Foldable Hinge Cam Structure for Low-Torque Unfolding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices with flexible displays face issues in unfolding due to restoring forces that impede folding operations, requiring large rotational torques and making single-handed operation difficult.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure with a semi-automatic unfolding section and free-stop section that allows the device to unfold to additional angles without additional external force and maintain folded states at various angles, using cams and elastic members to manage rotational torques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a friction structure is used to provide friction torques to maintain the folded state, then the folded state stability is improved, but the rotational torque required to unfold increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is divided into multiple functional sections: a free-stop section for stable folded states, a semi-automatic unfolding section for assisted unfolding, and a friction section for maintaining stability. This segmentation allows each section to address specific requirements without compromising overall performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure dynamically adjusts its characteristics across different operational phases. In the folded state, the friction structure provides high friction torque for stability. During unfolding, the semi-automatic section reduces the required rotational torque. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between stability and ease of operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If large rotational torques are required to unfold the device, then the folded state stability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is divided into multiple functional sections: a free-stop section for stable folded states, a semi-automatic unfolding section for assisted unfolding, and a friction section for maintaining stability. This segmentation allows each section to address specific requirements without compromising overall performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The semi-automatic unfolding section acts as an intermediary mechanism that reduces the rotational torque required during unfolding. It provides mechanical assistance between the friction structure and the user's input, enabling easy single-handed operation while preserving the stability provided by the friction structure.
3Ease of operation
If the hinge structure is designed for easy unfolding, then the ease of operation is improved, but the folded state stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is divided into multiple functional sections: a free-stop section for stable folded states, a semi-automatic unfolding section for assisted unfolding, and a friction section for maintaining stability. This segmentation allows each section to address specific requirements without compromising overall performance.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the hinge structure have different local qualities optimized for their specific functions. The friction section has high friction characteristics for stability, while the semi-automatic section has reduced friction characteristics for ease of operation. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between stability and ease of operation.
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
Enables easy unfolding with reduced rotational force requirements, allowing single-handed operation and enhancing the lifespan and reliability of the hinge mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic member coupled to the first arm shaft and disposed between the first cam member and the second cam member; and a second elastic member coupled to the second arm shaft and disposed between the first cam member and the second cam member
Implementation Method 2
a first cam member including a first moving cam and a second moving cam, the first moving cam being engaged with the first arm cam and the second moving cam being engaged with the third arm cam, and the first cam member being configured to move in the axial direction along the first arm shaft and the second arm shaft
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an electronic apparatus. The electronic apparatus includes a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge structure connected to the first housing and the second housing. The hinge structure may include: a first arm shaft associated with the rotation of the first housing and parallel to the axial direction; a second arm shaft associated with the rotation of the second housing and parallel to the axial direction; a first arm cam and a second arm cam, which rotate together with the first arm shaft; a third arm cam and a fourth arm cam, which rotate together with the second arm shaft; a first cam member that includes a first moving cam fastened to the first arm cam and a second moving cam fastened to the third arm cam; a second cam member that includes a third moving cam fastened to the second arm cam and a fourth moving cam fastened to the fourth arm cam; a first elastic member coupled to the first arm shaft and disposed between the first cam member and the second cam member; and a second elastic member coupled to the second arm shaft and disposed between the first cam member and the second cam member. Various other embodiments that can be understood through the specification are also possible.