Hinge device
By separating the auxiliary torque imparting unit from the rotary connection unit in the hinge device, and utilizing the torsion of the helical spring to generate auxiliary torque and frictional resistance, the problem of complex assembly is solved, achieving the effect of simplified assembly and reduced operational burden.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SUGATSUNE IND CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-07-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-24
AI Technical Summary
The assembly of existing hinge devices is cumbersome, as the rotary connection unit, friction resistance imparting unit, and auxiliary torque imparting unit are inseparable, leading to complex assembly.
In the hinge device, the auxiliary torque imparting unit and the rotary connection unit are configured separately. The force application mechanism and the working unit are respectively set on the hinge body. The auxiliary torque is generated by the torsion of the helical spring, and the friction resistance unit is used to keep the hinge stationary or suppress rotation at any position.
The assembly process of the hinge device is simplified, the installation space is reduced, and the operating burden is reduced by the auxiliary torque, achieving stable stillness and rotation suppression at any position.
Smart Images
Figure CN117677755B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a hinge device that can assist a second object in rotating relative to a first object and keep the second object stationary at a desired angular position or inhibit its rotation. Background Technology
[0002] The hinge device described in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent No. 3440051) includes a first hinge body fixed to a main body (first object) such as a keyboard, and a second hinge body fixed to a rotating body (second object) such as a display. The first hinge body is cylindrical and has a slot extending axially, so that its diameter can expand / contract with elastic deformation. The second hinge body has a support hole, and by pressing the cylindrical first hinge body into the support hole, the second hinge body can be rotatably connected to the first hinge body in a state of being endowed with frictional resistance.
[0003] The aforementioned cylindrical first hinge body houses a helical spring. When the display is in the fully open position (separated from the upright position), one actuating end of the helical spring is engaged with the first hinge body, while the other actuating end is torn by the rotation of the second hinge body. The spring force of the helical spring provides an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body towards the upright position. When the display is in the closed position (separated from the upright position), the other actuating end of the helical spring is engaged with the first hinge body, while the aforementioned actuating end is torn by the rotation of the second hinge body in the opposite direction. The spring force of the helical spring provides an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in the opposite direction towards the upright position.
[0004] The aforementioned auxiliary torque reduces the operational burden when rotating the display from the fully open or closed position to the upright position. Furthermore, the frictional resistance between the first and second hinge bodies allows the display to remain stationary in any position. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The problem that the invention aims to solve
[0006] In the hinge device of Patent Document 1, the rotational connection unit, the friction resistance imparting unit, and the auxiliary torque imparting unit that connect the first hinge body and the second hinge body are inextricably installed, making the assembly operation cumbersome.
[0007] Solution for solving the problem
[0008] This invention addresses the aforementioned problems by providing a hinge device comprising: a first hinge body to be fixed to a first object; a second hinge body to be fixed to a second object; a rotary connection unit connecting the first and second hinge bodies to enable relative rotation about a rotation axis; an auxiliary torque imparting unit imparting an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body toward a reference rotation position; and a frictional resistance imparting unit incorporated in the rotary connection unit, which imparts frictional resistance between the first and second hinge bodies to cause the second object to remain stationary relative to the first object or inhibit rotation of the second object at any rotation position including the reference rotation position. The hinge device is characterized in that the auxiliary torque imparting unit comprises: a force-applying mechanism disposed in one of the first and second hinge bodies and configured to be separate from the rotary connection unit in the direction of the rotation axis; and a working unit disposed in the other hinge body, the working unit acting on the force-applying mechanism to generate the auxiliary torque.
[0009] Based on the above configuration, the assembly of the hinge device can be simplified by separating the auxiliary torque imparting unit from the rotary connection unit.
[0010] Preferably, a pair of rotary connecting units are arranged spaced apart in the direction of the rotation axis, the friction resistance imparting unit is installed in at least one of the pair of rotary connecting units, and the force applying mechanism is disposed between the pair of rotary connecting units.
[0011] According to this configuration, the second hinge body can be supported to rotate stably, and the installation space of the hinge device can be reduced.
[0012] Preferably, the force-applying mechanism comprises: a spring; a support unit supporting the spring on the hinge body; and at least one rotating body engaged with the spring and supported by the support unit, wherein the at least one rotating body is rotated by the working unit, and the spring is elastically deformed as it rotates, thereby generating the auxiliary torque.
[0013] Preferably, the force-applying mechanism includes: a helical spring; and a support unit that supports the helical spring on the rotation axis, wherein the working unit acts directly or indirectly on the working end of the helical spring to twist the helical spring, thereby generating the auxiliary torque.
[0014] Preferably, the support unit has: a first support bracket and a second support bracket, configured to be separate in the direction of the rotation axis and fixed to the hinge body; and a shaft supported by the first support bracket and the second support bracket and configured on the rotation axis, with the helical spring coiled on the shaft.
[0015] Based on the above configuration, the operation of assembling the force-applying mechanism into a hinge body can be simplified.
[0016] Preferably, the shaft is rotatably supported by at least one rotating body that engages with the helical spring, and the working unit has at least one working element that rotates the at least one rotating body, thereby causing the helical spring to twist as the at least one rotating body rotates, thus generating the auxiliary torque.
[0017] The second hinge body is rotatable relative to the first hinge body between a first rotational limit position and a second rotational limit position. The reference rotational position is disposed in the middle between the first rotational limit position and the second rotational limit position. When the second hinge body is located closer to the first rotational limit position than the reference rotational position, the auxiliary torque applying unit applies an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in a first direction toward the reference rotational position. When the second hinge body is located closer to the second rotational limit position than the reference rotational position, the auxiliary torque applying unit applies an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in a second direction opposite to the first direction toward the reference rotational position.
[0018] Based on the above configuration, the burden can be reduced when performing rotation operations on a second object from two directions toward a reference rotation position.
[0019] Preferably, a pair of rotary connecting units are arranged spaced apart in the direction of the rotation axis, and the friction resistance imparting unit is installed in at least one of the pair of rotary connecting units. The force applying mechanism is disposed between the pair of rotary connecting units. The force applying mechanism has: a first support bracket and a second support bracket, fixed to one of the hinge bodies and separated in the direction of the rotation axis; a shaft supported by the first support bracket and the second support bracket and disposed on the rotation axis; a helical spring wound on the shaft; and a first rotating body and a second rotating body disposed on both sides of the helical spring and rotatably supported on the shaft. The working unit includes a first working member and a second working member separated in the direction of the rotation axis. When the second hinge body is located at the first rotation limit position, the first working member acts on the first rotating body to impart an auxiliary torque toward the second hinge body in a first direction. When the second hinge body is located at the second rotation limit position, the second working member acts on the second rotating body to impart an auxiliary torque toward the second hinge body in a second direction.
[0020] The first support bracket and the second support bracket each have a first stop and a second stop, respectively. The first rotating body and the second rotating body each have a first locking portion and a second locking portion, a first working piece receiving portion and a second working piece receiving portion, and a first spring receiving portion and a second spring receiving portion, respectively, arranged circumferentially separated. The first spring receiving portion of the first rotating body receives one actuating end of the helical spring and is subjected to force in the first direction, and the first locking portion is locked to the first stop of the first support bracket, thereby restricting the rotation of the first rotating body in the first direction. The second spring receiving portion of the second rotating body receives the other actuating end of the helical spring and is subjected to force in the second direction, and the second locking portion is locked to the first stop of the first support bracket. A second stop is fixed to the second support bracket, thereby restricting the rotation of the second rotating body in the second direction. When the second hinge body is located at the first rotation limit position, the first working member pushes the first working member receiving portion of the first rotating body in the second direction to separate it from the first stop of the first support bracket, thereby imparting an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in the first direction. When the second hinge body is located at the second rotation limit position, the second working member pushes the second working member receiving portion of the second rotating body in the first direction to separate it from the second stop of the second support bracket, thereby imparting an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in the second direction.
[0021] Based on the above configuration, the helical spring can impart auxiliary torque in both the first and second directions by torsion in either the reduction or expansion of its diameter.
[0022] Invention Effects
[0023] According to the present invention, the assembly of a hinge device that can be stationary or have its rotation suppressed at any rotational position and whose operational burden on a second object can be reduced by auxiliary torque can be simplified. Attached Figure Description
[0024] Figure 1A This is a side sectional view showing a portion of a housing equipped with a hinge device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the lid open at an angle of 180°.
[0025] Figure 1B This indicates that the lid is open at a 120° angle. Figure 1A Corresponding diagram.
[0026] Figure 1C This indicates that the lid is open at a 90° angle. Figure 1A Corresponding diagram.
[0027] Figure 1D This indicates that the lid is open at a 60° angle. Figure 1A Corresponding diagram.
[0028] Figure 1E This indicates that the lid is open at 0°. Figure 1A Corresponding diagram.
[0029] Figure 2A It is an exploded perspective view showing the basic structure of the hinge device (including the first hinge body, the second hinge body, and the rotary connection unit) and the unit that imparts frictional resistance.
[0030] Figure 2B This is a perspective view showing the process of fixing the force-applying mechanism of the auxiliary torque-applying unit to the first hinge body after assembling the basic structure and the friction resistance-applying unit.
[0031] Figure 2C This is a perspective view showing the process of assembling the cover onto the second hinge body after fixing the force-applying mechanism to the first hinge body.
[0032] Figure 2D This is a perspective view showing the process of fixing the working component of the auxiliary torque-granting unit to the second hinge body after the assembly process of the cover.
[0033] Figure 2E This is a three-dimensional view showing the assembled hinge assembly.
[0034] Figure 3 yes Figure 2E Sectional view in direction III-III.
[0035] Figure 4A It is a top view showing the force-applying mechanism in its fixed position to the first hinge body.
[0036] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Sectional view along line B-B.
[0037] Figure 4C This is the left view of the force-applying mechanism.
[0038] Figure 4D This is the right view of the force-applying mechanism.
[0039] Figure 4E This is a right view of the force-applying mechanism, showing the state of the helical spring in its natural state.
[0040] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view showing the support bracket on the left side of the force-applying mechanism.
[0041] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional view showing the support bracket on the right side of the force-applying mechanism.
[0042] Figure 7A It is a three-dimensional diagram representing a rotating body that can be used both left and right in a force-applying mechanism.
[0043] Figure 7B Is Figure 7A The side view as seen from direction B.
[0044] Figure 8A This is a diagram of the left side of the auxiliary torque-granting unit when the cover is opened to a 180° angle, viewed from the right.
[0045] Figure 8B This is a diagram of the right side of the auxiliary torque imparting unit when the cover is opened to a 180° angle, viewed from the right side.
[0046] Figure 9A This is a diagram of the left side of the auxiliary torque-granting unit when the cover is opened to an angle of 120°, viewed from the right side.
[0047] Figure 9B This is a diagram of the right side of the auxiliary torque-granting unit when the cover is opened to an angle of 120°, viewed from the right side.
[0048] Figure 10A This is a diagram of the left side of the auxiliary torque-granting unit when the cover is opened to a 90° angle, viewed from the right.
[0049] Figure 10B This is a diagram of the right side of the auxiliary torque imparting unit when the cover is opened at a 90° angle, viewed from the right side.
[0050] Figure 11AThis is a diagram of the left side of the auxiliary torque-granting unit when the cover is opened at a 60° angle, viewed from the right.
[0051] Figure 11B This is a diagram of the right side of the auxiliary torque imparting unit when the cover is opened at a 60° angle, viewed from the right side.
[0052] Figure 12A This is a diagram of the left side of the auxiliary torque-granting unit when the cover is opened to an angle of 0°, viewed from the right.
[0053] Figure 12B This is a diagram of the right side of the auxiliary torque imparting unit when the cover is opened at 0°, viewed from the right side. Detailed Implementation
[0054] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in FIG1, the container 1 for containing medical test materials, etc., includes: a shell 2 (first object); and a cover 3 (second object) for opening and closing an opening 2b formed in the upper wall 2a of the shell 2. The cover 3 is heavy and can seal the opening 2b when closed.
[0055] like Figure 1A As shown, when cover 3 is fully open (i.e., the opening angle θ is 180°), a torque in the opening direction generated by its own weight acts on cover 3. This torque in the opening direction is as follows: Figure 1B As shown, it decreases as the opening angle θ decreases. Furthermore, as... Figure 1E As shown, when cover 3 is in the closed state (i.e., when the opening angle θ of cover 3 is 0°), a torque in the closing direction generated by its own weight acts on cover 3. This torque in the closing direction is as follows: Figure 1D As shown, it decreases as the opening angle θ increases. (See figure 3). Figure 1C When the cover is in the upright position as shown (i.e., when the opening angle θ of the cover 3 is approximately 90°; in this embodiment, the opening angle θ is slightly larger than 90°), the torque generated by its own weight is zero.
[0056] As shown in Figure 1, Figure 2E , Figure 3 As shown, as a basic structure, the hinge device 5 that supports the cover 3 on the upper wall 2a of the housing 2 as a rotatable device has: a first hinge body 10, fixed to the upper surface of the side edge portion on the opening 2b side of the upper wall 2a of the housing 2; a second hinge body 20, fixed to the upper surface of the cover 3 (the upper surface in the closed state); and a pair of rotary connecting units 30L and 30R, which connect the second hinge body 20 to the first hinge body 10 in such a way that the second hinge body 20 can rotate relative to the first hinge body 10 about the rotation axis L.
[0057] Furthermore, as described later, the hinge device 5 of this embodiment includes an auxiliary torque imparting unit for reducing operational burden when returning the cover 3 to the upright position, and a friction resistance imparting unit for keeping the cover 3 stationary at any rotational position.
[0058] The detailed construction and assembly process of the hinge device 5 will be described below. In the following description, it will be referred to as... Figures 2A-2E The left and right sides are defined based on the reference that the first hinge body 10 is closer to the second hinge body 20 when observing, as shown.
[0059] <Basic structure, construction and assembly process of friction resistance-imparting unit>
[0060] like Figure 2A As shown, the first hinge body 10 has: a base plate portion 11, on the rotation axis L (refer to...) Figure 3 The base plate 11 is elongated in the direction of its orientation; and a pair of support plates 12 and 13, which rise at right angles from the left and right ends of the base plate 11. Through holes 11a are formed at multiple locations on the base plate 11. After the hinge device 5 is assembled, the base plate 11 is fixed to the upper wall 2a of the housing 2 by screws (not shown) passing through these through holes 11a. A pair of raised bosses 15 are formed on the base plate 11. Threaded holes 15a and protrusions 15b are formed on these bosses 15. Support plates 12 and 13 extend obliquely upward from the base plate 11, and non-circular support holes 12a and circular support holes 13a are formed at their front ends, respectively.
[0061] The second hinge body 20 has: a base plate portion 21, which is elongated in the direction of the rotation axis L; and a pair of support plate portions 22, 23, which stand at right angles from the left and right ends of the base plate 21. Through holes 21a are formed at multiple locations on the base plate portion 21. After the hinge device 5 is assembled, the base plate portion 21 is fixed to the cover 3 by screws (not shown) passing through these through holes 21a. A pair of raised boss portions 25 are formed on the base plate portion 21. Threaded holes 25a and protrusions 25b are formed on these boss portions 25. The support plate portions 22, 23 extend obliquely upward from the base plate portion 21, and non-circular support holes 22a and non-circular support holes 23a are formed at their front ends, respectively.
[0062] With support plate portions 22 and 23 respectively disposed inside support plate portions 12 and 13, the first hinge body 10 and the second hinge body 20 are rotatably connected by left and right rotary connecting units 30L and 30R. The left and right rotary connecting units 30L and 30R each have shaft members 31 and 32 disposed on the rotation axis L and separated from each other.
[0063] The left-side shaft member 31 connects the left-side support plate portions 12 and 22 of the hinge bodies 10 and 20 via the sleeve 33, enabling them to rotate. The outer periphery of the sleeve 33 is non-circular, and the sleeve 33 is fitted into the non-circular support hole 22a of the support plate portion 22. The shaft member 31 has a circular shaft portion 31a in the middle, a non-circular shaft portion 31b on its outer side, and a flange portion 31c on its inner side. With the circular shaft portion 31a inserted into the circular hole of the sleeve 33 and the non-circular shaft portion 31b inserted into the non-circular support hole 12a of the support plate portion 12, the front end of the shaft portion 31b is riveted, thereby connecting the outer support plate portion 12 and the inner support plate portion 22 rotatably via the shaft member 31.
[0064] The right-side shaft member 32 has a non-circular (elliptical) shaft portion 32a, a threaded portion 32b on the outer side of the shaft portion 32a, and a flange portion 32c on the inner side of the shaft portion 32a. With the shaft portion 32a inserted into the non-circular support hole 23a of the support plate portion 23 and the circular support hole 13a of the support plate portion 13, the nut 34, which engages with the threaded portion 32b, is tightened, thereby connecting the support plate portions 13 and 23 in a rotatable manner. It should be noted that the shaft member 32 can rotate relative to the outer support plate portion 13 but cannot rotate relative to the inner support plate portion 23.
[0065] In the assembly process of the above-described basic structure, the friction resistance imparting unit 40 is inserted into the rotary connecting unit 30R on the right side. The friction resistance imparting unit 40 has two friction plates 41 and 42, a stacked multi-disc spring 43, and a pressure plate 44. Non-circular through holes 41a, 42a, and 44a are formed in the friction plates 41 and 42 and the pressure plate 44.
[0066] With the friction plate 41 sandwiched between the support plates 13 and 23, and the other friction plate 42, disc spring 43, and pressure plate 44 positioned on the outside of the support plate 13, the non-circular shaft portion 32a of the shaft member 32 passes sequentially through the support hole 23a of the support plate 23, the insertion hole 41a of the friction plate 41, the support hole 13a of the support plate 13, the insertion hole 42a of the friction plate 42, the central hole of the disc spring 43, and the insertion hole 44a of the pressure plate 44. The nut 34, which engages with the threaded portion 32b, is then tightened, thus completing the insertion of the friction resistance imparting unit 40. Since the friction plates 41 and 42 cannot rotate relative to the support plate 23 but can rotate relative to the support plate 13, friction resistance is imparted between the support plates 13 and 23 via the spring force of the disc spring 43. Nut 34 also serves as a component of friction resistance imparting unit 40, and its tightening amount can be adjusted to increase / decrease friction resistance.
[0067] <Construction of the Auxiliary Torque Imparting Unit>
[0068] like Figure 2E , Figure 3 As shown, the auxiliary torque imparting unit 7 has a force application mechanism 7A provided on the first hinge body 10 and a working member 100 (working unit) provided on the second hinge body 20.
[0069] <Construction of the force-applying mechanism>
[0070] As shown in Figures 4 to 7, the force-applying mechanism 7A includes: left and right support brackets 50 and 60 (first support bracket and second support bracket); a shaft 70 supported by the support brackets 50 and 60 and disposed on the rotation axis L; left and right rotating bodies 80 and 90 (first rotating body and second rotating body) rotatably supported on the shaft 70; a helical spring 75 wound around the shaft 70; and a cylindrical spacer 76 disposed between the shaft 70 and the helical spring 75. The support brackets 50 and 60 and the shaft 70 constitute a support unit S for supporting the helical spring 75.
[0071] like Figure 5 As shown, the left-side support bracket 50 has: a base plate portion 51, a boss portion 15 to be fixed to the left side of the first hinge body 10; and a support plate portion 52, which stands at a right angle to the base plate portion 51. The support plate portion 52 extends obliquely upward, and a stop member 53 is formed on the outer periphery of its front end, which bends at a right angle to the support plate portion 52. A screw insertion hole 51a and a boss insertion hole 51b are formed in the base plate portion 51. A circular support hole 52a is formed at the front end of the support plate portion 52.
[0072] like Figure 6 As shown, the support bracket 60 on the right side has: a base plate portion 61, a boss portion 15 to be fixed to the right side of the first hinge body 10; and a support plate portion 62, which stands at a right angle to the base plate portion 61. The support plate portion 62 extends obliquely upward, and a stop member 63 is formed on the outer periphery of its front end, which bends at a right angle to the support plate portion 62. A screw insertion hole 61a and a boss insertion hole 61b are formed in the base plate portion 61. A non-circular support hole 62a is formed at the front end of the support plate portion 62.
[0073] like Figure 4BAs shown, the shaft 70 has a circular cross-section except for its right end. The right end of the shaft 70 has a large diameter portion, which includes a non-circular insertion portion 71 that inserts into a non-circular support hole 62a of the right-side support bracket 60, and a circular flange portion 72 on the outer side of the insertion portion 71. The flange portion 72 abuts against the outer surface of the support plate portion 62 of the support bracket 60. The left end of the shaft 70 inserts into a circular support hole 52a of the left-side support bracket 50, and a push nut 73 is fitted to its outer end. Without the force-applying mechanism 7A being assembled to the first hinge body 10 as described later, the left and right support brackets 60 can rotate relative to each other via the shaft 70.
[0074] As shown in Figure 7, the left and right rotating bodies 80 and 90 are identical in shape. Each of these rotating bodies 80 and 90 has a rotating plate 81 and 91, and a cylindrical member 82 and 92 inserted and fixed to the rotating plate 81 and 91. Around the periphery of the rotating plates 81 and 91, locking parts 85 and 95, working part receiving parts 86 and 96, and spring receiving parts 87 and 97 are formed sequentially along the circumferential direction. The working part receiving parts 86 and 96 and the spring receiving parts 87 and 97 have a bent shape.
[0075] like Figure 4B As shown, the rotating bodies 80 and 90 are arranged facing each other, and the cylindrical bodies 82 and 92 are rotatably supported near both ends of the shaft 70. The cylindrical components 82 and 92 of the rotating bodies 80 and 90 are respectively inserted into the left and right ends of the main body of the helical spring 75. The rotating plates 81 and 91 of the rotating bodies 80 and 90 are respectively disposed inside the support plate portions 52 and 62 of the support brackets 50 and 60.
[0076] As described above, the rotating bodies 80 and 90 are arranged facing each other. Therefore, when viewed from the same direction along the axis of rotation L, for example, Figure 4D As shown when viewed from the right, in the rotating body 80 on the left, the locking part 85, the working part receiving part 86, and the spring receiving part 87 are arranged clockwise. In contrast, in the rotating body 90 on the right, the locking part 95, the working part receiving part 96, and the spring receiving part 97 are arranged counterclockwise.
[0077] The left working end 75a of the helical spring 75 is hooked on the spring receiving part 87 of the left rotating body 80, and the right working end 75b of the helical spring 75 is hooked on the spring receiving part 97 of the right rotating body 90.
[0078] like Figure 4EAs shown, when the helical spring 75 is in its natural state, the locking part 85 of the rotating body 80 abuts against the stop 53 of the support bracket 50, the locking part 95 of the rotating body 90 abuts against the stop 63 of the support bracket 60, and the left and right actuating ends 75a and 75b of the helical spring 75 abut against the spring receiving parts 87 and 97. In this state, the base plates 51 and 61 of the support brackets 50 and 60 are not on the same plane, but are offset by an angle α. When the force-applying mechanism 7A is fixed to the first hinge body 10 as described later, the base plates 51 and 61 will be arranged on the same plane, and the helical spring 75 will, for example, be in a state of torsion with a reduced diameter. As a result, when the second hinge body 20 is in the vertically upright position (reference rotation position) described later and the force of the working member 100 described later is not exerted, although the rotating bodies 80 and 90 are subjected to force in opposite directions by the elastic force of the coil spring 75 which is greater than zero, the rotation in the direction of the applied force is suppressed by the stop members 53 and 63 respectively.
[0079] Installation of the force-applying mechanism
[0080] After the basic structure and friction resistance imparting unit 40 are assembled as described above, the force application mechanism 7A, as... Figure 2B The force-applying mechanism 7A is fixed to the first hinge body 10. Specifically, the base plates 51 and 61 of the left and right support brackets 50 and 60 of the force-applying mechanism 7A are placed on the left and right bosses 15 of the first hinge body 10. The protrusion insertion holes 51b and 61b of the base plates 51 and 61 are fitted onto the protrusions 15b of the bosses 15. Screws 19 are screwed into the threaded holes 15a of the bosses 15 through the screw insertion holes 51a and 61a, thereby fixing the base plates 51 and 61 to the first hinge body 10. In this way, the force-applying mechanism 7A can be easily assembled to the first hinge body 10 independently of the rotary connection 30 connecting the first hinge body 10 and the friction resistance imparting unit 40.
[0081] <Installation of the Cover>
[0082] Next, as Figure 2C As shown, the cover 8 is assembled to the second hinge body 20. The cover 8 has: a mounting plate portion 8a, which is assembled to the base plate portion 21 of the second hinge body 20; and a curved cover portion 8b that protrudes from the base plate portion 21 and covers the coil spring 75. An opening 8c is formed in the mounting plate portion 8a to expose the boss portion 25 of the base plate portion 21 of the second hinge body 20.
[0083] <Construction and Installation of Working Components>
[0084] Next, as Figure 2DAs shown, the working member 100 of the auxiliary torque imparting unit 7 is fixed to the second hinge body 20. The working member 100 has: a base plate portion 101, which is elongated in the direction of the rotation axis; and working plate portions 102 and 103 (first working member and second working member), which stand at right angles from the left and right ends of the base plate portion 101. The base plate portion 101 has screw insertion holes 101a and protrusion insertion holes 101b near its left and right ends. The base plate portion 101 of the working member 100 is abutted against the left and right protrusion portions 25 of the second hinge body 20. The protrusion insertion holes 101b of the base plate portion 101 are fitted onto the protrusions 25b of the protrusion portions 25. Screws 29 are screwed from the screw insertion holes 101a into the threaded holes 25a of the protrusion portions 25, thereby fixing the base plate portion 101 to the second hinge body 20.
[0085] The left and right working plate portions 102 and 103 of the working member 100 have different shapes. The left working plate portion 102 has a triangular cutout 102a at its lower edge, and one side edge 102x of the cutout 102a (the side edge away from the base plate portion 101) is provided as an abutment portion to achieve the function described later. The front edge 103x of the right working plate portion 103 is provided as an abutment portion.
[0086] With the second hinge body 20 standing at a right angle to the first hinge body 10, the working member 100 is fixed to the second hinge body 20 as described above. At this time, the abutting portion 102x of the left working plate portion 102 contacts the working member receiving portion 86 of the left rotating body 80, and the abutting portion 103x of the right working plate portion 103 contacts the working member receiving portion 96 of the right rotating body 90 from the opposite side. In this way, the working member 100 can be easily fixed to the second hinge body 20.
[0087] <Installation of the hinge mechanism>
[0088] After the hinge device 5 is assembled, the first hinge body 10 is fixed to the upper wall 2a of the housing 2 by screws passing through the insertion hole 11a of the base plate portion 11 of the first hinge body 10, and the second hinge body 20 is fixed to the cover 3 by screws passing through the insertion hole 21a of the base plate portion 21 of the second hinge body 20.
[0089] <The function of hinge mechanism>
[0090] The function of the hinge device 5 that produces the above results will be explained with reference to Figures 1 and 8 to 12. Figures 1A to 1E This is a view of the entire hinge device 5 from the right side. Figures 8A to 12A , Figures 8B to 12BThis is a schematic diagram showing the left side and right side of the hinge device 5 as viewed from the right side. In the following description, clockwise (second direction) and counterclockwise (first direction) refer to the rotation direction of the hinge device 5 as viewed from the right side.
[0091] like Figures 8A to 12A As shown, the left-side actuating end 75a of the helical spring 75 always abuts against the spring receiving part 87 of the left-side rotating body 80 (first rotating body), applying force to the rotating body 80 in a counterclockwise direction. Figures 8B to 12B As shown, the right-side working end 75b of the helical spring 75 always abuts against the spring receiving part 97 of the right-side rotating body 90 (second rotating body), applying force to the rotating body 90 in a clockwise direction.
[0092] Figure 1C This indicates that the cover 3 is vertically upright and opened to a 90° angle (the second hinge body 20 is in a reference rotational position perpendicular to the first hinge body 20). In this state, as... Figure 10A As shown, the locking part 85 of the rotating body 80 on the left abuts against the stop 53 of the support bracket 50 on the left, suppressing counterclockwise rotation. Furthermore, as... Figure 10B As shown, the locking part 95 of the rotating body 90 on the right abuts against the stop 63 of the support bracket 60 on the right, suppressing clockwise rotation. Although the abutting parts 102x and 103x of the working plate parts 102 and 103 are in contact with the working part receiving parts 86 and 96 respectively, they do not push against the rotating bodies 80 and 90, and do not receive a reaction force from the rotating bodies 80 and 90. That is, the auxiliary torque given to the second hinge body 20 by the auxiliary torque giving unit 7 is zero. When the cover 3 is vertically upright, the torque generated by its own weight is also approximately zero. As a result, the second hinge body 20 and the cover 3 can stably maintain a vertically upright static state by utilizing the frictional resistance given by the frictional resistance giving unit 40.
[0093] Figure 1B This indicates that the opening angle of cover 3 has increased to 120° (the base plate portion 21 of the second hinge body 20 is at a 60° angle to the base plate portion 11 of the first hinge body 10). In this state, as... Figure 9A As shown, the abutting portion 102x of the left working plate portion 102 separates from the working part receiving portion 86 of the left rotating body 80, and the locking portion 85 of the rotating body 80 remains in contact with the stop member 53. Therefore, the rotating body 80 is maintained in the same position as the vertically upright state of the cover 3, and the position of the actuating end 75a of the coil spring 75 does not change. In contrast, as Figure 9BAs shown, the abutment portion 103x of the right-side working plate portion 103 pushes the working part receiving portion 96 of the right-side rotating body 90 in a counterclockwise direction (the direction separating from the stop member 63). Consequently, the spring receiving portion 97 of the rotating body 90 pushes the actuating end 75b of the coil spring 75, causing it to move in the same direction. As a result, the coil spring 75 twists in a reduced-diameter manner, and through its elastic force, it imparts a clockwise auxiliary torque T2 to the second hinge body 20 and the cover 3 via the rotating body 90 and the working plate portion 103, returning them to the vertically upright position.
[0094] Figure 1A This indicates that the opening angle of cover 3 has been further increased to 180° (the second hinge body 2 is in the second rotation limit position, that is, the base plate portion 21 of the second hinge body 20 is parallel to the base plate portion 11 of the first hinge body 10). In this state, as... Figure 8A As shown, the locking part 85 of the rotating body 80 on the left side remains in contact with the stop member 53, thus the rotating body 80 is maintained in the same position as the vertically upright state of the cover 3, and the position of the actuating end 75a of the coil spring 75 does not change. In contrast, as... Figure 8B As shown, the abutment portion 103x of the right-side working plate portion 103 further pushes the working part receiving portion 96 of the right-side rotating body 90 counterclockwise. As a result, the actuating end 75b of the coil spring 75 is pushed by the spring receiving portion 97 and moves further in the same direction. As a result, the coil spring 75 twists in a further reduced diameter manner, thus maximizing the auxiliary torque T2 imparted to the second hinge body 20 and the cover 3 in the clockwise direction toward the vertically upright position.
[0095] As described above, within an opening angle range exceeding 90° to 180°, an auxiliary torque is applied to the cover 3 in the opposite direction to the torque generated by the weight of the cover 3, acting in the direction of returning it to the vertical position. The torque generated by the weight of the cover 3 increases with increasing opening angle, but the auxiliary torque also increases with increasing opening angle. In this embodiment, the auxiliary torque is set to be approximately the same as the torque generated by its own weight. Therefore, even if the frictional resistance imparted by the frictional resistance imparting unit 40 is small, the cover 3 can be stably maintained in a stationary state at any rotational position. Furthermore, even if the cover 3 is heavy, because the auxiliary torque is applied and the frictional resistance is small, the cover 3 can be returned to the vertical position with a small operating force, thus reducing the operational burden of returning the cover 3 to the vertical position.
[0096] Figure 1D This indicates that, contrary to the above, the opening angle of cover 3 is reduced to 60° (the base plate portion 21 of the second hinge body 20 is at a 120° angle relative to the base plate portion 11 of the first hinge body 10). In this state, as... Figure 11BAs shown, the abutting portion 103x of the right-side working plate portion 103 separates from the working part receiving portion 96 of the right-side rotating body 90. The locking portion 95 of the rotating body 90 remains in contact with the stop member 63 of the right-side support bracket 60. Therefore, the rotating body 90 is maintained in the same position as the vertically upright state of the cover 3, and the position of the actuating end 75b of the coil spring 75 does not change. In contrast, as Figure 11A As shown, the abutment portion 102x of the left working plate portion 102 pushes the working part receiving portion 86 of the left rotating body 80 in a clockwise direction (the direction separating from the stop member 53). As a result, the actuating end 75a of the coil spring 75 is pushed by the spring receiving portion 87 and moves in the same direction. As a result, the coil spring 75 twists in the same way as described above, thus imparting an auxiliary torque T1 to the second hinge body 20 and the cover 3 in the direction of the vertically upright position, i.e., counterclockwise, via the rotating body 80 and the working plate portion 102.
[0097] Figure 1E This indicates that the opening angle of cover 3 is further reduced to 0° (the second hinge body 20 is in the first rotation limit position, that is, the base plate portion 21 of the second hinge body 20 is arranged on the same plane as the base plate portion 11 of the first hinge body 10). In this state, as Figure 12B As shown, the locking part 95 of the rotating body 90 remains in contact with the stop member 63, and the rotating body 90 is maintained in the same position as the vertically upright state of the cover 3, while the position of the actuating end 75b of the coil spring 75 does not change. In contrast, as... Figure 12A As shown, the abutting portion 102x of the working plate portion 102 on the left causes the working part receiving portion 86 of the rotating body 80 on the left to rotate further clockwise. Therefore, the actuating end 75a of the coil spring 75 is pushed by the spring receiving portion 87 and moves further in the same direction. As a result, the coil spring 75 twists in a further reduced diameter manner, thus the auxiliary torque T1 imparted to the cover 3 in the counterclockwise direction toward the vertically upright position becomes maximum.
[0098] When the cover 3 is in an angle range of 0° to 90°, similar to the case in the angle range of 90° to 180°, the auxiliary torque and the torque generated by the weight of the cover 3 are canceled out or reduced. Therefore, the cover 3 can be kept stationary in any rotational position by utilizing the small frictional resistance generated by the frictional resistance unit 40. In addition, the cover 3 can be returned to the vertical position with a small operating force.
[0099] As described above, the helical spring 75 generates auxiliary torque in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions by torsion with a reduced diameter, thus reducing user fatigue. It should be noted that, instead of reducing the diameter, the auxiliary torque can also be generated by torsion with an expanded diameter.
[0100] This invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications may be adopted without departing from its spirit.
[0101] In the aforementioned embodiments, the upper wall of the housing 2 may be inclined flush with the closed cover. In this case, the auxiliary torque may be zero when the cover is in a vertical position (when the cover is in a position at an acute angle to the upper wall).
[0102] The auxiliary torque imparting unit can also be configured such that when the second hinge body is in a predetermined angular range including the reference rotation position (a limited angular range narrower than the angular range between the first rotational limit position and the second rotational limit position), it does not impart auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in any direction. If described using the aforementioned embodiment, it is assumed that the abutment portions 102x and 103x of the first working plate portion 102 and the second working plate portion 103 do not abut against the working member receiving portions 86 and 96 of the first rotating body 80 and the second rotating body 90 within the aforementioned predetermined angular range.
[0103] In the aforementioned embodiments, the auxiliary torque is set to be approximately the same as the torque generated by the weight of the cover, but the auxiliary torque may also be greater than or less than the torque of the cover itself.
[0104] The friction resistance unit can also impart friction resistance to the extent that it inhibits the rotation of the second hinge body without bringing the second hinge body to a complete standstill.
[0105] In the above embodiments, the first rotational limit position and the second rotational limit position are determined by the contact between the first object and the second object, but these rotational limit positions can also be determined by the contact between the first hinge body and the second hinge body.
[0106] Alternatively, in the opposite embodiment described above, the force-applying mechanism of the auxiliary torque-granting unit can be located in the second hinge body and the working unit can be located in the first hinge body.
[0107] Frictional resistance can also be assigned to the rotating connection unit located on the left and right sides.
[0108] There can also be only one rotary connection unit. In this case, the force-applying mechanism is positioned on the side closest to the rotary connection unit.
[0109] The first support bracket and the second support bracket can also be formed from a single plate.
[0110] The first workpiece and the second workpiece can also be separate components.
[0111] The auxiliary torque imparting unit can also impart an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in only one direction toward the reference rotation position.
[0112] Alternatively, the working part can be configured to act directly on the working end of the helical spring.
[0113] The force-applying mechanism may also have a bracket (support unit) fixed to one of the first and second hinge bodies, a plate-like element, such as two springs, housed within the bracket, and a rotating body supported by the bracket, for example. The inner end of the rotating body is a cam, and its outer end is detachably connected to the front end of a working member (working unit) fixed to the other hinge body in a manner that prevents relative rotation. When the second object rotates relative to the first object, the working member causes the rotating body to rotate, and the cam of the rotating body elastically deforms the springs, thereby generating an auxiliary torque.
[0114] The hinge device of the present invention is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments and can be applied to various first and second objects. For example, it can also be applied to situations where a display (second object) is supported on a bracket (first object) in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the bracket (first object).
[0115] The axis of rotation of the hinge mechanism can also be vertical. In this case, the torque generated by the weight of the second object is zero, but the auxiliary torque can reduce the burden on the heavy second object during rotation.
[0116] Industrial availability
[0117] This invention can be applied to hinge devices that support particularly heavy rotating objects.
[0118] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures
[0119] 2: Housing (first object); 3: Cover (second object); 5: Hinge device; 7: Auxiliary torque imparting unit; 7A: Force applying mechanism; 10: First hinge body; 20: Second hinge body; 30L, 30R: Rotary connection unit; 40: Friction resistance imparting unit; 50: Left support bracket (first support bracket); 60: Right support bracket (second support bracket); 53, 63: Stop; 70: Shaft; 75: Helical spring; 80: Left rotating body (first rotating body); 90: Right rotating body (second rotating body); 85, 95: Locking part; 86, 96: Working part receiving part; 87, 97: Spring receiving part; 100: Working component (working unit); 102: Left working plate part (first working part); 103: Right working part (second working part); 102x, 103x: Abutment part; S: Support unit; L: Rotation axis.
Claims
1. A hinge device comprising: The first hinge body (10) is to be fixed to the first object (2); The second hinge body (20) is to be fixed to the second object (3); Rotary connecting units (30L, 30R) connect the first hinge body and the second hinge body so that they can rotate relative to each other about the rotation axis (L); The auxiliary torque imparting unit (7) imparts an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body toward the reference rotation position; and A friction resistance imposing unit (40), installed in the rotary connection unit, imparts friction resistance between the first hinge body and the second hinge body, causing the second object to remain stationary relative to the first object or suppressing the rotation of the second object at any rotational position including the reference rotational position. The hinge device is characterized in that... The auxiliary torque imparting unit (7) includes: a force applying mechanism (7A) disposed in one of the first hinge body and the second hinge body, and configured to be separate from the rotary connection unit (30L, 30R) in the direction of the rotation axis (L); and a working unit (100) disposed in the other hinge body. The working unit acts on the force-applying mechanism to generate the auxiliary torque. A pair of rotary connecting units (30L, 30R) are arranged spaced apart in the direction of the rotation axis. The friction resistance imparting unit (40) is installed in at least one of the pair of rotary connecting units, and the force applying mechanism (7A) is disposed between the pair of rotary connecting units. The force-applying mechanism (7A) includes: a helical spring (75); and a support unit (S) that supports the helical spring on the rotation axis (L). The working unit (100) acts directly or indirectly on the working end of the helical spring to twist the helical spring, thereby generating the auxiliary torque. The support unit (S) includes: a first support bracket and a second support bracket (50, 60), configured to be separated in the direction of the rotation axis (L) and fixed to the hinge body; and a shaft (70), supported by the first support bracket and the second support bracket and configured on the rotation axis, with the helical spring (75) wound around the shaft. At least one rotating body (80, 90) that engages with the helical spring (75) is rotatably supported on the shaft (70). The working unit (100) has at least one working element (102, 103) through which the at least one rotating body is rotated, and the helical spring is twisted as the at least one rotating body rotates, thereby generating the auxiliary torque.
2. The hinge device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one rotating body is rotated by the working unit, and as it rotates, the helical spring is elastically deformed, thereby generating the auxiliary torque.
3. A hinge device, comprising: The first hinge body (10) is to be fixed to the first object (2); The second hinge body (20) is to be fixed to the second object (3); Rotary connecting units (30L, 30R) connect the first hinge body and the second hinge body so that they can rotate relative to each other about the rotation axis (L); The auxiliary torque imparting unit (7) imparts an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body toward the reference rotation position; and A friction resistance imposing unit (40), installed in the rotary connection unit, imparts friction resistance between the first hinge body and the second hinge body, causing the second object to remain stationary relative to the first object or suppressing the rotation of the second object at any rotational position including the reference rotational position. The hinge device is characterized in that... The auxiliary torque imparting unit (7) includes: a force applying mechanism (7A) disposed in one of the first hinge body and the second hinge body, and configured to be separate from the rotary connection unit (30L, 30R) in the direction of the rotation axis (L); and a working unit (100) disposed in the other hinge body. The working unit acts on the force-applying mechanism to generate the auxiliary torque. The second hinge body (20) is rotatable relative to the first hinge body (10) between a first rotational limit position and a second rotational limit position, wherein the reference rotational position is located midway between the first rotational limit position and the second rotational limit position. When the second hinge body is located closer to the first rotational limit position than the reference rotational position, the auxiliary torque applying unit (7) applies an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in a first direction toward the reference rotational position. When the second hinge body is located closer to the second rotational limit position than the reference rotational position, the auxiliary torque applying unit (7) applies an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in a second direction opposite to the first direction toward the reference rotational position. A pair of rotary connecting units (30L, 30R) are arranged spaced apart in the direction of the rotation axis. The friction resistance imparting unit (40) is installed in at least one of the pair of rotary connecting units, and the force applying mechanism (7A) is disposed between the pair of rotary connecting units. The force-applying mechanism (7A) includes: a first support bracket and a second support bracket (50, 60), fixed to the hinge body and separated in the direction of the rotation axis (L); a shaft (70), supported by the first support bracket and the second support bracket and disposed on the rotation axis; a helical spring (75), wound around the shaft; and a first rotating body and a second rotating body (80, 90), disposed on both sides of the helical spring (75) and rotatably supported on the shaft. The working unit (100) includes a first working piece and a second working piece (102, 103) separated in the direction of the rotation axis. When the second hinge body (20) is located at the first rotation limit position, the first working part (102) acts on the first rotating body (80) to impart an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in the first direction. When the second hinge body is located at the second rotation limit position, the second working part (103) acts on the second rotating body (90) and imparts an auxiliary torque toward the second hinge body in the second direction.
4. The hinge device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first support bracket and the second support bracket (50, 60) are respectively equipped with a first stop and a second stop (53, 63). The first rotating body and the second rotating body (80, 90) each have a first locking part and a second locking part (85, 95) arranged in a circumferentially separated manner, a first working part receiving part and a second working part receiving part (86, 96), and a first spring receiving part and a second spring receiving part (87, 97). The first spring receiving portion (87) of the first rotating body (80) receives an actuating end (75a) of the helical spring and is subjected to force in the first direction, and the first locking portion (85) is locked to the first stop (53) of the first support bracket (50), thereby restricting the rotation of the first rotating body (80) in the first direction. The second spring receiving portion (97) of the second rotating body (90) receives the other working end (75b) of the helical spring and is forced in the second direction, and the second locking portion (95) is locked to the second stop (63) of the second support bracket (60), thereby restricting the rotation of the second rotating body (90) in the second direction. When the second hinge body (20) is located at the first rotation limit position, the first working part (102) pushes the first working part receiving part (86) of the first rotating body (80) in the second direction, causing it to separate from the first stop (53) of the first support bracket (50), thereby imparting an auxiliary torque to the second hinge body in the first direction. When the second hinge body is located at the second rotation limit position, the second working part (103) pushes the second working part receiving part (96) of the second rotating body (90) in the first direction to separate it from the second stop (63) of the second support bracket (60), thereby giving the second hinge body an auxiliary torque toward the second direction.