Computing Device Dual-Pivot Hinge for Stable 180-Degree Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing devices with hinge assemblies are limited in their ability to maintain stable open positions, particularly at 180 degrees, often obstructing rear features like ports and vents, and lack a smooth, controlled transition between closed and open configurations.
Innovation Solution
A hinge assembly with a dual pivot mechanism featuring a uni-directional bearing and a hinge link with a stop surface, allowing a two-stage opening and locking mechanism to stabilize the display housing at a predefined open position, ensuring smooth operation and access to rear features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional hinge assembly is used to connect housing assemblies, then the device can open and close, but it cannot maintain stable open positions and obstructs rear features like ports and vents
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is segmented into multiple functional components: a hinge link with first and second portions, pivots at each end, and a bearing. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function - the hinge link provides structural connection, the pivots enable rotation, and the bearing stabilizes the assembly at predefined positions, resolving the contradiction between stability and accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly transitions from a static connection to a dynamic system with controlled movement. The bearing enables the hinge link to rotate freely between closed and open positions, then dynamically locks at predefined positions (including 180 degrees) to maintain stability. This dynamic behavior allows the device to switch between operational states while maintaining both accessibility and stability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge assembly allows full rotation between closed and fully open positions, then the device can access all configurations, but it lacks smooth controlled transition and cannot lock at intermediate positions
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing is pre-configured with predefined positions that correspond to specific angular orientations of the hinge link. As the hinge assembly transitions from closed to open, the bearing preliminarily prepares to engage at these predefined positions, providing smooth controlled transition and automatic locking without requiring additional actuators or complex mechanisms
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 stable, controlled opening and closing of computing device housings, maintaining access to rear features and providing a smooth, ergonomic user experience by locking the hinge link at a predefined open position, enhancing usability and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a bearing coupled to the pivot of the first housing, where, upon transitioning the second housing with respect to the first housing between a closed position and a fully open position, at a predefined open position, the stop contacts the stop surface and the bearing locks the hinge link in a locked link position
Data Source
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AI summary
A device can include a first housing that includes a pivot and a hinge recess that includes a stop surface; a second housing that includes a pivot and a hinge recess; a hinge link that includes a first portion coupled to the pivot of the first housing, a second portion coupled to the pivot of the second housing, and a concave portion disposed between the first portion and the second portion, where the concave portion includes a stop; and a bearing coupled to the pivot of the first housing, where, upon transitioning the second housing with respect to the first housing between a closed position and a fully open position, at a predefined open position, the stop contacts the stop surface and the bearing locks the hinge link in a locked link position.