Switch activating hinge having reciprocating cam follower switch actuator

Claim 1

A switch activating hinge comprising first and second hinge leaves having axially aligned knuckles, a hinge pin fixed in the knuckle of the first leaf and extending into a knuckle of the second leaf for aligning the leaves for pivotal movement with respect to each other, a separate switch unit, including a switch actuating plunger aligned with the axis of said knuckles, said switch unit being fixed in the knuckle of the second leaf and positioned adjacent the end of said hinge pin, a camming surface on one end of said hinge pin, follower means positioned between said camming surface and said plunger, said follower means comprising a non-circular element mounted within a corresponding non-circular case fixed in the knuckle of the second leaf and adapted for axial movement therein, said element having a cam following surface engaging said camming surface and being urged against said camming surface by a spring, whereby the relative pivotal movement between said hinge pin and said non-circular element causes axial displacement of said element, causing said element to engage said plunger and actuate said switch.