Hinge assembly for vacuum packaging machine

Abstract

An improved hinge assembly for a vacuum packaging machine is designed to pivotally connect a stainless steel tub in the machine to a sealing lid. The lid is equipped with a pair of the hinge assemblies, with each hinge assembly including a stationary hinge plate which is positioned beneath a rear, overhanging lip of the tub. A pair of pins are spaced apart and extend outward from each hinge plate and into and through an arcuate slot in a movable hinge block which is, in turn, connected to the lid. The hinge block is designed to move relative to the hinge plate along a path dictated by the arcuate slot and the pins, with the pins acting as respective stops for the movement. A gas spring is pivotally connected between the rear surface of the machine and each hinge block, with the hinge blocks including different mounting points to vary the effectiveness of the springs. The springs automatically lift the lid and the dual pin and arcuate slot connection between each hinge block and hinge plate creates a virtual pivot point behind the machine at the radial center of the slot's arc. This allows a relatively weak spring to raise the lid and also allows the lid to be pivoted to a larger angle than prior art hinges.