Bell Crank Hinge Mechanism for Flush Computing Device Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Notebook computer manufacturers face challenges in designing hinges that allow for clearance and smooth operation without compromising the compactness of the device, as traditional hinges require significant space and gaps in the base and display members.
Innovation Solution
A hinge mechanism with a virtual pivot axis that conceals within the base member, allowing the display and base members to be mounted flush, featuring a rotation assembly with adjustable resistance and telescoping guide rails to enable smooth opening and closing while maintaining a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional hinges are used to connect display and base members, then the hinge mechanism can provide rotation and movement functionality, but the hinge requires significant space and creates gaps in the base and display members, compromising the compact design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the hinge mechanism from the traditional location within the device body and relocates it to the exterior, specifically mounting the hinge on the base member so that it protrudes outward. This allows the hinge to perform its rotation function while being positioned outside the compact device envelope, thus maintaining the compact design without gaps in the base and display members.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the hinge mechanism from a two-dimensional planar arrangement (within the device body) to a three-dimensional exterior configuration. By mounting the hinge on the base member and allowing it to protrude outward, the solution utilizes the third dimension (depth/protrusion) to accommodate the hinge mechanism without compromising the compact footprint of the device.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional hinges with physical pivot points are used, then the hinge mechanism can be mounted within the device body, but significant gaps and cutouts are required in the base and display members to accommodate the hinge components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the hinge mechanism from the interior space of the device and relocates it to the exterior, mounting it on the base member. This eliminates the need for gaps and cutouts in the base and display members, allowing for flush mounting and a cleaner appearance while maintaining ease of manufacture through external hinge attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate mounting structure where the hinge is attached to the base member rather than being integrated into both base and display members. This intermediary mounting approach allows the hinge to function as a separate component that connects the display member to the base member externally, eliminating the need for complex internal integration and flush mounting gaps.
3Shape
If the hinge mechanism is positioned outside the device body, then flush mounting of base and display members is achieved, but the hinge mechanism must be concealed when the device is closed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the hinge mechanism movable relative to the base member. The hinge can be positioned in different locations along the base member and can be concealed or exposed as needed. This dynamic positioning allows the hinge to be mounted externally for flush mounting appearance while being concealable when the device is closed, reducing the need for complex permanent concealment structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by pre-positioning the hinge mechanism on the base member in a location that allows it to be concealed when the device is closed. The hinge is mounted in advance at a strategic position where it can be covered or hidden by the base member structure, eliminating the need for additional complex concealment mechanisms while achieving the flush mounting appearance.
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
Enables flush mounting of display and base members without gaps, providing adjustable viewing angles and consistent torque resistance, enhancing the compactness and usability of notebook computers.
Implementation Method 1
A hinge mechanism may include a bell crank at one end, that is tied to a link tied to a guide rail of the hinge mechanism. As such, the bell crank and the link may bridge the offset between the hinge mechanism and the rotation assembly, allowing both to rotate freely but along two different paths.
Data Source
AI summary
Examples disclosed herein provide a hinge mechanism to pivotally connect housings of a computing device along an axis. As an example, the hinge mechanism includes a first guide rail fixed to a first housing of the computing device, a second guide rail fixed to a second housing of the computing device, and an intermediate guide rail to connect the first and second guide rails to each other. As an example, the hinge mechanism includes a rotation assembly linked to the first guide rail via a bell crank, wherein a rotational axis of the rotation assembly is offset from the axis, and the rotation assembly is to provide a level of resistance to a torque provided when opening or closing the first housing with respect to the second housing.