Gear-Driven Laptop Hinge Lift for Automatic Keyboard Angle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laptops and portable computers with smaller sizes do not position the keyboard at an optimum angle that automatically adjusts based on the opening of the device.
Innovation Solution
A lifting structure that connects two housings of an electronic device, utilizing a gear assembly with connecting and driven gears to lift the first housing relative to the second housing, allowing for adjustable positioning of the keyboard based on the rotation of the second housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a support structure protrudes from the bottom surface to support the main body, then the device can be supported at an inclined angle, but the structure increases device complexity and occupies internal space
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting structure merges the support function with the hinge connection between first and second housings. The gear assembly and moving bodies are integrated into the existing hinge mechanism, allowing the keyboard to be supported at an inclined angle without adding a separate protruding support structure, thus reducing overall device complexity while achieving the desired positioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting structure transforms the static keyboard positioning into a dynamic adjustment mechanism. The gear assembly with connecting gears and driven gears enables the keyboard angle to automatically adjust based on the opening angle of the device, providing adaptive positioning rather than a fixed support angle, which improves ease of operation without requiring complex manual adjustment mechanisms
2Volume of moving object
If the device size is reduced to make it more compact, then portability is improved, but the keyboard cannot be positioned at an optimum angle
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting structure enables dynamic angle adjustment within a compact form factor. The gear assembly allows the keyboard to automatically adjust to an optimum angle based on the device opening, providing ergonomic positioning without requiring additional space. The compact gear mechanisms are integrated into the hinge area, maintaining small device volume while achieving adaptive keyboard positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting structure serves multiple functions within the compact device: it acts as both a connection hinge between housings and an automatic angle adjustment mechanism. The gear assembly simultaneously enables opening/closing motion and keyboard angle adjustment, providing multi-functionality that maintains compact size while improving ease of operation through automatic optimum angle positioning
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 the keyboard to be positioned at an optimal angle automatically, enhancing user comfort and usability by adjusting the angle based on the device's opening.
Implementation Method 1
a gear assembly including at least one connecting gear and a driven gear, with the driven gear being operably connected to the at least one connecting gear
Implementation Method 2
a first moving body configured to move, in the first housing, in a first direction, with the first moving body including a guide gear and a first guide rail formed in the first moving body, in a second direction intersecting with the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an electronic device including a first housing, a second housing, and a lifting structure that includes a fixing body, a gear assembly including at least one connecting gear and a driven gear operably connected to the at least one connecting gear, in which the at least one connecting gear is connected to the fixing body, a first moving body including a guide gear and a guide rail, and a second moving body including an engaging portion.