Laptop Display Hinge Locking Structure for Interference-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly process of conventional laptop display modules is inefficient due to the mechanical interference caused by the U-shaped hinge member, leading to increased production costs.
Innovation Solution
A hinge mechanism comprising a connecting unit, a hinge unit, and a locking element, where the locking element has a C-shaped structure with protrusions that engage with slots in a tubular member, allowing for secure assembly without mechanical interference during the display panel's insertion into the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a U-shaped hinge member is used to connect the display module to the main body, then the hinge mechanism provides stable connection and support, but the display panel cannot be easily inserted into the housing due to mechanical interference
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is divided into separate components: a connecting member with tubular portion, a hinge member with rod, and a locking member. This segmentation allows the display panel to be inserted into the housing first, and then the hinge components are assembled separately, eliminating the mechanical interference problem while maintaining connection stability through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod of the hinge member is inserted into the tubular portion of the connecting member, creating a nested structure. The locking member then secures this nested arrangement by engaging with both the rod and tubular portion, providing stable connection while allowing easy assembly in a sequential manner.
2Ease of manufacture
If the display panel is tilted and inserted into the housing during assembly, then the display module can be assembled, but the assembly process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The display panel is inserted into the housing first before assembling the hinge mechanism. This preliminary action eliminates the need for tilting operations and allows subsequent hinge components to be assembled in place, significantly improving assembly efficiency while maintaining feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the hinge mechanism into discrete components (connecting member, hinge member, locking member), the assembly process can be performed in simple sequential steps after the display panel is in place, rather than requiring complex tilted insertion maneuvers.
3Reliability
If a complex U-shaped hinge member structure is used, then the hinge provides adequate support and stability, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex U-shaped hinge member is segmented into three simpler components: a connecting member, a hinge member, and a locking member. Each component can be manufactured independently using simpler processes, reducing production cost while the assembled structure with locking mechanism maintains the required hinge stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a single complex U-shaped member that requires expensive manufacturing, the invention inverts the approach by using multiple simpler components joined together with a locking mechanism, achieving the same functional result at lower production cost.
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge mechanism is provided, including a connecting unit, a hinge unit, and a locking element. The connecting unit has a connecting member and a tubular member. The tubular member is disposed on the connecting member. The hinge unit has a first member, a second member, a shaft, and a rod. The shaft pivotally connects the first member to the second member. The rod is affixed to the second member. The rod extends into the tubular member and has a slot. The locking element is fastened through the tubular member and joined in the slot.