Foldable Hinge Module With Cam-Spring Cushioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with foldable designs face challenges in providing a smooth and durable rotation mechanism for the housings, especially when transitioning between unfolded and folded states, which can lead to damage and reduced usability.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a hinge module with a hinge housing, a spring, a supporting member with inclined portions, and a cam mechanism that transfers force to the spring, allowing for controlled rotation and stability of the housings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a foldable design with rotation mechanism is implemented, then the device can transition between unfolded and folded states for portability, but the rotation mechanism may suffer from damage and reduced durability
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-positioned within the hinge module to provide cushioning force before the display panel reaches extreme positions during folding/unfolding. This preemptive cushioning absorbs impact forces and prevents damage to the rotation mechanism, resolving the contradiction between foldable adaptability and rotational durability
Solution Approach 2:
The cam structure acts as an intermediary between the display panel and the spring, transferring and modulating forces during rotation. The cam converts rotational motion into controlled linear motion of the spring, providing smooth force transmission and protecting the rotation mechanism from direct impact loads
2Ease of operation
If the hinge module includes spring and cam mechanisms for controlled rotation, then the transition between states becomes smooth, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge module merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the cam and spring are combined within one housing to provide both motion control and cushioning functions. This consolidation achieves smooth transitions while minimizing the number of separate components, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cam structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it guides the rotation path, controls the spring engagement, and provides mechanical advantage for smooth operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, achieving smooth transitions without excessive complexity
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 solution provides a stable and durable rotation mechanism that minimizes damage to the display and ensures smooth transitions between unfolded and folded states, enhancing the usability and longevity of the device.
Implementation Method 1
a spring positioned in the receiving space of the hinge housing
Implementation Method 2
a cam coupled to another end of the spring and transferring force to the spring
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an electronic device may comprise a housing including a first housing and a second housing configured to rotate relative to the first housing and a hinge module rotatably coupling the first housing and the second housing and received in the housing. The hinge module includes a hinge housing including a receiving space, a spring positioned in the receiving space of the hinge housing, a supporting member including an inclined portion coupled to one end of the spring, and a cam coupled to another end of the spring and configured to transfer force to the spring.