Hinge Cycle Counter for Laptop Failure Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information processing apparatuses, such as notebook computers, lack the ability to immediately detect and notify users of impending failures in hinges and cables due to the need for external maintenance service intervention, which delays recognition and prevention of issues.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a counter to track the number of opening and closure cycles of the display unit, a magnet and Hall IC for detection, and a monitor to run an inspection program when a predetermined threshold is reached, which includes checking for abnormalities in hinges and cables, and notifying the user through a pop-up window or data transmission to a server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If maintenance monitoring information is transmitted to a management server, then the status and use situation of hinges can be monitored, but the user cannot recognize immediately whether trouble or a failure has occurred
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing apparatus performs self-inspection by automatically executing an inspection program that tests hinge operation and cable connectivity without requiring external maintenance service intervention. The system monitors its own components and generates failure predictions autonomously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback to the user through display units or notifications when hinge failures or cable disconnections are detected. The inspection results are fed back directly to the user interface, enabling real-time awareness of component status.
2Reliability
If a maintenance service provider acquires and checks maintenance monitoring information, then hinge status can be monitored, but the process is inefficient and delays failure detection
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing apparatus autonomously performs inspection tests on its own hinge and cable components without requiring external maintenance service providers. The system self-diagnoses potential failures by executing inspection programs that test mechanical operation and electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary inspection tests before actual failures occur by monitoring the number of hinge operations and detecting early signs of cable disconnection or hinge malfunction. This proactive approach prevents failures rather than reacting to them after they happen.
3Reliability
If the apparatus is inspected regularly by a maintenance service provider, then failures can be prevented, but the process is unduly inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing apparatus performs continuous self-inspection of its hinge and cable components without requiring external maintenance service providers. The system autonomously executes inspection programs that test mechanical operation and electrical connectivity, eliminating the need for scheduled manual inspections.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system operates continuously in the background, constantly tracking hinge operation counts and cable connectivity status without interrupting normal device usage. This continuous monitoring provides ongoing protection against failures without requiring periodic maintenance downtime.
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 information processing apparatus to self-inspect for abnormalities and notify users promptly, allowing for proactive maintenance and reducing downtime by recognizing potential failures before they occur.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet and Hall IC for detection
Data Source
AI summary
According to an aspect of the invention, an information processing apparatus includes a main body having a top face, a display connected to the main body by a hinge and pivotally moves between a first state where the top face is covered with the display and a second state where the top face is exposed, a counter which stores a number of times the state has changed between the first state and the second state, a monitor which detects a malfunction in the hinge when the number of times reaches a given number, and a data transmitter which sends data corresponding with the detected malfunction.