124 along which slides a carriage 191. The guide path has upper 184 and lower 185 components. A resilient mechanism 122 connects between the carriage 191 and first end 120 of the subassembly 183. The resilient mechanism 122 is operable to provide a closing force.

(114) Referring to FIGS. 34 and 34A a latch 115 assists in securing the subassembly 183C in position at the furthest extent it can travel on the guide path 114 towards the first end 118. As can be seen in FIG. 34A up until the moment before the carriage 191C is at the further extent it can travel in track 124C towards the first end 118 the latch 115C applies a force to the subassembly 183C to assist the subassembly 183C to stay in position. As the carriage 191C reaches the furthest extent it can travel in track 124C towards the first end 118 the latch 115C is moved by the carriage 191C allowing the subassembly 183C to move in path 114.

(115) The resilient mechanism 122 may again be a spring or any other suitable resilient mechanism such as a rubber spring. In one embodiment the resilient mechanism 122 each consist of one spring, alternatively the resilient mechanism may consist of a pair of springs. Alternative resilient mechanisms such as rubber may be used.

(116) The configurable closure mechanism body 112 and other components may be made of plastic or metal or any other suitable material or any combination thereof. Preferably the tracks offer low resistance to the sliding components of the configurable closure mechanism 100.

(117) Referring to FIGS. 35 to 40 the operation of the closure mechanism 100 will now be described. Referring particularly to FIG. 35 starting from the closed position where the connecting mechanism 193C is nearest the first end 118 of the guide path 114 and all the carriages 191A, 191B, 191C are nearest the closed end 118 of the closure mechanism 100 in their respective carriage track or guide path 124A, 124B, 124C. All resilient mechanisms 122 of each subassembly 183A, 183B, 183C are in a relaxed position. The carriage connecting mechanism 193A of the carriage of subassembly 183A is connected to the connecting mechanism 192B of the carriage of subassembly 183B. The carriage connecting mechanism 193B of the carriage of subassembly 183B is connected to the connecting mechanism 192C of the carriage of subassembly 183C. The latches 115B and 115C associated with subassemblies 183B and 183C are pushed out by the connecting mechanisms 193B and 193C allowing the carriages of each subassembly 191 to move in tracks 124 of each subassembly.

(118) The resilient mechanisms 122 are described as in a relaxed position when they are applying little force on the carriages 191 and in a primed or extended position when they are able to apply force to the carriages 191 and the connecting mechanism 193C.

(119) In use when a moveable object is opened the trigger 110 is held by the connecting mechanism 193C, and as the trigger 110 moves towards the open end 117 of the closure mechanism 100, the first resilient mechanism 122A is extended to a stretched/primed.

(120) Referring to FIG. 36 the first resilient mechanism 122A is extended as the first resilient mechanism 122A is connected via carriage 191A to the connecting mechanism 193A, which is in turn connected to the connecting mechanism 192B, which is connected via carriage 191B to connecting mechanism 193B, which is in turn connected to connecting mechanism 192C, which is connected to connecting mechanism 193C, via carriage 191C. Thus the first resilient mechanism 122A is extended as the carriage 191A moves along the carriage track or guide path 124A towards the open end of the closure mechanism body 102.

(121) Subassembly 183B also moves along the guide path 114 towards the open end 117 of the closure mechanism 100 until it hits stop 196. At this stage the closure mechanism 100 has only extended the first resilient mechanism 122A, the second resilient mechanism 122B has not been extended at all. A force sufficient to extend only the first resilient mechanism 122A is required. As the second resilient mechanism 122B is not being extended at the same time no force from trigger 110 is acting on the second resilient mechanism 122B.

(122) As the trigger 110 moves further towards the open end 117 of the closure mechanism 100, the connecting mechanism 192B disengages from the connecting mechanism 193A and the carriage 191B slides along towards the second end of the closure mechanism body in carriage guide path 124B. The first resilient mechanism 122A remains in an extended position held by the carriage 191A.

(123) Referring to FIG. 37 the second resilient mechanism 122B is extended as the second resilient mechanism 122B is connected via carriage 191B to the connecting mechanism 193B, which is in turn connected to connecting mechanism 192C, which is connected via carriage 191C to connecting mechanism 193C. Thus the second resilient mechanism 122B is extended as the carriage 191B moves along the carriage track or guide path 124B towards the open end of the closure mechanism body 102.

(124) Subassembly 183C also moves along the guide path 114 towards the open end 117 of the closure mechanism 100 until it hits stop 197. At this stage the closure mechanism 100 has only extended the first and second resilient mechanisms 122A, 122B, the third resilient mechanism 122C has not been extended at all. A force at any given time sufficient to extend only the single resilient mechanism 122B is required. As the third resilient mechanism 122C is not extended at the same time as second resilient mechanism 122B no force from trigger 110 is acting on the third resilient mechanism 122C.

(125) As the trigger 110 moves further towards the open end 117 of the closure mechanism 100, the connecting mechanism 192C disengages from the connecting mechanism 193B and the carriage 191C slides along towards the second end of the closure mechanism body in carriage guide path 124C. The second resilient mechanism 122B remains in an extended position held by the carriage 191B.

(126) Referring to FIG. 38 the third resilient mechanism 122C is extended as the third resilient mechanism 122C is connected via carriage 191C to the connecting mechanism 193C. Thus the third resilient mechanism 122C is extended as the carriage 191C moves along the carriage track or guide path 124 towards the open end of the closure mechanism body 102.

(127) A force at any given time sufficient to extend only a single resilient mechanism 122C is required. Thus the full force available from closing has not been required to open/prime the closure mechanism 100.

(128) From an open position seen in FIG. 38 as a panel in use is moved towards the closed end 118 of the closure mechanism 100 the trigger 110 connects with the connecting mechanism 193C. As seen in FIG. 39 the subassemblies 183B and 183C slide along the guide path 114 until the connecting mechanisms 192, 193 connect with the connecting mechanisms 192, 193 of other subassemblies, the latches 115B, 115C operate to hold the subassemblies 183B and 183C at the furthest extent of the subassemblies travel along track 114 in the direction of end 118.

(129) At this stage all the resilient members 122A, 122B, 122C are still fully extended. Then as the connecting mechanisms 192, 193 connect with connecting mechanisms 192, 193 of the other subassemblies all the resilient members 122 begin to simultaneously compress/close applying the force of all resilient mechanisms 122 at the same time. This can be seen in FIG. 40.

(130) While three resilient mechanisms have been illustrated it is to be understood that any number of extra resilient mechanisms could be used, for example two or four. Further it could be that multiple resilient mechanisms may be extended/primed at the same time while opening. For example, if eight resilient mechanisms are used it may be that two of the resilient mechanisms may be extended/primed at the same time, while on closing the force of all eight would be used to close the panel.

(131) Referring to FIGS. 41 to 44, the configurable closure mechanism 100 may include an adjustment mechanism to enable the pre-tension of the resilient mechanisms 122 of each subassembly 183 to be adjusted. The adjustment is made when the subassemblies 183 are in position at the furthest extent they can travel on the guide path 114 towards the first end 118.

(132) The resilient mechanisms 122 of each subassembly 183 are connected to tensioning blocks 158A, 158B and 158C. The tensioning blocks 158 have an internal thread and move along threaded rods 157A, 157B and 157C as the rods are rotated, the movement of the tensioning blocks 158A, 158B and 158C adjusting the tension of the resilient mechanisms 122A, 122B, 122C respectively. The least tension can be seen in FIGS. 43 and 44. The most tension can be seen in FIGS. 41, 42 and 45 where the tensioning blocks 158 have expanded resilient mechanisms 122.

(133) The threaded rods 157 have driven gears 156A, 156B and 156C which rotate the rods 157. The driven gears 156A, 156B and 156C are driven by drive gear 155.

(134) The drive gear 155 is rotated using a tool at the shaft end 149. A resilient mechanism 153, in one embodiment a spring, forces the shaft to a position where the drive gear 155 is disengaged from the driven gears 156A, 156B and 156C. This can be seen in FIG. 41.

(135) To adjust the tension, mechanism 153 is forced, typical using a tool and the drive gear 155 is engaged with the driven gears 156A, 156B and 156C as seen in FIGS. 42 to 44. Thus the tension on all resilient mechanisms 122 can be adjusted simultaneous and equally.

(136) Further the configurable closing mechanism 100 may allow various subassemblies to be used including: a subassembly to pull the door closed (i.e. subassembly with resilient member in tension); a subassembly to control the speed at which the door closesreduces the risk of the door pinching fingers or damaging the frame (i.e. a subassembly with damper); a subassembly to pull the door open (i.e. a subassembly with resilient member in tension, the subassembly orientation reversed 180 degrees from the subassembly that pulls the door closed); a subassembly to control the speed at which the door opensreduces the risk of the door damaging the frame (i.e. a subassembly with a damper, the subassembly orientation reversed 180 degrees from the subassembly that controls the speed at which the door closes); a subassembly to pull the door closed (i.e. a subassembly with resilient member in compression, the subassembly orientation reversed 180 degrees); a subassembly to pull the door open (i.e. a subassembly with resilient member in compression); a subassembly with a mechanical, electronic or other link to air-conditioning or heating unit to operate the air-conditioning or heating unitif the door is closed the air-conditioning or heating unit will turn on, if door is not closed then air-conditioning or heating unit will turn off; a subassembly with a mechanical, electronic or other link to an alarm systemwhen door is closed the door will automatically be alarmed; a subassembly with a mechanical, electronic or other link to an alarm systemhomeowner cannot set alarm if door is not closed; a subassembly cassette to control the amount of force required and/or control the speed at which the door moves (i.e. replace the resilient member and damper with motorised equivalents); a subassembly with a mechanical, electronic or other link to special glass material in a door which changes from transparent to opaque depending on whether the door is closed or not; a subassembly with a lock, to lock the door open or closed; a subassembly with a switch connected to some other device; or a multipurpose subassembly.

(137) Such subassemblies could be used in various combination for example to allow a user to move the door to a closed position and lock the door. Such action could be done remotely or locally using a smart wireless device or locally using a simple switch. Each of the subassemblies would be configured to perform the function for which it is used.

(138) It is further envisaged that a kit set of the base and various subassemblies could be supplied, or the base and the various subassemblies could be supplied separately and an installer could configure a closure by selecting the appropriate subassemblies as needed.

(139) While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of the embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in detail, it is not the intention of the Applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Further, the above embodiments may be implemented individually, or may be combined where compatible. Additional advantages and modifications, including combinations of the above embodiments, will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departure from the spirit or scope of the Applicant's general inventive concept.