Disassemblable Hinge Two-Step Catch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disassemblable hinges are not safe for use on pressurized hatches or when mounted in ceilings, as they can swing abruptly and pose a risk to maintenance staff, and they lack flexibility in opening from either side or being completely removed for maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A disassemblable hinge with a latching member and hinge member that includes a catch with a hinge slot, allowing for a two-step operation to safely open the hinge, providing an air-tight closure and allowing maintenance staff to choose the side for opening, with a catch that moves between closed and disengaged states to control the hinge's release, ensuring the hatch opens gradually and safely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a disassemblable hinge is used to allow opening from either side, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety deteriorates due to risk of abrupt swinging on pressurized hatches or ceiling-mounted doors
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge release mechanism is segmented into two distinct steps: first releasing the catch from the hinge pin (allowing controlled opening), and second completely disassembling the hinge. This segmentation allows operators to safely open pressurized hatches by first equalizing pressure before full removal, eliminating the danger of abrupt swinging while maintaining bidirectional opening capability
Solution Approach 2:
The first step of the two-step mechanism performs a preliminary action by releasing the catch from the hinge pin while maintaining the hinge assembly intact. This preliminary release allows controlled opening and pressure equalization before complete disassembly, preventing harmful abrupt movements while enabling safe operation on pressurized or ceiling-mounted doors
2Device complexity
If a simple hinge release mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the safety deteriorates due to inability to control the opening process on pressurized hatches
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is divided into two sequential operations: releasing the catch from the hinge pin, and completely disassembling the hinge. This segmentation provides controlled opening capability for pressurized hatches without requiring complex additional components, as the existing catch and hinge pin structure enables the two-step process
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism uses its existing components (catch, hinge pin, and hinge slot) to provide the safety function through proper operational sequence. The catch's movement within the hinge slot and its engagement with the hinge pin naturally enables the two-step release process without requiring external control systems or additional complex mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a disassemblable hinge (1) having a latching member (2), adapted to be associated with an openable door (20), and a hinge member (3), adapted to be associated with a corresponding door frame (21). The latching member (2) comprises a main body (4) and a catch (5), wherein said main body (4) comprises a hinge slot (6) adapted to receive said hinge member (3), wherein said catch (5) is rotatably engageable with said hinge member (3) around a first axis (A1). The catch (5) is movable between a closed state and an open state, and into a disengaged state. The catch (5) and said hinge slot (6) defines a space (14) for housing said hinge member, wherein said catch (5), in its closed state, locks said hinge member (3) in said space (14). The space (14) is expanded when said catch (5) is moved from said closed state to said disengaged state. The catch (5) is moved from said disengaged state to said open state by rotating said catch (5) around a second axis (A2), thereby releasing said hinge member (3) from said space (14). Thereby a disassemblable hinge is provided enabling a secure opening operation in a two step maneuver.