Adjustable Switching Hinge With Coded Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing switching hinges cannot be adapted to different mounting situations once the switching point is defined, requiring disassembly and reassembly during installation, and lack protection against external manipulation.

Innovation Solution

A switching hinge with an adjustable connection element between the switching element and the hinge flap, allowing for flexible adjustment of the switching point, protected from external access to prevent manipulation, enabling easy adaptation to various installation scenarios.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the switching point is fixed after definition to ensure security against manipulation, then the switching hinge cannot be adapted to different installation situations, but if it is made adjustable, then it becomes vulnerable to external manipulation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different installation situationsVSAvoidvulnerability to external manipulation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The switching hinge is divided into separate functional modules: the hinge body, the switching mechanism, and the adjustment device. The adjustment device can be independently accessed and modified without disassembling the entire hinge assembly, allowing switching point adjustment while maintaining security of the main assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A coded locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the adjustment device and the switching mechanism. This intermediary requires a specific code or key to access and modify the switching point, preventing unauthorized manipulation while allowing legitimate adjustments by authorized personnel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If diverse equipment and safeguards are disassembled for transport and installation adaptation, then the switching hinge can be adapted to different localities, but then the complexity and time required for installation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different localitiesVSAvoidcomplexity of disassembly and reassembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge body and switching mechanism are designed as universal components that remain assembled and fixed. Only the adjustment device needs to be modified for different installations, allowing the same main assembly to be used across multiple locations without complete disassembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment device incorporates dynamic elements that allow for flexible reconfiguration. The coded locking mechanism can be opened and reconfigured multiple times without affecting the permanent components, enabling easy adaptation to different installation requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the switching point is protected from external access to prevent manipulation, then security is improved, but then the ability to adjust and reuse the switching hinge is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against manipulationVSAvoidease of adjustment and reuse
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The coded locking mechanism serves as a controlled intermediary that provides security while allowing authorized access. It requires a specific code or key to unlock, preventing unauthorized manipulation but enabling legitimate users to adjust and reuse the switching hinge when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment device is designed to be self-contained with its own locking and unlocking mechanism. Authorized users can perform adjustments themselves using the coded access system without requiring external tools or assistance, maintaining both security and ease of repair.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7238900B2Switching hinge
Publication Date: 2007.07.03 BERNSTEIN AG
  • US7238900B2 patent drawing
  • US7238900B2 patent drawing
  • US7238900B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A switching hinge having a hinge housing at which a hinge flap is swivellably disposed about an axis. A switching element is coupled to the hinge flap, which switching element triggers a switching operation at a built-in switch in a predetermined position of the hinge flap.