Dual-Axis Hinge With Embedded Circuit Cavity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dual-axis hinges in portable electronic devices have design limitations, including raised parts that degrade the appearance and are prone to damage, and exposed transmission circuits that increase malfunction risks.
Innovation Solution
A dual-axis hinge design with orthogonal upper and lower hinges connected by a perpendicular section, featuring a circuit cavity and concave ring portions for the transmission circuit, allowing the upper cover to fold in two directions without additional raised parts and hiding the circuit for protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a conventional right angle hinge is used on the top surface of the body, then the upper cover and body can be connected for folding, but the hinge and corresponding indentations/raised parts degrade the appearance and make the product look cheap
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is nested within the body structure rather than being mounted on the surface. The connecting section is embedded in the body, with the upper hinge and lower hinge positioned at parallel planes perpendicular to the connecting section, eliminating the need for surface-mounted components and maintaining a smooth appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge transitions from a surface-mounted 2D configuration to a 3D embedded structure. The upper hinge and lower hinge are positioned at different vertical levels (parallel planes), creating a multi-dimensional arrangement that eliminates the need for raised parts on the surface while maintaining functional connectivity.
2Reliability
If raised parts are added to the body for hinge mounting, then the hinge can be securely attached, but the raised parts are easily damaged by impacts and affect handling convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge components are nested within the body's internal structure rather than protruding outward. The connecting section is embedded in the body, and the hinge axes are positioned at different vertical levels, eliminating exposed raised parts that would be vulnerable to impact damage and interfere with user handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting section acts as an intermediary element that transmits mechanical forces between the upper cover and body without requiring exposed raised parts. This internal mediator structure provides secure attachment while maintaining a smooth external surface that is resistant to impact damage.
3Reliability
If the transmission circuit is exposed to connect the upper cover and body, then electrical connectivity can be established, but the exposed circuit increases malfunction probability from external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission circuit is nested within the body structure rather than being exposed on the surface. The circuit passes through the embedded connecting section, which provides physical protection against external forces while maintaining electrical connectivity between the upper cover and body.
4Ease of operation
If conventional hinge structure with indentations is used, then the upper cover can be positioned and locked, but the indentations and raised parts interfere with handling postures and input convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is nested within the body, eliminating surface indentations and raised parts. This internal arrangement removes physical obstructions that would interfere with user handling postures and input operations, while the bi-directional folding capability is maintained through the orthogonal hinge configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-axis hinge includes at least a connecting section, an upper hinge and a lower hinge. The connecting section has two sides orthogonally connected to the upper and lower hinges respectively. The connecting section has a circuit cavity that communicates with circuit outlets of the upper and lower hinges to form a passage for accommodating a transmission circuit. The upper hinge is connected to a first sleeve for joining the top cover of a folding electronic product, and the lower hinge is connected to a second sleeve for joining the body of the folding electronic product. These connections enable the top cover to rotate in at least two different directions.