Foldable Hinge Torsion Structure for One-Handed Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable electronic devices require users to use both hands to open and close the two bodies due to the weight of the top body, which is difficult to lift when unfolded and tends to fall when rotated, making operation inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure with a rotating shaft, brackets, and torsion elements that provide torque to the brackets, allowing single-handed operation by accumulating and releasing elastic potential energy during unfolding and closing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the top body is made heavy to provide stability when closed, then the stability when closed is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the user cannot lift or rotate the top body with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring mechanism that acts as a counterweight system. The spring stores elastic potential energy when the device is closed and releases it to provide upward force during opening, effectively counteracting the weight of the top body. This allows the heavy top body to be lifted and rotated with one hand while maintaining stability when closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-compressed when the device is in the closed state, storing elastic potential energy in advance. This preliminary action of energy storage enables the subsequent easy opening operation without requiring the user to manually overcome the full weight of the top body.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the top body is made heavy to maintain position when unfolded, then the position stability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the user requires both hands to prevent it from falling
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism provides a counterbalancing force that opposes gravity's pull on the top body. As the device opens, the spring gradually releases stored energy, providing continuous upward support that prevents the heavy top body from falling uncontrollably, enabling stable positioning and one-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static heavy structure to a dynamic system where the spring continuously adjusts its force output. The spring force varies during the opening motion, providing maximum support when needed and allowing smooth control, transforming the operational characteristics from cumbersome to manageable.
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
Enables convenient one-handed operation of foldable electronic devices by providing torque to the brackets, facilitating smooth unfolding and closing without the need for both hands.
Implementation Method 1
the torsion element has a first torsion end and a second torsion end opposite to each other. The first torsion end is connected to the first bracket, and the second torsion end is connected to the second bracket. When the first bracket is gradually closed relative to the second bracket, the at least one torsion element provides a first torque to the first bracket through the first torsion end. When the first bracket is gradually unfolded relative to the second bracket, the at least one torsion element provides a second torque to the second bracket through the second torsion end.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes first body, second body and a hinge structure connected between the first and second bodies. The hinge structure includes a rotating shaft, first and second brackets, and at least one torsion element. The first bracket is connected to the first body and the rotating shaft. The second bracket is connected to the second body and pivoted on the rotating shaft. The torsion element is sleeved on the rotating shaft and has opposite first torsion end connected to the first bracket and second torsion end connected to the second bracket. When the first bracket is gradually closed relative to the second bracket, the torsion element provides a first torque to the first bracket through the first torsion end. When the first bracket is gradually unfolded relative to the second bracket, the torsion element provides a second torque to the second bracket through the second torsion end.