Hinge Detection Unit for Precise Angle Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinges equipped with sensors cannot provide precise information on their opening parameters, only determining if they are open or closed with unsatisfactory precision.
Innovation Solution
A hinge with a detection unit that measures the opening angle over time, providing precise data on the hinge's state, angle, and other parameters, featuring calibration and reset means, a compact and robust design, and an integrated processing unit with a sensor and power supply for autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple sensor is used to detect hinge state, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detection unit is divided into two separate portions: a first portion coupled to the first hinge leaf and a second portion coupled to the second hinge leaf. Each portion independently tracks angular position, and their relative movement is used to calculate the opening angle. This segmentation allows for precise measurement while keeping each individual sensor component simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin acts as an intermediary element connecting the first and second hinge leaves. The detection unit is mounted on this pin, which rotates relative to both leaves. This intermediary structure enables the detection unit to measure the angular relationship between the leaves without requiring direct coupling between them, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining measurement precision.
2Reliability
If calibration and reset means are added to the hinge, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge system performs its own calibration and reset operations through integrated means. The calibration means allows the system to automatically define the closed position as the reference zero angle, and the reset means enables the detection unit to return to its initial configuration. This self-service capability improves reliability by compensating for wear and thermal effects without requiring external intervention or complex external calibration equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration and reset functions are merged into the hinge structure itself, rather than being separate external systems. The calibration means and reset means are integrated with the detection unit and hinge mechanism, allowing these functions to be performed in-situ. This merging reduces the need for additional external components and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining high reliability.
3Measurement precision
If the detection unit measures angle continuously over time, then the measurement precision is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection unit continuously measures the opening angle over time, providing uninterrupted monitoring of the hinge state. This continuous measurement capability delivers precise temporal information about hinge operation, enabling accurate tracking of opening/closing sequences and intermediate positions. The continuous action ensures no measurement gaps occur, maintaining high precision throughout the hinge's operational lifecycle.
Data Source
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AI summary
Hinge or equivalent (10) comprising a sensing unit (12) configured to measure the hinge opening angle as a function of time.