Collapsible Disc Hinge Stability via Friction Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing expandable accessories with living hinges lack a reliable mechanism to maintain stability in both expanded and collapsed configurations, often requiring external forces to switch between these states and do not effectively utilize the space between sections.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible device featuring rotating hinges connected by living hinges and an exterior cover, which allows the top and bottom sections to adjust between parallel and acute angles, utilizing frictional pins and sliding mechanisms to maintain the expanded or collapsed state, and can be surrounded by either non-resilient or resilient covers to enhance stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a living hinge is used to connect sections, then the device can repeatedly bend and remain connected, but the device lacks stability in expanded and collapsed configurations
Solution Approach 1:
A friction pin is introduced as an intermediary element between the top and bottom sections of the rotating hinge. This pin creates frictional engagement that acts as a mediator to maintain stable configurations, preventing the sections from collapsing or over-extending while allowing controlled movement between states.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction pin changes the mechanical parameters of the hinge system by introducing friction-based resistance. This parameter change allows the hinge to maintain position at specific angles (collapsed and expanded states) without requiring external forces, transforming the hinge from an unstable flexible connection to a stable adjustable mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the rotating hinge allows free movement between sections, then the device is easy to expand and collapse, but external forces are required to switch between states
Solution Approach 1:
The friction pin enables the hinge to serve itself by maintaining stable configurations without external support. Once the hinge is moved to either the collapsed or expanded state, the friction pin automatically engages to hold the position, eliminating the need for external forces to maintain stability during normal operation.
3Device complexity
If the space between sections is not utilized, then the structure is simpler, but the device does not effectively manage structural integrity
Solution Approach 1:
An exterior cover is introduced as a flexible shell that surrounds the rotating hinge mechanism. This cover utilizes the space between the top and bottom sections, providing structural support and maintaining the device's integrity when collapsed or expanded, while keeping the overall design relatively simple.
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 efficiently transitions between expanded and collapsed states while maintaining stability, utilizing frictional mechanisms to prevent unintended movement, and can be designed with multiple equidistant rotating hinges to create an enclosed space, effectively managing the structural integrity and usability of the accessory.
Implementation Method 1
The frictional pin and each living hinge cause the collapsible device in the second condition to remain in the second condition when the collapsible device is left to rest
Data Source
AI summary
Two circular discs are collapsible towards each other and expandable away from each other by way of rotatable hinge(s) situated there-between which move the circular discs towards and away from each other. The rotatable hinge(s) are connected to the circular discs by way of living hinges. The rotable hinge(s) may be surrounded by a cloth or plastic cover which can be non-resilient or resilient, such a cover further connected in a circular manner to each disc.