Hinge mechanism and method for friction applications for achieving different spacings between rod axes

Abstract

This document describes a hinge system and method for use with a clamshell electronic device. A variable-spacing clamshell hinge for use with a clamshell housing includes a first rod shaft coupled to a first variable-diameter device and a second rod shaft coupled to a second variable-diameter device. The first variable-diameter device and the second variable-diameter device are coupled together using an inelastic link element. As the rod shafts rotate in a first direction, the diameter of the variable-diameter devices increases. As the rod shafts rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the variable-diameter devices decreases. As the diameter of the variable-diameter devices increases, the inelastic link element applies a compressive force on the variable-diameter devices, thereby reducing the distance between the shafts (i.e., the spacing). As the diameter of the variable-diameter devices decreases, the inelastic link element releases the compressive force on the variable-diameter devices, thereby increasing the distance between the shafts (i.e., the spacing).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hinge system for use with a clamshell electronic device. Background Art

[0002] Clamshell electronic device housings typically include a first device housing and a second device housing that are pivotally coupled using one or more hinges and are configured such that the device can be opened and closed in a manner highly similar to a book or magazine. Conventionally, the hinge allows the first device housing to rotate through an arc measured relative to the second device housing. Regardless of the angle at which the first device housing is positioned relative to the second device housing, the hinge maintains a fixed spacing between the device housings. In fact, device designers often utilize the gap that exists between the device housings and positioning ventilation features (such as slots) along the edges of the device housings near the hinge. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0003] Features and advantages of various embodiments of the claimed subject matter will become apparent as the following detailed description proceeds and upon reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like components, and in which:

[0004] Figure 1 is a front view of an example hinge according to at least one embodiment described herein, the example hinge including a first rod shaft and a second rod shaft, the first rod shaft including a first variable-diameter device and the second rod shaft including a second variable-diameter device, and wherein the first variable-diameter device and the second variable-diameter device are coupled by a link element;

[0005] Figure 2A is a front view of an exemplary hinge and an exemplary clamshell device according to at least one embodiment described herein, the front view depicting the positions of the frustoconical member and the variable-diameter device when the clamshell device is in a closed (i.e., positioned at 0° arc) state;

[0006] Figure 2B is a front view of an exemplary hinge and an exemplary clamshell device according to at least one embodiment described herein, the front view depicting the positions of the frustoconical member and the variable-diameter device when the clamshell device is in a partially open (i.e., positioned at 45° arc) state;

[0007] Figure 2C is a front view of an exemplary hinge and an exemplary clamshell device according to at least one embodiment described herein, the front view depicting the positions of the frustoconical member and the variable-diameter device when the clamshell device is in an open (i.e., positioned at 180° arc) state;

[0008] Figure 3AA perspective view of an exemplary hinge disposed in a first position according to at least one embodiment described herein, where the diameter of the variable diameter device is minimized, the spacing distance of the variable diameter device is maximized, and the first distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis is maximized;

[0009] Figure 3B A perspective view of an exemplary hinge disposed in a second position according to at least one embodiment described herein, where the diameter of the variable diameter device is maximized, the spacing distance of the variable diameter device is minimized, and the first distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis is minimized;

[0010] Figure 4 A front view of an exemplary variable diameter device in the form of a pulley divided into a first pulley portion and a second pulley portion according to at least one embodiment described herein;

[0011] Figure 5 A perspective view of an exemplary clamshell device including a first electronic device housing pivotally coupled to a second electronic device housing via a first hinge and a second hinge according to at least one embodiment described herein; and

[0012] Figure 6 A high-level logic flowchart of an exemplary method of operably coupling a first device housing to a second device housing using at least one clamshell device hinge according to at least one embodiment described herein. Detailed Description

[0013] The systems and methods described herein provide a hinge mechanism that can vary the air gap between electronic device housings that provide a clamshell electronic device housing. The systems and methods described herein include a hinge having a first rod axis with a first axis of rotation and a second rod axis with a second axis of rotation. When the clamshell electronic device is in the closed position, the first rod axis axis of rotation and the second rod axis axis of rotation are separated by a first distance (d1). As the clamshell electronic device is opened, the distance between the first rod axis axis of rotation and the second rod axis axis of rotation is reduced to a second distance (d2). Depending on the clamshell electronic device, the hinge can be configured to provide the second distance between the first rod axis axis of rotation and the second rod axis axis of rotation at any desired angle (90°, 135°, 180°, etc.) between the first device housing and the second device housing.

[0014] The systems and methods described herein provide a hinge that includes a first rod shaft coupled to a first device housing and a second rod shaft coupled to a second device housing. Each rod shaft includes a variable diameter device that changes or increases in diameter as a clamshell electronic device is opened. An inelastic link element connects the variable diameter device on the first rod shaft to the variable diameter device on the second rod shaft such that as the diameter of the variable diameter device increases, the link element applies a compressive force that "pulls" the first rod shaft toward the second rod shaft, thereby reducing the distance between the rod shafts from a first distance to a smaller second distance. The rate at which the variable diameter device changes diameter determines the angle at which the second distance is achieved between the first device housing and the second device housing.

[0015] Traditional hinges allow an air gap of approximately 0.8 millimeters (mm) (for small clamshell devices such as smartphones) to 1.5 mm (for larger devices such as laptops and convertible devices). The trend toward more aggressive form factors and dual display designs favors reducing the air gap between the housings to provide continuity between the displays.

[0016] A clamshell hinge is provided. The clamshell hinge can include a first variable diameter member concentrically disposed about a first rod shaft having a first axis of rotation; a second variable diameter member concentrically disposed about a second rod shaft having a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation; a fixed length member slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the first variable diameter member and slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the second variable diameter member; wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through a first radian in a first direction, the diameter of the first variable diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first rod shaft and the second rod shaft; and wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through a first radian in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the first variable diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first rod shaft and the second rod shaft.

[0017] A clam-shell device is provided. The clam-shell device may include: a first housing; a second housing; a first rod shaft having a first axis of rotation physically coupled to the first housing; a second rod shaft having a second axis of rotation physically coupled to the second housing, the second axis of rotation being parallel to the first axis of rotation; at least one clam-shell hinge including: a first variable-diameter member concentrically disposed about the first rod shaft; a second variable-diameter member concentrically disposed about the second rod shaft; a fixed-length member slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the first variable-diameter member and slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the second variable-diameter member; wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through a first radian in a first direction, the diameter of the first variable-diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a first distance; and wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through a first radian in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the first variable-diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a second distance greater than the first distance.

[0018] A method of forming a clam-shell device is provided. The method may include: operably coupling a first housing to a first rod shaft rotatably coupled to at least one clam-shell hinge; operably coupling a second housing to a second rod shaft rotatably coupled to at least one clam-shell hinge; wherein the first rod shaft has a first axis of rotation; wherein the second rod shaft has a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation; wherein at least one clam-shell hinge includes: a first variable-diameter member concentrically disposed about the first rod shaft; a second variable-diameter member concentrically disposed about the second rod shaft; a fixed-length member slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the first variable-diameter member and slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the second variable-diameter member; wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through a first radian in a first direction, the diameter of the first variable-diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a first distance; and wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through a first radian in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the first variable-diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a second distance greater than the first distance.

[0019] As used herein, the terms "top", "bottom", "lowest", and "highest", when used in connection with one or more elements, are intended to express a relative rather than an absolute physical configuration. Thus, when the device is inverted, an element described as the "uppermost element" or "top element" in the device may alternatively form the "lowermost element" or "bottom element" in the device. Similarly, when the device is inverted, an element described as the "lowermost element" or "bottom element" in the device may alternatively form the "uppermost element" or "top element" in the device.

[0020] As used herein, the term "logically associated", when used in connection with multiple objects, systems, or elements, is intended to convey the existence of a relationship between the objects, systems, or elements such that access to one object, system, or element exposes the remaining objects, systems, or elements that have a "logical association" with or to the accessed object, system, or element. An example "logical association" exists between relational databases where access to an element in a first database may provide information and / or data from one or more elements in one or more additional databases, each additional database having an identifying relationship with the accessed element. In another example, if "A" is logically associated with "B", then accessing "A" will expose or otherwise draw information and / or data from "B", and vice versa.

[0021] As used herein, the terms "first", "second", and other similar ordinals are intended to distinguish multiple similar or identical objects and are not intended to denote a particular or absolute order of the objects. Thus, the "first object" and the "second object" may be presented in any order - including an order where the second object occurs before the first object in space or time or where the second object precedes the first object in space or time. Such configurations should be considered within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0022] Note that in the following discussion, specific components are designated using alphanumeric item identifiers. For example, a first rod shaft may be designated as 110A and a second rod shaft may be designated as 110B. For ease of discussion and brevity, when describing features common to two items, the alphanumeric identifier is omitted. Thus, when such a generic (i.e., non-alphanumeric) identifier is used, the described features should be understood to apply to all items sharing the common numeric identifier, and thus features described with respect to "rod shaft 110" will apply to all rod shafts 110A - 110N. On the other hand, features described with respect to "rod shaft 110A" will specifically apply to rod shaft 110A and not to rod shafts 110B - 110N.

[0023] Figure 1is a front view of an exemplary hinge 100 according to at least one embodiment described herein, the exemplary hinge 100 including a first rod shaft 110A and a second rod shaft 110B, the first rod shaft 110A including a first variable diameter device 120A and the second rod shaft 110B including a second variable diameter device 120B, and wherein the first variable diameter device 120A and the second variable diameter device 120B are coupled by a link element 130. As Figure 1 depicted, the first variable diameter device 120A includes a two-piece variable diameter pulley that includes a first pulley portion 122A and a second pulley portion 124A, the first pulley portion 122A being displaceable along the first rod shaft 110A and the second pulley portion 124A being in a fixed position on the first rod shaft 110A. Similarly, the second variable diameter device 120B includes a two-piece variable diameter pulley that includes a first pulley portion 122B and a second pulley portion 124B, the first pulley portion 122B being displaceable along the second rod shaft 110B and the second pulley portion 124B being in a fixed position on the second rod shaft 110B. The first rod shaft 110A rotates about a first axis of rotation 111A and the second rod shaft 110B is rotatable about a second axis of rotation 111B. The hinge 100 may be partially or fully disposed within a hinge housing, the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B extending through the hinge housing. In an embodiment, the first rod shaft 110A may be coupled to a first device housing (not Figure 1 visible) and the second rod shaft 110B may be coupled to a second device housing (also not Figure 1 visible).

[0024] In an embodiment, the first rod shaft 110A may include respective segments, each segment having the same or different diameters. As Figure 1 depicted, the first rod shaft 110A may include a larger diameter segment 112A and a smaller diameter segment 116A coupled by a tapered segment 114A having a tapered diameter that smoothly transitions from the diameter of the larger diameter segment 112A to the diameter of the smaller diameter segment 116A. Similarly, the second rod shaft 110B may include respective segments, each segment having the same or different diameters. As Figure 1As depicted, the second rod shaft 110B may include a larger diameter segment 112B and a smaller diameter segment 116B coupled by a tapered segment 114B having a tapered diameter that smoothly transitions from the diameter of the larger diameter segment 112B to the diameter of the smaller diameter segment 116B. When the clamshell electronic device is in the closed position, the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B are separated by a distance 115. When the clamshell electronic device is in the closed position, the distance 115 is at a maximum, and when the clamshell electronic device is in the open position - when the first device housing coupled to the first rod shaft 110A rotates about the first axis of rotation 111A through an arc to a defined angle (90°, 135°, 180°, etc.) measured relative to the second device housing coupled to the second rod shaft 110B, the distance 115 is at a minimum.

[0025] A frustoconical member 140 is disposed between the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B. The frustoconical member 140 may translate along the longitudinal axis 141 as the first rod shaft 110A rotates. In some implementations, one or more implements may be disposed within, on, or around the first rod shaft 110A, and / or one or more implements may be disposed within, on, or around the second rod shaft 110B to apply a force to the frustoconical member 140 as the first rod shaft 110A rotates about the first axis of rotation 111A and / or the second rod shaft 110B rotates about the second axis of rotation 111B. Although not visible in Figure 1 the implementation, such implements may include, but are not limited to, one or more structures such as one or more ramps, wedges, or helical spirals disposed within, on, or around at least a portion of the perimeter or periphery of the first rod shaft 110A, the second rod shaft 110B, or both the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B. In some implementations, such implements may include one or more cams, lobes, or similar devices integrally molded with the first rod shaft 110A, the second rod shaft 110B, or both the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B. In yet other implementations, such implements may include, but are not limited to, one or more biasing members (coil springs, leaf springs, etc.) capable of providing a force to the frustoconical member 140.

[0026] In operation, as the clamshell device is opened, the rotational force applied by the system user on the first housing coupled to the first rod shaft 110A causes the first rod shaft 110A to rotate about the first rotational axis 111A in a first direction. The rotation of the first rod shaft 110A as the clamshell device is opened applies a force on the frustoconical member 140, which forces the slidable and displaceable first pulley portion 122A on the first rod shaft 110A and the slidable and displaceable first pulley portion 122B on the second rod shaft 110B to move towards the fixed first pulley portion 124A and towards the fixed first pulley portion 124B. As the first half pulley 122 approaches the second half pulley 124, the diameter of the variable diameter device (i.e., Figure 1 the depicted pulley) 120 increases. Since the link element 130 does not stretch, as the diameter of the variable diameter device 120 increases, the link element 130 applies a compressive force on the rod shafts 110, thereby reducing the distance between the rod shafts 110.

[0027] In operation, as the clamshell device is closed, the rotational force applied on the first rod shaft 110A causes the first rod shaft 110A to rotate about the first rotational axis 111A in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The rotation of the first rod shaft 110A as the clamshell device is closed releases the force on the frustoconical member 140, thereby allowing the slidable and displaceable first pulley portion 122A on the first rod shaft 110A and the slidable and displaceable first pulley portion 122B on the second rod shaft 110B to move away from the fixed first pulley portion 124A and away from the fixed first pulley portion 124B. As the first half pulley 122 separates from the second half pulley 124, the diameter of the variable diameter device (i.e., Figure 1 the depicted pulley) 120 decreases. Since the link element 130 does not stretch, as the diameter of the variable diameter device 120 decreases, the compressive force applied by the link element 130 on the rod shafts 110 decreases, thereby restoring the rod shafts 110 to separate and increasing the distance between the rod shafts 110. In an embodiment, the friction between the variable diameter device 120 and the link element 130 determines the torque required to open and close the clamshell device.

[0028] The first shaft 110A and the second shaft 110B (collectively referred to as "shaft 110") can be manufactured by using one or more materials such as one or more metals, metal alloys, plastics, carbon fiber, or the like. In some implementations, the first shaft 110A can be operably coupled to the first housing and the second shaft 110B can be operably coupled to the second housing. In an embodiment, the first housing can include one or more electronic devices, such as one or more system input devices (keyboard, pointer, touch screen, scanner, etc.) and / or one or more system output devices (display, touch screen, haptic output, etc.). In an embodiment, the second housing can include one or more electronic devices, such as one or more system input devices (keyboard, pointer, touch screen, scanner, etc.) and / or one or more system output devices (display, touch screen, haptic output, etc.). The first shaft 110A rotates about a first axis of rotation 111A and the second shaft 110B rotates about a second axis of rotation 111B. In an embodiment, the first axis of rotation 111A is parallel to the second axis of rotation 111B. The distance 115 between the first axis of rotation 111A and the second axis of rotation 111B varies with the diameter of the variable diameter device 120. As the diameter of the variable diameter device 120 increases, the distance 115 between the first axis of rotation 111A and the second axis of rotation 111B decreases. As the diameter of the variable diameter device 120 decreases, the distance 115 between the first axis of rotation 111A and the second axis of rotation 111B increases.

[0029] The shafts 110 can have the same or different diameters. The shafts 110 can have a single (i.e., continuous or constant) diameter or a variable diameter, such as Figure 1 as depicted. In an embodiment, the first shaft 110A and the second shaft 110B can each include a relatively larger large shaft diameter portion 112A, 112B (collectively referred to as "large shaft diameter portion 112"). The large shaft diameter portion 112A of the first shaft 110A can be operably coupled to the first housing. The large shaft diameter portion 112B of the second shaft 110B can be operably coupled to the second housing. In an embodiment, the first shaft 110A and the second shaft 110B can each include a relatively smaller small shaft diameter portion 116A, 116B (collectively referred to as "small shaft diameter portion 116"). The small shaft diameter portion 116A of the first shaft 110A can be wholly or partially disposed within the housing disposed around the hinge 100. The small shaft diameter portion 116B of the second shaft 110B can be wholly or partially disposed within the housing disposed around the hinge 100. The tapered shaft segment 114A can engage the large diameter shaft portion 112A and the small diameter shaft portion 116A of the first shaft 110A. Similarly, the tapered shaft segment 114B can engage the large diameter shaft portion 112B and the small diameter shaft portion 116B of the second shaft 110B.

[0030] In an embodiment, the first implement 118A may be disposed within, on, or around the first shaft 110A. In some implementations, the first implement 118A may cause displacement of the frustoconical member 140 along the axis 141. In an embodiment, rotation of the first shaft 110A in a first direction may apply a force to the frustoconical member 140 sufficient to cause the frustoconical member 140 to travel along the axis 141 toward the first pulley portion 122A. In an embodiment, rotation of the first shaft 110A in a second direction may release the force from the frustoconical member 140, thereby allowing the frustoconical member to travel along the axis 141 away from the first pulley portion 122A. The first implement 118A may include one or more helices, one or more protrusions, or the like that are capable of applying a force to the frustoconical member 140 as the first shaft 110A rotates in the first direction. In an embodiment, the first implement 118A may be cast, machined, or otherwise formed integrally with the first shaft 110A. For example, the first implement 118A may include a cam, lobe, or the like that is capable of applying a force to the frustoconical member 140 as the first shaft 110A rotates in the first direction. In an embodiment, when the first shaft 110A rotates in a second direction opposite the first direction, the first implement 118A may release the force applied to the frustoconical member 140.

[0031] In an embodiment, the second implement 118B may be disposed within, on, or around the second shaft 110B. In some implementations, the second implement 118B may cause displacement of the frustoconical member 140 along the axis 141. In an embodiment, rotation of the second shaft 110B in a first direction may apply a force to the frustoconical member 140 sufficient to cause the frustoconical member 140 to travel along the axis 141 toward the first pulley portion 122B. In an embodiment, rotation of the second shaft 110B in a second direction may release the force from the frustoconical member 140, thereby allowing the frustoconical member to travel along the axis 141 away from the first pulley portion 122B. The second implement 118B may include one or more helices, one or more protrusions, or the like that are capable of applying a force to the frustoconical member 140 as the second shaft 110B rotates in the first direction. In an embodiment, the second implement 118B may be cast, machined, or otherwise formed integrally with the second shaft 110B. For example, the second implement 118B may include a cam, lobe, or the like that is capable of applying a force to the frustoconical member 140 as the second shaft 110B rotates in the first direction. In an embodiment, when the second shaft 110B rotates in a second direction opposite the first direction, the second implement 118B may release the force applied to the frustoconical member 140.

[0032] The first appliance 118A can be positioned at a first position on the first rod shaft 110A, while the second appliance 118B can be positioned at a second position on the second rod shaft 110B. In an embodiment, the first appliance 118A can be located at a first position on the first rod shaft 110A that is at the same position as the second position on the second rod shaft 110B. In such embodiments, either or both of the first appliance 118A and the second appliance 118B can displace the frustoconical member 140 along the axis 141. For example, rotating the first housing (i.e., the first rod shaft 110A) by 90 degrees of arc or rotating the second housing (i.e., the second rod shaft 110B) by 90 degrees of arc results in the same displacement of the frustoconical member 140 along the axis 141.

[0033] In other embodiments, the first appliance 118A can be located at a first position on the first rod shaft 110A that is physically different from the second position on the second rod shaft 110B. In such embodiments, as the first housing is rotated through a portion of the arc (e.g., as the first housing / first rod shaft 110A is rotated from 0 degrees to 90 degrees), the first appliance 118A can displace the frustoconical member 140 along the axis 141, and as the second housing is rotated through the remaining portion of the arc (e.g., as the second housing / second rod shaft 110A is rotated from 0 degrees to 90 degrees to create a 180-degree arc between the first housing and the second housing), the second appliance 118B can displace the frustoconical member 140 along the axis 141.

[0034] The first variable-diameter device 120A and the second variable-diameter device 120B (collectively "variable-diameter device 120") can include any number of systems and / or devices and / or combinations thereof that are capable of providing a variable diameter through which the link element 130 passes. In an embodiment, rotation of the rod shaft 110 on which the variable-diameter device 120 is mounted causes a change in the diameter of the variable-diameter device 120. For example, rotation of the rod shaft 110 in a first direction can cause the diameter of the variable-diameter device 120 to increase, while rotation of the rod shaft 110 in a second direction can cause the diameter of the variable-diameter device 120 to decrease. As Figure 1As depicted, the variable diameter device 120 may include a two-piece pulley assembly having a first pulley portion 122 and a second pulley portion 124, where the first pulley portion 122 is displaced coaxially and longitudinally along the rod axis 110, and the second pulley portion 124 is mounted at a fixed position on the rod axis 110. In an embodiment, the variable diameter device 120 may include a cam, lobe, or similar eccentric feature having a variable radius as the rod axis 110 is rotated and disposed within, on, or around the rod axis 110. In an embodiment, the variable diameter device 120 may be fixed (i.e., non-rotating) relative to the surface of the rod axis 110. In other embodiments, the variable diameter device 120 may be rotatable relative to the surface of the rod axis 110.

[0035] As Figure 1 depicted, the variable diameter device 120 may include a pulley divided into a first pulley portion 122 and a second pulley portion 124. As Figure 1 depicted, the first pulley portion 122 may include an inclined or tapered groove surface 126. Similarly, the second pulley portion 124 may include an inclined or tapered groove surface 128. As the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 are brought together, the link element 130 "climbs" the tapered surfaces of the groove 126 and the groove 128, thereby effectively increasing the diameter of the portion of the rod axis 110 through which the link element 130 passes. When the link element 130 is made of an inelastic material, as the link element 130 "climbs" the tapered surfaces of the groove 126 and the groove 128, the distance 115 between the first rod axis 110A and the second rod axis 110B decreases. Conversely, as the link element "descends" from the tapered surfaces of the groove 126 and the groove 128, the distance 115 between the first rod axis 110A and the second rod axis 110B increases.

[0036] The first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 may be formed or fabricated using any material or combination of materials. In an embodiment, one or more self-lubricating materials may be used to fabricate the displaceable first pulley portion 122 such that the first pulley portion 122 is easily displaceable along the surface of the rod axis 110. In an embodiment, the groove surfaces on either or both of the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 may include roughness, surface treatment, and / or coating for providing a defined coefficient of friction. In an embodiment, the coefficient of friction of the groove surfaces in the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 may be selected to provide a desired "resistance" to a system user rotating the rod axis 110 via the device housing. In an embodiment, the coefficient of friction of the groove surfaces in the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 may be selected to provide a desired "resistance" to hold the clamshell device in a desired configuration (e.g., opened to 90°, opened to 135°, opened to 180°).

[0037] The linkage element 130 can include one or more systems, devices, or combinations of systems and devices capable of linking the first variable-diameter device 120A on the first rod shaft to the second variable-diameter device 120B on the second rod shaft 110B. In an embodiment, the linkage element 130 is an inelastic (i.e., fixed-length) element capable of applying a compressive force on the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B as the diameter of the first variable-diameter device 120A and / or the second variable-diameter device 120B increases. The linkage element 130 can be made of a material with a desired coefficient of friction based on roughness, surface treatment, and / or the coating applied to the variable-diameter device 120. In some embodiments, the linkage element 130 can include a metal or metal alloy band disposed around the first variable-diameter device 120A and the second variable-diameter device 120B. In other embodiments, the linkage element 130 can include a non-metallic band (e.g., carbon fiber) disposed around the first variable-diameter device 120A and the second variable-diameter device 120B. In an embodiment, the edge of the linkage element 130 can include one or more lips, ridges, raised edges, reinforcements, or other surface features to facilitate the sliding of the linkage element 130 onto the tapered surface of the groove in the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124.

[0038] The frustoconical member 140 is at least partially disposed between the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B. In an embodiment, the frustoconical member 140 can include a member having a hole through which the first rod shaft 110A and / or the second rod shaft 110B passes - in such embodiments, the frustoconical member 140 can extend partially or completely around any one or both of the first rod shaft 110A and / or the second rod shaft 110B. In an embodiment, the portion of the frustoconical member disposed between the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B can have a surface including a taper complementary to the tapered section 114 of the adjacent rod shaft 110. In an embodiment, the frustoconical member 140 can be made of one or more of the following self-lubricating materials: such as phenolic resin, nylon, acetal resin polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE– ) or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). In some implementations, the frustoconical member 140 can include one or more metals or metal alloys. In some implementations, the frustoconical member 140 can be manufactured as a monolithic (i.e., single) assembly including the first pulley portion 122.

[0039] In an embodiment, the first appliance 118A and / or the second appliance 118B provides a force against the frustoconical member 140 that drives the frustoconical member 140 towards the variable diameter device 120. As the frustoconical member 140 contacts the variable diameter device 120, the diameter of the variable diameter device 120 increases. As the diameter of the variable diameter device 120 increases, the link element 130 generates a compressive force that reduces the distance 115 between the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B.

[0040] Figure 2A is a front view of an exemplary hinge 100 and an exemplary clamshell device 200A according to at least one embodiment described herein, the front view depicting the positions of the frustoconical member 140 and the variable diameter device 120 when the clamshell device 200A is in the closed (i.e., positioned at 0° radians) state. Figure 2B is a front view of an exemplary hinge 100 and an exemplary clamshell device 200B according to at least one embodiment described herein, the front view depicting the positions of the frustoconical member 140 and the variable diameter device 120 when the clamshell device 200B is in the partially open (i.e., positioned at 45° radians) state. Figure 2C is a front view of an exemplary hinge 100 and an exemplary clamshell device 200C according to at least one embodiment described herein, the front view depicting the positions of the frustoconical member 140 and the variable diameter device 120 when the clamshell device 200C is in the open (i.e., positioned at 180° radians) state.

[0041] As Figure 2A depicted, the clamshell device 200A includes a first housing 210A pivotally coupled to a second housing 210B by two hinges 100A and 100B (collectively referred to as "hinge 100"). Within each of the hinges 100A and 100B, the variable diameter device 120 includes a pulley divided into a first pulley portion 122 and a second pulley portion 124. The frustoconical member 140 is positioned at a location that separates the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B by a first distance 115A. In an embodiment, the first distance 115A can be: about 2 centimeters (cm) or less; about 1.5 cm or less; about 1 cm or less; about 0.75 cm or less; about 0.5 cm or less; about 0.25 cm or less; about 0.1 cm or less; about 0.05 cm or less; or about 0.01 cm or less. The first distance 115A is the maximum spacing distance between the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B. When the clamshell device 200A is in the closed position, the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 are separated by a first spacing 220A. The first spacing 220A is the maximum spacing distance between the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124

[0042] AsFigure 2B As depicted, the first housing 210A has rotated through a 45° arc measured relative to the second housing 210B. As Figure 2B depicted, the first housing 210A has rotated through a 45° arc about the first axis of rotation 111A of the first rod axis 110A. Due to the rotation about the first axis of rotation 111A, the frustoconical member 140 has displaced the first pulley portion 122 to an intermediate position within each of the hinges 100A and 100B, thereby increasing the diameters of the first variable diameter device 120A and the second variable diameter device 120B. The increase in the diameters of the first variable diameter device 120A and the second variable diameter device 120B causes the link element 130 to apply a compressive force on the first rod axis 110A and the second rod axis 110B, thereby reducing the distance 115B between the rod axes 110 to an intermediate value less than the first distance 115A. When the clam shell device 200B is positioned in the Figure 2B partially open configuration depicted, the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 are separated by an intermediate spacing distance 220B less than the first spacing distance 220A.

[0043] As Figure 2C depicted, the first housing 210A has rotated through a 180° arc measured relative to the second housing 210B. Due to the rotation of the first rod axis 110A about the first axis of rotation 111A and / or the rotation of the second rod axis 110B about the second axis of rotation 111B, the frustoconical member 140 has displaced the first pulley portion 122 to a final position within each of the hinges 100A and 100B, thereby increasing the diameters of the first variable diameter device 120A and the second variable diameter device 120B to a maximum value. The increase in the diameters of the first variable diameter device 120A and the second variable diameter device 120B causes the link element 130 to apply an additional compressive force on the first rod axis 110A and the second rod axis 110B, thereby further reducing the distance 115C between the rod axes 110 to a second distance 115C less than the first distance 115A and the intermediate distance 115B. In an embodiment, the second distance 115C may be: about 1 centimeter (cm) or less; about 0.75 cm or less; about 0.50 cm or less; about 0.25 cm or less; about 0.20 cm or less; about 0.10 cm or less; about 0.05 cm or less; about 0.025 cm or less; or about 0.01 cm or less. When the clam shell device 200C is positioned in the Figure 2C open configuration depicted, the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 are separated by a second spacing distance 220C less than the first spacing distance 220A and the intermediate spacing distance 220B.

[0044] Figure 3Ais a perspective view of an exemplary hinge 100 disposed in a first position according to at least one embodiment described herein, where the diameter of the variable diameter device 120A is minimized, the spacing distance 220A of the variable diameter device 120A is maximized, and the first distance 115A between the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B is maximized. Figure 3B is a perspective view of an exemplary hinge 100 disposed in a second position according to at least one embodiment described herein, where the diameter of the variable diameter device 120A is maximized, the spacing distance 220B of the variable diameter device 120A is minimized, and the second distance 115B between the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B is minimized.

[0045] As Figure 3A depicted, the variable diameter device 120 may include a pulley divided into a first pulley portion 122 and a second pulley portion 124. In an embodiment, the frustoconical member 140 may be disposed at a first position 310 along the axis 141. At the first position 310, the frustoconical member 140 may exert a small force or even no force on the first pulley portion 122. By exerting a small force or no force on the first pulley portion 122, a first spacing distance 220A appears between the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124. In an embodiment, the first spacing distance 220A may represent the maximum spacing distance between the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124. In an embodiment, at the maximum spacing distance 220A between the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124, the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B are separated by a first distance 115A. In such embodiments, the first distance 115A may represent the maximum spacing distance between the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B.

[0046] As Figure 3BAs depicted, the frustoconical member 140 can be disposed at a second position 320 along axis 141. At the second position 320, the frustoconical member 140 can exert sufficient force on the first pulley portion 122 to drive the first pulley portion 122 toward the second pulley portion 124. In some implementations, the force exerted on the first pulley portion 122 when the frustoconical member 140 is positioned at the second position 320 is sufficient to force the first pulley portion 122 into contact with the second pulley portion 124. When the first pulley portion 122 contacts the second pulley portion 124, the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 are separated by a second spacing distance 220B. In an embodiment, the second spacing distance 220B represents the minimum spacing distance between the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124. In an embodiment, at the minimum spacing distance 220B between the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124, the first rod axis 110A and the second rod axis 110B are separated by a second distance 115B. In such embodiments, the first distance 115B can represent the minimum spacing distance between the first rod axis 110A and the second rod axis 110B.

[0047] Figure 4 is a front view of an exemplary variable diameter device 120 in the form of a pulley divided into a first pulley portion 122 and a second pulley portion 124, according to at least one embodiment described herein. As Figure 4 depicted, the frustoconical member 140 is in a first position 310 along axis 141. Since the frustoconical member 140 exerts little or no force on the first pulley portion 122, the pulley portions are separated by a first spacing distance 220A. Figure 4 Visible therein are the tapered groove surface 126 of the first pulley portion 122 and the tapered groove surface 128 of the second pulley portion 124.

[0048] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary clamshell device including a first electronic device housing 210A pivotally coupled to a second electronic device housing 210B via a first hinge 100A and a second hinge 100B, according to at least one embodiment described herein. In an embodiment, such as Figure 5As depicted, the first housing 210A may include a first display device, such as a liquid crystal display, an organic liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, or the like. Similarly, the second housing 210B may include a second display device, such as a liquid crystal display, an organic liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, or the like. In an embodiment, when the first housing 210A is set at an angle of approximately 180° measured relative to the second housing 210B, the hinges 100A and 100B minimize the distance between the first housing 210A and the second housing 210B. By minimizing the distance between the display devices, the system user is advantageously provided with a more attractive and seamless experience when using a dual monitor setup.

[0049] Figure 6 is a high-level logic flow diagram of an exemplary method 600 of operably coupling a first device housing 210A to a second device housing 210B using at least one clamshell device hinge 100 in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. Method 600 begins at 602.

[0050] At 604, the first device housing 210A is operably coupled to a first rod shaft 110A extending from the hinge 100.

[0051] At 606, the second device housing 210B is operably coupled to a second rod shaft 110B extending from the hinge 100. When the clamshell device is in a closed state (i.e., the first device housing 210A is at a 0° angle measured relative to the second device housing 210B), the frustoconical member 140 is disposed at a first position 310 along the axis 141. When positioned at the first position 310, the frustoconical member 140 exerts little or no force on the first pulley portion 122, thereby allowing a first spaced-apart distance 220A between the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124. When the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 are spaced apart by the first spaced-apart distance 220A, the diameter of the variable diameter device 120 (i.e., the pulley) is minimized and the distance between the rotational axes of the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B is maximized. By maximizing the distance between the rotational axes of the first rod shaft 110A and the second rod shaft 110B, there is sufficient clearance between the device housings to allow the first device housing 210A to be placed in a closed state proximate to the second device housing 210B.

[0052] When the clam - shell device is in a fully open state (i.e., the first device housing 210A is at a defined angle such as 90°, 135°, or 180° measured relative to the second device housing 210B), the frustoconical member 140 is disposed at a second position 320 along the axis 141. When positioned at the second position 320, the force exerted by the frustoconical member 140 on the first pulley portion 122 is sufficient to drive the first pulley portion 122 towards the second pulley portion 124, thereby allowing a second spacing distance 220B between the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124. The second spacing distance 220B is less than the first spacing distance 220A. When the first pulley portion 122 and the second pulley portion 124 are separated by the second spacing distance 220B, the diameter of the variable - diameter device 120 (i.e., the pulley) is maximized and the distance between the rotational axis 111A of the first rod shaft 110A and the rotational axis 111B of the second rod shaft 110B is minimized. By minimizing the distance between the rotational axis 111A of the first rod shaft 110A and the rotational axis 111B of the second rod shaft 110B, the edge of the first device housing 110A can be positioned near the edge of the second device housing 110B. When using the clam - shell device, especially when each of the device housings 210 includes a display device used as a multi - device display, positioning the device housings 110A and 110B close to each other advantageously improves the user experience by eliminating the "air gap" between the first device housing 210A and the second device housing 210B.

[0053] Although Figure 6 illustrates various operations in accordance with one or more embodiments, it will be understood that for other embodiments, Figure 6 not all of the Figure 6 depicted operations are required. In fact, in other embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 6 the operations depicted therein and / or other operations described herein can be combined in ways not explicitly shown in any of the figures, but still fully comply with the present disclosure. Thus, claims directed to features and / or operations not precisely shown in one figure are considered to be within the scope and content of the present disclosure.

[0054] As used in this application and the claims, a list of items joined by the term "and / or" can mean any combination of the listed items. For example, the phrase "A, B, and / or C" can mean A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B, and C. As used in this application and the claims, a list of items joined by the term "at least one" can mean any combination of the listed items. For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, or C" can mean A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B, and C.

[0055] As used in any embodiment herein, the terms "system" or "module" may refer to, for example, software, firmware, and / or circuitry configured to perform any of the foregoing operations. The software may be embodied as a software package, code, instructions, instruction set, and / or data recorded on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The firmware may implement code, instructions, or instruction set, and / or data hard-coded (e.g., non-volatile) in a memory device. "Circuitry" as used in any embodiment herein may include, for example, hardwired circuitry, programmable circuitry (such as a computer processor including one or more individual instruction processing cores), state machine circuitry, and / or firmware storing instructions executed by the programmable circuitry, or future computing paradigms, including, for example, hardware embodiments of massively parallel, analog, or quantum computing, accelerators such as neural network processors, and non-silicon implementations of the foregoing. These circuits may collectively or individually be embodied as part of a larger system, such as an integrated circuit (IC), a system-on-chip (SoC), a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a server, a smart phone, and so on.

[0056] Any of the operations described herein may be implemented in a system including one or more storage media (e.g., non-transitory storage media) having instructions stored therein, either individually or in combination, that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the methods. Here, the processor may include, for example, a server CPU, a mobile device CPU, and / or other programmable circuitry. Moreover, the operations described herein are intended to be distributed across multiple physical devices, such as processing structures located in more than one different physical location. The storage media may include any type of tangible media, such as any type of disk including hard disks, floppy disks, optical disks, compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), rewritable compact disk (CD-RW), magneto-optical disks, semiconductor devices such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic and static RAM, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, solid state disk (SSD), embedded multimedia card (eMMC), secure digital input / output (SDIO) card, magnetic or optical card, or any type of media suitable for storing electronic instructions. Other embodiments may be implemented as software executed by a programmable control device.

[0057] Accordingly, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for providing a variable pitch clamshell hinge for use with a clamshell housing. The clamshell hinge includes a first rod shaft coupled to a first variable diameter device and a second rod shaft coupled to a second variable diameter device. The first variable diameter device and the second variable diameter device are coupled together using inelastic link elements. As the rod shafts rotate in a first direction, the diameter of the variable diameter devices increases. As the rod shafts rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the variable diameter devices decreases. As the diameter of the variable diameter devices increases, the inelastic link elements apply a compressive force on the variable diameter devices, thereby reducing the distance (i.e., pitch) between the rod shafts. As the diameter of the variable diameter devices decreases, the inelastic link elements release the compressive force on the variable diameter devices, thereby increasing the distance between the rod shafts.

[0058] The ability to adjust the pitch of the hinge in a clamshell device (i.e., the ability to adjust the distance between the first rod shaft and the second rod shaft as described in detail above) represents a significant improvement over existing fixed pitch hinges. Using a variable pitch hinge beneficially and advantageously allows for minimizing or even eliminating the air gap between the housings present in a clamshell device. This advantage is particularly evident when the clamshell device houses two display devices intended to cooperate as a multi-monitor display. Eliminating the air gap between the display device housings in a multi-monitor system improves the user experience by minimizing the distracting effects caused by a significant air gap between the display housings. Other clamshell devices such as smart phones and tablet computers may also benefit from the use of an adjustable pitch hinge as described above.

[0059] The following examples relate to further embodiments. The following examples of the present disclosure may include subject matter such as at least one device, method, at least one machine-readable medium storing instructions that when executed cause a machine to perform actions based on the method, apparatus for performing actions based on the method, and / or a system for providing a variable pitch hinge for use with a clamshell device.

[0060] According to Example 1, a clamshell hinge is provided. The clamshell hinge may include a first variable diameter member concentrically disposed about a first rod axis having a first axis of rotation; a second variable diameter member concentrically disposed about a second rod axis having a second axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation being parallel to the first axis of rotation; a fixed length member slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the first variable diameter member and slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the second variable diameter member; wherein, in response to the first rod axis rotating through a first radian in a first direction, the diameter of the first variable diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis; and wherein, in response to the first rod axis rotating through a first radian in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the first variable diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis.

[0061] Example 2 may include the elements of Example 1, wherein the first radian includes a radian of from about 0° to about 180°.

[0062] Example 3 may include the elements of Example 1, wherein in response to the second rod axis rotating through a second radian in a first direction, the diameter of the second variable diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis; and wherein in response to the second rod axis rotating through a second radian in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the second variable diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis.

[0063] Example 4 may include the elements of Example 3, wherein the first radian includes a radian of from about 0° to about 180°; and wherein the second radian includes a radian of from about 0° to about 180°.

[0064] Example 5 may include the elements of Example 3, and the clamshell hinge may further include a frustoconical member disposed between the first rod axis and the second rod axis, the frustoconical member having a first conical surface and a laterally opposed second conical surface, the frustoconical member being displaceable along a third axis parallel to the first axis and parallel to the second axis; wherein at least a portion of the first conical surface is located adjacent a portion of the first rod axis having a complementary cone corresponding to the first conical surface; and wherein at least a portion of the second conical surface is located adjacent a portion of the second rod axis having a complementary cone corresponding to the second conical surface.

[0065] Example 6 may include the elements of Example 5, and the clamshell hinge may further include a hinge housing at least partially wound about the first rod axis and the second rod axis, the hinge housing for retaining the frustoconical member between the first rod axis and the second rod axis.

[0066] Example 7 may include the elements of Example 5, wherein the first variable diameter member includes a first tapered grooved pulley, the first tapered grooved pulley including a first pulley half fixed to the first rod shaft and a second pulley half slidably displaceable along the first rod shaft such that as the first pulley half and the second pulley half increase, the diameter of the first tapered grooved pulley decreases, and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the first tapered grooved pulley increases; and wherein the second variable diameter member includes a second tapered grooved pulley, the second tapered grooved pulley including a first pulley half fixed to the second rod shaft and a second pulley half slidably displaceable along the second rod shaft such that as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half increases, the diameter of the second tapered grooved pulley decreases, and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the second tapered grooved pulley increases.

[0067] Example 8 may include the elements of Example 7, wherein the frustoconical member is rigidly coupled to the second pulley half of the first tapered grooved pulley and the second pulley half of the second tapered grooved pulley.

[0068] Example 9 may include the elements of Example 7, and the clamshell hinge may further include a first device disposed above or around the first rod shaft, the first device for causing the second pulley half of the first tapered grooved pulley to be slidably displaced along the first rod shaft, the displacement of the second pulley half of the first tapered grooved pulley being proportional to the angle by which the first rod shaft rotates through a first radian; and a second device disposed above or around the second rod shaft, the second device for causing the second pulley half of the second tapered grooved pulley to be slidably displaced along the second rod shaft, the displacement of the second pulley half of the second tapered grooved pulley being proportional to the angle by which the second rod shaft rotates through a second radian.

[0069] Example 10 may include the elements of Example 9, wherein the first device includes an eccentricity formed in a portion around the outer periphery of the first rod shaft; and wherein the second device includes an eccentricity formed in a portion around the outer periphery of the second rod shaft.

[0070] Example 11 may include the elements of Example 9, wherein the first device includes a helical protrusion formed in at least a portion around the outer periphery of the first rod shaft; and wherein the second device includes a helical protrusion formed in at least a portion around the outer periphery of the second rod shaft.

[0071] Example 12 may include the elements of Example 1, wherein the first rod shaft is physically coupled to the first part of the clamshell housing such that as the first part of the clamshell housing rotates, the first rod shaft rotates through a first radian; and wherein the second rod shaft is physically coupled to the second part of the clamshell housing such that as the second part of the clamshell housing rotates, the second rod shaft rotates through a second radian.

[0072] Example 13 may include the elements of Example 12, wherein the first part of the clamshell housing includes a first display device housing; and wherein the second part of the clamshell housing includes one of the following: a second display device housing or a laptop keyboard housing.

[0073] According to Example 14, a clamshell device is provided. The clamshell device may include: a first housing; a second housing; a first rod shaft having a first axis of rotation physically coupled to the first housing; a second rod shaft having a second axis of rotation physically coupled to the second housing, the second axis of rotation being parallel to the first axis of rotation; at least one clamshell hinge including: a first variable diameter member concentrically disposed about the first rod shaft; a second variable diameter member concentrically disposed about the second rod shaft; a fixed length member slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the first variable diameter member and slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the second variable diameter member; wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through a first radian in a first direction, the diameter of the first variable diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a first distance; and wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through a first radian in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the first variable diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a second distance greater than the first distance.

[0074] Example 15 may include the elements of Example 14, wherein the first radian includes a radian of approximately 0° to approximately 180°.

[0075] Example 16 may include the elements of Example 14, wherein in response to the second rod shaft rotating through a second radian in a first direction, the diameter of the second variable diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first housing and the second housing; and wherein in response to the second rod shaft rotating through a second radian in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the second variable diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first housing and the second housing.

[0076] Example 17 may include the elements of Example 16, wherein the first radian includes a radian of approximately 0° to approximately 180°; and wherein the second radian includes a radian of approximately 0° to approximately 180°.

[0077] Example 18 may include the elements of Example 16, and the clamshell device may include a frustoconical member disposed between a first rod shaft and a second rod shaft, the frustoconical member having a first conical surface and a laterally opposed second conical surface, the frustoconical member being displaceable along a third axis parallel to the first axis and parallel to the second axis; wherein at least a portion of the first conical surface is located adjacent a portion of the first rod shaft having a complementary cone corresponding to the first conical surface; and wherein at least a portion of the second conical surface is located adjacent a portion of the second rod shaft having a complementary cone corresponding to the second conical surface.

[0078] Example 19 may include the elements of Example 18, and the clamshell device may additionally include a hinge housing disposed at least partially around the first rod shaft and the second rod shaft, the hinge housing for retaining the frustoconical member between the first rod shaft and the second rod shaft.

[0079] Example 20 may include the elements of Example 18, wherein the first variable diameter member includes a first conical grooved pulley including a first pulley half fixed to the first rod shaft and a second pulley half slidably displaceable along the first rod shaft such that as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half increases, the diameter of the first conical grooved pulley decreases, and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the first conical grooved pulley increases; and wherein the second variable diameter member includes a second conical grooved pulley including a first pulley half fixed to the second rod shaft and a second pulley half slidably displaceable along the second rod shaft such that as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half increases, the diameter of the second conical grooved pulley decreases, and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the second conical grooved pulley increases.

[0080] Example 21 may include the elements of Example 20, wherein the frustoconical member is rigidly coupled to the second pulley half of the first conical grooved pulley and the second pulley half of the second conical grooved pulley.

[0081] Example 22 may include the elements of Example 20, and the clamshell device may additionally include a first appliance disposed above or around the first rod shaft, the first appliance for causing slidable displacement of the second pulley half of the first conical grooved pulley along the first rod shaft, the displacement of the second pulley half of the first conical grooved pulley being proportional to the angle of rotation of the first rod shaft through a first radian; and a second appliance disposed above or around the second rod shaft, the second appliance for causing slidable displacement of the second pulley half of the second conical grooved pulley along the second rod shaft, the displacement of the second pulley half of the second conical grooved pulley being proportional to the angle of rotation of the second rod shaft through a second radian.

[0082] Example 23 may include the elements of Example 22, wherein the first appliance includes an eccentricity formed in a portion around the outer periphery of the first rod axis; and wherein the second appliance includes an eccentricity formed in a portion around the outer periphery of the second rod axis.

[0083] Example 24 may include the elements of Example 22, wherein the first appliance includes a helical protrusion formed in at least a portion around the outer periphery of the first rod axis; and wherein the second appliance includes a helical protrusion formed in at least a portion around the outer periphery of the second rod axis.

[0084] Example 25 may include the elements of Example 14, wherein the first housing includes a first display device housing; and wherein the second housing includes one of the following: a second display device housing or a laptop keyboard housing.

[0085] According to Example 26, a method of forming a clamshell device is provided. The method may include: operably coupling a first housing to a first rod axis that is rotatably coupled to at least one clamshell hinge; operably coupling a second housing to a second rod axis that is rotatably coupled to at least one clamshell hinge; wherein the first rod axis has a first axis of rotation; wherein the second rod axis has a second axis of rotation that is parallel to the first axis of rotation; wherein the at least one clamshell hinge includes: a first variable diameter member that is concentrically disposed around the first rod axis; a second variable diameter member that is concentrically disposed around the second rod axis; a fixed length member that is slidably disposed around at least a portion of the perimeter of the first variable diameter member and slidably disposed around at least a portion of the perimeter of the second variable diameter member; wherein, in response to the first rod axis rotating through a first radian in a first direction, the diameter of the first variable diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a first distance; and wherein, in response to the first rod axis rotating through a first radian in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the first variable diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a second distance greater than the first distance.

[0086] Example 27 may include the elements of Example 26, wherein the first radian includes a radian of from about 0° to about 180°.

[0087] Example 28 may include the elements of Example 26, wherein in response to the second rod axis rotating through a second radian in a first direction, the diameter of the second variable diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first housing and the second housing; and wherein in response to the second rod axis rotating through a second radian in a second direction opposite the first direction, the diameter of the second variable diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first housing and the second housing.

[0088] Example 29 may include the elements of Example 28, wherein the first arc includes an arc of from about 0° to about 180°; and wherein the second arc includes an arc of from about 0° to about 180°.

[0089] Example 30 may include the elements of Example 28, wherein at least one clamshell hinge may further include: a frustoconical member disposed between the first rod axis and the second rod axis, the frustoconical member having a first conical surface and a laterally opposed second conical surface, the frustoconical member being displaceable along a third axis parallel to the first axis and parallel to the second axis; wherein at least a portion of the first conical surface is located adjacent a portion of the first rod axis having a complementary cone corresponding to the first conical surface; and wherein at least a portion of the second conical surface is located adjacent a portion of the second rod axis having a complementary cone corresponding to the second conical surface.

[0090] Example 31 may include the elements of Example 30, wherein at least one clamshell hinge may further include a hinge housing disposed at least partially around the first rod axis and the second rod axis, the hinge housing for holding the frustoconical member between the first rod axis and the second rod axis.

[0091] Example 32 may include the elements of Example 30, wherein the first variable diameter member includes a first conical grooved pulley including a first pulley half fixed to the first rod axis and a second pulley half slidably displaceable along the first rod axis such that as the first pulley half and the second pulley half move apart, the diameter of the first conical grooved pulley decreases and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the first conical grooved pulley increases; and wherein the second variable diameter member includes a second conical grooved pulley including a first pulley half fixed to the second rod axis and a second pulley half slidably displaceable along the second rod axis such that as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half increases, the diameter of the second conical grooved pulley decreases and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the second conical grooved pulley increases.

[0092] Example 33 may include the elements of Example 32, wherein the frustoconical member is rigidly coupled to the second pulley half of the first conical grooved pulley and the second pulley half of the second conical grooved pulley.

[0093] Example 34 may include the elements of Example 32, wherein at least one clamshell hinge may further include a first apparatus disposed over or around a first rod axis, the first apparatus for causing a second pulley half of a first tapered grooved pulley to slideably displace along the first rod axis, the displacement of the second pulley half of the first tapered grooved pulley being proportional to the angle of rotation of the first rod axis through a first radian; and a second apparatus disposed over or around a second rod axis, the second apparatus for causing the second pulley half of a second tapered grooved pulley to slideably displace along the second rod axis, the displacement of the second pulley half of the second tapered grooved pulley being proportional to the angle of rotation of the second rod axis through a second radian.

[0094] Example 35 may include the elements of Example 34, wherein the first apparatus includes an eccentricity formed about a portion of the outer periphery of the first rod axis; and wherein the second apparatus includes an eccentricity formed about a portion of the outer periphery of the second rod axis.

[0095] Example 36 may include the elements of Example 34, wherein the first apparatus includes a helical protrusion about at least a portion of the outer periphery of the first rod axis; and wherein the second apparatus includes a helical protrusion about at least a portion of the outer periphery of the second rod axis.

[0096] Example 37 may include the elements of Example 26, wherein the first housing includes a first electronic device housing; and wherein the second housing includes a second electronic device housing.

[0097] The terms and expressions which have been employed herein are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention, in the use of such terms and expressions, of excluding any equivalents (or portions thereof) of the features shown and described, and it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Accordingly, the claims are intended to cover all such equivalents.

Claims

1. A clamshell hinge, comprising: A first variable-diameter member concentrically disposed about a first rod axis having a first axis of rotation; A second variable-diameter member concentrically disposed about a second rod axis having a second axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation being parallel to the first axis of rotation; A fixed-length member slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the first variable-diameter member and slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the second variable-diameter member; wherein, in response to the first rod axis rotating through a first radian in a first direction, the diameter of the first variable-diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis; and wherein, in response to the first rod axis rotating through the first radian in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the diameter of the first variable-diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis; and A frustoconical member disposed between the first rod axis and the second rod axis, the frustoconical member having a first conical surface and a laterally opposed second conical surface, the frustoconical member being displaceable along a third axis parallel to the first axis of rotation and parallel to the second axis of rotation; wherein at least a portion of the first conical surface is located adjacent a portion of the first rod axis having a complementary cone corresponding to the first conical surface; and wherein at least a portion of the second conical surface is located adjacent a portion of the second rod axis having a complementary cone corresponding to the second conical surface.

2. The clamshell hinge according to claim 1, wherein, the first radian includes a radian of 0° to 180°.

3. The clamshell hinge according to claim 1 ， wherein: wherein, in response to the second rod axis rotating through a second radian in a first direction, the diameter of the second variable-diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis; and wherein, in response to the second rod axis rotating through the second radian in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the diameter of the second variable-diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first rod axis and the second rod axis.

4. The clamshell hinge according to claim 3, wherein: wherein the first radian includes a radian of 0° to 180°; and wherein the second radian includes a radian of 0° to 180°.

5. The clamshell hinge according to claim 1, wherein, further comprising: A hinge housing at least partially disposed about the first rod axis and the second rod axis, the hinge housing for holding the frustoconical member between the first rod axis and the second rod axis.

6. The clamshell hinge according to claim 1, wherein: Wherein the first variable diameter member includes a first tapered groove pulley, the first tapered groove pulley including a first pulley half fixed to the first rod shaft and a second pulley half slidably displaceable along the first rod shaft, such that as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half increases, the diameter of the first tapered groove pulley decreases, and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the first tapered groove pulley increases; and Wherein the second variable diameter member includes a second tapered groove pulley, the second tapered groove pulley including a first pulley half fixed to the second rod shaft and a second pulley half slidably displaceable along the second rod shaft, such that as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half increases, the diameter of the second tapered groove pulley decreases, and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the second tapered groove pulley increases.

7. The clamshell hinge according to claim 6, characterized in that the frustoconical member is rigidly coupled to the second pulley half of the first tapered groove pulley and the second pulley half of the second tapered groove pulley.

8. The clamshell hinge according to claim 6, characterized in that further comprising: a first appliance disposed above or around the first rod shaft, the first appliance for causing slidable displacement of the second pulley half of the first tapered groove pulley along the first rod shaft, the displacement of the second pulley half of the first tapered groove pulley being proportional to the angle through which the first rod shaft rotates through the first radian; and a second appliance disposed above or around the second rod shaft, the second appliance for causing slidable displacement of the second pulley half of the second tapered groove pulley along the second rod shaft, the displacement of the second pulley half of the second tapered groove pulley being proportional to the angle through which the second rod shaft rotates through a second radian in the first direction.

9. The clamshell hinge according to claim 8, characterized in that: wherein the first appliance includes an eccentricity formed in a portion around the outer periphery of the first rod shaft; and wherein the second appliance includes an eccentricity formed in a portion around the outer periphery of the second rod shaft.

10. The clamshell hinge according to claim 8, characterized in that: wherein the first appliance includes a helical protrusion around at least a portion of the outer periphery of the first rod shaft; and wherein the second appliance includes a helical protrusion around at least a portion of the outer periphery of the second rod shaft.

11. The clamshell hinge according to claim 1, characterized in that: wherein the first rod shaft is physically coupled to a first portion of the clamshell housing such that as the first portion of the clamshell housing rotates, the first rod shaft rotates through the first radian; and wherein the second rod shaft is physically coupled to a second portion of the clamshell housing such that as the second portion of the clamshell housing rotates, the second rod shaft rotates through a second radian in the first direction.

12. The clam - shell hinge according to claim 11, characterized in that: wherein the first part of the clam - shell housing includes a first display device housing; and wherein the second part of the clam - shell housing includes one of the following: a second display device housing or a laptop keyboard housing.

13. A method of forming a clam - shell device, comprising: operatively coupling a first housing to a first rod shaft, the first rod shaft being rotatably coupled to at least one clam - shell hinge; operatively coupling a second housing to a second rod shaft, the second rod shaft being rotatably coupled to the at least one clam - shell hinge; wherein the first rod shaft has a first axis of rotation; wherein the second rod shaft has a second axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation being parallel to the first axis of rotation; wherein the at least one clam - shell hinge includes: a first variable - diameter member concentrically disposed about the first rod shaft; a second variable - diameter member concentrically disposed about the second rod shaft; a fixed - length member slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the first variable - diameter member and slidably disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the second variable - diameter member; wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through a first radian in a first direction, the diameter of the first variable - diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a first distance; and wherein, in response to the first rod shaft rotating through the first radian in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the diameter of the first variable - diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first housing and the second housing to a second distance greater than the first distance; and a frustoconical member disposed between the first rod shaft and the second rod shaft, the frustoconical member having a first conical surface and a laterally - opposed second conical surface, the frustoconical member being displaceable along a third axis parallel to the first axis of rotation and parallel to the second axis of rotation; wherein at least a portion of the first conical surface is located adjacent to a portion of the first rod shaft having a complementary cone corresponding to the first conical surface; and wherein at least a portion of the second conical surface is located adjacent to a portion of the second rod shaft having a complementary cone corresponding to the second conical surface.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, the first radian includes a radian from 0° to 180°.

15. The method according to claim 13 ， characterized in that: wherein, in response to the second rod shaft rotating through a second radian in a first direction, the diameter of the second variable - diameter member increases, thereby reducing the distance between the first housing and the second housing; and wherein, in response to the second rod shaft rotating through the second radian in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the diameter of the second variable - diameter member decreases, thereby increasing the distance between the first housing and the second housing.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that: wherein the first radian includes a radian from 0° to 180°; and wherein the second radian includes a radian from 0° to 180°.

17. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that the at least one clamshell hinge further comprises: a hinge housing that is disposed at least partially around the first rod axis and the second rod axis, and the hinge housing is used to hold the frustoconical member between the first rod axis and the second rod axis.

18. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that: wherein the first variable diameter member includes a first tapered grooved pulley, the first tapered grooved pulley includes a first pulley half fixed to the first rod axis and a second pulley half slidable and displaceable along the first rod axis, such that as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half increases, the diameter of the first tapered grooved pulley decreases, and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the first tapered grooved pulley increases; and wherein the second variable diameter member includes a second tapered grooved pulley, the second tapered grooved pulley includes a first pulley half fixed to the second rod axis and a second pulley half slidable and displaceable along the second rod axis, such that as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half increases, the diameter of the second tapered grooved pulley decreases, and as the distance between the first pulley half and the second pulley half decreases, the diameter of the second tapered grooved pulley increases.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that the frustoconical member is rigidly coupled to the second pulley half of the first tapered grooved pulley and the second pulley half of the second tapered grooved pulley.

20. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that the at least one clamshell hinge further comprises: a first device that is disposed above or around the first rod axis, and the first device is used to cause the second pulley half of the first tapered grooved pulley to slide and displace along the first rod axis, and the displacement of the second pulley half of the first tapered grooved pulley is proportional to the angle by which the first rod axis rotates through the first radian; and a second device that is disposed above or around the second rod axis, and the second device is used to cause the second pulley half of the second tapered grooved pulley to slide and displace along the second rod axis, and the displacement of the second pulley half of the second tapered grooved pulley is proportional to the angle by which the second rod axis rotates through the second radian in the first direction.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that: wherein the first device includes an eccentricity formed by a portion around the outer circumference of the first rod axis; and wherein the second device includes an eccentricity formed by a portion around the outer circumference of the second rod axis.

22. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that: wherein the first implement includes a helical protrusion around at least a portion of the outer periphery of the first rod axis; and wherein the second implement includes a helical protrusion around at least a portion of the outer periphery of the second rod axis.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that: wherein the first housing includes a first electronic device housing; and wherein the second housing includes a second electronic device housing.

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