Double-Axle Multi-Position Hinge for Synchronized 360° Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hinges in electronic devices, such as notebook computers, lack the ability to maintain multiple rotational positions, which limits user experience and device functionality.
Innovation Solution
A multi-position hinge design featuring a base seat, two axles, and a sliding assembly that allows for synchronized rotation between the axles, enabling the hinge to lock into multiple positions through a system of gears and sliding members, allowing for at least three distinct rotational positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional hinge is used for pivot rotation of casing parts, then the hinge structure is simple, but the hinge cannot be retained at multiple rotational positions
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is divided into multiple functional modules: base seat, first axle assembly, second axle assembly, sliding assembly, and gear portions. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the complex multi-position rotation capability to be achieved through coordinated operation of segmented components rather than a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the two axles, controlling their relative movement and enabling the transition between locked and unlocked states. The gear portions serve as intermediaries to transmit and synchronize rotation between the axles, achieving multi-position retention through controlled mechanical interaction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two axles are used for synchronized rotation, then multi-position retention is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second axles are merged into a coordinated system where both axles rotate synchronously to achieve multi-position retention. The gear portions on both axles are combined to work together, with the sliding assembly merging the control functions for both axles into a unified mechanism that reduces overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding assembly serves multiple functions: it controls the movement of both axles, enables transition between locked and unlocked states, and facilitates synchronized rotation. The gear portions on both axles perform universal functions of transmitting rotation and maintaining positional relationships, reducing the need for additional specialized components.
3Reliability
If gear portions are added for synchronized rotation, then multi-position locking is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing complete gears on both axles, the patent applies gear portions only at the specific local areas where meshing is required. This localized approach reduces manufacturing complexity and material usage while maintaining the reliability of position retention through precise gear engagement at critical points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial gear portions rather than complete gears, applying gearing only where necessary for synchronized rotation and position retention. This partial action approach achieves the required reliability with reduced manufacturing complexity compared to implementing full circular gears on both axles.
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 the electronic device's casing parts to rotate synchronously through multiple positions, enhancing user interaction and device functionality by allowing 360-degree rotation and stable locking at various angles.
Implementation Method 1
the first gear portion is made to be in gearing connection with the second gear portion
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-position hinge includes a base seat, a first axle, a second axle and a sliding assembly. The first and second axles rotatably extend through the base seat in a first direction and are spaced apart from each other in a second direction. The first axle has a first recess, a second recess and a first gear portion. The second axle has a third recess, a fourth recess and a second gear portion corresponding with the first recess, the second recess and the first gear portion, respectively. The sliding assembly includes a first sliding member engageable with the first and third recesses, and a second sliding member engageable with the second and fourth recesses. The first and second axles are rotatable in turn and then rotated synchronously to perform multi-position shifting.