Balanced Hinge Brake with Variable Friction by Opening Angle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge devices for appliances with springs to balance door weight and control opening/closing speed are not easily controllable or programmable, are overly complex, and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A balanced hinge device with a programmable brake that adjusts braking effect based on the opening angle, using a kinematic system with a helical spring and a through slot with varying width to modulate friction, allowing for customizable braking profiles during production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a constant frictional braking element is used, then the braking effect is simple to implement, but it is not easily controllable or programmable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the braking element's friction characteristics variable rather than constant. The friction means includes a rod that moves through a slot with varying width, allowing the braking effect to change dynamically based on the door's opening angle. This enables programmable braking profiles while maintaining mechanical simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameter of the slot width along the rod's path to modulate friction. By designing the slot with non-uniform width, the braking force varies as the rod moves through different positions during door operation, enabling customizable braking curves without complex control systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex braking control systems are implemented, then braking programmability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-service by designing a passive mechanical system where the varying slot geometry automatically provides the desired braking profile without requiring external control systems, sensors, or power sources. The system serves itself through its geometric design, eliminating the need for complex electronic braking control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive complex braking control systems with a simple, inexpensive geometric feature (the slot shape) that can be manufactured as part of the hinge structure. This approach prioritizes manufacturing simplicity and low cost over programmable flexibility, achieving a practical compromise.
3Adaptability or versatility
If friction means with varying slot width is used, then braking effect can be programmed according to opening angle, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-programming the braking profile into the slot geometry during manufacturing. The desired braking curve is embedded in the slot's shape before the hinge is assembled and installed, allowing the braking behavior to be predetermined and consistent without requiring field adjustment or complex tolerances during operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device provides a reliable, durable, and cost-effective solution with adjustable braking that meets specific needs by varying friction based on the opening angle, ensuring consistent performance and simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
interconnected by kinematic means 11 having an arm 8 pivoted via a second pivot pin 9 to the first connecting member 4. The kinematic means 11 also has elastic means 7 consisting, for example, of a helical spring working in compression
Implementation Method 2
elastic means 7 consisting, for example, of a helical spring working in compression having a fixed end in abutment with a cup or the like of the second connection member
Implementation Method 3
The second connecting member 5 bears a friction means 3 slidably engaged with friction in the through slot 2. The width of the through slot 2 varies from a value approximately equal to or slightly greater than the transverse dimension of the not deformed rod 30 to a value smaller than said not deformed diameter
Data Source
AI summary
A balanced hinge device with a programmable brake for household appliances has first and second connection members (4, 5) mutually pivoted through a first pivot pin (6) and interconnected by a kinematic device (11) having an arm (8), pivoted via a second pivot pin (9) to one of the two members (4, 5). The arm (8) and one of the two members (4, 5) has a through slot (2) and the other member has a friction element (3) slidably frictionally engaged with the through slot (2) which is approximately shaped to follow a trajectory of the friction element (3) between a full closed condition (C) and a full open condition (A).