Foldable Hinge Rail Structure for Wobble-Free Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable devices suffer from instability and wobble when the hinge structure is folded. The support structures prevent or reduce a wobble occurring when the hinge structure is folded.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves a hinge structure that includes a fixing bracket with first and second rails, first and second rotating members, and first and second arm members, each with support members applying forces in specific directions to stabilize the hinge structure during folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a conventional hinge structure with separate pivot and strike plates is used, then the hinge can provide basic folding support, but the overall assembly size increases and aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to visible external components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pivot plate and strike plate into a single integrated hinge component. The pivot plate includes a recess that directly receives the strike plate, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets and fasteners. This integration reduces the overall hinge assembly size while maintaining the structural support function, directly resolving the contradiction between compact size and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated hinge plate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the pivot point for the cover, provides the strike surface for the button, incorporates the recess for button reception, and includes the protrusion for engagement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, reducing assembly size while avoiding increased complexity.
2Strength
If external hinge components are used, then the hinge provides folding support, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to visible components on the portable device
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the hinge components into a single plate that can be molded as one piece, the design eliminates visible external components while maintaining the folding support function. The hinge plate is incorporated into the housing structure, providing structural support without compromising aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The strike plate is nested within the recess of the pivot plate, and the button is received within the recess. This nesting arrangement allows the hinge components to be concealed within the housing structure, maintaining aesthetic appearance while providing the necessary folding support capability.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact hinge design is implemented, then the assembly size decreases, but the structural stability may worsen without proper internal reinforcement
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of pivot and strike plates into a single monolithic structure provides inherent structural stability. The recess and protrusion features are formed as integral parts of the same piece, ensuring precise alignment and stable connection without requiring additional fasteners or separate mounting components.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge plate is configured to be molded from a single piece of material, creating a composite structure where the recess, protrusion, and mounting features are all part of the same material matrix. This monolithic construction provides structural stability while maintaining compact dimensions.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure provides an electronic device and a hinge structure including a fixing bracket including a first rail and a second rail, a first rotating member including a first rail structure fastened to the first rail and a second rail structure extending from the first rail structure, a second rotating member including a third rail structure fastened to the second rail and a fourth rail structure extending from the third rail structure, a first arm member including a fifth rail structure, a second arm member including a sixth rail structure, a first support member applying a force in a first direction on an opposite surface of the fifth rail structure, a second support member applying a force in a second direction on an opposite surface of the second rail structure, a third support member applying a force in a third direction on an opposite surface of the sixth rail structure, and a fourth support member applying a force in a fourth direction on an opposite surface of the fourth rail structure.