Compact Hinge Torque Structure for Vibration-Stable Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge mechanisms in electronic devices, such as laptop PCs, face challenges in generating sufficient rotational torque while maintaining a small diameter and preventing vibration between chassis, especially with configurations that require large diameters or complex manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A hinge device with a shaft pivotally supported by a bearing, featuring a first torque application unit applying frictional force to the shaft's peripheral surface and a second torque application unit applying frictional force in the axial direction, sharing rotational torque to generate sufficient torque without needing large diameters or complex manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a biaxial hinge configuration with shafts in both chassis is used to generate rotational torque, then sufficient torque can be generated, but the diameter becomes larger which is not desirable for thinning the electronic apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The torque application mechanism is segmented into two separate units: a first torque application unit that applies frictional force to the peripheral surface of the shaft, and a second torque application unit that applies frictional force in the axial direction. This segmentation allows each unit to contribute to torque generation independently, enabling sufficient total torque with smaller individual components, thus reducing the overall diameter of the hinge device
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes different spatial dimensions for torque application: the first torque application unit operates in the radial direction by contacting the peripheral surface of the shaft, while the second torque application unit operates in the axial direction. By distributing torque generation across multiple dimensions rather than relying on a single large-diameter configuration, the hinge device achieves sufficient torque with a reduced overall diameter
2Force
If a curled bracket wound around a shaft is used to generate sliding resistance, then rotational torque can be generated, but the curled portion must be long in the axial direction and require high straightness of the shaft portion, making manufacturing difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The torque generation function is divided between two separate torque application units with different structural configurations. The first unit uses a bracket that fits around the shaft periphery, while the second unit applies axial friction. This segmentation eliminates the need for a single complex curled structure, reducing manufacturing difficulty while maintaining adequate torque generation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameters of torque application by using two different friction mechanisms: peripheral surface friction and axial friction. This parameter diversification allows for simpler structural implementations compared to a single curled bracket design, as each unit can be manufactured with more straightforward geometries and tolerances
3Force
If a curled elastic portion is used in the hinge mechanism, then rotational torque can be generated, but vibration is likely to occur between the two chassis
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the elastic curled portion with two friction-based torque application units that provide more stable mechanical contact. The first unit applies friction through peripheral surface contact while the second applies axial friction, both providing stable torque generation without the elastic deformation and vibration characteristics of curled spring structures
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 solution allows for the generation of sufficient torque with a smaller diameter, reducing vibration and facilitating easier manufacturing, while maintaining stability and enabling thinner device designs.
Implementation Method 1
a first torque application unit configured to apply a frictional force to a peripheral surface of the shaft by fitting the shaft to the first torque application unit
Implementation Method 2
a second torque application unit configured to apply a frictional force to the shaft in an axial direction
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is a hinge device capable of generating sufficient torque while having a small diameter and suppressing vibration between chassis. The hinge device includes a shaft that is pivotally supported by a bearing portion and is rotatable, a first torque application unit configured to apply a frictional force to a peripheral surface of the shaft by fitting the shaft to the first torque application unit, and a second torque application unit configured to apply a frictional force to the shaft in an axial direction. The second torque application unit includes a flange that is formed on the shaft and abuts onto one end of the bearing portion, and a nut that is screwed to a male screw portion of the shaft and is tightened to the other end of the bearing portion via washers and a disc.