Dual-Shaft Module Torque Distribution for Thin Electronic Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional shaft structures in electronic devices, such as laptops and 2-in-1 hybrids, face challenges in achieving a balance between reduced size and sufficient torque to maintain the relative positions of device parts, as they often lack the necessary torque to support the rotation of thinner devices effectively.

Innovation Solution

A shaft structure comprising multiple dual-shaft modules with synchronizing elements and fixing brackets, where each dual-shaft module shares torque, allowing for a smaller size while maintaining sufficient rotational capability, and protection sleeves to extend the life cycle of the structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If the shaft structure is made smaller to achieve a thinner electronic device, then the device thickness is reduced, but the torque capability becomes insufficient to support and maintain the relative position between parts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice thicknessVSAvoidtorque capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The shaft structure is divided into multiple dual-shaft modules (first dual-shaft module and second dual-shaft module) that work together. Each module contains first and second shafts that rotate in opposite directions, distributing the torque load across multiple components rather than relying on a single large shaft, thereby achieving sufficient torque in a compact configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The first and second shafts are combined within each dual-shaft module to share the torque load. The shafts are coupled through connecting elements and synchronizing elements, creating a unified structure where the combined torque capacity exceeds what a single shaft of the same size could provide.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Force

If multiple dual-shaft modules are used to provide sufficient torque, then the torque capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque capabilityVSAvoidshaft structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each dual-shaft module serves multiple functions: it provides torque transmission, maintains synchronization between shafts, and supports the rotating members. The connecting elements and synchronizing elements are designed to perform multiple roles within each module, reducing the need for additional separate components and simplifying the overall structure despite using multiple modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Duration of action of stationary object

If the shaft structure is designed for coordinated rotation to extend life cycle, then the durability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshaft structure life cycleVSAvoidrotation synchronization precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The synchronizing elements are designed to automatically maintain coordination between the first and second shafts during rotation. The mechanical coupling through connecting elements ensures that the shafts rotate in a synchronized manner without requiring external control systems or complex adjustment mechanisms, thereby extending the life cycle while keeping manufacturing precision requirements manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11256303B2Shaft structure and electronic device
Publication Date: 2022.02.22 LENOVO (BEIJING) LTD
  • US11256303B2 patent drawing
  • US11256303B2 patent drawing
  • US11256303B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a shaft structure and an electronic device. A shaft structure includes a first fixing bracket, a second fixing bracket, and two or more dual-shaft modules. A dual-shaft module comprises a connecting element, a first shaft, a second shaft, a synchronizing element, a first fixing element, and a second fixing element. The first shaft and the second shaft are linked to the connecting element and rotate with respect to the connecting element. The synchronizing element is connected to the first shaft and the second shaft respectively to synchronize rotations of the first shaft and the second shaft. The first fixing element is connected to one end of the connecting element and the first fixing bracket. The second fixing element is connected to another end of the connecting element and the second fixing bracket.