Adjustable Torque Hinge Module for Thin and Light Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hinge modules for notebook computers have unadjustable torque values, limiting their application to specific device specifications and restricting manufacturing flexibility, and they often have a large volume due to single-side connections, which is unfavorable for miniaturization.
Innovation Solution
A hinge module with a housing containing two accommodation spaces and a carrying assembly that includes a torque element, rotation shafts, and brackets, allowing for adjustable torque by varying the number of carrying assemblies, enabling connection of two bodies with adjustable torque for different device types and reducing overall thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single carrying assembly is used in the hinge module, then the torque applied between the two bodies is smaller making it easier to expand or close the bodies, but the hinge module cannot provide sufficient torque for thick and heavy bodies
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge module allows dynamic configuration of the carrying assembly number (one or two) based on the specific application requirements. This dynamic adaptability enables the same hinge module structure to provide different torque levels, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and sufficient torque by allowing users to select the appropriate configuration for their specific use case.
2Ease of manufacture
If the hinge module is designed with fixed torque values, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it is not suitable for notebook computers with different specifications and demands
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge module is segmented into modular components, with the carrying assembly being a detachable and configurable module. This segmentation allows the same basic hinge structure to be adapted to different torque requirements by simply adding or removing carrying assemblies, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving versatility across different device specifications.
3Device complexity
If the hinge module uses a single-side connection mechanism, then the structure is simple, but the hinge module receives uneven force and has a large volume which is unfavorable for miniaturization
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge module merges the carrying assembly with the housing structure, where the carrying assembly is disposed within the housing and integrates with the overall structure. This merging reduces the overall volume of the hinge module while maintaining structural simplicity, as the carrying assembly shares space with the housing rather than adding separate external components.
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge module includes a housing and at least one carrying assembly. The housing includes two accommodation spaces. The at least one carrying assembly is disposed at the housing and includes a torque element, two rotation shafts and two brackets. The torque element is disposed in one of the accommodation spaces. The two rotation shafts pass through the torque element. The two brackets are respectively connected to the two rotation shafts and located outside the housing. Each bracket is adapted to rotate along with the corresponding rotation shaft and rotate relative to the torque element.