Foldable Hinge Mechanism With Elastic Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable electronic devices face challenges in achieving efficient space accommodation for flexible screens in folded states, with designs often compromising on stability, lifespan, and overall device volume.
Innovation Solution
A foldable electronic device utilizing a seesaw-type operation mechanism with a central base, synchronous pivot module, and elastic module, featuring a first and second operating module with connecting rod members and driving members, allowing panels to transition between unfolded, half-open, and folded states while maintaining stability and reducing volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a scotch yoke synchronization mechanism or gear-based linkage mechanism is used to achieve synchronous rotation and accommodate the flexible screen in a folded state, then the flexible screen accommodation is achieved, but the device complexity and volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is divided into two independent operating modules (first and second), each handling one side of the flexible screen. Each module contains a wing member, driving member, and connecting rod member that work independently but synchronously through the elastic module, reducing the complexity of a single large mechanism while achieving the same folding function.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic module acts as a counterweight mechanism that provides elastic forces to balance the gravitational forces on both sides of the flexible screen. The abutting member with elastic members (springs) compensates for weight differences and maintains synchronous rotation without requiring complex gear or scotch yoke mechanisms.
2Reliability
If a linkage and sliding mechanism with scotch yoke is used to create accommodation space for the flexible screen, then the folded state accommodation is achieved, but the stability and lifespan of components are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the synchronization function from complex gear or scotch yoke mechanisms and implements it through a simpler elastic force-based system. The elastic module provides the necessary synchronization without the need for intricate linkage and sliding mechanisms, thereby improving component reliability while maintaining the accommodation space function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical gear-based or scotch yoke-based synchronization system with an elastic force-based system. The elastic members (springs) in the elastic module provide the synchronization through elastic forces rather than mechanical interlocking, reducing wear and improving the lifespan of components.
3Ease of operation
If traditional hinge mechanisms are used to fold the flexible screen, then the folding function is achieved, but the transition between states lacks smoothness and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic module provides periodic elastic forces through the abutting member that guide the driving members through the folding motion. This periodic action ensures smooth transitions between unfolded, half-open, and folded states by maintaining continuous contact and force application throughout the motion cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic members (springs) in the elastic module automatically provide the necessary forces for synchronous rotation and state transitions without external intervention. The mechanism self-regulates the folding motion through elastic forces, improving both the smoothness and efficiency of the transition between states.
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 mechanism enhances stability and lifespan of components while efficiently accommodating the flexible screen, reducing the overall device volume by providing a seamless transition between states and optimizing the use of elastic forces.
Implementation Method 1
the first elastic member and the second elastic member are respectively connected to the abutting member and the fixed seat respectively... constantly provides a total elastic force to the first driving member and second driving member
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a foldable electronic device which is capable of changing between an unfolded state, a half-open state, and a folded state and comprises a central base, a synchronous pivot module, a first operating module, a first panel unit, a second operating module, a second panel unit, an elastic module and a flexible screen. The central base includes a main portion. The synchronous pivot module includes a first shaft and a second shaft respectively penetrating through the main portion. The first operating module is connected to the synchronous pivot module and includes a first wing member which is able to pivot relative to the main portion, a first driving member which is sleeved on the first shaft, and a first connecting rod member which is pivoted on the first wing member and has a first straight sliding groove for the first driving member to slide and to insert therein. The first panel unit is connected to and capable of rotating synchronously with the first wing member. The second operating module is connected to the synchronous pivot module and includes a second wing member which is able to pivot relative to the main portion, a second driving member which is sleeved on the second shaft, and a second connecting rod member which is pivoted on the second wing member and has a second straight sliding groove for the second driving member to slide and to insert therein. The second panel unit is connected to and capable of rotating synchronously with the second wing member.