Hinge Device Locking Assembly Cam Rings

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hinge devices with a locking function are prone to damage due to the additional resisting moment required for rotation, affecting their service life.

Innovation Solution

A hinge device design incorporating a pivot seat, rotating shaft, first and second friction blocks, and a locking assembly with cam rings and elastic rings that generate a friction moment and engaging structures to require a higher rotational force, enhancing the locking function and service life.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a locking function is added to the rotating shaft structure using double embedded cams, then the locking capability is improved, but the device complexity and susceptibility to damage increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking assembly is divided into multiple independent components: first and second friction blocks, first and second cam rings, first and second elastic rings, and an elastic element. Each component performs a specific function, allowing the complex locking mechanism to be modularized and maintained more easily

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cam rings are embedded within the friction blocks, creating a nested structure where the first cam ring is inside the first friction block and the second cam ring is inside the second friction block. This nested arrangement reduces overall structural complexity while maintaining locking functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If double embedded cams are used to provide locking function, then the locking effect is enhanced, but the resisting moment increases requiring additional force for rotation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking effectVSAvoidresisting moment

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic rings and elastic element provide dynamic elastic forces that adjust during operation. The first elastic ring pushes the first cam ring toward the locking end, while the second elastic ring and elastic element push the second cam ring toward engagement, creating a dynamic balancing act that reduces peak resisting moments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The friction blocks act as intermediaries between the rotating shaft and the cam rings. The friction moment generated between the first and second friction blocks during forced rotation of the shaft provides a controlled resistance that facilitates smooth engagement and disengagement of the locking mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If the locking assembly with cam rings is implemented, then the locking function is improved, but the service life is reduced due to increased wear from additional resisting moment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking functionVSAvoidservice life

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic rings and elastic element are pre-loaded to provide cushioning forces before engagement occurs. This beforehand cushioning absorbs impact forces during engagement and disengagement, reducing wear on the friction blocks and cam rings, thereby extending service life

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The friction moment between the friction blocks, which could be considered harmful wear, is converted into a beneficial engagement mechanism. The friction ensures reliable contact and force transmission during rotation, while the elastic elements control the wear rate, ultimately improving the durability of the locking function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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 design extends the service life of the hinge device by ensuring a higher moment is needed to rotate the shaft, reducing wear and tear, and providing a secure locking mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

The first elastic ring is pushed by the first retaining wall to have a first elastic force for normally moving the first cam ring toward the locking end

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The second elastic ring has a second elastic force for normally moving the second cam toward the first cam ring

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

The elastic element normally pushes the second friction block to contact the second friction block

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 4

The rotating shaft is forced to rotate so that a friction moment is generated between the first friction block and the second friction block

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS12146354B2Hinge device

Publication Date: 2024.11.19 PEGATRON

AI summary

A hinge device includes a pivot seat, a rotating shaft, a first friction block, and a locking assembly. By being structurally provided with a sleeve, a first cam ring, a first elastic ring, a second friction block, a second cam ring, a second elastic ring, an elastic element, a locking portion, and a cover of the locking assembly, the hinge device has a locking function and a long service life.