Dual-Axis Hinge Structure for Single-Seam Over-180° Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge mechanisms fail to provide a single external seam with no visible knuckles, independent movement of hinge leaves, and a large range of motion (>180°) while incorporating a spring mechanism to return leaves to their original positions.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design featuring dual pivot axes with approximately parallel pins and a supplementary interior piece, such as a body member or spring, that allows for independent movement and a single visible seam, enabling the hinge to open beyond 180° and return to its original state with a hidden spring mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a single external seam with no visible knuckles is desired, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but the hinge structure becomes more complex requiring multiple parallel pins and supplementary interior pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the functional elements (pins, springs, guide pieces) from the visible exterior and relocates them to the interior of the hinge assembly. Multiple parallel pins are positioned inside the hinge leaves, and supplementary interior pieces including springs and guide pieces are concealed within the hinge structure, leaving only a single seamless exterior visible from the outside.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing multiple functional components within the interior space of the hinge leaves. The parallel pins are nested between the leaves, springs are positioned within the hinge mechanism, and guide pieces are integrated into the interior structure, allowing these elements to work together while remaining concealed from external view.
2Adaptability or versatility
If independent movement of hinge leaves is required, then functional versatility is improved, but the hinge mechanism becomes more complex requiring additional guide pieces and interior components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the hinge leaves into independent movable segments that can move relative to each other. Each leaf is equipped with its own mounting holes and can be independently attached to different structures, allowing the first leaf to move relative to the second leaf and enabling versatile applications such as photo mounts and display devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces supplementary interior pieces including guide pieces that act as intermediaries between the hinge leaves. These guide pieces facilitate independent movement of the leaves while maintaining proper alignment and spacing, enabling the leaves to move independently without direct mechanical coupling.
3Ease of operation
If a large range of motion greater than 180 degrees is needed, then functional capability is improved, but the hinge design becomes more complex requiring multiple parallel pins and interior guide pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-axis rotation to a multi-dimensional movement system using multiple parallel pins arranged at different positions. This allows the hinge leaves to move along multiple parallel axes simultaneously, enabling a range of motion greater than 180 degrees through combined rotational and translational movements in different dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic hinge mechanism where the supplementary interior pieces including springs and guide pieces can adjust their positions and configurations during movement. The springs provide variable force throughout the range of motion, and the guide pieces adapt to guide the leaves through complex trajectories, enabling smooth operation beyond 180 degrees.
4Ease of operation
If a spring mechanism is incorporated to return leaves to original positions, then functional capability is improved, but the hinge structure becomes more complex requiring additional interior pieces and concealed spring mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the spring mechanism from the visible exterior and relocates it to the interior of the hinge assembly. The springs are positioned within the hinge structure, attached to the leaves and interior pieces, providing the return force while remaining completely concealed from external view, maintaining the clean single-seam appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the springs automatically return the hinge leaves to their original positions after being moved. The spring force acts continuously on the leaves and interior pieces, providing automatic reset functionality without requiring external intervention, power sources, or complex control systems.
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 single visible seam, independent movement of hinge leaves, and a large range of motion while aesthetically hiding the inner workings, enhancing applicability in various hinged applications like hair accessories and foldable electronics.
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.
Implementation Method 2
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.