GB2624021A

GB2624021A - Door handle assembly

Info

Publication number: GB2624021A
Application number: GB2216470.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Fawthrop Graham; Boldagi Mohammad; Petraitis Marjanas
Original assignee: DEBAR Ltd
Current assignee: DEBAR Ltd
Priority date: 2022-11-04
Filing date: 2022-11-04
Publication date: 2024-05-08
Also published as: GB202216470D0

Abstract

Handle assembly comprising a handle 112 with grip portion 102 and spindle 104 received in a housing 102 having fixing holes, e.g. screw holes 108. A fixing site cover 118 conceals fastener holes 108 and may be rotated to a position exposing fastener holes 108. The handle is biased toward the housing to inhibit rotation of the fixing site cover. The handle bias may be a spring 128 or resilient deformable member such as rubber to urge the handle toward the cover and apply clamping pressure. the handle may be axially pulled away from the housing to release the cover and permit rotation. The handle may include indexing means 402 with hills and troughs provided camming surfaces 404a, 406a providing stable rotational position of handle. The housing may include a recessed/rebate section 204 in which the cover sits flush, the housing may include a notches 208 in side wall to permit cover to locate when rotated to exposed position.

Description

DOOR HANDLE ASSEMBLY

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a door handle assembly comprising a fixing site cover and a biasing mechanism.

Background

[0002] Door handle assemblies may be fixed to door panels using various fixing means.

In many typical examples, door handle assemblies are fixed to a door panel using two or more screws deployed at specific fixing sites. For example, wood screws may be used to fix a door handle assembly to a wooden door panel. A part of the door handle assembly, such as a handle frame which is typically a relatively flat plate component (with other features, e.g., a structure to accommodate a lock mechanism and the like), may comprise through holes for receiving screws to fix the handle frame to the door panel. The through holes are examples of fixing sites.

[0003] It may be desirable that the fixing sites of the door handle assembly are not always exposed. For example, it may be desirable that the fixing sites can be selectively exposed when the fixings (e.g., screws) are to be manipulated. For example, the fixing sites may need to be exposed during installation and removal of the door handle assembly. For example, the fixing sites not being exposed (covered up) may be desired to avoid unintentional manipulation of the fixings during normal use of the door handle, to avoid build-up of dirt and other foreign material in and around the fixing, to protect the fixing from the elements and the like.

[0004] Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide a door handle assembly in which the fixing sites are not exposed when manipulation of the fixings is not required.

Summary

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided A door handle assembly configured to be deployed on a door panel, the door handle assembly comprising: a handle comprising a grip portion and a connecting rod for connecting to a door opening and closing mechanism; a handle frame configured to be fixed to the door panel at one or more fixing sites, and configured to receive the connecting rod from an outward facing side in a receiving direction, for connecting the handle to the handle frame; a fixing site cover rotatably connected to the connecting rod and arranged, in use, between the grip portion and the handle frame, the fixing site cover configured to cover the one or more fixing sites when in a covering configuration and configured to expose the one or more fixing sites when in an exposing configuration; and a biasing mechanism configured to bias the handle towards the handle frame so as to urge the handle towards the handle frame in the receiving direction such that rotation of the fixing site cover positioned between the grip portion and the handle frame is inhibited.

[0006] Optionally, the biasing mechanism comprises: a resiliently deformable member arranged to bias the handle towards the handle frame, wherein the resiliently deformable member has a spring constant such that the resiliently deformable member is deformable when a user pulls on the grip member in a direction away from the handle frame and the handle frame is prevented from moving the pulling.

[0007] Optionally, the resiliently deformable member is provided on a door facing side of the handle frame opposite to the outward facing side; and the biasing mechanism comprises a restricting member connected to the connecting rod to restrict motion of the resiliently deformable member away from the handle frame.

[0008] Optionally, pulling the grip portion away from the handle frame causes the resiliently deformable member to compress between the handle frame and the restricting member, thereby allowing the grip portion to move away from the handle frame.

[0009] Optionally, the resiliently deformable member is a coil spring positioned around the connecting rod; and the restricting member is a pin arranged in a through hole provided in the connecting rod.

[0010] Optionally, pulling the grip portion away from the handle frame against the biasing mechanism causes a separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is able to be rotated about the connecting rod.

[0011] Optionally, the fixing site cover is configured to be rotated about the connecting rod to transition between the covering configuration and the exposing configuration.

[0012] Optionally, the handle frame comprises a slot configured to receive the fixing site cover when in the covering configuration; and the one or more fixing sites are provided within the slot so as to be covered when the fixing site cover is received in the slot.

[0013] Optionally, when the fixing site cover is received in the slot, rotation of the fixing site cover about the connecting rod is prevented.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of use of the door handle assembly according to the first aspect, the method comprising: pulling the grip portion away from the handle frame, while the handle frame is prevented from moving due to the pulling, to increase a separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is able to be rotated about the connecting rod; and transitioning the fixing site cover from the covering configuration to the exposing configuration to gain access to the one or more fixing sites.

[0015] Optionally, the method according to the second aspect comprises: ceasing the pulling to reduce the separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is held in the exposing configuration by the biasing mechanism.

[0016] Optionally, the method according to the second aspect comprises: manipulating one or more fixings at the respective one or more fixing sites while the fixing site cover is held in the exposing configuration; after the manipulating, pulling the grip portion away from the door panel, while the handle frame is prevented from moving due to the pulling, to increase the separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is able to be rotated about the connecting rod; and transifioning the fixing site cover from the exposing configuration to the covering configuration so as to cover up the one or more fixing sites.

[0017] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a door handle assembly, the method comprising: manufacturing a handle comprising a grip portion and a connecting rod for connecting to a door opening and closing mechanism; manufacturing a handle frame comprising configuring the handle frame to be fixed to a door panel at one or more fixing sites, and configuring the handle frame to receive the connecting rod from an outward facing side, for connecting the handle to the handle frame; manufacturing a fixing site cover comprising configuring the fixing site cover to be rotatably connected to the connecting rod and arranged, in use, between the grip portion and the handle frame, and configuring the fixing site cover to cover the one or more fixing sites when in a covering configuration and to expose the one or more fixing sites when in an exposing configuration; and manufacturing a biasing mechanism comprising configuring the biasing mechanism to bias the handle towards the handle frame so as to urge the handle towards the handle frame in the receiving direction such that rotation of the fixing site cover positioned between the grip portion and the handle frame is inhibited.

[0018] Optionally, the method according to the third aspect comprises: configuring the door handle assembly such that pulling the grip portion away from the handle frame against the biasing mechanism causes a separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is able to be rotated about the connecting rod.

[0019] Optionally, the method according to the third aspect comprises: configuring the fixing site cover to be rotatable about the connecting rod to transition between the covering configuration and the exposing configuration.

[0020] Optionally, the method according to the third aspect comprises: creating a slot in the handle frame to receive the fixing site cover when in the covering configuration.

[0021] Optionally, the method according to the third aspect comprises: creating the one or more fixing sites within the slot.

[0022] Optionally, the method according to the third aspect comprises: creating the slot by any one of: laser cutting; and machining.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a door handle assembly, according to

examples;

Figure 2 is a schematic perspective exploded view of the door handle assembly, according to examples; Figure 3 is a schematic side view of the door handle assembly, according to examples; Figure 4 is a schematic side exploded view of the door handle assembly, according to examples; Figure 5 is a schematic bottom view of the door handle assembly, according to examples; Figure 6 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the door handle assembly, according

to examples;

Figure 7 a schematic sketch of a door panel with an example of the door handle assembly deployed thereon, according to examples; Figure 8 is a first schematic front view of the handle assembly, according to examples; Figure 9 is a second schematic front view of the handle assembly, according to

examples;

Figure 10 is a third schematic front view of the handle assembly, according to examples; Figure 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of use of the door handle assembly, according to examples; and Figure 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of manufacturing a door handle assembly, according to examples.

Detailed Description

[0023] The present disclosure relates to a door handle assembly configured to be deployed on a door. The door handle assembly described herein provides that fixing sites can be covered up when manipulation of fixing deployed at the fixing sites is not required.

[0024] Examples of the described door handle assembly comprise a handle. The handle comprises a grip portion and a connecting rod for connecting to a door opening and closing mechanism. The door handle assembly comprises a handle frame configured to be fixed to the door at one or more fixing sites, and configured to receive the connecting rod from an outward facing side in a receiving direction, for connecting the handle to the handle frame.

The door handle assembly comprises a handle biasing mechanism configured to bias the handle towards the handle frame in the receiving direction. The door handle assembly comprises a fixing site cover rotatably connected to the connecting rod and arranged, in use, between the grip portion and the handle frame, the fixing site cover configured to cover the one or more fixing sites when in a covering configuration and configured to expose the one or more fixing sites when in an exposing configuration.

[0025] In examples, the receiving direction points towards the outward facing side of the handle frame. When the handle frame is fixed to the door panel in question, the receiving direction points towards the door panel. The connecting rod is received by moving it in the receiving direction towards the outward facing side of the handle frame, for example.

[0026] The grip portion is the portion which is gripped and manipulated by a user using the door handle to open, close, lock and/or unlock a door on which the door handle assembly is deployed. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a door handle assembly 100, according to examples. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective exploded view of the door handle assembly 100, according to examples. Figure 3 is a schematic side view of the door handle assembly 100, according to examples. Figure 4 is a schematic side exploded view of the door handle assembly 100, according to examples. Figure 5 is a schematic bottom view of the door handle assembly 100, according to examples. Figure 6 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the door handle assembly 100, according to examples. The cross-section shown in Figure 6 is taken along the line A-A indicated in Figure 5. The following description makes reference to elements shown at least in Figures 1 to 5.

[0027] In these examples, a particular version of a grip portion 102 is shown. However, the grip portion 102 may be of any shape and configuration suitable for manipulation by the user when using the door. For example, the grip portion 102 in the examples of Figure 1 is in the form of a bar to be gripped by the user. However, in other examples, the grip portion 102 may be a spherical doorknob and the like.

[0028] In the examples shown in the Figures, the door handle assembly 100 comprises the connecting rod 104. The connecting rod 104 is for connecting to a door opening and closing mechanism. For example, the connecting rod 104 may be rotated to operate a latch mechanism, a locking mechanism, and the like. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the various different types of mechanism which can be connected to a door handle assembly to open and close a door, and/or to lock and unlock a door. In these examples, the connecting rod 104 has a non-circular cross section such that rotation of the connecting rod 104 may rotate a component engaged with the connecting rod 104. However, the connecting rod 104 is not so limited. In some other examples, the connecting rod 104 may have a circular cross-section and may be fixedly engage with a component it is configured to rotate. In some examples, the connecting rod 104 may have two or more different sections each having a different cross-section.

[0029] For example, the door handle assembly 100 comprises a handle frame 106 configured to be fixed to the door at one or more fixing sites 108. The fixing sites 108 are sites where fixings are deployed to fix the handle frame 106 to a door panel of the door in question. In the examples shown in the figures, the fixing sites 108 are through holes for receiving screws or bolts. In these examples, the fixing sites 108 are countersunk holes for receiving countersunk screws. For example, see the cross-section shown in Figure 6, which shows countersunk holes 108 as examples of the fixing sites 108. In other examples, the fixing sites 108 may be a different kind of hole corresponding to the intended type of screw or bolt.

[0030] In examples, the handle frame 106 is configured to receive the connecting rod 104 from an outward facing side 110, for connecting the handle 112 to the handle frame 106. The outward facing side 110 is the side of the handle frame 106 which faces out and away from the door panel when the handle frame 106 is fixed to the door panel. For example, the connecting rod 104 approaches the outward facing side 110 and is inserted into the handle frame 106 starting from the outward facing side 110. In the examples shown in the Figures, the handle frame 106 is configured to receive the connecting rod 104 by means of a first connecting rod hole 114 into which the connecting rod 104 is inserted.

[0031] In examples, the door handle assembly 100 comprises a handle biasing mechanism 116. The handle biasing mechanism 116 is configured to bias the handle 112 towards the handle frame 106 in the receiving direction 130. For example, the biasing mechanism 116 is configured to urge the grip portion 102 towards the handle frame 106 such that the grip portion 102 and the connecting rod 104 are together urged toward the door on which the door handle assembly 100 is deployed Particular examples of the biasing mechanism 116 are described further below.

[0032] In examples, the door handle assembly 100 comprises a fixing site cover 118 rotatably connected to the connecting rod 104. For example, the fixing site cover 118 can be rotated about the connecting rod 104. For example, the fixing site cover 118 comprises a second connecting rod hole 122 into which the connecting rod 104 is received. In such examples, when the fixing site cover 118 rotates about the connecting rod 104 received in the second connecting rod hole 122, it means that the fixing site cover 118 rotates about a rotation axis passing through the centre of the second connecting rod hole 122.

[0033] In some examples, the door handle assembly 100 comprises a cover insert 120.

For example, the cover insert 120 is configured to be received in the second connecting rod hole 122. For example, the cover insert 120 in turn has a third connecting rod hole 124 for receiving the connecting rod 104. In other words, when assembled, the connecting rod 104 is received in the second connecting rod hole 122 of the fixing site cover 118 via the cover insert 120, in these examples.

[0034] In the examples shown in the Figures, the third connecting rod hole 124 of the cover insert 120 has a non-circular cross section which is complementary to the connecting rod 104. In these examples, the cover insert 120 does not rotate relative to the connecting rod 104 when installed on the connecting rod 104. However, in these examples, the second connecting rod hole 122 into which the cover insert 120 is inserted has a circular cross section. The part of the cover insert 120 which is received in the second connecting rod hole 122 has a circular external profile such that it can rotate within the second connecting rod hole 122. In other words, the cover insert 120 does not rotate about the connecting rod 104, but the connecting rod 104 and the cover insert 120 rotate together. However, the fixing site cover 118 is able to rotate about the connecting rod 104 and the cover insert 120.

[0035] The fixing site cover 118 is arranged, in use, between the grip portion 102 and the handle frame 106. The fixing site cover 118 is configured to cover the fixing sites 108 when in the covering configuration and to expose the fixing sites 108 when in the exposing configuration. In the examples of Figures 1 and 2, the fixing site cover 118 is in a rotational orientation corresponding to the covering configuration. In the covering configuration, the fixing site cover 118 is oriented relative to the fixing sites 108 such that it overlaps the fixing sites 108. For example, the fixing site cover 118 can be rotated about the connecting rod 104 to transition to the exposing configuration in which the fixing site cover 118 does not overlap the fixing sites 108.

[0036] In examples, the biasing mechanism 116 is configured to urge the handle 112 towards the handle frame 106 in the receiving direction 130 such that rotation of the fixing site cover 118 positioned between the grip portion 102 and the handle frame 106 is inhibited. For example, the biasing mechanism 116 acts on the handle 112 as a whole to urge the handle 112 towards the handle frame 106. In other words, when deployed onto the door panel in question, the handle 112 is urged in the direction of the door panel by the biasing mechanism 116. The grip portion 102 is a part of the handle 112. This means that the grip portion 102 is urged towards the handle frame 106 together with the connecting rod 104.

[0037] For example, the fixing site cover 118 is pressed up against the handle frame 106 by a part of the grip portion 102 which connects to the connecting rod 104. In the examples shown in the figures, there is provided a grip portion base 126. The grip portion 102 connects to the connecting rod 104 at the grip portion base 126. For example, the grip portion base 126 may connect to the connecting rod 104 via a pin, a screw, a bolt, using welding, using an adhesive, or any other suitable means of attaching the connecting rod 104 to the grip portion base in the desired configuration. In these examples, the grip portion base 126 is urged towards the handle frame 106 by the biasing mechanism 116. In these examples, the grip portion base 126 presses the fixing site cover 118 against the handle frame 106 under the action of the biasing mechanism 116.

[0038] For example, the biasing mechanism 116 acts to hold the fixing site cover 118 between the grip portion 102 (specifically the grip portion base 126) and the handle frame 106 such that the fixing site cover 118 is inhibited from rotating. For example, due to the action of the biasing mechanism 116, the fixing site cover 118 is prevented from rotating about the connecting rod 104 without intervention by a user.

[0039] In some examples, the biasing mechanism 116 comprises a resiliently deformable member arranged to bias the handle 112 towards the door. In the examples of Figures 1 and 2, when installed, the door panel would be to the right of the door handle assembly examples shown. The resiliently deformable member may be any type of member which can compress or stretch, and then return to its original size or shape when the compressing or stretching forces are removed, as the case may be. In the examples shown in the Figures, there is provided a resiliently deformable member 128 in the form of a coil spring 128. In other examples, the resiliently deformable member 128 may be a member other than a coil spring. For example, the resiliently deformable member 128 may be a leaf spring, a conical spring, a torsion spring, a disc spring, and the like. Any type of spring which can be used to bias the handle 112 towards the handle frame 106 (or the door panel) in the receiving direction 130 may be used. In some examples, a resiliently deformable piece of material may be used as the resiliently deformable member 128. For example, a piece of silicone, a piece of rubber, and the like may be used so long as the piece of material provides the functions described herein.

[0040] In some examples, pulling the grip portion 102 away from the handle frame 106 against the biasing mechanism 116 causes a separation between the grip portion 102 and the handle frame 106 such that the fixing site cover 118 is able to be rotated about the connecting rod 104. For example, when the grip portion 102 is pulled away from the handle frame 106, there is a separation created between the grip portion base 126 and the handle frame 106 such that the fixing site cover 118 is not held in place therebetween so as to prevent rotation. For example, the grip portion base 126 no longer presses the fixing site cover 118 against the handle frame 106 because of the pulling against the biasing mechanism 116. Accordingly, the biasing mechanism 116 described herein provides that the handle can be pulled away from the handle frame 106 in order to allow the fixing site cover 118 to rotate and thereby change configuration.

[0041] Figure 7 is a schematic sketch of the door panel 702 with an example of the door handle assembly 100 deployed thereon. In the orientation of Figure 7, the free end of the door panel 702 can be seen. For example, the free end 702 is the end of the door panel 702 opposite to a hinged end of the door panel 702. In some examples, when the user 706 pulls on the grip member 102 in a direction 704 away from the handle frame 106 against the biasing mechanism 116, there is created a separation between the grip portion 102 and the handle frame 106 so that the fixing site cover 118 is allowed to rotate. The direction 704 away from the handle frame 106 may be referred to as the pulling direction 704.

[0042] For example, the separation is created when the grip portion 102 is pulled in the pulling direction 704 and the handle frame 106 is prevented from moving due to the pulling. In these examples, where the handle frame 106 is fixed to the door panel 702, the user may hold the door panel 702 against movement in the pulling direction 704. In these examples, the user 706 pulling on the grip portion 102 overcomes the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 116 such that the described separation is created.

[0043] For example, the resiliently deformable member 128 is configured to deform in order to allow the described separation to be created. For example, the resiliently deformable member 128 has a spring constant such that the resiliently deformable member 128 is deformable when the user 706 pulls on the grip member 102 in the direction 704 away from the handle frame 106 and the handle frame 106 is prevented from moving due to the pulling.

For example, the spring constant may be selected so as to allow a range of potential users to reasonably create the described separation between the grip portion 102 and the handle frame 106.

[0044] In some examples, the resiliently deformable member 128 is provided on a door facing side 302 of the handle frame 106. The door facing side 302 is the side opposite to the outward facing side 110. For example, when installed, the door facing side 302 faces the door panel in question (e.g., the door panel 702). For example, at least a part of the door facing side 302 may contact a surface of the door panel 702. For example, the resiliently deformable member 128 is provided on the side opposite to the side from which the connecting rod 104 is inserted during assembly. For example, the grip portion 102 is on the opposite side of the handle frame 106 than the resiliently deformable member 128. As described above, many variations of the resiliently deformable member 128 are possible. For simplicity, the following description makes reference simply to the spring 128. However, it should be noted that the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0045] In some examples, the biasing mechanism 116 comprises a restricting member 132 connected to the connecting rod 104 to restrict motion of the spring 128 away from the handle frame 106. For example, the restricting member 132 restricts the spring 128 from moving away from the handle frame 106 in the receiving direction 130. Referring in particular to the side view shown in Figure 3, in the configuration shown, the grip portion base 126 is pressing the fixing site cover 118 into the handle frame 106, and it is not possible for the handle 112 to move further in the receiving direction 130. The restricting member 132 is connected to the connecting rod 104 of the handle 112. In these examples, it is therefore not possible for the restricting member 132 to move in the receiving direction 130 relative to the handle frame 106. In these examples, the spring 128 is positioned between the handle frame 106 and the restricting member 132. Accordingly, in the configuration of Figure 3, the spring 128 is prevented from moving away from the handle frame 106.

[0046] In some examples, pulling the grip portion 102 away from the handle frame 106 causes the spring 128 to compress between the handle frame 106 and the restricting member 132, thereby allowing the grip portion 102 to move away from the handle frame 106. For example, when the grip portion 102 (and therefore the handle 112 as a whole) is pulled in the pulling direction 704 away from the handle frame 106, the restricting member 132 also moves in the pulling direction 704. This causes the spring 128 to compress between the handle frame 106 and the restricting member 132, in these examples. That is because the gap between the restricting member 132 and the handle frame 106 decreases when the handle 112 moves in the pulling direction 704.

[0047] In some examples, a spacing member (not shown) may be placed between the spring 128 and the restricting member 132. This may cause the spring 128 to be in a relatively more compressed state when the grip portion base 126 and the fixing site cover 118 are pushed up against the handle frame 106. In this case, more force may be required to create the separation between the grip portion base 126 and the handle frame 106 so as to be able to rotate the fixing site cover 118, for example.

[0048] It will be appreciated that the user 706 may pull the grip portion 102 in various different directions generally away from the door panel 702, and not necessarily in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the door panel 702. It will be understood that for the example arrangements shown, any component of the pulling force in the direction away from the door panel 702 and perpendicular to the plane of the door panel 702 will contribute to acting against the biasing mechanism 116 in these examples.

[0049] As previously described, the resiliently deformable member 128 may be a coil spring. In some examples, the coil spring 128 is positioned over the connecting rod 104. In the examples shown in the Figures, the coil spring 128 is positioned over the connecting rod 104 so as to basically be sleeved over the connecting rod 104. For example, the connecting rod 104 occupies the centre space of the coil spring 128.

[0050] In some examples, the restricting member 132 is a pin 132 arranged in a through hole 202 provided in the connecting rod 104, which can be seen in particular in Figure 2. For example, there may be provided a pin retaining mechanism for holding the pin 132 in position within the pin through hole 202 (e.g., a clip mechanism, a thread mechanism, and the like). In some examples, the pin through hole 202 may have an internal diameter such that the pin 132 is forced into the pin through hole 202 and thereafter held fast due to the tight fit. For example, the outer diameter of the coil spring 128 may be less than the length of the pin 132 such that the pin 132 functions to physically restrict the coil spring 128.

[0051] In some examples, the fixing site cover 118 is configured to be rotated about the connecting rod 104 to transition between the covering configuration and the exposing configuration. As previously described, in the covering configuration, the fixing site cover 118 is oriented relative to the fixing sites 108 such that it overlaps the fixing sites 108. Figure 8 is a first schematic front view of the handle assembly 100 in which the handle assembly 100 is in a first handle configuration, according to examples. In the examples of Figure 8, the fixing site cover 118 is in the covering configuration such that the fixing sites 108 are covered up and not accessible.

[0052] On the other hand, Figure 9 is a second schematic front view of the handle assembly 100 in which the handle assembly 100 is in the first handle configuration, according to examples. However, in the case of Figure 9, the fixing site cover 118 is in an exposing configuration. In these examples, the fixing site cover 118 is a somewhat elongate plate, the length L of which is greater than its width W, for example as shown in the Figures (see labels "L" for length and "W' for width). In these examples, the exposing configuration is shown as the fixing site cover 118 rotated by 90 degrees about the connecting rod 104 in order to expose the fixing sites 108. However, these are simplified examples. Any rotational configuration in which the fixing sites 108 are exposed enough such that fixings can be manipulated at said fixing sites 108 may be considered as an example of an exposing configuration.

[0053] For example, when there is no pulling force, for example as applied by the user 706, the biasing mechanism 116 functions to inhibit rotation of the fixing site cover 118 by causing the fixing site cover 118 to be held between the grip portion base 126 and the handle frame 106. For example, the biasing mechanism 116 may hold the fixing site cover 118 in the covering configuration or in an exposing configuration. For example, the biasing mechanism 116 may perform these functions irrespective of the handle configuration. As previously described, there is shown the first handle configuration in Figures 8 and 9. Taking the orientation shown in Figure 8 for example (i.e., the orientation of the reference numerals in Figure 8), the elongate grip portion 102 is arranged to have its longest dimension vertically aligned.

[0054] Figure 10 is a third schematic front view of the handle assembly 100 in which the handle assembly 100 is in a second handle configuration, according to examples. In the examples of Figure 10, the fixing site cover 118 is in the same example exposing configuration as shown in Figure 9. In the second handle configuration, taking the orientation shown in Figure 10 (i.e., the orientation of the reference numerals in Figure 10), the elongate grip portion 102 is arranged to have its longest dimension horizontally aligned. The handle 112 may be in the first handle configuration, the second handle configuration, a configuration between the first and second handle configurations, or any other configuration which can be achieved by the handle 112 in use. In any of these configurations, the biasing mechanism 116 may function to provide for the grip portion 102 to be pulled away from the handle frame 106 to allow rotation of the fixing site cover 118. Also, in any of these configurations, the biasing mechanism 116 may function to return the grip portion 102 to press the fixing site cover 118 against the handle frame 106 to hold fast whatever is the current configuration of the fixing site cover 118.

[0055] In some examples, the handle frame 106 comprises a slot 204 (see Figure 2, for example) configured to receive the fixing site cover 118 when in the covering configuration. In these examples, the slot 204 is a recess or a groove formed in the surface of the outward facing side 110 of the handle frame 106. The recess/groove is shaped so as to accommodate the fixing site cover 118. In some examples, the depth of the slot 204 is such that when the fixing site cover 118 is received in the slot 204, the outward facing surface of the fixing site cover 118 is substantially flush with the surface of the outward facing side 110 of the handle frame 106.

[0056] For example, in the covering configuration, the fixing site cover 118 may sit almost entirely within the slot 204, as shown in Figure 1, for example. For example, the depth of the slot 204 is defined by the side walls 408 of the slot 204. In some examples, one or more portions of the side walls 408 are removed to provide gaps 410 in the side walls. For example, parts of the fixing site cover 118 may occupy the side wall gaps 410 (for example, in the covering configuration) such that parts of the fixing site cover 118 can be gripped in order to lift the fixing site cover 118 out of the slot 204 when in the covering configuration. In some examples, the handle frame may comprise one or more notches 208 to be occupied by parts of the fixing site cover 118 such that a region is provided where the fixing site cover 118 extends from the outward facing side 110 to the door facing side 302 (for example, in the covering configuration). In such examples, the fixing site cover 118 has a complementary structure to fit into (or occupy) the side wall gaps 410 and/or the notches 208, according to examples.

[0057] In the examples shown in the Figures, when in the covering configuration, the length L of the fixing site cover is aligned with the longest dimension (longitudinal dimension) of the handle frame 106. In some examples, the side wall gaps 410 may be dimensioned such that the fixing site cover 118 can sit within the side wall gaps 410 when in an example of the exposing configuration. For example, the side wall gaps 410 may be greater than the width W of the fixing site cover 118. Referring to Figures 9 and 10, a portion of the fixing site cover 118 may sit within the slot, even in the exposing configuration shown, because the width W of the fixing site cover is less than the side wall gaps 410.

[0058] For example, the one or more fixing sites 108 are provided within the slot 204 so as to be covered when the fixing site cover 118 is received in the slot 204. As described, the fixing site cover 118 fits into the slot 204 when in the covering configuration. Accordingly, positioning the fixing sites 108 within the slot 204 means that the fixing sites 108 are covered up when the fixing site cover 118 is in the covering configuration and received within the slot 204.

[0059] In some examples, when the fixing site cover 118 is received in the slot 204, the rotation of the fixing site cover 118 about the connecting rod 104 is prevented. For example, when the fixing site cover 118 sits within the slot 204, the side walls 408 of the slot 204 (the surfaces of the slot 204 substantially parallel to the receiving direction 130) block the rotation of the fixing site cover 118 received therein by physically blocking the rotation. However, when the fixing site cover 118 is pulled out of the slot 204, then it can be rotated.

[0060] For example, when in the covering configuration, the slot 204 may be defined such that the fixing site cover 118 fits tightly (snuggly) within the slot 204 such that the fixing site cover 118 has to be pulled with enough force to overcome friction between the fixing site cover 118 and the slot 204. In other words, the slot 204 may function hold the fixing site cover 118 in position until a user intervention.

[0061] The described door handle assembly 100 advantageously provides a fixing site cover 118 and a biasing mechanism 116 which functions together with the fixing site cover 118. The biasing mechanism 116 advantageously functions to hold whatever is the current rotational position of the fixing site cover 118. For example, the fixing site cover 118 can be held in the covering configuration when it is not desired to manipulate fixings installed in the fixing sites 108. In addition, when the fixing site cover 118 is a configuration different to the covering configuration (such as the example exposing configuration shown in Figures 9 and 10), the biasing mechanism 116 functions to hold the fixing site cover 118 in that configuration.

Accordingly, unwanted rotation of the fixing site cover 118 in any configuration can be avoided.

[0062] Furthermore, advantageously, the biasing mechanism 116 and the fixing site cover 118 function together such that the fixing site cover 118 can be held in its current configuration for any given handle configuration. For example, it may be easier to utilise a tool to manipulate a fixing at a first fixing site 108a as shown in Figure 9 when the handle 112 is in the first handle configuration. However, it may be easier to utilise the tool to manipulate a fixing at a second fixing site 108b as shown in Figure 10 when the handle 112 is in the second handle configuration. Various different handles, grip portions, locations for fixing sites 108, etc., may be deployed. Providing for the biasing mechanism 116 to hold any configuration of the fixing site cover 118 provides that a set of configurations can be found for these various different possibilities to allow easy access to the fixing sites 108.

[0063] In the examples shown in the figures, the door handle assembly 100 comprises a lock engaging mechanism 206 for engaging and disengaging a lock (see, in particular, Figures 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6). For example, the handle frame 106 may comprise a mounting structure for mounting the lock engaging mechanism 206.

[0064] In some examples, there is provided a handle configuration mechanism 402 (see Figure 4, in particular). For example, the handle configuration mechanism 402 comprises a fixed undulating member 404 and a rotatable undulating member 406. The fixed undulating member 404 is fixed to (or formed as part of) the handle frame 106. On the other hand, the rotatable undulating member 406 is mounted onto the connecting rod 104 and rotates together with the rotation of the connecting rod 104. For examples, for a square cross-section connecting rod 104, the rotatable undulating member 406 has a hole with a matching square cross-section for receiving the connecting rod 104. When positioned over the connecting rod 104, the rotatable undulating member 406 is rotatably fixed to the connecting rod 104.

[0065] For example, when the connecting rod 104 rotates (e.g., when the grip portion 102 is rotated by the user 706) the rotatable undulating member 406 rotates relative to the fixed undulating member 404. In these examples, each of the undulating members 404, 406 have a hill and trough pattern. The hill and trough pattern of the rotatable undulating member 406 engages with the hill and trough pattern of the fixed undulating member 404. As the rotatable undulating member 406 is rotated, its hills slide out of the troughs of the fixed undulating member 404 until the hills of the rotatable undulating member 406 contact the hills of the fixed undulating member 404. For example, this may occur starting from the first handle configuration shown in Figure 9 and half-way towards the second handle configuration of Figure 10.

[0066] As the rotation continues, the hills of the rotatable undulating member 406 continue to slide relative to the fixed undulating member 404 until the hills once more engage with the troughs of the fixed undulating member 404. For example, this transition occurs when the handle reaches the second handle configuration of Figure 10. For illustration, in Figure 4, the "hills" of the fixed undulating member 404 are labelled 404a and the "troughs" of the fixed undulating member 404 are labelled 404b. Also in Figure 4, the "hills" of the rotatable undulating member 406 are labelled 406a and the "troughs" of the rotatable undulating member 406 are labelled 406b.

[0067] The handle configuration mechanism provides a positive feel to the handle rotation, in the sense that the handle 112 is urged to a rotational position in which hills and troughs of the two undulating members 404, 406 engage with one another. In particular, the handle configuration mechanism 402 interacts with the described biasing mechanism 116. For example, when the hills of the undulating members 404, 406 align with each other, the rotatable undulating member 406 moves away from the handle frame 106 in the receiving direction 130. Assuming that the grip portion 102 already abuts the fixing site cover 118 and presses against the handle frame 106 so that the handle 112 cannot move further in the receiving direction 130, the spring 128 is compressed further by the rotatable undulating member 406. The restoring force generated by this additional compression urges the rotatable undulating member 406 to achieve a rotational position in which hills and troughs are aligned. In this manner, the handle configuration mechanism 402 interacts with the biasing mechanism 116 to urge the handle 112 towards desired rotational configurations (in these examples, the desired configurations are the described first and second handle configurations).

[0068] Various examples of the door handle assembly 100 have been described. The following is a method of use of the door handle assembly 100 according to any of the described examples. Figure 11 is a flow diagram of a method 1100 of use of the door handle assembly 100, according to examples. At block 1102 of the method 1100, the grip portion 102 is pulled away from the handle frame 106, while the handle frame 106 is prevented from moving due to the pulling, to increase the separation between the grip portion 102 and the handle frame 106 such that the fixing site cover 118 is able to be rotated about the connecting rod 104.

[0069] At block 1104 of the method 1100, the fixing site cover 118 is transitioned from the covering configuration to the exposing configuration to gain access to the one or more fixing sites 108. In these examples, the starting point is for the fixing site cover 118 to be in the covering configuration.

[0070] In this way, access may be gained to the fixing sites 108 to, for example, remove, replace or install screws at the fixing sites 108. In some examples, the method 1100 further comprises ceasing the pulling to reduce the separation between the grip portion 102 and the handle frame 106 such that the fixing site cover 118 is held in the exposing configuration by the biasing mechanism 116. As previously described, any configuration in which the fixing sites 108 are adequately exposed may be considered as an example exposing configuration. Accordingly, in examples of the method 1100, the user 706 may pull the grip portion 102 against the biasing mechanism 116 such that the fixing site cover 118 can be rotated, to rotate the fixing site cover 118 to an example exposing configuration, and cease the pulling so that the grip portion 102 returns and again presses the cover against the handle frame 106 so that the current example exposing configuration is maintained.

[0071] In this way, advantageously, the user 706 can have both hands free to, for example, use a tool to manipulate fixings, without the fixing site cover 118 losing the desired configuration. In this way, the fixing site cover 118 can be held in the desired rotational position.

[0072] In some examples, the method 1100 further comprises manipulating one or more fixings at the respective one or more fixing sites 108 while the fixing site cover 118 is held in the exposing configuration. For example, the user 706 may cease pulling on the grip portion 102 in order to secure the desired exposing configuration and then manipulate some fixings at the fixing sites 108. For example, the user 706 may remove, replace or install a screw at one of the fixing sites 108.

[0073] In some examples, the method 1100 comprises, after the manipulating, pulling the grip portion 102 away from the handle frame 106, while the handle frame 106 is prevented from moving due to the pulling, to increase the separation between the grip portion 102 and the handle frame 106 such that the fixing site cover 118 is again able to be rotated about the connecting rod 104. For example, the fixing site cover 118 may then be transitioned from the exposing configuration (which was held during the manipulating) to the covering configuration so as to cover up the one or more fixing sites 108.

[0074] Accordingly, the disclosed assembly provided convenience and ease of use in manipulating fixings used to fix the door handle assembly 100 to a door panel 702. In some examples, the method 1100 is performed when the handle frame 106 is not fixed to a door panel. In some examples, the method 1100 is performed when the handle frame 106 is fixed to a door panel.

[0075] There may be provided a method of manufacturing a door handle assembly. For example, the method of manufacture is for manufacturing the door handle assembly 100 according to any of the examples described herein. Figure 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 1200 of manufacturing the door handle assembly, according to examples. At block 1202 of the method 1200, a handle comprising a grip portion and a connecting rod for connecting to a door opening and closing mechanism is manufactured. At block 1204 of the method 1200, a handle frame is manufactured. Manufacturing the handle frame at block 1204 comprises configuring the handle frame to be fixed to the door panel at one or more fixing sites. Manufacturing the handle frame at block 1204 also comprises configuring the handle frame to receive the connecting rod from an outward facing side, for connecting the handle to the handle frame.

[0076] At block 1206 of the method 1200, a fixing site cover is manufactured. As part of the manufacturing, the fixing site cover is configured to be rotatably connected to the connecting rod and arranged, in use, between the grip portion and the handle frame. Manufacturing the fixing site cover also comprises configuring the fixing site cover to cover the one or more fixing sites when in a covering configuration and to expose the one or more fixing sites when in an exposing configuration.

[0077] At block 1208 of the method 1200, a biasing mechanism is manufactured.

Manufacturing the biasing mechanism comprises configuring the biasing mechanism to bias the handle towards the handle frame so as to urge the handle towards the handle frame in the receiving direction such that rotation of the fixing site cover positioned between the grip portion and the handle frame is inhibited. Accordingly, performing the method of manufacture 1200 provides examples of the door handle assembly 100 as described herein.

[0078] Furthermore, the method of manufacture 1200 may comprise configuring the door handle assembly such that pulling the grip portion away from the handle frame against the biasing mechanism causes a separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is able to be rotated about the connecting rod. For example, the method of manufacture 1200 may comprise configuring the fixing site cover to be rotatable about the connecting rod to transition between the covering configuration and the exposing configuration. For example, the method 1200 may comprise creating a slot in the handle frame to receive the fixing site cover when in the covering configuration. For example, the method 1200 may comprise creating the one or more fixing sites within the slot.

[0079] For example, components of the door handle assembly may be manufactured out of materials typically used for door handle assemblies. For example, the handle may comprise metal and/or plastic (e.g., steel, polyvinyl chloride, and the like). For example, the handle frame may comprise metal and/or plastic. In some examples, the fixing site cover is a metallic plate like element. In some examples, the fixing site cover is made from a plastic. Those skilled in the art will already appreciate the various techniques for created different shapes and structures from such materials.

[0080] For example, the slot may be created using a laser cutting technique for cutting metal components. For example, the slot may be created using a machining technique for machining shapes into metal. For example, the skilled person will appreciate the various drilling and tapping techniques for creating e.g., the various described through holes and the like.

[0081] Accordingly, the door handle assembly described herein may be manufactured and provide the advantages described herein and any other advantages which come about from the featured of the described door handle assembly.

[0082] Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0083] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0084] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0085] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing example(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A door handle assembly configured to be deployed on a door panel, the door handle assembly comprising: a handle comprising a grip portion and a connecting rod for connecting to a door opening and closing mechanism; a handle frame configured to be fixed to the door panel at one or more fixing sites, and configured to receive the connecting rod from an outward facing side in a receiving direction, for connecting the handle to the handle frame; a fixing site cover rotatably connected to the connecting rod and arranged, in use, between the grip portion and the handle frame, the fixing site cover configured to cover the one or more fixing sites when in a covering configuration and configured to expose the one or more fixing sites when in an exposing configuration; and a biasing mechanism configured to bias the handle towards the handle frame so as to urge the handle towards the handle frame in the receiving direction such that rotation of the fixing site cover positioned between the grip portion and the handle frame is inhibited.
2. The door handle assembly according to claim 1, wherein: the biasing mechanism comprises: a resiliently deformable member arranged to bias the handle towards the handle frame, wherein the resiliently deformable member has a spring constant such that the resiliently deformable member is deformable when a user pulls on the grip member in a direction away from the handle frame and the handle frame is prevented from moving from the pulling.
3. The door handle assembly according to claim 2, wherein: the resiliently deformable member is provided on a door facing side of the handle frame opposite to the outward facing side; and the biasing mechanism comprises a restricting member connected to the connecting rod to restrict motion of the resiliently deformable member away from the handle frame.
4. The door handle assembly according to claim 3, wherein: pulling the grip portion away from the handle frame causes the resiliently deformable member to compress between the handle frame and the restricting member, thereby allowing the grip portion to move away from the handle frame.
5. The door handle assembly according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein: the resiliently deformable member is a coil spring positioned around the connecting rod and the restricting member is a pin arranged in a through hole provided in the connecting rod.
6. The door handle assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: pulling the grip portion away from the handle frame against the biasing mechanism causes a separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is able to be rotated about the connecting rod.
7. The door handle assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the fixing site cover is configured to be rotated about the connecting rod to transition between the covering configuration and the exposing configuration.
8. The door handle assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the handle frame comprises a slot configured to receive the fixing site cover when in the covering configuration; and the one or more fixing sites are provided within the slot so as to be covered when the fixing site cover is received in the slot.
9. The door handle assembly according to claim 8, wherein: when the fixing site cover is received in the slot, rotation of the fixing site cover about the connecting rod is prevented.
10. A method of use of the door handle assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the method comprising: pulling the grip portion away from the handle frame, while the handle frame is prevented from moving due to the pulling, to increase a separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is able to be rotated about the connecting rod and transitioning the fixing site cover from the covering configuration to the exposing configuration to gain access to the one or more fixing sites
11 The method of use according to claim 10, comprising: ceasing the pulling to reduce the separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is held in the exposing configuration by the biasing mechanism.
12. The method of use according to claim 11, comprising: manipulating one or more fixings at the respective one or more fixing sites while the fixing site cover is held in the exposing configuration; after the manipulating, pulling the grip portion away from the door panel, while the handle frame is prevented from moving due to the pulling, to increase the separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is able to be rotated about the connecting rod; and transitioning the fixing site cover from the exposing configuration to the covering configuration so as to cover up the one or more fixing sites.
13. A method of manufacturing a door handle assembly, the method comprising: manufacturing a handle comprising a grip portion and a connecting rod for connecting to a door opening and closing mechanism; manufacturing a handle frame comprising configuring the handle frame to be fixed to a door panel at one or more fixing sites, and configuring the handle frame to receive the connecting rod from an outward facing side, for connecting the handle to the handle frame; manufacturing a fixing site cover comprising configuring the fixing site cover to be rotatably connected to the connecting rod and arranged, in use, between the grip portion and the handle frame, and configuring the fixing site cover to cover the one or more fixing sites when in a covering configuration and to expose the one or more fixing sites when in an exposing configuration; and manufacturing a biasing mechanism comprising configuring the biasing mechanism to bias the handle towards the handle frame so as to urge the handle towards the handle frame in the receiving direction such that rotation of the fixing site cover positioned between the grip portion and the handle frame is inhibited.
14. The method of manufacture according to claim 13 comprising: configuring the door handle assembly such that pulling the grip portion away from the handle frame against the biasing mechanism causes a separation between the grip portion and the handle frame such that the fixing site cover is able to be rotated about the connecting rod.
15. The method of manufacture according to claim 13 or claim 14, comprising: configuring the fixing site cover to be rotatable about the connecting rod to transition between the covering configuration and the exposing configuration.
16. The method of manufacture according to any one of claims 13 to 15, comprising: creating a slot in the handle frame to receive the fixing site cover when in the covering configuration.
17. The method of manufacture according to claim 16, comprising: creating the one or more fixing sites within the slot.
18. The method of manufacture according to claim 16 or claim 17, comprising: creating the slot by any one of: laser cutting; and machining.