Foldable Hinge Module Recess Structure to Prevent Rotary Separation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary structures in hinge mechanisms are prone to separation from fixed structures in a folded state, making it difficult to insert and maintain the rotary structure, which hinders the convenience of folding and portability in electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of recesses on the fixed structure that support the opposite sides of the rotary structures along the axes of rotation, with stoppers on the bottom surfaces to restrict rotation angles and prevent separation, ensuring the rotary structures are securely fixed in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stopper is provided on the fixed structure to prevent separation of the rotary structure, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in inserting the rotary structure into the fixed structure
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper is segmented into multiple stopper protrusions distributed around the recess, rather than a single continuous stopper. This segmentation allows the rotary structure to be inserted gradually while providing staged resistance, preventing sudden binding and making insertion easier while still preventing separation at the folded state
Solution Approach 2:
The recess acts as an intermediary structure between the rotary structure and the stopper. The recess provides a guided path for insertion and a controlled environment where the stopper protrusions can interact with the rotary structure in a managed manner, facilitating easier insertion while maintaining separation prevention
2Reliability
If the rotary structure is securely fixed in the folded state, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional structural components
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper function is merged into the fixed structure itself through the recess and stopper protrusions, rather than being a separate component. This integration achieves reliable prevention of separation while avoiding the complexity of additional independent parts, as the stopper mechanism is formed as part of the existing fixed structure geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The recess serves multiple functions: it guides the rotary structure during insertion, provides the stopper protrusions for separation prevention, and maintains the rotary structure in the correct position during operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c~1d
AI summary
A hinge module comprising: a hinge housing; and a hinge structure disposed in the hinge housing, wherein the hinge structure includes: a fixed structure; a first recess structure; a second recess structure; a first rotary structure; a second rotary structure, wherein the first stopper protrudes from the first bottom surface such that a distance from the first stopper to the first virtual axis of rotation is less than a maximum radius of rotation of the first rotary structure having the first virtual axis of rotation as a center of the first rotary structure, and wherein the second stopper protrudes from the second bottom surface such that a distance from the second stopper to the second virtual axis of rotation is less than a maximum radius of rotation of the second rotary structure having the second virtual axis of rotation as the center of the second rotary structure.