Bistable Pivot Hinge Using Elastic Tension for Stable Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional hinges lack stability in either an open or closed position, failing to efficiently maintain structures in desired configurations without external forces.
Innovation Solution
A bistable hinge mechanism utilizing an elastic element and pivot structure, which biases the hinge to stable open or closed states through tension changes in the elastic element, ensuring equilibrium in these positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional hinge is used to allow rotation between open and closed positions, then the structure can move freely, but the hinge cannot maintain stable equilibrium in either the open or closed position without external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge employs a bistable mechanism that dynamically transitions between two stable states (open and closed positions). The system uses an elastic element that stores and releases energy to enable automatic transition between positions, making the hinge self-stabilizing without requiring external forces to maintain either state.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element changes its physical state (tension/compression) based on the hinge position, creating two distinct stable parameter states. When the hinge is in the open position, the elastic element is in one state; when closed, it transitions to another state, with each state providing stable equilibrium through different energy configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge is designed to be balanced and neutral, then it can rotate freely between positions, but it lacks preference for any specific position (open or closed)
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge design introduces asymmetry through the elastic element's attachment points and geometry, creating unequal energy states for different positions. This asymmetric configuration ensures that the open and closed positions are energetically favorable while intermediate positions are unstable, giving the hinge a clear preference for extreme positions rather than neutral equilibrium.
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 bistable hinge maintains structures in stable open or closed positions, reducing the need for external forces to keep them in desired configurations.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element attached to the first rotating surface and the second rotating surface; wherein: as the first and second rotating surfaces rotate, a tension in the elastic element changes
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein take the form of a bistable hinge. The bistable hinge typically includes an elastic element and a pair of rigid structures. Each rigid structure in the illustrated embodiment includes a pair of pivot cylinders connected to a rotating surface, as well as a detent formed on a portion of the rotating surface. The elastic element is retained by the detent, such that the spring force of the elastic element, when stretched, is transmitted to the rigid structure. The rigid structure may incorporate any suitable protrusions, retainers, or the like around which the elastic element extends in lieu of the illustrated detents. As the elastic element is stretched during operation of the hinge, the elastic element maintains contact with the detents. Further, as the hinge transitions from a closed state to an open state, the detents stretch the elastic element, thereby applying tension to it.