Multi-Directional Hinge With Integrated Command Member

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hinges with multiple adjustment mechanisms are complex and costly to manufacture, making them difficult to use and maintain, especially after they are mounted.

Innovation Solution

A hinge system comprising two hinging units with a pivoting member and three adjustment mechanisms, including a command member that selectively rotates, allowing for adjustments in multiple directions along different axes, such as vertical, horizontal, and depth, using threaded worm screws and curved surfaces for precise positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple adjustment mechanisms are provided in known hinges, then the hinge can adjust in several directions, but the hinge becomes complex and costly to manufacture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment capability in several directionsVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustment mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pivoting member is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the hinging element and the actuation element for adjustment mechanisms. By making the pivoting member multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms while maintaining the ability to adjust in multiple directions (vertical, horizontal, and depth adjustments).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the adjustment mechanisms with the pivoting member structure itself. The command member is integrated into the pivoting member, and the adjustment mechanisms share common structural elements with the hinging units. This merging of functions reduces overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple adjustment mechanisms are provided in known hinges, then the hinge can adjust in several directions, but the hinge becomes costly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment capability in several directionsVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The pivoting member is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the hinging element and the actuation element for adjustment mechanisms. By making the pivoting member multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms while maintaining the ability to adjust in multiple directions (vertical, horizontal, and depth adjustments).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the adjustment mechanisms with the pivoting member structure itself. The command member is integrated into the pivoting member, and the adjustment mechanisms share common structural elements with the hinging units. This merging of functions reduces overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If adjustment mechanisms are made complex to achieve multi-directional adjustment, then adjustment precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment precisionVSAvoidease of use
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The pivoting member itself serves as the command member for adjustment mechanisms. The user interacts directly with the pivoting member to achieve adjustment, eliminating the need for separate complex command elements. This self-service approach simplifies operation while maintaining precision through the integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The pivoting member is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the hinging element and the actuation element for adjustment mechanisms. By making the pivoting member multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms while maintaining the ability to adjust in multiple directions (vertical, horizontal, and depth adjustments).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 system is simple to manufacture and use, providing reliable adjustments in multiple directions after assembly, ensuring easy operation and durability.

Implementation Method 1

three adjustment mechanisms configured to adjust the reciprocal position of the two hinging units... at least one of the adjustment mechanisms comprises a command member associated with the pivoting member in order to make it selectively rotate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Implementation Method 2

the longitudinal seating is defined by two curved internal surfaces which are coaxial with respect to a first pivoting axis of a first adjustment mechanism, and the first pivoting axis lies on a first sliding axis, perpendicular to it

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGeometric constraint: Geometry

Data Source

PatentEP2735679B1Adjustable hinge for doors and windows or furniture
Publication Date: 2017.09.20 OTLAV
  • EP2735679B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2735679B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2735679B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Adjustable hinge to hinge a mobile element (11) with respect to a fixed element (12), comprising a first hinging unit (13) and a second hinging unit (15), configured to be rotatably coupled with each other by means of a pivoting member (44) along a hinging axis (Z), and one or more adjustment mechanisms configured to adjust the reciprocal position of the two hinging units (13, 15). At least one of the adjustment mechanisms comprises a command member associated to the pivoting member (44) in order to make it selectively rotate with respect to a pivoting axis associated to the hinging axis (Z).