Dynamic Hinge Shaft Separation for Compact Foldable Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with hinges struggle to maintain a compact form while allowing for easy access and display expansion, often resulting in gaps between components and inadequate protection of displays when folded.
Innovation Solution
A hinge mechanism comprising a joint member with first and second shafts that change separation distance upon rotational movement, allowing for a single large combined display and enabling components to be placed near the edge, with biasing members to maintain contact between bodies in different configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a hinge mechanism allows rotational movement between two bodies, then the device can be folded to a compact form, but gaps appear between components and display protection is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism employs dynamic adjustment of the separation distance between shafts based on the rotational angle. As the first body rotates relative to the second body, the joint member dynamically changes the separation distance to maintain optimal contact between displays and components throughout the folding motion, resolving the contradiction between compact folding and display protection
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of separation distance between the first shaft and second shaft as a function of rotational angle. By varying this parameter dynamically during rotation, the hinge maintains component contact and display protection while enabling compact folding, thus resolving the technical contradiction
2Stability of the object's composition
If shafts are fixed in position within the joint member, then structural stability is maintained, but components cannot be placed near the edge and display expansion is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism transforms the static position of shafts into a dynamic configuration where the separation distance between shafts changes with rotational angle. This dynamic adjustment enables components to be positioned near edges while maintaining structural stability through controlled movement, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new degree of freedom by allowing the separation distance between shafts to vary in addition to the rotational movement. This dimensional change enables components to be placed near edges and allows display expansion while maintaining structural integrity through the controlled variation in shaft spacing
3Ease of manufacture
If the separation distance between shafts remains constant, then manufacturing is simplified, but the device cannot maintain component contact during rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism implements dynamic adjustment of shaft separation distance based on rotational position. This dynamic design maintains component contact throughout the rotation range while using straightforward mechanical linkages that remain relatively simple to manufacture, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing ease and component contact reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the separation distance parameter as a function of rotational angle, allowing the hinge to maintain component contact during rotation. This parameter variation is achieved through practical mechanical means that balance manufacturing simplicity with the required functional performance
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus including a first body, a second body, and a joint member, the joint member having supported therein a first shaft and a second shaft , the first shaft connected to the first body and the second shaft connected to the second body, wherein the joint member is configured to cause or to allow a change in a separation distance between the first shaft and the second shaft upon a rotational movement of the first body relative to the second body.