Furniture Hinge Damping via Extracted Linear Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hinges with four connecting levers and seven articulation axes in furniture face challenges in incorporating damping devices without increasing complexity or space occupation, and existing solutions are not suitable for all configurations, leading to noise and hindrances in door operation.
Innovation Solution
A hinge with a fluid-operated linear damping device integrated into the hinge arm, featuring a C-shaped cross-section and a damping mechanism that uses a piston and cylinder system, where the actuation member moves linearly to contact a thrust element within the articulation system, reducing space usage and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a damping device is applied to the fixed part of the hinge, then the closing motion is effectively dampened, but it cannot be applied to hinges with four connecting levers and seven articulation axes due to configuration constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The damping device is extracted from the fixed part and relocated to the movable part of the hinge. This allows the damping function to be preserved while adapting to different hinge configurations, particularly those with four connecting levers and seven articulation axes where the movable part provides accessible space for the damping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of placing the damping device on the fixed part as conventionally done, the invention inverts the approach by mounting it on the movable part. This inversion resolves the configuration compatibility issue while maintaining damping effectiveness through the articulation system's motion characteristics.
2Reliability
If a damping device is applied to one of the connecting levers, then the damping function is achieved, but space occupation inside the piece of furniture increases and constructive complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The damping device is merged with the movable part structure, integrating the damping function into an existing component rather than adding a separate element to the articulation system. This reduces constructive complexity while maintaining the damping function.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable part serves dual functions: it maintains the articulation system's mechanical function and houses the damping device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and simplifies the overall construction.
3Reliability
If a damping device is applied to the movable part of the hinge, then the damping function is achieved, but additional members on the door create hindrances to normal use
Solution Approach 1:
The damping device is nested within the movable part's internal structure, specifically utilizing the space between the side walls and intermediate wall. This nesting approach eliminates the need for additional external members on the door, preserving ease of operation while achieving the damping function.
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 solution provides a simple, reliable, and cost-effective damping mechanism that minimizes space occupation within the furniture and avoids additional door components, effectively reducing noise during door closure without hindering normal use.
Implementation Method 1
damping devices, for example associated with one of the parts of the hinge, in order to cushion the closing motion of the hinge, and such devices can be of the linear or rotary type and can use a fluid or grease as a breaking medium
Data Source
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AI summary
A hinge (10) for mounting a door (A) on a piece of furniture or the like comprises a hinge arm (11), a box (14) connected to the hinge arm (11) by an articulation system (15) comprising a plurality of movable connecting levers (16, 18, 20, 23) and seven articulation axes (17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26), spring means (27) acting in closing direction of the hinge, and a damping device (29) having an actuation member (30) linearly movable according to a longitudinal axis (l); the damping device (29) is at least partially enclosed between the side walls (11'') of the hinge arm (11), and the actuation member (30) of the damping device (29) extends at a front end of the hinge arm (11) facing the hinge box (14) for contacting a thrust element of one of the connecting levers (16, 18, 20, 23) of the articulation system (15) or integral with one of the same connecting levers (16, 18, 20, 23) or with the hinge box (14) at least in a range near the closing position of the hinge. (Figure 1)