Field of the art

The present disclosure concerns the field of hinges, preferably hinges for doors destined to indoor applications; in particular, the present disclosure concerns a hinge conceived to be preferably coupled to shower doors or bathtub.

The present disclosure concerns in particular a hinge, a kit comprising said hinge and a door for bathroom, or a kit comprising a first and second hinge.

The present disclosure concerns finally the use of the hinge.

Known art

Doors for shower or bathtub, which are doors, typically of the swing type, can be provided with a sealing element or gasket placed in correspondence of a lower profile of the door itself, suitable for exerting a sliding friction with the shower tray or with a predefined portion of the bathtub, or anyway with the portion of floor underlying the door itself, in order to prevent water from leaking beyond the profile of the door itself.

Sealing elements or gaskets are subject to wear, and with the passing of time they may not be capable of optimally limiting water leakage beyond the profile of the door.

For this reason are hinges have been invented comprising a first part of hinge and a second part of hinge rotatable between them, which further than allowing the rotation of the door, they lift it slightly when in the unclosed position so as to determine a reduction of the wear of the gasket and an easier opening of the door.

Document DE202014105039U 1 describes a hinge for shutters or windows, comprising a first part of hinge (reference number 1 ) and a second part of hinge (reference number 2). The first part of hinge is configured for being fixed to a frame or wall, whereas the second part of hinge is configured for being fixed to a door, in particular a door of a shower wall or bathtub. The first part of hinge is configured for rotating with respect to the second part of hinge along a predetermined axis of rotation.

The hinge according to DE202014105039U 1 comprises a lifting or lowering device (reference number 33) which allows a relative movement between the first part of hinge and the second part of hinge. This relative movement is an axial sliding that occurs on the predetermined axis of rotation. In use, therefore, with the relative rotation between the first part of hinge and the second part of hinge it is also determined an axial sliding between these two parts, along the predetermined axis of rotation.

This lifting or lowering device is configured for allowing to restore the first part of hinge and the second part of hinge to a predefined position of reciprocal spatial orientation. The first part of hinge comprises a central rib (reference number 11) which lies within a recess of the second part of hinge. The central rib is integral with the body of the first part of hinge. This recess has, along a direction parallel to the predetermined axis or rotation, an extension greater than the extension of the central rib. For this reason, the central rib translates in use axially along a direction parallel to the direction identified by the predetermined axis or rotation.

The translation determines in use an accessibility to inner mechanical components of the hinge, in particular to the lifting or lowering device and/or to an inner spring or to a rotation pin centered on the predetermined axis or rotation.

This access is disadvantageous at least for the following reasons:

- allows access to fingers or portions of skin or hair, which may be pinched;

- makes visible the inner components of the hinge, necessary for its functioning;

- allows an easy access to dirt and/or water inside the hinge, risking to determine malfunctions, rigidity or oxidation.

The hinge according to DE202014105039U 1 comprises a compensating element (reference number 60) of the slot that is positioned between a lower wall of the recess housing the central rib and is partially introduced within said central rib, in a seat (reference number 13a) formed herein. The central rib results then mechanically weakened. In particular, the section of figure 6 of the document DE202014105039U1 shows lateral walls of reduced thickness around above-said seat. The realization of the central rib is complex, and this causes an increase of production costs. Furthermore, the sliding mechanical coupling existing between the compensating element and the central rib requires of a precise working. The eventual presence of impurities between the compensating element and the lateral walls of the rib can determine a blocking of the hinge.

The compensating element actively closes the free space axially present as air volume enclosed between the lower portion of the central rib and the lower wall of the recess.

This compensating element solely prevents the access to a spring and pin present within said central rib, but does not allow an insulation of the upper portion of the slot present within the upper ending portion of the central rib and the upper wall of the recess.

The purpose of the present disclosure is to describe a hinge which allows to solve the above-described drawbacks.

The purpose of the present disclosure is to describe a kit which allows to solve the above-described drawbacks.

The purpose of the present disclosure is finally to describe the use of the hinge in order to solve the above-described drawbacks. The salient technical characteristics of the object of the present disclosure are hereinafter described in some aspects which may be combined with each other, with portions of the following detailed description and/or with parts of the claims.

According to a first aspect it is here described a hinge (100), preferably for a door for a shower or bathtub; the hinge (100) comprising:

- a first part of hinge (1),

- a second part of hinge (2) connected to the first part of hinge (1) and movable at least in rotation with respect to the first part of hinge (1) around a predefined axis of rotation (X) at least between a first relative rotation configuration and a second relative rotation configuration,

- a lifting or lowering device (3) configured for determining a relative translation between the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) along a direction of translation parallel to the direction identified by said axis of rotation (X) after a rotation of said first part of hinge (1) with respect to said second part of hinge (2) on said axis of rotation (X) at least between said first relative position and said second relative position; wherein the second part of hinge (2) comprises at least a first protuberance (2n), and wherein the first part of hinge (1) comprises at least a first recess (1 r) configured for housing said at least a first protuberance (2n); wherein said at least a first recess (1 r) comprises at least a first direction of development having an extension greater with respect to a corresponding extension of said at least a first protuberance (2n) along said first direction of development, and identifying at least a first free space (4) destined to allow a translation of said at least a first protuberance (2n) within said at least a first recess (1 r) along a direction parallel to the direction identified by said axis of rotation (X) as a consequence of said relative translation between the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) and/or of the rotation of said first part of hinge (1) with respect to said second part of hinge (2); the hinge (100) comprising at least a first covering element (5) positioned in correspondence at least of said at least a first protuberance (2n) and destined to cover at least part of, preferably substantially all of, said at least a first protuberance (2n); the at least a first covering element (5) being configured and specifically destined to surround and cover said at least a first free space (4) at least in said first relative rotation configuration and in said a second relative rotation configuration.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the lifting or lowering device (3) is configured for determining a plurality of relative translation positions between the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) along the direction of translation parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation (X) according to a corresponding plurality of rotation positions of the first part of hinge (1) with respect to the second part of hinge (2) on the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first relative rotation configuration is a rest or closing position.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second relative rotation configuration is an opening position.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first recess (1r) comprises at least a lower wall and an upper wall.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first protuberance (2n) comprises an upper wall and a lower wall.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the upper wall of said at least a first protuberance (2n) faces the upper wall of the recess (1 r).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the lower wall of the protuberance (2n) faces the lower wall of said at least a first recess (1 r).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the upper wall and the lower wall of said at least a first protuberance (2n) and/or of said at least a first recess (1 r) are opposed to each other and/or lie on parallel planes.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first free space (4) comprises a first portion of free space (4) existing between said lower wall of said at least a first recess (1r) and said lower wall of said at least a first protuberance (2n) and/or a second portion of free space (4) existing between said upper wall of said at least a first recess (1r) and said upper wall of said at least a first protuberance (2n).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first covering element (5) is placed out of said at least a first free space (4), in particular out of said first portion of free space (4) and out of said second portion of free space (4).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second part of hinge (2) is connected, in particular rotatably connected, to said first part of hinge (1 ) in correspondence of said at least a first protuberance (2n).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the hinge (100) comprises a retaining shaft (8, 11) configured for constraining in rotation the first part of hinge (1 ) with the second part of hinge (2).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said retaining shaft (8, 11 ) extends along a direction parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the free space (4) has an extension along a direction parallel to the axis of rotation (X) overall constant as the rotation of the first part of hinge (1) with respect to the second part of hinge (2) varies and/or constant in at least said first relative rotation configuration and said second relative rotation configuration.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first and the second portion of free space (4) have, along said direction parallel to the axis of rotation (X), an extension variable according to the rotation of the first part of hinge (1) with respect to the second part of hinge (2).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, when the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) are in said first relative rotation configuration, the first portion of free space (4) assumes a first extension and the second portion of free space (4) assumes a first extension; when the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) are in said second relative rotation configuration, the first portion of free space (4) assumes a second extension different from the first extension and the second portion of free space (4) assumes a second extension different from the first extension.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first recess (1r) comprises at least a first and a second hole, preferably a first and a second blind hole, configured for retaining said retaining shaft (8, 11).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first hole is realized in said upper wall of said at least a first recess (1r).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said second hole is realized in said lower wall of said at least a first recess (1r).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first recess (1r) is delimited:

- above, by an upper wall of the recess, oriented on a plane inclined and preferably orthogonal to the axis of rotation (X),

- below, by a lower wall of the recess, oriented on a plane inclined and preferably orthogonal to the axis of rotation (X),

- at the bottom, by a bottom wall of the recess, oriented on a plane preferably substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first protuberance (2n) is delimited:

- above, by an upper wall of the protuberance, oriented on a plane inclined and preferably orthogonal to the axis of rotation (X),

- below, by a lower wall of the protuberance, oriented on a plane inclined and preferably orthogonal to the axis of rotation (X),

- at the bottom, by a bottom wall of the protuberance, oriented on a plane preferably substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (X). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said hinge (100) comprises:

- a second part of hinge (2) connected to the first part of hinge (1); the second part of hinge (2) being movable at least in rotation with respect to the first part of hinge (1 ) around a predefined axis of rotation (X) at least between a first relative rotation configuration and a second relative rotation configuration,

- a lifting or lowering device (3) configured for determining a relative translation between the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) along a direction of translation parallel to the direction identified by said axis of rotation (X) after a rotation of said first part of hinge (1) with respect to said second part of hinge (2) on said axis of rotation (X) at least between said first relative position and said second relative position; wherein the second part of hinge (2) comprises at least a first protuberance (2n) and a second protuberance (2n), and wherein the first part of hinge (1 ) comprises a first and a second recess (1 r), wherein said first recess (1r) is configured for housing said first protuberance (2n) and said second recess is configured for housing said second protuberance (2n); each between said first recess (1 r) and said second recess (1r) comprises at least a first direction of development having an extension greater with respect to a corresponding extension of said first protuberance (2n) and of said second protuberance (2n) along said first direction of development, said first recess identifying a first free space (4) and said second recess identifying a second free space (4), the first and the second free space (4) being respectively destined to allow a translation of said first protuberance (2n) and of said second protuberance (2n) within, respectively, the first recess (1r) and the second recess (1r) along a direction parallel to the direction identified by said axis of rotation (X) as a consequence of said relative translation between the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) and/or of the rotation of said first part of hinge (1) with respect to said second part of hinge (2); the hinge (100) comprising a first and a second covering element (5), wherein the first covering element (5) is positioned in correspondence of said first protuberance (2n) and wherein the second covering element (5) is positioned in correspondence of said second protuberance (2n); the first covering element (5) being configured and specifically destined to cover substantially at least part of, preferably substantially all of, said respective first protuberance (2n) and the second covering element (5) being configured and specifically destined to cover substantially at least part of, preferably substantially all of, said second protuberance (2n); each between the first and the second covering element (5) being configured and specifically destined to surround and cover the respective first or second free space (4) at least in said first relative rotation configuration and in said second relative rotation configuration.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first part of hinge (1) comprises at least a fork suitable for housing in use at least part of said at least a first protuberance (2n).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first covering element (5) is substantially flexible. According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first covering element (5) is substantially opaque.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least first covering element (5) is realized in plastic material.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least a first covering element (5) comprises a respective extension along said first direction of development; the hinge (100) being configured and specifically destined to allow a complete visibility of at least a portion of the at least a first covering element (5) along said first direction of development independently from an angle of rotation between the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) with respect to the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the extension of the at least a first covering element (5) along said first direction of development is substantially equal to the extension of the at least a first recess (1 r) along said first direction of development.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the covering element (5) is integral in rotation with the second part of hinge (2) with respect to the first part of hinge (1 ) around said axis of rotation (X); and/or the first covering element (5) is, in an axial direction along said axis of rotation (X), movable solidly with said first part of hinge (1) and/or wherein the first covering element (5) is dragged in translation by the first part of hinge (1) in an axial direction along said axis of rotation (X); and/or said at least a first covering element (5) is removable and possesses a shape substantially reproducing, at least partially and preferably substantially integrally, an outer profile of said at least a first protuberance (2n).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least a first covering element (5) is slidingly constrained to said second part of hinge (2), in particular being slidingly constrained to said at least a first protuberance (2n), along a direction of translation substantially parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the covering element comprises at least a guiding element configured and specifically destined to assist a translation of said second part of hinge (2) along said direction of translation substantially parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said lifting and lowering device (3) comprises a first element (3a) and a second element (3b) configured to rotate, the one with respect to the other around an axis substantially coincident with the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first element (3a) and the second element (3b) have respective contact portions (9, 12) suitable for making reciprocal contact with each other and, preferably, rotating the one with respect to the other.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the contact portions (9, 12) of the first element (3a) and of the second element (3b) comprise respective inclined surfaces (10, 13). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said inclined surfaces (10, 13) are configured for entering in reciprocal contact with each other and, preferably, for rotating the one with respect to the other.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said inclined surfaces (10, 13) are inclined with respect to the axis of rotation (X) and define at least a cusp point or zone and a recess, configured for determining, by relative rotation, said translation of the first part of hinge (1 ) with respect to said second part of hinge (2) along said direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first element (3a) and said second element (3b) define a first and a second part of said retaining shaft (8, 11).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first element (3a) comprises a head shaft (8) comprises a first portion, preferably an ending portion, and a second portion, preferably a second ending portion opposed with respect to the first ending portion.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the head shaft (8) is joined, preferably in correspondence of the second portion, with said contact portion (9) of the first element (3a).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said second element (3b) comprises a bottom shaft (11) comprising a first portion, preferably an ending portion, and a second portion, preferably a second ending portion opposed with respect to the first ending portion.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the bottom shaft (11 ) is joined, preferably in correspondence of the second portion, with said contact portion (12) of the second element (3b).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said first part of hinge (1) is configured for being:

- at at least a first height (H 1 ) with respect to said second part of hinge (2) and/or, in use, with respect to the ground, when in said a first configuration of rotation with respect to said second part of hinge (2), or

- at at least a second height (H2) with respect to said second part of hinge (2) and/or, in use, with respect to the ground, when in said second configuration of rotation with respect to said second part of hinge (2); said second height (H2) being greater than said first height (H 1 ).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, in said first configuration of rotation, said first part of hinge (1) and said second part of hinge (2) are planarly aligned and in said second configuration of rotation, said first part of hinge (1) and said second part of hinge (2) are planarly misaligned.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the hinge is configured for maintaining said first part of hinge (1) and said second part of hinge (2) in at least a stable rotation, or rest configuration, wherein the first part of hinge (1) assumes a first angle with respect to the second part of hinge (2) and for maintaining said first part of hinge (1) and said second part of hinge (2) in at least an unstable rotation configuration wherein the first part of hinge (1) assumes a second angle with respect to said second part of hinge (2). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said second angle is different from said first angle.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first part of hinge (1) tends to reposition itself in said stable rotation configuration.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, in said at least a stable rotation configuration said first part of hinge (1) is at said first height (H1) with respect to said second part of hinge (2) and/or, in use, with respect to the ground, and wherein in said unstable rotation configuration said first part of hinge (2) is at said second height (H2) with respect to said second part of hinge (2) and/or, in use, with respect to the ground; or wherein said at least a stable rotation configuration corresponds to said first relative rotation configuration and said at least an unstable rotation configuration corresponds to said second relative rotation configuration.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, when the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) are in said first relative rotation configuration, the at least a first covering element (5) and the at least a first protuberance (2n) are in a first spatial configuration.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, when the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) are in said second relative rotation configuration, the at least a first covering element (5) and the at least a first protuberance (2n) are in a second spatial configuration.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, between the first and the second spatial configuration exists a translation, along said direction of translation, of said first part of hinge (1) with respect to said second part of hinge (2) destined, in use, to determine a lifting of said door, preferably a swing door, preferably connected to said first part of hinge (1 ).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the hinge comprises a first spacer (16), alternatively arranged between a lower wall of said at least a first protuberance (2n) and a lower wall of the at least a first recess (1r) or between an upper wall of said at least a first protuberance (2n) and an upper wall of the at least a first recess (1r); optionally said hinge (100) comprising a first and a second spacer (16).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first spacer (16) is arranged between the lower wall of the at least a first protuberance (2n) and the lower wall of the at least a first recess (1 r).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second spacer (16) is arranged between the upper wall of said at least a first protuberance (2n) and the upper wall of the at least a first recess (1 r).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first spacer (16), and optionally the second spacer (16), assume a substantially foil-like shape.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said foil is substantially oriented on a plane orthogonal with respect to said axis of rotation (X) and/or with respect to said first direction of development.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first spacer (16), and optionally the second spacer (16), is configured for permitting a reduction of a sliding friction developing in use between said first part of hinge (1) and said part of hinge (2), preferably between said at least a first protuberance (2n) and at least the lower wall of the at least a first recess (1r) during the rotation around said axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least one between said first part of hinge (1) and said second part of hinge (2) comprises a first shell (19) and a second shell (19) between removably coupleable with each other.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least one between said first part of hinge (1) and said second part of hinge (2) is realized at least partially, optionally integrally, in metallic material, optionally in at least one between stainless steel and/or bronze, and/or is realized at least partially, optionally integrally, in plastic material.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least one between said first spacer (16) and said second spacer (16) is realized in a plastic material, optionally in polytetrafluoroethylene.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the hinge (100) comprises at least a retaining and/or damping element (20, 20', 30), configured and specifically destined to be directly coupled with a portion of said door to which the hinge is in use coupled and/or with a panel, and preferably configured and specifically to be directly coupled with a plate (25) of said door and/or with said panel (25').

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said door is a door for a shower or bathtub.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said panel (25') and/or said plate (25) is realized in at least one among the materials of the following list: glass, crystal, polycarbonate or further plastic material, wood, metal, carbon, glass fiber, aramid material.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least a retaining and/or damping element (20, 20' 30) is arranged in substantial correspondence of at least one between the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a retaining and/or damping element (20, 20', 30) is integrated on said first part of hinge (1 ) or is removable with respect to said first part of hinge (1), and/or is integrated on said second part of hinge (2) or is removable with respect to said second part of hinge (2).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said hinge (100) is configured in such a way that, in correspondence of said first part of hinge (1 ) and/or of said second part of hinge (2), is realized a sandwich comprising the at least a retaining and/or damping element (20, 20', 30) interposed between said portion of said door and/or said panel (25') and said first part of hinge (1) and/or said second part of hinge (2), preferably between said portion of said door, optionally said plate (25), and/or said panel (25') and at least one between a first shell and a second shell of said first part of hinge (1) and of said second part of hinge (2).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said hinge (100) is configured in such a way that, in use, is realized a sandwich which comprises said portion of said door and/or said panel (25'), interposed between said first shell and said second shell of the first part of hinge (1) and/or said second part of hinge (2) and wherein at least a first retaining and/or damping element (20, 20', 30) results interposed between said portion of said door and one between said first shell and said second shell, preferably wherein a first retaining and/or damping element (20, 20', 30) results interposed between said portion of said door and/or said panel (25') and said first shell and a second retaining and/or damping element (20, 20', 30) results interposed between said portion of said door and/or said panel (25') and said second shell.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a first retaining and/or damping element (20) is realized in a material having elastic and/or compressibility properties.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said material has elastic and/or compressibility properties is one among rubber, neoprene, plastic material.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second part of hinge (2) comprises a base body and the protuberance (2n) is removably connected to said base body.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the hinge (100) comprises at least a connector (2v), preferably a plurality of connectors (2v), said at least a connector (2v) being specifically destined to allow the removable connection of the protuberance (2n) with the base body.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a connector (2v) comprises a plurality of screws; optionally, the protuberance (2n) comprising a plurality of holes within which said plurality of screws is in use engaged.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said base body comprises at least a slotted hole destined in use to house a wall-mounting element of said hinge (100); said wall-mounting element being optionally a dowel screw (2b).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least a slotted hole has an elongated portion extending along a direction substantially orthogonal with respect to said axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the hinge (100) comprises at least a spacer (1 p) configured for maintaining said first shell and said second shell at a predefined distance.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said spacer (1 p) is at least partially, preferably integrally, arranged between said first shell and said second shell.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the hinge (100) comprises guiding elements (14', 14) configured and destined to guide the relative sliding between the covering element (5) and the protuberance (2), preferably along a direction substantially parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said guiding elements (14', 14) comprise a guiding recess (14') and a guide (14) configured for introducing itself at least partially within said guiding recess (14') and for sliding with respect to said guiding recess (14'). According to a further non-limiting aspect, said guiding recess (14') and said guide (14) are arranged along a direction substantially parallel to the direction identified by said axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said guiding recess (14') is arranged on said protuberance (2n) and said guide (14) is arranged on said covering element (5) or, alternatively, said guiding recess (14') is arranged on said covering element (5) and said guide (14) is arranged on said protuberance (2n).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said lifting or lowering device (3) is configured for allowing a plurality of stable rotation configurations of said first part of hinge (1) with respect to said second part of hinge (2).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said contact portions (9, 12) are at least partially developing on a plane substantially orthogonal with respect to the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the plurality of stable rotation configurations is in correspondence or in substantial proximity of a maximum angle of relative rotation possible between the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the plurality of stable rotation configurations is in correspondence of an angle of relative rotation between the first part of hinge (1) and the second part of hinge (2) substantially next to 90°, preferably comprised in the range [75 - 105]° or in the range [80 - 100]°.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said protuberance (2n) comprises a hole (7) axially aligned with the axis of rotation (X).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the hole (7) is configured for housing at least a part of the first element (3) of the lifting and lowering device (3) and at least a part of the second element (3b) of the lifting and lowering device (3).

According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first element (3a) of the lifting and lowering device (3) and the second element (3b) of the lifting and lowering device (3) are configured for being introduced within said hole (7) by means of a substantially axial insertion along a direction parallel to or coincident with the direction identified by said axis of rotation (X).

According to the present disclosure is furthermore described a kit, comprising at least a hinge (100) according to one or more of the aspects herein described, and a door, preferably for bathroom, in particular a door for a shower or bathtub, said door being optionally a swing door.

According to the present disclosure is furthermore described a kit, comprising at least a first and a second hinge (100) according to one or more of the aspects herein described.

According to a further non-limiting aspect, said door comprises a sealing element or gasket, positioned in correspondence of said lower profile. According to a further non-limiting aspect, said sealing element or gasket is configured and specifically destined to enter in contact with a shower floor or tray or with a predefined portion of a bathtub and to exert a sliding friction against said shower floor or tray or said predefined portion of said bathtub, said sliding friction being sufficient to determine a reduction or substantial cancellation of the water filtering below the door.

According to the present disclosure is finally described a use of the hinge according to one or more of the aspects herein described coupled with a door, preferably a door of a shower room or bathtub and/or a swing door, and/or wherein said door, preferably said door of said shower room or bathtub and/or said swing door, is rigidly joined to one between said first part of hinge (1 ) or said second part of hinge (2).

The object of the present disclosure will be now described with reference to the attached figures, in some of preferred embodiments thereof. A short description of the figures is hereinafter provided.

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the hinge object of the present disclosure in an assembled configuration.

Figure 2 shows a view of the hinge object of the present disclosure in section along the plane ll-ll of figure 1.

Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the hinge object of the present disclosure.

Figure 4 shows the hinge object of the present disclosure in a first spatial configuration wherein a first part of hinge and a second part of hinge are substantially planarly aligned.

Figure 5 shows the hinge object of the present disclosure in the first spatial configuration; the hinge is shown without a covering element.

Figure 6 shows the hinge object of the present disclosure in a second spatial configuration wherein the first part of hinge and the second part of hinge are planarly misaligned and are in particular rotated by an angle substantially equal to 90°.

Figure 7 shows the hinge object of the present disclosure in the second spatial configuration; the hinge is shown without the covering element.

Figure 8 shows an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of the hinge object of the present disclosure.

Figure 9 shows a lateral view of the hinge of figure 8, in a second spatial configuration. Detailed

The present disclosure concerns first of all a hinge 100. In particular, the hinge 100 is destined to be applied to doors for indoor applications, and more in particular to be applied to doors of shower walls or of a bathtub. In particular, these doors are referred to as "swing doors".

The hinge 100 is conceived with the purpose of being aesthetically appealing and solving the drawbacks of hinges of known type while maintaining the functionality of allowing a lifting or lowering of the first portion of the hinge with respect to the second portion of the hinge according to a relative rotation thereof.

The hinge 100 is in fact, conceived to be installed on swing doors that have a sealing element or gasket in correspondence of the lower profile. This sealing element or gasket is provided for the purpose of reducing or eliminating water leakage between the door of the shower or bathtub and the floor or between the door of the shower or bathtub and the shower tray or predefined portion of the bathtub when the user washes himself.

In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, this door can be a glass door, eventually provided with a metallic profile. This glass door can be transparent and/or translucent. This glass door may conveniently be realized in glass or tempered glass. Alternatively, the above-described door may comprise a substantially transparent and/or translucid panel, realized in plastic material. A non-exhaustive list of materials with which the door can be realized, and in particular a main plate of said door, comprises at least one between the following materials: glass, crystal, polycarbonate or further plastic material, wood, metal, carbon, glass fibers, aramid material.

The above-described door can integrate an element susceptible to vary the transparency of the glass and/or plastic material according to an environmental brightness and/or according to a control signal.

As visible in the attached figures, and in particular in figure 1 , the hinge 100 object of the present disclosure comprises a first part of hinge 1 and a second part of hinge 2.

The second part of hinge 2 is connected with the first part of hinge 1 by means of a retaining shaft 8, 11 and is movable at least in rotation with respect to the first part of hinge 1 along a predefined axis of rotation X.

The first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 are rotatable between a first end stroke position and a second end stroke position. In at least one between the first and the second end stroke portion, the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 are arranged on skewed planes. In a non-limiting embodiment, in one between the first end stroke position and the second end stroke position, the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 are arranged on parallel planes. In a non-limiting embodiment, one between the first end stroke position and the second end stroke position, is such that there is a rotation angle of approximately 90° or greater than 90° between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2.

In a non-limiting embodiment, at least one between the first end stroke position and the second end stroke position, is a rest position. For the purposes of the present disclosure, as rest position is intended a position wherein the position assumed between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2, and then between the door and the wall or the frame, is stable, and has not to be maintained with the aid of an outer force, for example by a user.

In an alternative embodiment, both the first end stroke position and the second end stroke position are rest positions.

Still alternatively, neither the first nor the second end stroke position are rest positions. In this case, there is an intermediate rest position between the first end stroke position and the second end stroke position. For example, in this case the intermediate rest position is a position wherein the first part of hinge 1 is planarly aligned to the second part of hinge 2, and the first and the second end stroke positions identify a rotation of a first and a second predefined angle of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2. For example, the first predefined angle measures as the second predefined angle. The first predefined angle identifies a clockwise rotation of the first part of hinge with respect to the second part of hinge; the second predefined angle identifies a counterclockwise rotation of the first part of hinge with respect to the second part of hinge. In an embodiment, the first and the second predefined angle can be of identical absolute value (e.g. +/- 110°) or of different absolute value (e.g. + 60°, -1 10°). If the first and the second predefined angle are of identical absolute value, the intermediate position is obviously at mid-stroke between the first end stroke position and the second end stroke position.

In use, preferably, the first part of hinge 1 is fixed to the door of the shower wall or bathtub, whereas the second part of hinge 2 is fixed to the wall or frame of the door.

Preferably but in a non-limiting extent, the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 are realized in metallic material, e.g. stainless steel; this does not remove the fact that alternative embodiments of the first part of hinge 1 and of the second part of hinge 2 can be realized, at least partially, in plastic material. Parts of the first part of hinge or of the second part of hinge can be realized in brass, in combination with another metallic material and/or with plastic material.

The hinge 100 comprises a retaining shaft that is introduced at least partially in the first part of hinge 1 and in the second part of hinge 2. This retaining shaft is axially aligned on said predefined axis of rotation X; in use, therefore, the second part of hinge 2 rotates with respect to said first part of hinge 1 on said retaining shaft.

In an embodiment the second part of hinge 2 comprises a first protuberance 2n, and the first part of hinge 1 comprises a recess 1 r configured for housing said protuberance 2n. The presence of a single protuberance 2n and of a single recess 1 r is not to be intended as limiting, since in an alternative embodiment, the second part of hinge 2 comprises at least a first protuberance 2n and a second protuberance 2n and the first part of hinge 1 comprises a first and a second recess 1 r. These first and second protuberance 2n and these first and second recess 1 r are aligned along the axis of rotation X. The first protuberance 2n lies substantially within said first recess 1 r. Where two protuberances are present, it is clear that the first protuberance 2n lies substantially within said first recess 1 r and the second protuberance 2n lies substantially within said second recess 1 r.

The recess 1 r, or, where there is, the plurality of recesses 1 r, is delimited:

- above, by an upper wall of the recess, oriented on a plane inclined and preferably orthogonal to the axis of rotation X,

- below, by a lower wall of the recess, oriented on a plane inclined and preferably orthogonal to the axis of rotation X,

- at the bottom, by a bottom wall of the recess, oriented on a plane preferably substantially parallel to the axis of rotation X.

The protuberance 2n is delimited:

- above, by an upper wall of the rib, oriented on a plane inclined and preferably orthogonal to the axis of rotation X,

- below, by a lower wall of the rib, oriented on a plane inclined and preferably orthogonal to the axis of rotation X,

- at the bottom, by a bottom wall of the rib, oriented on a plane preferably substantially parallel to the axis of rotation X.

A first direction of development of the recess 1 r is a direction parallel to the axis of rotation X. In an embodiment, therefore, the first part of hinge 1 , when observed from a direction substantially orthogonal to the axis of rotation X and also orthogonal to a main development plane including said axis of rotation X, identifies a substantially C-shaped profile.

The recess 1 r results therefore within a fork 1f of the first part of hinge 1 , within which the rib 2n is introduced.

In the embodiment shown in the attached figures, the upper wall of the recess and the lower wall of the recess are arranged on planes parallel and orthogonal to the axis of rotation X. The upper wall of the recess 1 r and the lower wall of the recess 1 r are substantially opposed.

The recess 1 r comprises at least a first direction of development having an extension greater with respect to an extension of the rib 2n along the corresponding first direction of development, and identifies a free space 4 destined to allowing a translation of the protuberance 2n within the recess 1 r along a direction parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X as a consequence of the relative translation between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 and/or of the rotation of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2. The lower wall of the recess and the upper wall of the recess are each one provided with a hole, preferably blind, suitable for allowing the passage of a shaft or pin configured for allowing to maintain the union in rotation between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2. As it will be better explained in the following portions of description, a lifting and lowering element realizes this shaft and allows the above- mentioned union in rotation.

The free space 4 comprises at least one between the following portions of free space:

- a first portion of free space 4, or lower portion of free space 4, defined between the lower wall of the protuberance 2n and the lower wall of the recess 1 r;

- a second portion of free space 4, or upper portion of free space 4, defined between the upper wall of the protuberance 2n and the upper wall of the recess 1 r.

The first portion of free space 4 is clearly shown in figure 4. The second portion of free space 4 is clearly shown in figure 6.

The free space 4 is axially defined as portion of air volume enclosed between the protuberance 2n and the upper and/or lower wall of the recess 1 r. Consequently, the first portion of free space 4 is axially defined as portion of air volume enclosed between the lower wall of the protuberance 2n and the lower wall of the recess 1 r; the second portion of free space 4 is axially defined as portion of air volume enclosed between the upper wall of the protuberance 2n and the upper wall of the recess 1 r.

As it will be better explained after the complete reading of the present detailed description, the free space 4 has overall a constant extension along the direction identified by the axis of rotation X, independently from the rotation position assumed in use by the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2. Conversely, the extension along said direction identified by the axis of rotation X of the first portion of free space 4 and of the second portion of free space 4, varies according to the rotation position assumed in use by the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2. In particular, the extension along said direction identified by the axis of rotation X of the first portion of free space 4 and of the second portion of free space 4 varies progressively as the rotation of the first part of hinge 1 varies with respect to the second part of hinge 2. Where the first portion of free space 4 has said gradually increasing extension, the extension of the second portion of free space gradually decreases accordingly.

The hinge 100 comprises a lifting or lowering device 3 configured for determining a relative translation between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 along the direction parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X after a rotation position of said first part of hinge 1 with respect to said second part of hinge 2 on the axis of rotation X at least between the first relative position and the second relative position.

Thanks to the lifting and lowering device 3, the door of the shower or of the bathtub supported by the hinge described herein can be lifted during the rotation of the hinge, thereby ensuring a longer service life of the sealing element or gasket. By doing so, the sealing element or gasket exerts in fact a sliding friction only in the immediate proximity of the position wherein the door is closed, sliding as a whole for a length (circumference arc) shorter with respect to the length which would otherwise be the case if the door were opened or closed without lifting. In this way, the duration of the sealing element or gasket is increased.

The lifting or lowering device 3 is configured for determining a plurality of relative translation positions between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 along the direction of translation parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X according to a corresponding plurality of rotation positions of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2 on the axis of rotation X.

The lifting or lowering device 3 is also configured for determining, through the above-mentioned relative translation, a variation of the thickness of the first portion of free space 4 with respect to the second portion of free space 4 in relation to the rotation of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2.

The protuberance 2n comprises a hole 7 axially aligned with the axis of rotation X. The hole 7 allows to house within it at least part of the lifting or lowering device 3, and in particular is configured for housing at least part of the first element 3a and of the second element 3b. The hole 7 is a through-type hole, which protrudes from the upper wall of the protuberance 2n to the lower wall of the protuberance 2n. The hole 7 can have a constant diameter along its axial development or have a variable diameter along its axial development.

According to the exploded view of figure 3, the first element 3a of the lifting and lowering device 3 and the second element 3b of the lifting and lowering device 3 are configured for being introduced within the hole 7 by means of a substantially axial insertion.

In particular, this insertion occurs along a direction parallel to or coincident with the direction identified by the axis of rotation X.

As visible in the exploded view of figure 3, the lifting and lowering device 3 comprises a first element 3a and a second element 3b configured for rotating, in use, the one with respect to the other around an axis substantially coincident with the axis of rotation X. In detail, the first element 3a comprises a head shaft 8 and a contact portion 9 having four inclined surfaces 10; the four inclined surfaces 10 identify two opposed cusp points facing downwards. In orthogonal direction with respect to the two opposed cusp points there are two heads of the recess identified by the concavity formed by two contiguous inclined surfaces 10. In Figure 3, these heads of the recess are positioned at a higher height with respect to the cusp points.

At least part of the head shaft 8, in particular an ending portion of the head shaft 8, is introduced in use within the hole of the upper wall of the recess 1 r. This ending portion of the head shaft 8 is opposed to the portion of the first element 3a where there is the contact portion 9. The ending portion of the head shaft 8 introduced in use within the hole of the upper wall of the recess 1 r is the portion which, in a preferable and common installation sense of the hinge 100, is directed upwards. The second element 3b comprises a bottom shaft 11 and a contact portion 12 having four inclined surfaces 13; the four inclined surfaces 13 identify two opposed cusp points facing upwards. In a direction orthogonal with respect to the two opposing cusp points are two heads of the recess identified by the concavity formed by two contiguous inclined surfaces 13. In Figure 3, these heads of the recess are positioned at a lower height with respect to the cusp points.

Preferably, but in a non-limiting extent, the inclined surfaces 13 of the second element 3b are inclined with respect to the axis of rotation X with an angle of absolute value equal to the value of the inclination angle of the inclined surfaces 10 of the first element 3a with respect to the axis of rotation X.

At least part of the bottom shaft 11 , in particular an ending portion of the bottom shaft 11 , is introduced in use within the hole of the lower wall of the recess 1 r. This ending portion is opposed to the portion of the second element 3b where there is the contact portion 12.

The assembly formed by the head shaft 8 and the bottom shaft 1 1 realizes the retaining shaft 8, 11 which allows the constraint of the first part of hinge 1 with the second part of hinge 2.

The second element 3b is introduced within the hole 7 in such a way to result fixed in rotation with the second part of hinge 2. The first element 3a is integral in rotation with the first part of hinge 1. Consequently, during the rotation between the first part of hinge and the second part of hinge, there is a relative rotation between the contact portions 9, 12 which imposes an axial translation of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2 along the axis of rotation X. In particular, the inclined surfaces 13 of the second element 3b slide on the inclined surfaces 10 of the first element 3a, being then in direct contact with each other and imposing an axial translation between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2.

Preferably, at least part of the bottom shaft 11 is in use introduced within the head shaft 8 of the first element 3a; alternatively, it can be the head shaft 8 of the first element 3a which, extending downwards beyond the contact portion 9 introduces itself into the shaft 11 of the second element 3b.

In use, preferably, when the first part of hinge 1 is planarly aligned to the second part of hinge 2, this first part of hinge 1 is at a minimum height with respect to the ground. The first portion of free space 4 is in this case maximum, and the second portion of free space 4 is minimum, optionally substantially null. The minimum height with respect to the ground is indicated in the attached figures with H1 .

In this case the cusp points outlined by the inclined surfaces 10 of the contact portion 9 are in correspondence of the heads of the recesses identified by the inclined surfaces 13 of the contact portion 12. This configuration determines a stable, or rest, position of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2. This position determines a stable rotation configuration of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2. Preferably this configuration corresponds to the spatial configuration wherein the first part of hinge 1 is planarly aligned with the second part of hinge 2. It is then clear that there are at least two configurations of relative rotation of which: the first relative rotation configuration is a rest configuration, and the first part of hinge 1 is in a rest position with respect to the second part of hinge 2 and vice versa; the second relative rotation configuration is an opening configuration. This configuration is defined as opening since in use, when the door is installed on the hinge, it can determine the opening of the door.

Further embodiments of the lifting or lowering device 3 have been conceived (but not shown in the attached figures) in order to allow the realization of a plurality of stable rotation configurations of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2. The plurality of stable rotation configurations of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2 is preferably comprised between the end stroke rotation configurations between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2. In an embodiment, the first element 3a of the lifting and lowering device 3 and the second element 3b of the lifting and lowering device 3 comprise contact portions 9, 12 which are at least partially developing on a plane substantially orthogonal with respect to the axis of rotation X.

Preferably, but in a non-limiting extent, the plurality of stable rotation configurations is in correspondence or in substantial proximity of a maximum angle of relative rotation possible between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2. In an embodiment, the plurality of stable rotation configurations is in correspondence of an angle of relative rotation between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 substantially next to 90°, e.g. comprised in the range [75 - 105]° or in the range [80 - 100]°. This angle can be, or not, a maximum angle of relative rotation possible between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2.

By progressively rotating the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2 around the axis of rotation X, due to the effect of the lifting or lowering device 3, the first part of hinge 1 is progressively lifted in height; consequently, also the door is lifted in height with respect to the ground. In this step the cusps outlined by the inclined surfaces 10 slide on the inclined surfaces 13 of the contact portion 12 determining the lifting of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2. During the lifting, the position assumed by the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2 is unstable.

The lifting of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2 ends in correspondence of a second orientation configuration between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2. In this second configuration of rotation, the first part of hinge 1 is at a second, and maximum height, with respect to the ground. The maximum height with respect to the ground is indicated in the attached figures with H2.

The height lifting between the minimum height H1 and the maximum height H2 is identified in the attached figures with AH. AH corresponds also to the increase of the height between a height assumed by the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2 in correspondence of the first configuration of rotation and the height assumed by the first part of hinge with respect to the second part of hinge 2 in correspondence of the second configuration of rotation.

When a user releases the door, the first part of hinge 1 will tend to position itself with respect to the second part of hinge 2 in such a way that the cusp points delineated by the inclined surfaces 10 of the contact portion 9 are in correspondence of the heads of the recesses identified by the inclined surfaces 13 of the contact portion 12.

When the first part of hinge 1 is rotated with respect to the second part of hinge 2 in correspondence of the end stroke position, the first portion of free space 4 is minimum, optionally substantially null, whereas the second portion of free space 4 is maximum.

By releasing the door, the gravity or the effect of a thrust spring within the lifting or lowering device 3 determine a progressive reduction of the height of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2, with consequent reduction of the height assumed by the door, up to a minimum height again determined when the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 are planarly aligned.

The hinge 10 object of the present disclosure comprises a covering element 5 positioned in correspondence at least of the protuberance 2n or, if present, of the first and of the second protuberance 2n, and destined to cover substantially at least part of, preferably substantially all of, said protuberance 2n.

Preferably, but in a non-limiting extent, the covering element 5 is realized in plastic material. This plastic material provides sufficient flexibility thereto.

Preferably, but in a non-limiting extent, the covering element 5 is opaque to the optical radiation.

The covering element 5 is configured and specifically destined to cover the free space 4, in particular the free space 4 present above and/or under the protuberance 2n according to the angulation existing between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2. The covering element 5 is therefore configured and specifically destined to cover (and not to compensate) and surround, at the same time, both the first portion of free space 4 and the second portion of free space 4, at least in the first relative rotation configuration and in the second relative rotation configuration.

In particular, the covering element 5 is configured and specifically destined to cover and surround, at the same time, both the first portion of free space 4 and the second portion of free space 4 independently from the angle of rotation assumed between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2.

Therefore, the covering element 5 comprises a respective extension along the first direction of development and the hinge 10 is configured and specifically destined to allow a complete visibility of at least a portion of the covering element 5, in particular the lateral wall thereof, along said first direction of development independently from an angle of rotation between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 with respect to the axis of rotation X.

The extension of the covering element 5 along said first direction of development is substantially equal to the extension of the recess 1 r along said first direction of development. Preferably, as "substantially equal” is intended that a significant space is deliberately excluded. Local slots present due to machining tolerances of the surfaces of the upper and lower wall of the recess 1 r with respect to the covering element 5, or small slots due to thermal contraction or dilatation, remain unaffected.

Thanks to this technical feature, it is possible to advantageously prevent the introduction of dust, dirt or liquids, in particular water, into the portions adjacent to the joint between the protuberance 2n and the lifting or lowering element 3, and/or into the portions adjacent to the central pin which allows rotation between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2, determining the increase in the service life of the hinge and preventing seizures.

A lower and/or upper ending portion of the covering element 5 can be provided with gaskets 6 or equivalent means suitable for completely sealing even the minimum slot due to machining roughness and/or to clearance deliberately left for thermal compensation, with the upper and lower wall of the recess 1 r.

In particular, is it is herein emphasized that the covering element 5 is not introduced in the free space 4; it lies outside with respect to said free space 4 and covers it integrally.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the covering element 5 comprises a first and a second lateral portion, of substantially planar shape. Preferably, but in a non-limiting extent, the first and the second lateral portion are arranged on parallel planes.

The covering element 5 can comprise a bottom portion, or portion of connection between the first and the second lateral portion. In a non-limiting embodiment, this bottom portion comprises a curved connection element preferably free of angular points, which encloses a bottom wall of the protuberance 2n. When observed along a direction substantially aligned to the axis of rotation X, then in plan view, the covering element 5 identifies a substantially “C” shape.

The Applicant notes that the covering element 5 does not act by compensating the free space existing between the lower side of the protuberance and the bottom wall of the recess housing it as in the case of the compensating element referred to in document DE202014105039U1 . This covering element 5 in fact prevents the access to this free space, which continues to remain present above and/or under the protuberance 2n.

The introduction of the covering element 5 allows to maintain simple the hinge 10 object of the present disclosure, and does not cause weakenings of the protuberance 2n.

On a lateral wall of the protuberance 2n there is a recess 14 which is configured and specifically destined to house a locking set screw of the covering element 5 or even to house a protuberance present on the inner side of the covering element 5. This set screw, if present, is in use partially introduced within a recess positioned on an inner side face of a lateral wall thereof. A slight outward elastic deformation may be present in correspondence of the point of the lateral wall wherein is present the set screw, and this allows to maintain in a predetermined position the covering element 5 with respect to the protuberance 2n. Where a set screw is present, there is conveniently a further recess, positioned on the inner side of the lateral wall of the covering element 5; this further recess has e.g. elongated shape and extends along a direction parallel to the axis of rotation X. This allows the translation of the protuberance 2n, and of the second part of hinge 2 with respect to the first part of hinge 1 maintaining the position relatively assumed along the axis of rotation X fixed between the covering element 5 and the first part of hinge 1 .

The recess positioned on the inner side of the lateral wall of the covering element 5 realizes a guiding element which allows the relative sliding between the protuberance 2n and the covering element 5 between a first spatial configuration and a second spatial configuration. In the first spatial configuration the covering element 5 and the protuberance 2n are in a first reciprocal position and in the second spatial configuration the covering element 5 and the protuberance 2n are in a second spatial reciprocal position translated with respect to the first along the axis of rotation X. In particular, the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 are in at least a first relative rotation configuration and in a second relative rotation configuration.

In the embodiment shown in figure 3 is present a guiding recess present on the protuberance 2n, and this guiding recess 14' is destined to couple with the guide 14 present on the inner side of the covering element 5. In the embodiment shown in figure 3 la guide 14 and the guiding recess 14' are arranged along a direction substantially parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X. The position of the guiding recess 14' and of the guide 14 can also be reversed, i.e. it is possible to have the guiding recess 14' positioned on the inner side of the covering element 5 and the guide 14 which protrudes from the protuberance 2n.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the covering element 5 is configured for planarly coupling with at least one of the two main lateral surfaces of the first part of hinge 1 and/or of the second part of hinge 2. Thanks to this technical feature, the aesthetic aspect of the hinge 10 object of the present disclosure is optimized and overall the lateral surfaces can be defined as substantially developing on a single, seamless plane.

The covering element 5 can be realized in a metallic or plastic material, and can be covered with a film of a material and/or colour complying with the material and/or colour of the first part of hinge 1 and of the second part of hinge 2. For example, in a non-limiting embodiment, the covering element 5 can be realized in a plastic material and can be covered with a chromium-plated film, of a colour compatible and substantially identical to that of the first part of hinge 1 and/or of the second part of hinge 2.

In light of the above, it then becomes clear that the covering element 5 is, in an axial direction along the axis of rotation X, integrally movable with the first part of hinge 1 ; in particular it is integral in rotation with the second part of hinge 2 with respect to the first part of hinge 1 .

The covering element 5 is dragged in rotation by the first part of hinge 1 in an axial direction along the axis of rotation X. The two ending portions of the lateral walls of the covering element strike against the striker portions of the second part of hinge 2 positioned in proximity of the protuberance 2n, determining the pushing of the covering element 5 in substantial synchronous rotation with the second part of hinge 2 with respect to the first part of hinge 1. This means that during the rotation of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2, the lifting or the lowering of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2 determines un corresponding lifting or lowering with respect to the ground of the covering element 5.

The covering element 5 is configured and specifically designed to always be in sight, independently from the rotation assumed between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2, hiding then for each angle of rotation, the free space 4.

It is furthermore noted that the exploded view of figure 3 shows also a first and a second spacer 16. The first spacer 16 is arranged between the lower wall of the protuberance 2n and the lower wall of the recess 1 r. The second spacer 16 is arranged between the upper wall of the protuberance 2n and the upper wall of the recess 1 r. In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the first and the second element spacer 16 assume a substantially foil shape. The foil is substantially oriented on a plane substantially orthogonal to the axis of rotation X and then with respect to the above-described direction of development. As shown in the exploded view of figure 3, at least one between the first spacer 16 and the second spacer 16 can comprise at least a flap developing in a direction concordant with respect to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X; the at least a flap in use interposes itself between the guiding element 14' and the guide 14.

Preferably, but in a non-limiting extent, the thickness, along a direction parallel to the axis of rotation X, of the first element spacer 16 is equal to the thickness, along the same direction parallel to the axis of rotation X, of the second element spacer 16.

In a non-limiting embodiment, at least one between the first and the second element spacer 16, and preferably both the spacer elements 16, are realized in a material configured for determining a low coefficient of sliding friction when the first part of hinge 1 rotates with respect to the second part of hinge 2. Preferably, but in a non-limiting extent, the first and the second element spacer 16 are realized in a plastic material. In a nonlimiting embodiment, at least one between the first and the second element spacer 16 is realized in polytetrafluoroethylene.

The first and the second element spacer are each one provided with a through-hole suitable for allowing the passage of the shaft or pin which allows to maintain the connection between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2.

Optionally, but in a non-limiting extent, a secondary spacer element 17 is arranged between the bottom portion, or portion of connection between the first and the second lateral portion of the covering element 5 and the bottom wall of the recess 1 r. The mechanical characteristics of this secondary spacer element 17 can conveniently be the same as those of the first and/or of the second element spacer 16. In a preferred embodiment, part of the secondary spacer element 17 copies the outer shape of the bottom portion, or portion of connection, of the covering element 5. Preferably, the secondary spacer element 17 also acts as an end stroke element, configured for avoiding a direct contact between edge portions of the first part of hinge 1 and of the second part of hinge 2 when they are in a configuration of maximum relative rotation. The presence of the secondary spacer element 17, in particular when realized in plastic material, is useful to avoid direct and rigid contact between the first part of hinge and the second part of hinge under the above-mentioned conditions, especially if the first part of hinge and the second part of hinge are realized in metallic material.

The development of the covering element 5 along the direction identified by the axis of rotation X may be such as to include within its perimeter the first and the second spacer element 16; alternatively, the development of the covering element along the direction identified by the axis of rotation X may be slightly lower with respect to the development, along the same direction, of the recess 1 r so that at least part of the first and/or the second spacer element 16 protrude out of the profile identified by the covering element 5 itself.

Due to its conformation, the covering element 5 is introducible or removable by the protuberance 2n solely when the first part of hinge 1 is planarly misaligned with respect to the second part of hinge 2; preferably, but in a non-limiting extent, the covering element 5 is introducible or removable by the protuberance 2n solely when the first part of hinge 1 is substantially rotated by at least 90° on the axis of rotation X with respect to the second part of hinge 2. This allows that when the first part of hinge 1 is planarly aligned to the second part of hinge 2, the covering element 5 is substantially unmovable.

A preferred embodiment of the hinge 100 object of the present disclosure has each one between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 realized in the form of coupled shells 19. In a further embodiment, at least one between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 is realized in the form of coupled shells 19. The coupling between the above-mentioned shells can be realized by means of screws, clips or other elements constraining the first and the second shell. These constraining elements advantageously allow the first and the second shells to be maintained removably united. The two shells are arranged so as to lie on planes having a direction of development parallel to the axis of rotation X, and are couplable and uncouplable along a direction substantially oblique with respect to the axis of rotation X, in particular orthogonal to the axis of rotation X. This direction is identified by the axis K in figure 3.

The second part of hinge 2 comprises two shells between which is arranged a plate or panel 25', which can be e.g. made of glass or another material.

It is noted finally the presence of a first and of a second retaining element 18, each configured and destined to retain the shaft of the second portion 3b and the shaft 1 1 of the lifting or lowering element 3. The first retaining element 18 and the second retaining element 18 are removably connected to the first part of hinge 1 through engagement elements that preferably but in a non-limiting extent comprise two screws oriented in such a way as to introduce into holes in the retaining element 18 that extend along a direction substantially parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X.

The embodiment of the hinge 100 shown in Figures 1 to 7 further comprises a spacer and/or pusher member 1 p which is arranged in a recess of at least one between the first shell or the second shell of the first part of hinge 1. This spacer and/or pusher member 1 p is designed to separate, along an axis orthogonal to the axis of rotation X and coincident with the axis of thickness of the plate 25, the first shell from the second shell of the first part of hinge 1 . An equivalent spacer and/or pusher member 2p is arranged in a recess of at least one between the first shell or the second shell of the second part of hinge 2.

It is observed the presence of substantially planar elements identified by the numerical reference 20 and 20'. These substantially planar elements are retaining and/or damping elements 20, 20'. These substantially planar elements are arranged in correspondence of the inner side 1 k, 2k of the first shell and of the inner side 1 k, 2k of the second shell of the first part of hinge 1 and of the second part of hinge 2. The inner sides of the first shell and of the second shell are the sides that in use are oriented in the direction of each other. The substantially planar elements lie on a plane substantially parallel to the plane on which lie the inner side of the first shell and the inner side of the second shell .

The retaining and/or damping elements 20, 20' are arranged in correspondence of the first part of hinge 1 and of the second part of hinge 2, and can be integrated or removable with respect to the respective parts of hinge.

An auxiliary retaining and/or damping element 30, in particular having a form realized with legs mainly developing along a direction substantially oblique and preferably orthogonal with respect to the axis of rotation X, is arranged in correspondence of one of the two shells of the first part of hinge 1 and of the second part of hinge 2. In particular, the auxiliary retaining and/or damping element 30 is conceived and specifically configured for avoiding direct contact between the plate 25 of the door (first part of hinge 1) and a raised portion present on the inner side of said shell and/or for avoiding direct contact between the panel 25' (second part of hinge 2) and a raised portion present on the inner side of said shell. Then, although the auxiliary retaining and/or damping element 30 acts on a different portion of the shell with respect to the portion on which the first retaining and/or damping element 20 acts, the construction characteristics of the sandwich formed by means of the first retaining and/or damping element 20 can also be considered valid for the auxiliary retaining and/or damping element.

In figure 8 and in figure 9 is shown an alternative embodiment of the hinge 100 object of the present disclosure. The hinge 100 according to figure 8 and figure 9 has the same basic characteristics already extensively described in the previous portion of the description, which are therefore not described again and integrally in order not to cause an undue lengthening of the description. Then, also the hinge 100 of the embodiment of figures 8 and 9 has a first part of hinge 1 and a second part of hinge 2 constrained between them and between which is arranged a lifting or lowering device 3 configured for determining a relative translation between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 along a direction of translation parallel to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X after a rotation of the first part of hinge 1 with respect to the second part of hinge 2 on said axis of rotation X at least between the first relative position and the second relative position; also this further embodiment of the hinge 100 comprises a first covering element 5 positioned in correspondence of the first protuberance 2n and destined to cover at least part of, preferably substantially all of, the first protuberance 2n and configured and specifically destined to surround and cover the first free space 4 at least in the first relative rotation configuration and in the second relative rotation configuration. The embodiment of the hinge 100 shown in figures 8 and 9 has some structural characteristics that distinguish it with respect to the embodiment of figures 1-7; these distinctive structural characteristics are described in detail below.

It is first of all observed that the second portion of hinge 2 has a size significantly reduced with respect to the second portion of hinge 2 of the embodiment of hinge 100 shown in figures 1-7. In the embodiment of figures 8 and 9, the second portion of hinge comprises a slotted portion provided with at least a hole for the passage of a dowel screw 2b for fixing the second portion of hinge 2 to the wall. Specifically, in the exploded view of figure 8 is shown the presence of a first slotted hole for the passage of a first dowel screw 2b and of a second slotted hole for the passage of a second dowel screw 2b. The first and the second slotted holes are superimposed along a direction substantially identified by the axis of rotation X and are extended along an axis orthogonal to the direction identified by the aforementioned axis of rotation X. The overlapping of the first and of the second slotted hole along said direction substantially identified by the axis of rotation X allows for a considerable wall fixing strength, even in the case wherein the hinge 100 must support significantly heavy doors.

The slotted portion is arranged on the base body of the second portion of hinge 2 and is preferably covered by a cover which allows to conceal from view the heads of the dowel screws 2b; these heads are in use engaged against a wall of the first and of the second slotted hole. The cover, is shown in figures with the reference number 2s.

On the base body is present a recess for retaining an engagement member arranged on the cover 2s. In this recess is in use positioned an elastic element 2w, e.g. an O-ring, which when the cover 2s is arranged in closed position to cover the slotted holes is compressed by effect of the engagement member.

The embodiment of the hinge 100 shown in figure 8 and in figure 9 is also provided with a protuberance 2n which is disconnectable from the rest of the body of the second part of hinge 2. It is observed the presence of a plurality (three) of screws 2v for the removable fixing of the protuberance 2n al base body of the second part of hinge 2 where it is present the previously mentioned slotted portion. The screws 2v engage, each one, in a respective hole drilled on the protuberance 2n and extend along a direction substantially inclined, and preferably orthogonal, with respect to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X.

The embodiment of the hinge 100 shown in figure 8 and in figure 9 also comprises a first portion of hinge 1 realized by a first shell and by a second shell between operatively coupled to each other by means of screws 1 v arranged along a direction inclined, preferably substantially orthogonal, with respect to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X. Equivalent coupling elements for the first shell and the second shell can replace the screws 1v.

It is observed the presence of substantially planar elements identified by the numerical reference 20. These substantially planar elements are retaining and/or damping elements 20. These substantially planar elements are arranged in correspondence of the inner side 1 k of the first shell and of the inner side of the second shell. The inner sides of the first shell and of the second shell are the sides that in use are oriented the one in direction of the other. The substantially planar elements lie on a plane substantially parallel to the plane on which the inner side of the first shell and the inner side of the second shell.

The retaining and/or damping elements 20 are arranged in correspondence of the first part of hinge 1 and can be integrated on the first portion of hinge 1 or removable with respect to the latter.

The retaining and/or damping elements 20 are configured and specifically destined to be directly coupled with a plate 25 which realizes, in use, at least part and preferably almost the entirety, of the door. Alternatively, the retaining and/or damping elements 20 can be configured and specifically destined to be directly coupled with a portion of the door different with respect to said plate 25.

Preferably but in a non-limiting extent these retaining and/or damping elements 20 are realized in an elastic material, water-resistant and resistant to common soaps or detergents in use in bathroom environments, and can e.g. be realized in rubber, e.g. nitrile rubber, or neoprene, or even particularly flexible plastic material. In use they exert a sliding friction with the plate 25 and absorb at least partially the vibrations and force impulse that would otherwise be transmitted in a substantially rigid way between the plate 25 and the first shell and/or the second shell during the rotation of the first part of hinge with respect to the second part of hinge. The absorption occurs by partial compression of the layer realized by the retaining and/or damping element 20 along a direction substantially inclined, in particular substantially orthogonal, with respect to the direction identified by the axis of rotation X.

The function of retaining and/or damping elements 20 is even more clearer when figure 9 is observed; the relative rotation between the first portion of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 allows to visualize the latter in a clear graphic representation wherein it is observed a sandwich realized in correspondence of the first part of hinge 1 wherein the plate 25 is sided, on the left side by a first retaining and/or damping element 20 and on the right side by a second retaining and/or damping element 20; the outer sides (in the direction of sandwich thickness increase) of the first and of the second retaining and/or damping element 20 face the inner side of the respective shell of the first portion of hinge 1 ; this means that in use, is realized a sandwich which comprises the portion of said door interposed between the first shell and the second shell of the first part of hinge 1 and a first retaining and/or damping element 20 results interposed between the portion of said door and the first shell and a second retaining and/or damping element 20 results interposed between said portion of said door and the second shell.

The Applicant notes that it may be present at least a retaining and/or damping element 20 also in an embodiment of the hinge 100 wherein the first part of hinge 1 is not realized with coupled shells. In this case, a sandwich will be realized in use wherein the retaining and/or damping element 20 is interposed between la portion of the door and the first part of hinge 1 .

The embodiment of the hinge 100 shown in figure 8 and in figure 9 comprises also a spacer and/or pusher member 1 p which is arranged in a recess of at least one between the first shell or the second shell of the first part of hinge. This spacer and/or pusher member 1 p is conceived for separating, along an axis orthogonal to the axis of rotation X and coincident with the axis of the thickness of the plate 25, the first shell from the second shell of the first part of hinge 1 taking into account the additional thickness realized by the retaining and/or damping elements 20, and is also configured for pushing the plate 25 against the opposed shell of the first part of hinge 1. In use, the spacer and/or pusher member 1 p is housed within a recess formed in correspondence of the inner side of one of the two shells of the first part of hinge 1 .

The spacer and/or pusher member 1p can be realized in different materials according to the manufacturer's wish, and is in particular realizable in a plastic material and/or in a metal material - e.g. stainless steel or brass.

The embodiment of the hinge 100 shown in figure 8 and in figure 9 comprises a secondary spacer element 17 arranged between the bottom portion, or portion of connection between the first and the second lateral portion of the covering element 5 and the bottom wall of the recess 1 r. The mechanical characteristics of this secondary spacer element 17 can conveniently be the same as those of the first and/or of the second element spacer 16. In a preferred embodiment, part of the secondary spacer element 17 copies the outer shape of the bottom portion, or portion of connection, of the covering element 5. As previously described, the secondary spacer element 17 can act as an end stroke element, e.g. configured for interposing between edge portions of the first part of hinge 1 and of the second part of hinge 2 when in a configuration of maximum relative rotation, avoiding e.g. a direct metal-to-metal contact.

An auxiliary retaining and/or damping element 30, in particular having a form realized with legs developing mainly along a direction substantially oblique and preferably orthogonal with respect to the axis of rotation X, is arranged in correspondence of one of the two shells of the first part of hinge 1 , in figure 8 in the shell in the foreground. In particular the auxiliary retaining and/or damping element 30 is conceived and specifically configured for avoiding the direct contact between the plate 25 of the door and a raised position present on the inner side of said shell. Then, although the auxiliary retaining and/or damping element 30 acts on a different portion of the shell with respect to the portion on which the first retaining and/or damping element 20 acts, the realization characteristics of the sandwich formed by means of the first retaining and/or damping element 20 can also be considered valid for the auxiliary retaining and/or damping element.

It is observed finally the presence of a locking element 24 that is arranged in such a way as to retain in a direction transversal with respect to the axis of rotation X the assembly formed by the protuberance 2n, and by the lifting or lowering device 3, with respect to the first shell and the second shell of the first part of hinge 1 . In particular, the embodiment of the hinge 100 shown in figures 8 and 9 has a first and a second blocking element 24, respectively arranged in correspondence of the first element 3a of the lifting and lowering device 3 and of the second element 3b of the lifting and lowering device 3. The function of locking elements 24 is analogous to the one of the first and of the second retaining element 18.

More in particular, the first blocking element 24 is directly engaged with a portion of the lifting and lowering device 3, in particular with a predetermined or head portion, of the first element 3a. The second blocking element is directly engaged with a predefined portion, in particular a lower head portion of a shaft passing by the first element 3a and by the second element 3b the axis thereof identifies the axis of rotation X.

In a preferred embodiment, on the portion of lower head of the shaft there is a knurling. Similarly, a further knurling is present on the head portion of the first element 3a. The knurling is realized in order to promote the engagement of the locking elements 24 when their screws are properly tightened.

On the first and on the second blocking element 24 are removably engaged screws, and by means of the blocking elements 24 it is possible to carry out a fine adjustment of the inclination with respect to the axis of rotation X of the second part of hinge 2 with respect to the first part of hinge 1 .

The advantages of the hinge 100 object of the present disclosure are clear in the light of the preceding description: it allows an axial translation between the first part of hinge 1 and the second part of hinge 2 maintaining passively covered - by means of the covering element 5 - the free space 4 present for allowing said axial translation.

The hinge 100 object of the present disclosure can be sold as single element, as a pair or in kit with a door preferably a door for a shower or bathtub.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the attached figures; for this reason, in the following claims, numbers and signs of reference placed between parentheses must be intended for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the claims and are not to be intended in a limiting manner.

It is finally clear that to the object of the present disclosure may be applied additions, modifications or variants obvious for a technician of the art without departing from the scope provided by the attached claims.