Clamshell Hinge Mechanism With Elastic Friction And Position-Locking Groove

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional clamshell device hinge mechanisms are either too large in volume or lack position-limiting functionality, limiting their use in compact designs.

Innovation Solution

A hinge mechanism comprising a main body with a shaft and elastic component, where the elastic component generates friction and includes a groove for engaging with a projecting part to achieve position-limiting, using a base with a stop structure to fix the elastic component and adjust torque strength.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If washer type hinge mechanism with stack washers and concave-convex wheels is used, then position-limiting effect is achieved, but volume becomes too large

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition-limiting effectVSAvoidhinge mechanism volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the friction generation function (elastic component) and position-limiting function (groove and protrusion engagement) into a single integrated hinge mechanism structure, eliminating the need for separate stack washers and concave-convex wheels, thereby achieving both position-limiting effect and compact size

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic component is nested within the hinge mechanism body, with the groove and protrusion structures integrated into the existing components, allowing the position-limiting mechanism to be contained within the compact hinge structure without increasing overall volume

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of stationary object

If double-pack type hinge mechanism with sleeve and main body is used, then volume is reduced, but position-limiting effect is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehinge mechanism volumeVSAvoidposition-limiting effect

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the compact sleeve-main body structure with integrated groove and protrusion features, merging the friction-based torque generation and position-limiting functions into one unified mechanism that maintains small volume while achieving reliable position-limiting effect

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic component automatically engages the groove and protrusion structures to provide position-limiting effect without requiring additional actuators or complex control mechanisms, enabling the hinge to self-regulate its position

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If multiple separate components (stack washers, concave-convex wheels) are used, then torque and position-limiting are achieved, but manufacturing cost and component count increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque and position-limiting functionalityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost and component count

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple separate components (stack washers, concave-convex wheels) into a single integrated hinge mechanism with elastic component and groove-protrusion structures, reducing component count and simplifying manufacturing processes while maintaining torque and position-limiting functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic component serves multiple functions simultaneously: generating friction-based torque, providing position-limiting through groove-protrusion engagement, and maintaining structural integrity, thereby replacing multiple specialized components with one multi-functional element

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 a compact, position-limiting clamshell device with adjustable torque, reducing manufacturing costs and component count, while allowing for precise angle maintenance and automatic engagement.

Implementation Method 1

An internal diameter of the elastic component matches with an outer diameter of the shaft so as to generate a friction force. The first cover can be maintained at any angle by the friction force.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

The elastic component comprises a groove used for connecting with the projecting part when the main body rotates to a specific angle.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8578559B2Hinge mechanism and clamshell device thereof

Publication Date: 2013.11.12 WISTRON CORP

AI summary

A hinge mechanism and a clamshell device thereof are disclosed. The clamshell device includes a first cover and a second cover and the first cover can rotate with respect to the second cover via the hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism includes a main body, an elastic component, and a base. The main body is connected to the first cover and includes a shaft and a projecting part. The elastic component covers the shaft. An internal diameter of the elastic component matches with an outer diameter of the shaft so as to generate a friction force. The first cover can be maintained at any angle by the friction force. The elastic component has a groove used for connecting with the projecting part when the main body rotates to a specific angle. The base is connected to the second cover and has a stop structure used for fixing the elastic component.