Hinge Structure With Torsion Hooks For Stable Rotation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Designing a hinge structure that allows for stable rotation in electronic devices, such as notebook computers that convert into tablet computers, is challenging due to the need for a mechanism that securely holds the pivoting base during rotation while maintaining thinness and functionality.

Innovation Solution

A hinge structure featuring a fixing component with three torsion hooks that form a pivoting base groove, where the torsion hooks' pressing end portions provide a torsion force to the pivoting base, allowing it to be stably disposed and rotated, and optionally incorporating magnetic members for easier attachment and detachment of the second machine body.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a hinge structure uses a traditional single torsion spring or simple pivot mechanism, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the pivoting base cannot be stably rotated and may pull out during use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestable rotation of pivoting baseVSAvoidhinge structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge structure is divided into multiple functional components: a fixing component with fixing base, three separate torsion hooks (first, second, and third torsion hooks), pressing end portions, and pivoting base. Each component has a specific function, and their coordinated arrangement provides stable rotation while maintaining structural clarity and manufacturability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple torsion hooks (first, second, and third torsion hooks) are combined to work together as a unified torsion system. The pressing end portions of these hooks collectively press against the pivoting base, creating a combined stabilizing effect that prevents pulling out while enabling smooth rotation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If the hinge structure uses multiple torsion hooks and pressing mechanisms, then the pivoting base can be stably rotated, but the device becomes more complex and harder to manufacture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestable rotation of pivoting baseVSAvoidhinge structure manufacturing
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The torsion system is segmented into three independent torsion hooks that can be manufactured separately using standard spring manufacturing processes. Each hook is a simple elastic component that can be produced independently, then assembled into the fixing base, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while achieving the desired stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The torsion hooks are designed as elastic components that automatically provide the necessary pressing force through their inherent elasticity. The pressing end portions self-adjust to maintain contact with the pivoting base during rotation, eliminating the need for additional adjustment mechanisms or complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If the hinge structure uses a compact design with three torsion hooks, then stable rotation is achieved, but the device thickness increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestable rotation of pivoting baseVSAvoiddevice thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The three torsion hooks are arranged in a nested or closely packed configuration within the fixing base. The first, second, and third torsion hooks are positioned to utilize the available space efficiently, with their fixing end portions attached to the fixing base and their pressing end portions oriented to press against different regions of the pivoting base, minimizing the overall thickness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The torsion hooks are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration rather than a simple linear arrangement. The hooks are positioned at different locations and orientations within the fixing base, allowing them to provide stabilizing force from multiple directions while maintaining a compact overall profile that minimizes device thickness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 structure enables stable and secure rotation of the pivoting base, reducing the likelihood of it pulling out during use and allowing for easy conversion between device modes, while maintaining a thin and functional design.

Implementation Method 1

The at least three torsion hooks are disposed side by side between the first sidewall and the second sidewall. Each of the torsion hooks includes a fixing end portion and a pressing end portion opposite to each other. The fixing end portion of the torsion hook at center is fixed to the first sidewall of the fixing base, and the pressing end portion of the torsion hook at center is close to the second sidewall of the fixing base.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10146270B2Hinge structure and electronic device
Publication Date: 2018.12.04 COMPAL ELECTRONICS INC
  • US10146270B2 patent drawing
  • US10146270B2 patent drawing
  • US10146270B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hinge structure includes a fixing component and a pivoting base. The fixing component includes a fixing base and at least three torsion hooks. The fixing base includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to each other. The at least three torsion hooks are disposed side by side between the first sidewall and the second sidewall. Each of the torsion hooks includes a fixing end portion and a pressing end portion opposite to each other. The fixing end portion of the torsion hook at center is fixed to the first sidewall, and the pressing end portion is close to the second sidewall. The two fixing end portions of the two torsion hooks at two sides are respectively fixed to the second sidewall, and the two pressing end portions are respectively close to the first sidewall. A pivoting base is rotatably disposed at the torsion hook, and the three pressing end portions respectively press the pivoting base. An electronic device having a hinge structure is further provided.