Hidden Biasing Linkage for Landscape Slide Phone
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spring-assisted slide mechanisms in landscape slide phones make mechanism elements visible when the product is opened, leading to an unsightly appearance and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A biasing system comprising a linkage arm and a spring, where the spring is connected between the first housing and the linkage arm, allowing the second housing to slide between closed and open positions without exposing the spring, utilizing a 50:50 buckling ratio and adjustable spring force for a hidden mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If spring-assisted slide mechanism is used in landscape slide phones, then the sliding function is achieved, but the mechanism elements become visible and unsightly when the product is opened
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is extracted from the visible area by repositioning it to connect between the first housing and the linkage arm rather than being exposed in the sliding path. The linkage arm transmits the biasing force while remaining concealed within the housing structure, separating the functional spring element from the visible exterior.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is nested within the housing structure, specifically connected between the first housing and the linkage arm. This nesting conceals the spring mechanism within the internal structure of the device, allowing the sliding function to operate while the mechanism remains hidden from external view.
2Ease of operation
If spring-assisted slide mechanism is used, then the sliding function is achieved, but the mechanism elements are prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is nested within the protected interior space of the first housing, connected to the linkage arm in a way that shields it from external impacts and environmental damage. This internal nesting provides physical protection while maintaining the sliding functionality through the linkage arm.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage arm serves as an intermediary between the spring and the second housing, transmitting the biasing force while protecting the spring from direct exposure to external forces. The linkage arm absorbs and distributes mechanical stresses, reducing the risk of damage to the spring mechanism.
3Force
If traditional spring mechanism is used, then biasing force is provided, but the mechanism is visible and exposed
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is extracted from the visible sliding path and repositioned to connect between the first housing and the linkage arm. This extraction removes the spring from the exposed area while preserving its biasing function through the linkage mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage arm acts as an intermediary that transmits the biasing force from the spring to the sliding mechanism. This intermediary allows the spring to remain concealed within the housing while still providing the necessary mechanical force for operation.
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 hidden mechanism that enhances the product's attractiveness and reliability by keeping the spring elements invisible, allowing a long opening stroke with minimal guide rail length, and adjustable force, suitable for landscape slide mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a spring connected between the first housing and the linkage arm
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a first housing; a second housing slidably connected to the first housing along a substantially straight linear path between a first position and a second position; and a biasing system configured to alternatively bias the second housing towards the first position and the second position. The biasing system includes a linkage connected to the first and second housings and a spring connected between the first housing and the linkage.