Foldable Device Hinge Structure for High Torque in Slim Housings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face challenges in maintaining structural integrity and portability due to the high torque generated when housings are rotated to various angles, requiring a hinge structure that can resist torque while maintaining a slim form factor.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure comprising a gear mechanism with friction plates and elastic members that provide a high frictional force to stabilize the housings during rotation, allowing for various mounting angles without increasing the device's thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a hinge structure uses traditional mechanical connections to resist torque, then structural strength is improved, but device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical torque resistance mechanisms with a magnetic field-based solution. Magnets are embedded in the hinge structure to generate magnetic attraction forces that resist torque during folding operations, eliminating the need for bulky mechanical components while maintaining torque resistance capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of materials used in the hinge structure. By selecting magnets with specific magnetic field strengths and arranging them in particular configurations, the system achieves high torque resistance in a compact form factor, transforming the approach from mechanical to magnetic field parameter optimization
2Force
If a hinge structure uses multiple friction plates and elastic members to provide high frictional force, then torque resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components into integrated assemblies. The friction plates, elastic members, and magnets are combined into unified hinge modules that perform multiple functions simultaneously, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining high frictional force for torque resistance
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure components are designed to perform multiple functions. The same magnetic elements and friction plates that provide torque resistance also contribute to positioning stability and structural support, allowing a single component to serve multiple purposes and reducing overall system complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge structure is designed to support housings at various mounting angles, then adaptability is improved, but structural stability deteriorates due to high torque
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure employs dynamic magnetic field interactions that adapt to different mounting angles. The magnetic attraction forces automatically adjust their magnitude and direction based on the relative positions of the housings, providing stable torque resistance across various angles without requiring mechanical locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field system provides continuous feedback-based torque resistance. As the housings move to different angles, the magnetic attraction forces automatically adjust to maintain stability, creating a self-regulating system that preserves both adaptability and structural stability
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 structure effectively resists torque, enabling stable operation of foldable electronic devices at multiple angles while maintaining a compact design, thus enhancing portability and durability.
Implementation Method 1
a first friction plate that moves depending on rotation of the first rotary member, a second friction plate that at least partially faces the first friction plate, and a first elastic member that presses one side of the first friction plate or the second friction plate
Implementation Method 2
a first elastic member that presses one side of the first friction plate or the second friction plate
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge structure is provided. The hinge structure includes a first rotary member connected with a first housing, a second rotary member connected with a second housing, a gear structure that makes the first rotary member and the second rotary member operate in conjunction with each other, a first arm connected with the first rotary member, a second arm connected with the second rotary member, a first torque providing member that fastens the first arm and the first rotary member, and a second torque providing member that fastens the second arm and the second rotary member.