Dual-Panel Hinge With Constant-Resistance 360° Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual panel electronic devices face challenges in designing hinges that allow full rotation while maintaining constant contact or minimal gap between modules, with existing solutions often requiring bulky internal or external components and not providing consistent resistance throughout the rotation.
Innovation Solution
A hinge mechanism using flexible members, such as straps and spring cartridges, that allow 360-degree rotation with constant contact or minimal gap, utilizing tension-loaded straps with variable exposed lengths controlled by internal mechanisms to maintain proximity and using cam-shaped surfaces for smooth motion, minimizing footprint and external hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional hinge mechanisms are used to connect dual panel electronic devices, then the modules can rotate relative to each other, but the hinge requires bulky internal or external components and does not maintain constant contact or minimal gap between modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible members (straps) instead of traditional rigid hinge components. These flexible straps connect the first and second modules, allowing rotation while maintaining constant contact between modules. The flexible nature of the straps eliminates the need for bulky mechanical hinges while ensuring the modules remain substantially in contact throughout the rotation range.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge mechanism allows full 360° rotation between modules, then the device has greater flexibility, but maintaining constant resistance through rotation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs spring cartridges that provide counteracting forces to maintain substantially constant resistance during rotation. The springs are configured to offset the changing gravitational and inertial forces that occur during 360° rotation, ensuring consistent tactile feedback and resistance throughout the entire range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism uses dynamic elements including flexible straps and spring cartridges that adapt their tension and resistance characteristics during rotation. The system transitions from static hinge components to dynamic elements that actively adjust to maintain constant resistance through the full 360° rotation range.
3Adaptability or versatility
If delicate components like communication wires need to pass through the hinge, then the hinge must accommodate these components, but this increases device complexity and potential points of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible strap serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the structural hinge element, provides the connection between modules, and serves as a protective conduit for communication wires. By integrating these functions into a single component, the patent reduces overall device complexity while enabling delicate components to pass through the hinge mechanism safely.
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 mechanism enables smooth and consistent rotation with constant feel, protecting delicate communication wires and accommodating strap stretching, while avoiding bulkiness and ensuring continuous contact or minimal gap between modules.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible member is fixed to the first fastening surface and passes though the first hinged end and through the second hinged end for connection to a sliding cartridge that is affixed to the second fastening surface. The sliding cartridge provides substantially constant resistance during 360° rotation between the first housing body and the second housing body.
Data Source
AI summary
A electronic device includes a first housing body with a first hinged end, a first free end, and a first fastening surface between the first hinged end and the first free end. A second housing body has a second hinged end, a second free end, and a second fastening surface between the second hinged end and the second free end. A flexible member is fixed to the first fastening surface and passes though the first hinged end and through the second hinged end for connection to a sliding cartridge that is affixed to the second fastening surface. The sliding cartridge provides substantially constant resistance during 360° rotation between the first housing body and the second housing body.