Hinged Device Synchronization via Tensioned Cord
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing devices with hinge assemblies lack synchronized rotation between multiple portions, leading to inefficient and non-uniform movement, which can result in mechanical backlash and a less-than-smooth user experience.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of self-regulating hinge assemblies with a tensioned synchronizing element, such as a figure-eight tensioned cord, that secures and synchronizes the rotation of first and second device portions around corresponding hinge axes, ensuring equal and smooth rotation across a range of motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If independent hinge assemblies are used for each portion, then each portion can rotate independently, but the rotation is not synchronized and mechanical backlash occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent hinge assemblies into a synchronized system using a tensioned synchronizing element (cord or belt) that couples the hinge shafts. This merging ensures that when one hinge rotates, the other hinge rotates by the same amount, eliminating mechanical backlash and ensuring smooth, synchronized motion across all device portions.
2Reliability
If a tensioned synchronizing element is added, then rotation is synchronized and mechanical backlash is eliminated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible tensioned element (cord or belt) that wraps around the hinge shafts in a figure-eight configuration. This flexible element provides the necessary synchronization through tension while maintaining a relatively simple structure. The flexibility of the cord allows it to accommodate the rotational motion of the hinges while maintaining constant tension to ensure synchronized movement.
3Volume of moving object
If displays are wrapped around the hinge end, then the device achieves a compact form factor, but the hinge assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates displays around the hinge ends of the device portions, nesting the display structures within the existing hinge assembly geometry. This nesting approach allows the displays to be positioned in the available space at the hinge ends without significantly increasing the overall device volume or complexity, achieving a compact form factor while maintaining functionality.
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
This solution provides synchronized rotation between device portions, eliminating mechanical backlash and enhancing the user experience with a smooth, high-quality feel, while also allowing for electrical connectivity between components.
Implementation Method 1
a tensioned synchronizing element positioned around the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft. The tensioned synchronizing element can synchronize rotation around the first hinge shaft to rotation around the second hinge shaft
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The description relates to hinged devices, such as hinged computing devices. One example can include first and second device portions and a hinge assembly that includes spaced-apart parallel first and second hinge shafts. The first portion rotatably secured relative to the first hinge shaft and the second portion rotatably secured relative to the second hinge shaft. A tensioned synchronizing element synchronizes rotation of the first portion around the first hinge shaft to rotation of the second portion around the second hinge shaft.