Flexible Hinge for Computing Device Laptop Tablet Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing devices with multiple modes of operation often have expensive and unwieldy designs that fail to provide adequate multi-purpose capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The use of a computing device with a hinge assembly featuring a flexible hinge and a friction hinge, allowing the device to pivot between laptop and tablet modes, with a thin and cost-effective design that includes a flexible flat cable and no housing for the flexible hinge, enabling seamless transitions between modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional hinge assembly with housing is used, then the hinge is protected and stable, but the device thickness increases and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional hinge housing from the design, exposing the flexible hinge mechanism directly. This extraction of the housing component reduces overall device thickness and material usage while maintaining hinge functionality through the flexible nature of the remaining components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible hinge mechanism that can bend and flex without requiring a rigid housing. This flexible construction allows the hinge to maintain stability and protection functions while occupying minimal space and reducing device thickness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex multi-mode hinge assembly is used, then multiple operation modes are supported, but the device becomes expensive and structurally complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal hinge assembly that supports multiple operation modes (laptop mode, tablet mode, and intermediate angles) through a single flexible hinge mechanism. This eliminates the need for separate hinge assemblies for different modes, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining multi-mode versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible hinge mechanism allows dynamic adjustment between multiple angles and positions, enabling the device to transition smoothly between different operation modes. This dynamic capability replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with a simpler flexible structure that naturally accommodates multiple configurations.
3Strength
If traditional rigid hinge materials are used, then structural strength is maintained, but device weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes composite or flexible materials for the hinge construction that provide sufficient structural strength while reducing weight compared to traditional rigid metals. The flexible hinge mechanism achieves the required strength-to-weight ratio through material selection and geometric design.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible hinge materials used are cost-effective alternatives to traditional expensive hinge metals, providing adequate durability for the intended application while significantly reducing both material cost and weight.
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
This design provides a thin, cost-effective solution that allows for smooth transitions between laptop and tablet modes, maintaining stability and functionality while reducing thickness and material costs.
Implementation Method 1
The second hinge may be flexible to bend about a second pivotal axis of rotation
Implementation Method 2
a hinge assembly having a flexible hinge and a friction hinge
Data Source
AI summary
A computing device may include a base member, a display member, a first hinge, and a second hinge. The first hinge may be attached to the base member to rotate the base member and the display member relative to each other about a first pivotal axis of rotation. The second hinge may be attached between the first hinge and the display member. The second hinge may be flexible to bend about a second pivotal axis of rotation to rotate the base member and the display member relative to each other about the second pivotal axis to transition the computing device between a laptop mode and a tablet mode.