Dominique Dony

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Dominique Dony

Introduction

Dominique Dony is a notable inventor based in Braillans, France. He has made significant contributions to the field of engineering, particularly in the design of gas springs and furniture supports. With a total of 6 patents to his name, Dony's inventions reflect a commitment to enhancing functionality and user experience in various applications.

Latest Patents

One of Dony's latest patents is a gas spring designed for hatchbacks and other closure members of motor vehicle bodies. This innovative gas spring automatically stops at an intermediate position between fully closed and fully opened states. The design features a piston carrying a piston rod that separates the interior of a cylindrical body into first and second chambers. Gas under pressure forces the piston and piston rod towards the extended position to open the closure member. A restricted gas path through a groove in the cylinder wall allows gas to flow from the second chamber to the first chamber. Additionally, a third chamber is defined within the cylinder, which has an uninterrupted wall portion and a wall portion incorporating a groove. This third chamber is positioned on the opposite side of the second chamber and has a smaller diameter than the first and second chambers. When the piston rod moves a sealing ring into the third chamber, it completely closes off the chamber, leading to pressure build-up that arrests the movement of the piston rod at the intermediate position. Manual movement beyond this point allows the piston rod to reach the fully extended position, with gas flow permitted from the third chamber to the second chamber through the groove. During closure, frictional engagement between the sealing ring and the smooth wall portion of the third chamber facilitates gas flow between the third and second chambers.

Another notable invention is a pillar intended to form part of a furniture support, particularly for seating. This design includes a sliding tube with a frustoconical top end that engages with a matching cavity in the furniture piece. The sliding tube holds captive the body of a gas spring, with a piston rod fixed to the bottom of the support tube. A metal reinforcement sleeve is engaged with a force fit inside the frustoconical end part, providing structural integrity and support for the gas spring body.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Dominique Dony has worked with several companies, including Airax and Draftex Industries Limited. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in developing innovative solutions in engineering