Foldable Hinge Structure With Cam and Elastic Angle Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices with narrow folding areas face challenges in arranging structures to support hinge motions due to limited space, making it difficult to optimize the arrangement and functionality of hinge structures.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure comprising a first rotary bracket, a second rotary bracket, a fixed bracket, a first rotary member, a second rotary member, arms with cam structures, and elastic bodies, which allows for efficient rotation and support of hinge motions by utilizing a cam part with bumpy structures and elastic forces to facilitate folding and unfolding of the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If various structures are disposed to support hinge motions, then hinge motion support capability is improved, but device complexity increases and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple hinge support structures into a unified hinge assembly where the first and second rotary brackets, arms, and elastic bodies work together as a coordinated system. The fixed bracket serves as a common mounting base that consolidates multiple support functions, reducing the number of separate components needed and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining hinge motion support capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic bodies serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide rotational support for the rotary members, maintain engagement between cam structures, and enable the hinge to achieve both folded and unfolded states. The cam structures on the arms work together with the elastic bodies to provide both mechanical support and motion control, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Reliability
If various structures are disposed to support hinge motions, then hinge motion support capability is improved, but the available space in narrow folding area is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure employs a nested arrangement where the first and second rotary members rotate about axes that are positioned within or near the hinge assembly footprint. The arms connect the rotary members to the rotary brackets in a compact configuration, allowing the motion mechanisms to be nested within the overall hinge housing without requiring extensive lateral space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the third dimension (depth) by positioning the rotation axes of the rotary members at different heights or depths relative to the hinge housing. The elastic bodies are mounted on the rotary members and extend in directions that optimize space utilization within the hinge assembly, allowing complex motion support functionality to be achieved within a compact three-dimensional footprint.
3Adaptability or versatility
If precise control of display angle is achieved, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure provides dynamic angle control through the interaction between the cam structures and the elastic bodies. As the hinge transitions between folded and unfolded states, the cam structures rotate about their axes, and the elastic bodies flex to maintain engagement, naturally providing angle control without requiring complex mechanical stops or adjustable mechanisms. The system adapts its configuration continuously during motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic bodies automatically maintain engagement between the cam structures during hinge motion without requiring external control mechanisms. The elastic force inherently provides the necessary control to keep the cam structures engaged while allowing natural rotation, enabling precise angle control through the self-regulating elastic-cam interaction rather than through complex external control systems.
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 proposed hinge structure optimizes the arrangement of components within the limited space, enabling smooth hinge motions, supporting both flat and folded states, and allowing for precise control of the display's angle, thus enhancing the portability and functionality of foldable electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic body that is mounted on the first rotary member and that supports at least one side of the cam part in a direction toward the first arm, a second elastic body that is mounted on the second rotary member and that supports at least an opposite side of the cam part in a direction toward the second arm
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge structure includes a first rotary bracket that rotates about a first virtual axis and a second rotary bracket that rotates about a second virtual axis The hinge structure also includes a fixed bracket that includes the first rotary bracket and the second rotary bracket fixed thereto. The hinge further structure includes a first rotary member, a second rotary member, a first arm and a second arm. Additionally, the hinge structure includes a cam part that includes bumpy structures. A first elastic body is mounted on the first rotary member and supports at least one side of the cam part and second elastic body is mounted on the second rotary member and supports at least an opposite side of the cam part. The hinge structure also includes a support bracket that supports the first elastic body and the second elastic body.