Foldable Hinge Assembly for Open-Light Close-Heavy Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge devices for foldable electronic devices face challenges in assembly complexity due to the need for multiple torsion springs in a small space, and cam structures provide insufficient resistance, making it difficult to open the device with one hand while ensuring it closes securely.
Innovation Solution
A hinge device with a simple structure comprising a fixed shaft, rotating sleeve, torsion spring, and friction resistance assembly, where the torsion spring generates forward torque to neutralize resistance when unfolding and becomes the primary resistance when folding, facilitating easy one-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If plural torsion springs are used to provide torques in different rotational directions, then the purpose of 'open light, close heavy' is satisfied, but the assembly complexity increases and it becomes difficult to install in a small internal space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple torsion springs into a single torsion spring that works together with a friction resistance assembly. The torsion spring provides torque in one rotational direction while the friction resistance assembly provides resistance in the opposite direction, merging what would have been separate spring functions into a unified mechanism that is easier to assemble in the limited space of the hinge device.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction resistance assembly acts as an intermediary element between the torsion spring and the rotating sleeve. It translates the single-direction torque from the torsion spring into bidirectional torque control, enabling the 'open light, close heavy' characteristic without requiring multiple torsion springs directly mounted in the constrained space.
2Reliability
If a cam structure is used to provide relatively large resistance at a designated included angle, then the folding part is fixed in the folded state, but the peak value of torsional resistance makes it difficult to unfold by one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The friction resistance assembly is designed to be movable along the fixed shaft, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position and the magnitude of friction resistance based on the rotational angle. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to provide high resistance when needed (to maintain folded state) while allowing smooth operation during unfolding, eliminating the fixed peak resistance problem of cam structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the friction resistance parameter dynamically during operation. The friction resistance assembly can be positioned at different locations along the fixed shaft to adjust the resistance level, allowing the hinge to provide strong holding force in the folded state while maintaining low resistance during the unfolding process for easy one-handed operation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If frictional resistances are provided at other included angles, then the folding part is stable, but the overall resistance distribution fails to satisfy 'open light' requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The friction resistance is not uniformly distributed but is locally concentrated where needed. The friction resistance assembly is positioned to provide maximum resistance only at specific critical angles (such as when the device is folded), while allowing minimal resistance during the unfolding motion. This localized friction application maintains stability when required without impeding the 'open light' 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
The hinge device allows for easy unfolding of foldable electronic devices by one hand while ensuring secure closure, satisfying the 'open light, close heavy' requirement with a compact and straightforward assembly.
Implementation Method 1
The torsion spring includes a first end and a second end. The first end is equipped with a first snap-in pin, the second end is equipped with a second snap-in pin
Implementation Method 2
The friction resistance assembly is disposed on the fixed shaft to provide torsional resistance to the rotating sleeve
Implementation Method 3
a compression elastic member, sleeved on the fixed shaft, and two ends of the compression elastic member respectively abut against the stopper and the cam member
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge device includes a fixed shaft, a rotating sleeve, a fixed connection member, a torsion spring, a rotating connection member and a friction resistance assembly. The rotating sleeve is rotatably mounted on the fixed shaft and is located between a fixed end and a free end. One end of the fixed connection member is fixedly connected to the free end, and the other end is provided with a first slot. Two ends of the torsion spring are respectively equipped with a first snap-in pin and a second snap-in pin. The first snap-in pin inserts into the first slot. An extension part protrudes from a fixed part of the of the rotating connection member and is provided with a second slot. The second snap-in pin inserts into the second slot. The friction resistance assembly is disposed on the fixed shaft to provide torsional resistance to the rotating sleeve.