Hinge Device Non-Circular Spring Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional furniture hinges with springs tend to break over time due to improper mounting and positioning of sliding elements, affecting the quality of use and durability.
Innovation Solution
A hinge device featuring a sleeve member and an elastic member with a non-circular cross section, where the sleeve member has a non-circular cavity to securely mount the elastic member's end portion, ensuring stable contact with a cam and generating a reliable opening and closing force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a circular cross-section spring end portion is used with a cylindrical cavity in the sliding element, then the assembly is simple to manufacture, but the sliding element may fall off the spring and the mounting precision is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by changing the cross-sectional shape of the spring end portion from circular to non-circular (such as D-shaped or elliptical). This asymmetric shape corresponds to a matching non-circular cavity in the sliding element, preventing the sliding element from rotating or falling off while maintaining simple manufacturing processes. The asymmetric geometry provides inherent positioning and retention without requiring additional attachment devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by having the non-circular end portion of the spring fit precisely within the non-circular cavity of the sliding element. This nested arrangement ensures the sliding element stays securely mounted on the spring end portion while allowing smooth relative movement during hinge operation, combining retention with operational freedom.
2Reliability
If the sliding element is engaged in the coils of the spring via an attachment device, then the sliding element is retained on the spring, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric non-circular cross-section of the spring end portion serves as an inherent attachment mechanism. The shape complementarity between the spring end and sliding element cavity provides retention functionality without requiring separate attachment devices, thus reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the attachment function from a separate attachment device and integrates it directly into the geometry of the spring end portion itself. By designing the non-circular cross-section, the retention capability is built into the basic structure, eliminating the need for additional attachment components.
3Ease of manufacture
If improper mounting tolerance is used for the support point relative to the contact angle, then the manufacturing is easier, but the quality of use of the hinge is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The non-circular cross-section provides inherent orientation and positioning features that guide correct alignment during assembly. The asymmetric geometry ensures the support point is properly positioned relative to the contact angle, maintaining high quality of use while allowing for reasonable manufacturing tolerances through the self-aligning nature of the shape-complementary fit.
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 secure connection between the sleeve member and elastic member enhances the durability and functionality of the hinge by preventing the elastic member from dislodging, thus maintaining the hinge's operational quality and extending its lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
The fitting is able to be driven to pivot with respect to the connecting arm by an elastic force generated by the elastic member
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A hinge device (20) includes a fitting (22), a connecting arm (24), a cam (26), an elastic member (28), and a sleeve member (30). The connecting arm (24) is pivotally connected to the fitting (22). The cam (26) is located at the connecting arm (24). The elastic member (28) is mounted to the fitting (22) and includes an end portion (52) having a non-circular cross section. The sleeve member (30) is attached to the elastic member (28) and is in contact with the cam (26). The sleeve member (30) includes a cavity (62) in which the end portion (52) of the elastic member (28) can be mounted.