Hinge Connector Hollow Shaft Flexible Conductive Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable electronic apparatus hinge connectors occupy valuable space as solid objects, failing to integrate with flexible conductive elements to maximize usable space.
Innovation Solution
A hinge connector design incorporating a hollow shaft device and cable, allowing for the integration of flexible conductive elements and rotation between housings, thereby increasing usable space while maintaining electrical connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a solid hinge connector is used, then structural strength is maintained, but usable space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the flexible conductive element inside the hollow shaft device, and the cable inside the hollow sleeve device. This nested arrangement allows the conductive elements to occupy the internal volume of the hinge connector rather than requiring additional external space, thereby increasing usable space while maintaining structural integrity through the hollow shaft and sleeve design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible conductive element that can bend and flex within the hollow shaft device, allowing it to accommodate the rotational movement of the hinge connector. This flexible design enables the conductive element to maintain electrical connectivity while adapting to the mechanical motion, resolving the contradiction between maintaining structural function and maximizing usable space
2Device complexity
If separate components are used for hinge connector and flexible conductive element, then ease of manufacture is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the hinge connector and flexible conductive element into a single integrated assembly. The hollow shaft device and hollow sleeve device are configured to receive and secure the flexible conductive element and cable respectively, creating a unified component that reduces the total number of separate parts. This integration simplifies the assembly process and reduces device complexity while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular design
3Volume of moving object
If flexible conductive elements are integrated in the hinge connector, then usable space is increased, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the integration into distinct functional zones: the hollow shaft device houses the flexible conductive element, while the hollow sleeve device houses the cable. Each component has clearly defined interfaces and mounting features that simplify the integration process. The segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of each component with tolerances that are easier to control, reducing overall manufacturing precision requirements while achieving effective integration
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses a hinge connector installed in a foldable electronic apparatus. In particularly, the hinge connector according to the invention includes a hollow shaft device and a cable connecting connectors, and the cable passes through the shaft device.