Dual-Axis Hinge Structure for a Single Visible Seam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge mechanisms fail to provide a single visible seam, allow for independent movement of hinge leaves, and offer a large range of motion while hiding the knuckles and spring mechanisms from view, which are essential for various applications such as hair accessories and foldable electronics.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design featuring dual pivot axes with approximately parallel pins and a supplementary interior piece, such as a coupler or springs, that allows for independent movement and a single visible seam, enabling the hinge to open beyond 180° and return to its original position without visible knuckles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If multiple parallel pins are used to create a single visible seam, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple parallel pins are merged into a single integrated pin structure that performs the function of multiple separate pins, creating a single visible seam while maintaining the necessary mechanical functionality for independent leaf movement
Solution Approach 2:
The single integrated pin structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the visible aesthetic element and the mechanical connector that enables independent movement of hinge leaves, eliminating the need for separate structural components
2Adaptability or versatility
If a supplementary interior piece is added to guide the rotational axis, then the range of motion is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The supplementary interior piece is nested within the existing hinge structure, with the rotational axis guide integrated into the interior space of the hinge body, allowing enhanced functionality without increasing external dimensions or overall complexity
3Ease of operation
If spring mechanisms are used to return leaves to original positions, then the functionality is improved, but the visibility of internal mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is extracted and positioned within the interior cavity of the hinge body, removing it from external view while maintaining its functional capability to return leaves to their original positions through the dual pivot axis system
4Adaptability or versatility
If dual pivot axes are used to allow independent movement, then the versatility is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual pivot axis system is segmented into two independent rotational axes that can be manufactured and assembled separately, with each axis positioned in its own knuckle, allowing for easier manufacturing and alignment compared to a single complex pivot mechanism
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 design achieves a clean aesthetic by hiding the inner workings and allowing for a wide range of motion while enabling independent movement of hinge leaves, addressing the limitations of prior art in applications requiring a single seam and spring-based return mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
One or more springs may be used to provide tension to the hinge assembly and return the leaves toward their original positions
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge having dual axes includes two hinge members each having a hinge leaf and one or more knuckles, a pivot pin received in a longitudinally extending bore in each knuckle, each pivot pin also received in one of two apertures in one or more connector plates that interconnect the hinge members, and one or more springs biasing the hinge members toward a closed position, so that the knuckles are rotatably disposed adjacent to each other, each hinge member independently rotatable about one of two pivot axes, and only a single seam is presented between the two knuckles as the hinge members move between open and closed configurations. In one embodiment a connector incorporating the connecting plates covers and hides the springs from view.