Multi-functional Appliance Hinge with Modular Rocker Arm and Slider
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge devices for appliances can only provide one to three functionalities and require complete redesign for changes in functionality or parameter modulation, limiting their versatility and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional hinge device with a modular design that includes a rocker arm, slider, elastic means, and pivot mechanisms, allowing for adjustable rotation axis positioning, door balancing, and control of opening and closing strokes, enabling multiple functionalities such as weight balancing, sealing enhancement, and metastable position stabilization, with parts that can be easily modified to change functional parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If known hinge devices are designed to provide multiple functionalities (balancing, slowing down, sealing, stabilizing), then the device complexity increases and complete redesign is required for any functional change
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge device is divided into separate functional modules: a rocker arm module for balancing and position control, a damper module for slowing down movements, and a closing force module for sealing. Each module can be independently selected, adjusted, or replaced to modify the overall functionality without redesigning the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge device incorporates adjustable and modifiable components that allow dynamic changes in functional parameters. The rocker arm geometry, damper characteristics, and spring forces can be adjusted to provide different balancing effects, closing speeds, and sealing forces, enabling the same device structure to adapt to various functional requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hinge device functionality is modified to adapt to different working needs, then adaptability improves but redesign requirements increase manufacturing time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge device employs universal connection interfaces and standardized mounting points that allow different functional modules to be interchanged on the same base structure. The rocker arm, damper, and closing force mechanisms are designed with compatible mounting patterns, enabling a single base device to support multiple functional configurations without custom manufacturing for each variant.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows modification of functional parameters through adjustable components such as variable-stroke dampers, adjustable rocker arm pivot points, and replaceable springs with different force characteristics. These parameter adjustments can be made through simple mechanical adjustments or component swaps rather than complete redesigns, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity for different applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hinge device provides multiple functionalities simultaneously, then versatility improves but device compactness and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge device merges multiple functional mechanisms into a compact integrated assembly where the rocker arm, damper, and closing force spring work together in a coordinated manner. The rocker arm serves both as a balancing mechanism and a position control element, while the damper integrates directly into the closing mechanism, reducing the number of separate components and potential failure points while maintaining multiple functionalities.
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 device provides a compact, reliable solution that can be configured to offer a range of functionalities, allowing for slight modifications to adapt to different working needs without full redesign, enhancing door operation and sealing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic means (17) having an end that is linked to the first connection means (3) and the other end that is linked to the slider means (40)
Implementation Method 2
a shock absorber means (60) whose dynamic portion is linked to the slider means (40) and whose static portion is linked to the first connection means (3), assigned to slow down the door at least in the final portion of the closing stroke
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
Multi-functional hinge device having a first connection means (3) assigned to be fixed to a structure or frame of an appliance; and a second connection means (5), that is rotatable around its own hinge hub means (7), and assigned to be fixed to a door or hatch of the appliance to allow the opening and closing movements between the extreme closing and opening conditions of said door; in an operative condition, the rotation axis of said hub means (7) is horizontal, and the plane of the door in the closed condition is vertical or nearly vertical. Said device (1) comprises at least: - a rocker arm means (10) that is constrained, by means of a first pivot means (11) parallel to the hub means (7), to the first connection means (3), so as to freely rotate around the axis of the first pivot means (11) where such rocker arm means (10) bears a second pivot means (13) spaced from the first pivot means (11) and parallel thereto; - a connecting rod means (14) having an end that is linked to the rocker arm means (10) by means of the second pivot means (13), so as to freely rotate around the axis of such second pivot means, and having the opposite end that is linked to the second connection means (5) by means of a third pivot means (15), parallel to the hub means (7), so as to freely rotate around the axis of such third pivot means (15); - a slider means (40) that is constrained to the first connection means (3) by means of guide means (41, 42) for the sliding of the slider means (40) towards the inside and the outside of the appliance and that bears the hub means (7) at an outer end thereof (40); such slider means (40) being linked to the rocker arm means (10) whose rotation towards the closing condition causes the translation of the slider means (40) towards the internal condition; - an elastic means (17) having an end that is linked to the first connection means (3) and the other end that is linked to the slider means (40).