Linear Locking Hinge Mechanism for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hinges with rotatable tongues for locking and unlocking are impractical due to limited space and often require tools, making it difficult to operate effectively.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design where the locking element moves linearly between locking and unlocking positions, with stops to limit movement and a guide element to prevent tilting, allowing for simple locking and unlocking by linear motion, and optional tilting for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rotatable tongue locking mechanism is used, then the two hinge elements can be locked together, but the limited space around the hinge makes it difficult to rotate the tongue and often requires a tool
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotating the locking element (tongue) to engage or disengage the lock, the invention inverts the mechanism so that linear movement of the locking element along the guide element's axis controls the locking state. The locking element moves linearly between locked and unlocked positions, eliminating the need for rotational movement in confined spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional rotational mechanical locking mechanism with a linear sliding mechanism guided by a guide element. This substitution allows the locking element to move linearly along the guide element's axis, converting the rotational motion requirement into linear motion that is easier to operate in limited spaces.
2Ease of operation
If the locking element is designed to move linearly between locking and unlocking positions, then assembly and disassembly are simplified, but movement beyond the intended positions must be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The guide element automatically limits the locking element's movement to the correct range through its physical structure. The locking element can only move linearly along the guide element's axis within defined boundaries, preventing it from moving beyond the locked or unlocked positions without requiring additional control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide element acts as an intermediary between the locking element and the hinge elements. It provides a structured path for the locking element's linear movement and inherently constrains the movement range, ensuring the locking element remains within the correct positional boundaries during operation.
Data Source
Figure 1~2c
Figure 3a~3e
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a hinge (10) for pivotally connecting a locking element (30), in particular a door, with a frame (20), in particular a door frame, comprising a first hinge element (1) for arrangement on the locking element (30), a second hinge element (2) for arrangement on the frame (20) and a locking element (3) movable between a locking position (V) and an unlocking position (E), wherein the locking element (3) pivotally locks the two hinge elements (1, 2) together in the locking position and wherein the two hinge elements (1, 2) are releasable from each other in the unlocking position (E), wherein the locking element (3) is linearly movable back and forth between the locking position (V) and the unlocking position (E).