Hinge Device with Integrated Hydraulic Damping and Spring Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door hinges are bulky, aesthetically unappealing, difficult to manufacture, expensive, require frequent maintenance, and lack adjustability in closing speed and latch action.
Innovation Solution
A hinge device with a simplified design featuring a fixed and movable tubular half-shell configuration, utilizing a pivot and plunger mechanism with elastic counteracting means and a hydraulic circuit for automatic door closure, allowing for easy adjustment of opening and closing angles and reduced bulkiness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional door closer mechanisms are used to ensure automatic door closure, then the door can be automatically closed, but the device becomes bulky and aesthetically unappealing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the door closer function with the hinge mechanism itself, integrating the automatic closure system into the hinge structure. The hinge includes a housing with a piston and damper mechanism that provides both the hinge function and the automatic closing action, eliminating the need for separate bulky door closer devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the piston, damper, and spring mechanisms are contained within the hinge housing. The movable arm is received within the housing, and the piston is received within the movable arm, creating a compact nested arrangement that reduces overall device volume while maintaining automatic closure functionality.
2Extent of automation
If traditional door closer mechanisms are used, then automatic door closure is achieved, but the device becomes expensive and difficult to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the hinge into modular components including a housing, movable arm, piston, damper, and spring assembly. Each component can be manufactured separately using standard machining processes and then assembled, simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs compared to integrated traditional door closers.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides the basic hinge function for door movement, automatic closure through the spring mechanism, damping control through the damper, and adjustable opening/closing angles through the stop mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate door closer devices, reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing costs.
3Extent of automation
If traditional door closer mechanisms are used, then door closure is achieved, but adjustment of closing speed and latch action is not possible or requires complex procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable elements including a stop mechanism that can be positioned at different locations on the housing to control the opening angle, and a latch mechanism that can be adjusted to control the closing latch action. These dynamic adjustment capabilities allow users to customize the door's opening and closing behavior without complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The damper mechanism provides feedback control by resisting the movement of the piston based on the velocity of door movement. This automatic velocity-dependent damping provides controlled closing speed without requiring external adjustment mechanisms, while the adjustable stop and latch mechanisms provide additional control options when needed.
4Extent of automation
If traditional door closer mechanisms are used, then door closure is achieved, but frequent maintenance is required
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is designed with self-lubricating surfaces and wear-resistant materials that reduce the need for frequent maintenance. The sealed housing protects internal components from contamination, and the simple mechanical design with few moving parts minimizes potential failure points, reducing maintenance requirements compared to traditional door closer mechanisms.
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 hinge device provides efficient, automatic, and controlled door movement with minimal parts, ensuring precise closing position maintenance and easy installation, while being cost-effective and easy to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
elastic counteracting means
Implementation Method 2
hydraulic damping means for damping the action of the closing means
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge device includes a first fixed tubular half-shell having a working chamber defining a longitudinal axis, a second tubular half-shell rotatable about the longitudinal axis, a pivot rotating unitary with the latter which includes a single pass-through actuating member having a helical shape, a plunger member slidable along the longitudinal axis, and a tubular bushing having a pair of guide cam slots. A pin-inserted within the pass-through actuating member is provided to allow the mutual engagement of the pivot and the bushing. The first tubular half-shell includes an end portion susceptible to rotatably support the pivot, the second tubular half-shell and the bushing are coaxially coupled to each other, and the bushing and the first tubular half-shell are mutually unitarily coupled.