Multi-joint link hinge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerator door hinges interfere with adjacent objects due to their size and thickness, limiting installation configurations and aesthetics, and existing multi-link hinges are bulky, reducing storage space and creating an unsightly appearance.
Innovation Solution
A compact multi-joint link hinge with a U-shaped bracket and multiple linkages that allow the door to rotate without interference, featuring a spacer to maintain distance and a sub-rotation shaft to ensure smooth operation, enabling flush installation with surrounding furniture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional hinge device is used to support the door, then the door can rotate and open/close, but the hinge interferes with adjacent objects (wall surface or furniture) due to its thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is divided into multiple linkages (first linkage, second linkage, third linkage) connected by rotation shafts, allowing each segment to rotate independently. This segmentation enables the door to rotate while the hinge itself remains thin and does not interfere with adjacent objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure transitions from a single-plane rotation to a multi-dimensional rotation path. The door rotates along a curved trajectory defined by the multi-joint linkage mechanism, moving from a simple arc rotation to a more complex path that avoids adjacent objects while maintaining rotation functionality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a multi-link hinge is used to avoid interference with adjacent objects, then door rotation without interference is achieved, but the hinge becomes relatively thick and large in width
Solution Approach 1:
The linkages are arranged in a nested configuration where the first, second, and third linkages are positioned sequentially along the rotation path. This nesting allows the hinge to achieve the required rotation range while minimizing the overall width and thickness of the hinge structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge employs dynamic rotation at multiple joints (first rotation shaft, second rotation shaft, third rotation shaft) that allows the structure to adapt its configuration during door opening/closing. This dynamic adjustment enables the hinge to maintain a compact form while avoiding interference with adjacent objects.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a large-sized hinge is used to prevent door interference, then rotation without interference is achieved, but the storage space of the refrigerator is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the hinge into multiple smaller linkages rather than using a single large hinge, the overall volume occupied by the hinge mechanism is reduced. This allows the door to rotate without interference while preserving maximum storage space within the refrigerator cabinet.
4Ease of operation
If the vertical interval between upper and lower doors is widened to accommodate a large hinge, then the hinge can operate without interference, but the appearance is compromised due to the exposed wide interval
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-joint linkage mechanism dynamically adjusts its configuration during door operation, allowing the hinge to function properly with minimal vertical interval. This dynamic adaptation maintains a compact appearance without compromising the operational capability of the hinge.
Data Source
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AI summary
A multi-joint link hinge may include hinge bracket provided with a base in which a plurality of screw coupling holes are defined, a plurality of side walls which protrude from the base and are spaced apart from each other in a vertical direction, a plurality of link modules which are vertically arranged between the side portions and axially coupled to the hinge bracket by a rotation shaft, and a door bracket which is axially coupled to each of the plurality of link modules.