Foldable Enclosure Hinge With Nonlinear Load Holding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices with foldable housings lack sufficient holding force to maintain the open and closed states due to mechanical losses from multiple components between the holding device and the enclosure.

Innovation Solution

A hinge holding device with a suction mechanism that includes a load generator within one enclosure, utilizing a slider cam and spring bracket to generate a non-linear load between the base frame and enclosure, ensuring secure open and closed states.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If multiple components are used in the holding device, then the structure can support the enclosure, but mechanical loss occurs and holding force is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding forceVSAvoidmechanical loss
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and eliminates the intermediate components that cause mechanical loss from the force transmission path. By directly connecting the spring element to the enclosure and base frame, the patent removes the multiple components that were causing energy loss, thereby improving holding force efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring element is pre-loaded to generate holding force before the enclosure reaches the open or closed state. This preliminary action ensures that the maximum holding force is available when needed, compensating for any remaining mechanical losses in the hinge mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Strength

If a simple structure with few parts is used, then manufacturing is easier, but sufficient holding force cannot be provided

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding forceVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the holding function and the force generation function into a single integrated structure. The spring element directly connects the enclosure to the base frame, combining what would traditionally be separate components into one unified mechanism that provides both structural support and holding force.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides holding force, acts as a structural connector, and compensates for mechanical losses. This multi-functionality allows the patent to achieve sufficient holding force with a minimal number of parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If traditional holding devices are used, then the structure is simple, but the open and closed states cannot be maintained firmly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding stabilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring element automatically adjusts and maintains holding force throughout the enclosure's movement. The elastic deformation of the spring provides continuous force adjustment, ensuring reliable holding in both open and closed states without requiring complex control mechanisms or multiple adjustment components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 device stabilizes the opening and closing of enclosures with a small number of parts, providing high-quality and stable holding forces in both directions without mechanical loss.

Implementation Method 1

a spring in the load generator that is deformed in a first direction different from the sliding direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the load generator comprises a slider cam connected to the arm and sliding against one of the enclosures

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Data Source

PatentUS12477049B2Hinge supporting device and electronic equipment using the same
Publication Date: 2025.11.18 KEM HONGKONG LTD
  • US12477049B2 patent drawing
  • US12477049B2 patent drawing
  • US12477049B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hinge holding device for firmly holding a pair of enclosures in an open or closed state has a base frame sandwiched between the pair of enclosures and supporting the pair of enclosures in an open or closed state, and a suction mechanism having a load generator disposed within at least one of the pair of enclosures. The suction mechanism generates a non-linear load between the base frame and one of the enclosures to maintain the open and closed state of one of the enclosures with respect to the base frame.