Foldable Hinge Linkage Layout for Thin Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing hinge mechanisms in foldable electronic devices are not thin enough to meet the requirements of lightness and thinness, which affects the overall thickness of the device.
Innovation Solution
A hinge mechanism with an inner hinge and an outer hinge, featuring a rotating assembly with a linkage structure that includes a first swing arm, a second swing arm, and a linkage structure with a rotating member, translation members, and a simple structure that reduces thickness and avoidance space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If traditional hinge mechanisms are used in foldable electronic devices, then the folding function is achieved, but the device thickness is increased and lightness requirement is not met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the first swing arm inside the second swing arm, and the linkage structure inside the rotating assembly, creating a compact nested configuration that significantly reduces the overall thickness of the hinge mechanism while preserving the complete folding functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent reorients the rotation axis of the rotating member to be parallel to the thickness direction (first direction) rather than perpendicular to it. This dimensional change allows the rotation to occur within the plane of the hinge mechanism, minimizing the thickness requirement while maintaining the folding function
2Length of moving object
If the hinge mechanism is made thinner to meet lightness requirements, then device thickness is reduced, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it rotates to drive the translation members, it is rotatably connected to the inner hinge, and it horizontally places the linkage structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying the overall structure despite the thin profile
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the rotating member with the linkage structure by making the rotating member an integral part that connects both translation members. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate connection components, reducing structural complexity while achieving the thin profile
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge mechanism includes an inner hinge, a rotating assembly that can rotate relative to the inner hinge, and an outer hinge. The inner hinge is connected to the outer hinge, and the rotating assembly is located between the inner hinge and the outer hinge. The rotating assembly includes a first swing arm, a second swing arm, and a linkage structure, and the first swing arm and the second swing arm may rotate relative to the inner hinge. The linkage structure includes a rotating member, a first translation member, and a second translation member. The first swing arm and the second swing arm can drive the first translation member and the second translation member to move reversely, and the rotating member can move synchronously with the first translation member and the second translation member.