Actuator Hinge Structure for Foldable Devices Without Cam Wear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face issues with frictional wear and dust generation due to cam operations, leading to restricted holding angles and deteriorating smoothness over time.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure using actuators to control folding and unfolding, eliminating the need for cam structures and elastic members, allowing for easy angle adjustments and improved durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If cam structures and elastic members are used to provide free-stop function, then holding angles are restricted, but frictional wear and dust generation occur leading to deteriorating smoothness over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the cam structure and elastic member from the hinge mechanism, extracting the source of frictional wear and dust generation. The free-stop function is achieved through a different mechanism that does not involve these components, thereby eliminating the deterioration of smoothness over time while maintaining adaptability in holding angles
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional cam-based mechanical system with an alternative mechanism that uses a support component and connection mechanism. This substitution eliminates the frictional contact between cam surfaces and elastic members, preventing wear and dust generation while preserving the ability to hold at various angles
2Ease of operation
If cam structures are used to enable folding and unfolding, then free-stop function is provided, but frictional wear leads to restricted holding angles
Solution Approach 1:
The cam structure is completely removed from the design, extracting the source of frictional wear that restricts holding angles. The free-stop function is maintained through the support component and connection mechanism, which provide stopping capability without the wear issues of cam-based systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simpler connection mechanism that does not rely on wear-prone cam surfaces. The support component and connection mechanism are designed to maintain their functionality over time without the degradation that occurs in cam-based systems, effectively providing a durable alternative to short-lived cam structures
3Ease of operation
If cam structures and elastic members are used, then folding and unfolding is enabled, but dust generation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The cam structure and elastic member are removed from the system, extracting the source of dust generation caused by frictional wear. The folding and unfolding operation is achieved through the alternative support component and connection mechanism that do not produce dust
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the cam-based mechanical system with a non-contact or minimal-contact mechanism. This substitution eliminates the frictional wear that generates dust, while maintaining the folding and unfolding functionality through the support component and connection mechanism
Data Source
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AI summary
A hinge structure for a foldable electronic device, according to various embodiments of the present invention, may comprise: a first rotating member (211) which is fastened to a first housing of a foldable electronic device; a second rotating member (212) which is fastened to a second housing of the foldable electronic device; a first arm (221) which is disposed adjacent to the first rotating member and at least a part of which is inserted into a first rotating shaft; a second arm (222) which is disposed adjacent to the second rotating member and at least a part of which is inserted into a second rotating shaft; a first link (271) which connects the first rotating member to the first arm; a second link (272) which connects the second rotating member to the second arm; a first actuator (261) which is connected to the first link and provides a rotational force; and a second actuator (262) which is connected to the second link and provides a rotational force.