Hinge Assembly Locking Mechanism for Stable Multi-Angle Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current foldable electronic devices rely on hinge assemblies that limit the flexibility and stability of folding and unfolding states, lacking the ability to maintain multiple target bending positions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A hinge assembly with a fixed supporting piece and a rotating assembly, featuring a locking mechanism with limiting portions that allow for sliding movement perpendicular to the axial direction, enabling the assembly to be locked at various angles by matching concave and convex structures, thereby enriching folding methods and improving stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional hinge assembly is used, then the device can be folded and unfolded, but it cannot maintain multiple target bending positions effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the locking block can slide along the guiding groove to engage with different positioning grooves at various bending angles. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the hinge to maintain multiple target bending positions (fully folded, fully unfolded, and intermediate states) while using a relatively simple structural design.
2Reliability
If the hinge assembly allows free rotation, then folding and unfolding is smooth, but stability at target positions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly features a self-locking mechanism where the locking block automatically engages with the positioning grooves through elastic restoration force when the hinge reaches target bending angles. This self-service locking function provides stable positioning at target states without requiring additional actuation, while maintaining smooth folding and unfolding motion during transitions.
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge assembly includes: a fixed supporting piece; a rotating assembly, movably connected with the fixed supporting piece and including a first limiting portion; and a locking mechanism, disposed on the fixed supporting piece and including a limiting piece which includes a second limiting portion matched with the first limiting portion. The fixed supporting piece slides relative to the rotating assembly in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the rotating assembly in a rotation process of the rotating assembly, so that the first limiting portion is connected with the second limiting portion or the first limiting portion is separated from the second limiting portion; when the first limiting portion is connected with the second limiting portion, the two limiting portions are matched with each other to limit rotation of the rotating assembly; when separated, limiting of the rotating assembly is released.