Dual-Axis Gear Hinge for 360-Degree Electronic Device Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge assemblies for portable electronic devices are limited in their ability to configure the device in various modes, often restricting the lid's rotation to less than 180 degrees, which hinders usability and stability in different scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A dual axis hinge assembly with a gear system and lever mechanism that allows for smooth, controlled movement of the device's leaves up to 360 degrees, enabling configurations such as a closed book, open, and flat positions, while using stops to limit rotation if necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional hinge arrangement is used, then the device structure is simple, but the lid rotation is limited to less than 180 degrees
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is divided into multiple independent components: a first gear rotatable about a first axis, a second gear rotatable about a second axis, multiple levers connecting these gears to the leaves, and a housing containing the gear interaction. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function while collectively achieving 360-degree rotation capability without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The gear system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the lid and base. The first gear engages with the second gear, and both interact with the leaves through lever connections, mediating the rotational movement to enable full 360-degree configuration while maintaining structural control and stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the lid rotation is limited to less than 180 degrees, then the hinge structure is simpler, but the device stability in various positions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly employs dynamic lever connections between the gears and the leaves, allowing the mechanism to adapt its configuration as the leaves rotate through 360 degrees. The levers maintain stable connections at various angular positions, enabling the device to hold steady configurations in closed, open, and intermediate positions without requiring additional props or support 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 hinge assembly provides enhanced usability by allowing the device to be configured in multiple positions, maintaining stability without the need for additional props, and preventing damage from improper handling.
Implementation Method 1
a first gear rotatable about a first axis of the hinge assembly and a second gear, rotatable about a second axis of the hinge assembly. A hinge housing holds the first gear in engagement with the second gear.
Implementation Method 2
A first pair of levers connects the first gear and the first hinge mounting element; and a second pair of levers connects the second gear and the second hinge mounting element.
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge assembly for an electronic device comprises a first gear rotatable about a first axis of the hinge assembly and a second gear, rotatable about a second axis of the hinge assembly. A hinge housing holds the first gear in engagement with the second gear. A first hinge mounting element is configured to be movably fixed to a first leaf of the electronic device and a second hinge mounting element is configured to be movably fixed to a second leaf of the electronic device. A first pair of levers connects the first gear and the first hinge mounting element; and a second pair of levers connects the second gear and the second hinge mounting element.