Patent ID: 6328383
Filing Date: 2001-12-11
Classification: B60N

Abstract:
A pivot mechanism comprising:first and second rigid frames mounted so as to pivot relative to one another about an axis of rotation, said first and second rigid frames forming a closed circular housing,teeth joined to the first frame and forming at least one circular arc centered on the axis of rotation inside said housing,at least one rigid locking member which is movable relative to the second frame inside said housing, between a locking position in which said locking member meshes with the teeth of the first frame in order to immobilize the first and second frames relative to one another, and a retracted position in which said locking member does not mesh with the teeth of the first frame,a single cam pivotally mounted inside said housing around the axis of rotation between said first and second frames, said cam being elastically urged toward a rest position, in which said cam places said locking member in the locking position, and said cam being movable toward an unlocking position in which said cam enables said locking member to be placed in the retracted position,wherein said cam is elastically urged by a single spring which is rolled around the axis of rotation and mounted inside said housing, in an indentation provided in the second frame, said spring and said indentation being covered by the cam.