Hinge Mechanism for Computing Device Edge Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for computing devices that can transition between configurations while protecting sensitive components, such as cover glasses, from damage due to the limitations of existing hinge mechanisms that do not effectively manage the spacing and alignment of edges during configuration changes.

Innovation Solution

A hinge mechanism with biased links and a pivot system that allows a computing device to transition between closed, open, flat, and inverted configurations while maintaining a gap between edges to prevent damage, using a combination of springs and a friction hinge to control the movement and maintain selected positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional hinge mechanism is used to transition between configurations, then the device can change form factor, but the edges of cover glasses may come into contact and cause damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration transition capabilityVSAvoidedge damage to cover glasses

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge mechanism is divided into multiple links (first link, second link, third link) that can independently pivot and control the spacing between edges during configuration transitions, preventing direct contact between cover glass edges

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge links act as intermediary elements between the first and second portions of the computing device, controlling the relative movement and maintaining safe spacing between edges during transitions between configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the hinge allows free movement between configurations, then transition flexibility is improved, but precise positioning and edge spacing control deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransition flexibilityVSAvoidedge spacing control

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge mechanism changes the geometric parameters (spacing, orientation, relative position) of the links during pivoting motion, automatically maintaining optimal edge spacing throughout the transition from one configuration to another

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If the hinge mechanism is simplified for ease of manufacture, then production cost decreases, but the ability to maintain stationary position during transition deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehinge fabrication simplicityVSAvoidhinge stationarity during transition

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge mechanism is designed to be self-guiding through its linkage geometry, automatically maintaining stationary positions during transitions without requiring external control systems or complex actuation mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 enables the computing device to transition smoothly between configurations without damaging the edges of the cover glasses, ensuring the hinge remains stationary during key transitions and using a latch or retention mechanism to secure the device in the inverted configuration, thus protecting the components and allowing user accessibility.

Implementation Method 1

The first link is biased about the first pivot of the first link toward a first position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

The second link biased about the first pivot of the second link toward the first position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 3

using a combination of springs and a friction hinge to control the movement and maintain selected positions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10146268B2Hinge apparatus, systems, and methods

Publication Date: 2018.12.04 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC

AI summary

A hinge is disclosed. The hinge includes a first portion and a second portion. The hinge includes a first link having a first pivot and a second pivot. The first pivot is connected to the first portion. The first link is biased about the first pivot of the first link toward a first position. The hinge includes a second link having a first pivot and a second pivot. The first pivot connected to the second portion. The second pivot of the second link connected to the second pivot of the first link. The second link biased about the first pivot of the second link toward the first position. The second pivot of the first link and the second pivot of the second link defining a hinge pivot. Methods of transitioning a computing device are disclosed.