Flexible Hinge Bias Mechanism for Stable Full-Angle Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional flexible hinges in computing devices result in extra material that obscures device portions and creates instability, especially at different angular orientations, due to varying path lengths.
Innovation Solution
A flexible hinge system with an internal bias mechanism, including a compliant mechanism and magnets, ensures consistent exposure of hinge material across angular orientations, maintaining stability and preventing obstruction of device components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional flexible hinges are used to accommodate varying path lengths at different angular orientations, then the hinge can rotate through full range of motion, but extra flexible hinge material is exposed which obscures device portions and creates instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the flexible hinge length variable through a retractable mechanism. The flexible hinge can dynamically adjust its exposed length based on the angular orientation of the device portions, retracting when not needed and extending when required for rotation. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need for excessive hinge material while maintaining full range of motion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by storing the excess flexible hinge material within the first portion of the device when it is not needed for rotation. The flexible hinge can be retracted into the device body, effectively nesting the surplus material away from the external view and preventing obstruction. This allows the hinge to have sufficient length for all angular orientations without permanently exposing extra material.
2Reliability
If extra flexible hinge material is present to accommodate all angular orientations, then the hinge can function at any angle, but the exposed material diminishes device function by obscuring portions and creating instability
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible hinge system dynamically adjusts its configuration based on operational needs. When the device portions are at orientations that require hinge flexibility, the hinge extends appropriately. When at orientations where full flexibility is not needed, the hinge retracts to minimize exposure. This dynamic behavior ensures reliability across all orientations while maintaining ease of operation by preventing instability and obstruction during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism serves itself by automatically retracting and extending based on the device's angular orientation without requiring external control. The system self-regulates the amount of flexible hinge material that is exposed, ensuring that sufficient material is available when needed for rotation while minimizing exposure during stable orientations, thereby maintaining both reliability and ease of operation autonomously.
Data Source
AI summary
This patent relates to hinged devices, such as computing devices. One example includes a first portion and a second portion. A compliant mechanism is positioned in the first portion and includes a pair of bell cranks coupled by a cross-member. A flexible hinge has opposing sides of a first end secured to the pair of bell cranks and a second end secured to the second portion.