Hinge Assembly with Self-Sufficient Radio Switch Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge arrangements are limited in detecting both opening and closing movements in a space-saving and reliable manner, with prior solutions only allowing signal transmission during hinge opening and potentially causing interference with other radio systems.
Innovation Solution
A hinge arrangement featuring a self-sufficient wireless switch unit with an electrodynamic generator unit that induces electrical current pulses in both directions of hinge movement, allowing for compact detection and transmission of hinge opening and closing states via high-frequency data packets, including ambient temperature information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a generator unit is designed to only detect hinge opening, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and functionality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The generator unit is designed to detect both opening and closing movements of the hinge through a single actuating element that responds to movement in both directions. This multi-functional design allows one component to perform multiple detection functions, resolving the contradiction by maintaining device simplicity while achieving comprehensive detection capability.
2Ease of operation
If a self-sufficient wireless switch unit is integrated into the hinge, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless switch unit combines the radio transmission unit and generator unit into a single integrated assembly that is mounted on the hinge. This merging of functions into one compact unit improves ease of operation by providing automatic wireless detection and transmission without requiring separate components, while the integration actually reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate distributed components.
3Loss of information
If data packets are transmitted in both hinge directions, then the loss of information is reduced, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radio transmission unit is designed to transmit data packets periodically based on detected hinge movements. Rather than continuous transmission, the system activates transmission only when opening or closing movements are detected, using the periodic nature of hinge operations to minimize energy consumption while ensuring complete information is captured and transmitted for both directions of movement.
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
Enables reliable detection and transmission of hinge movements, supporting various functions and reducing interference by sending data packets in both hinge directions, enhancing functionality and compatibility with existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
the generator unit induces an electrical current pulse to power the radio unit
Implementation Method 2
the generator unit is designed as an electrodynamic converter, which converts the mechanical movement of the actuating element into a current pulse
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a hinge assembly, comprising a hinge (1), in particular a cup hinge, and a self-sufficient radio switch unit (6), wherein the hinge (1) is composed of two hinge parts (3, 4) connected by means of a joint (2) lying therebetween, of which a first hinge part (3) is connected to a stationary component and a second hinge part (4) is coupled to an element to be pivoted, in particular a door (5), in such a way that the second hinge part is pivotable relative to the first hinge part (3) by means of the joint (2), and wherein the self-sufficient radio switch unit (6) comprises a radio unit (7) and a generator unit (8) having an actuating element, which transmits the opening and closing of the hinge (1) to the generator unit (8), and so the generator unit (8) induces an electrical current pulse to supply current to the radio unit (7), wherein furthermore the generator unit (8) induces an electrical current pulse when the opening as well as closing of the hinge (1) is transmitted by the actuating element, wherein the radio unit (7) sends data when the radio unit is supplied with current in the process.