Friction Disc Hinge for 360-Degree Rotation in Thin Computing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinges for computing devices, such as laptops, face challenges in reducing size and thickness while allowing for nearly 360-degree rotation, which is essential for versatile device operation modes, as standard dual pivot hinges result in increased thickness due to the need for two pivot points and accommodate wires and friction elements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of friction disc hinges at each back-end corner of the computing device, which consist of an outer disc surrounding an inner disc with a friction element between them, allowing for stable 360-degree rotation without increasing the device's thickness by using connecting rods for stability and flexible cables to manage electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard dual pivot hinges are used to enable 360-degree rotation, then the device can achieve multiple operating modes, but the device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is divided into two separate friction disc hinges located at opposite corners of the device, with each hinge independently providing rotation capability. This segmentation allows the rotation function to be distributed, reducing the thickness contribution of each individual hinge while maintaining the overall 360-degree rotation capability for multiple operating modes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standard dual pivot hinges are used to enable 360-degree rotation, then the device can achieve multiple operating modes, but the hinge diameter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge design transitions from a traditional pivot point configuration to a friction disc configuration where the rotation occurs through friction between disc surfaces rather than around a central pivot. This dimensional change in the rotation mechanism allows for a smaller effective hinge diameter while still achieving the full 360-degree rotation range needed for multiple operating modes.
3Ease of operation
If wires and friction elements are accommodated in standard hinges, then rotation is enabled, but the device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
Flexible cables are used to accommodate the electrical connections between the lid and base, allowing the wires to bend and flex as the lid rotates through 360 degrees. This flexible cable solution eliminates the need for thick rigid wire conduits that would increase device thickness, while still providing reliable electrical connectivity throughout the full range of motion.
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
This design enables thinner computing devices with reduced diameter hinges, allowing for multiple operation modes while maintaining stability and ease of rotation, and accommodates a significant number of wires without increasing the device's height.
Implementation Method 1
a friction element disposed between the inner surface of the first disc and the outer surface of the second disc
Data Source
AI summary
In one general aspect, a computing device can include a lid, and a base coupled to the lid by a hinge. The hinge can include a first disc including a first pin coupled to the lid and an inner surface. The hinge can include a second disc including a second pin coupled to the base and an outer surface. The first disc can be concentric with and can partially surround the second disc. The hinge can further include a friction element disposed between the inner surface of the first disc and the outer surface of the second disc. The first disc can be configured to rotate about the second disc.