Foldable Electronic Apparatus Counterweight Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic apparatuses, such as notebook computers, are prone to overturning due to unbalanced weight distribution when the display is rotated, which can lead to collisions between components and disrupt normal operation.
Innovation Solution
A foldable electronic apparatus design featuring a first body and a second body pivoted along a rotational axis, with a supporting portion that automatically or manually rotates to compensate for the moment generated by the first body, using a transmitting module and bias component to stabilize the device when unfolded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the weight of the mainframe body is increased to prevent overturning, then the stability of the notebook computer is improved, but the portability and lightweight design are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the counterweight principle by introducing a supporting portion that generates a counterbalancing moment to offset the overturning moment created by the display. This supporting portion includes a bias component (such as a spring) that provides a restoring force, creating a counterbalancing effect without requiring additional weight in the mainframe body. The counterbalancing moment is generated through the mechanical structure of the supporting portion that pivots relative to the second body, allowing the system to achieve stability through force balance rather than mass increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by making the supporting moment adjustable through the bias component. The bias component can be pre-loaded or adjusted to provide different levels of counterbalancing force, allowing the system to adapt to different display weights and configurations. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to maintain stability across various operating conditions without requiring a fixed heavy mainframe structure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a supporting portion is added to prevent overturning, then the stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the supporting portion with the existing hinge structure and housing components. The supporting portion is integrated into the second body, sharing common pivot points and structural elements with the hinge mechanism. This merging approach allows the supporting function to be added without creating entirely separate mechanical subsystems, thereby reducing the overall complexity increase. The bias component is also integrated into the existing structural framework rather than being a standalone element.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting portion serves multiple functions: it provides the counterbalancing moment to prevent overturning, acts as a mechanical linkage between the first and second bodies, and incorporates the bias component for automatic adjustment. By designing this single structure to perform multiple roles, the patent reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity while achieving the stability improvement.
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 design effectively prevents the apparatus from overturning, ensuring stable placement on a working platform without increasing weight, thus protecting electronic components and maintaining the lightweight, thin form factor.
Implementation Method 1
The supporting portion is pivoted to the second body by a torsion spring
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable electronic apparatus including a first body, a second body, a transmitting module and a supporting portion is provided. The first body has a transmitting structure and is pivoted to the second body along a first rotational axis. The transmitting module is disposed in the second body and corresponds to the transmitting structure. In addition, one side of the supporting portion is pivoted to the second body along a second rotational axis, and the other side of the supporting portion is connected to the transmitting module.