Interlocking Hinge With Selective Separation Angle

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hinging systems for panels lack the ability to provide both secure interlocking and easy separation without requiring special tools or disassembly, limiting their versatility and security in applications like doors, closures, and containers.

Innovation Solution

An interlocking hinge system comprising a first and second hinge member that interlock in a selectively separable engagement, allowing for hinging movement while enabling complete removal of the panel by rotating to a specific separation angle, where protrusions on one hinge member align with spaces on the other to facilitate separation without tools or disassembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional hinging system is used to provide secure attachment, then the panel remains firmly locked to the structure, but the panel cannot be easily separated without tools or disassembly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoideasy separation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge is divided into two separate members (first hinge member and second hinge member) that can be independently positioned and engaged. The separation between the hinge members allows the panel to be detached from the structure by simply moving the hinge members apart, eliminating the need for tools or complex disassembly procedures while maintaining secure attachment when engaged.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge system transitions from a static, permanently fixed connection to a dynamic, selectively engageable connection. The hinge members can be moved between an engaged position (providing secure attachment) and a disengaged position (allowing easy separation). This dynamic capability enables the same hinge system to provide both strong attachment and simple removal based on operational needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If a permanently fixed hinge is used, then the panel cannot be removed, but the structure lacks versatility for different operational modes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixed connectionVSAvoidoperational flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge system transitions from a static, permanently fixed connection to a dynamic, selectively engageable connection. The hinge members can be moved between an engaged position (providing secure attachment) and a disengaged position (allowing easy separation). This dynamic capability enables the same hinge system to provide both strong attachment and simple removal based on operational needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge system serves multiple functions: it can provide secure attachment when the hinge members are engaged, allow easy removal when disengaged, and support various panel positions (open, closed, angled) during intermediate states. This multi-functionality gives the structure versatility to operate in different modes (secured, accessible, or fully removed) using the same hinge mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If a removable hinge mechanism is used to allow panel separation, then the panel can be easily removed, but the secure attachment and locking capability is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel removalVSAvoidsecure attachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge is divided into two separate members (first hinge member and second hinge member) that can be independently positioned and engaged. The separation between the hinge members allows the panel to be detached from the structure by simply moving the hinge members apart, eliminating the need for tools or complex disassembly procedures while maintaining secure attachment when engaged.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10851570B2Interlocking hinge

Publication Date: 2020.12.01 AUSTIN HARDWARE & SUPPLY INC

AI summary

An interlocking hinge is described. The interlocking hinge includes a first hinge member and a second hinge member. The first hinge member and the second hinge member interlock in a separable engagement.