Multi-Row Hinge Structure for Confined Terminal Cap Operation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In densely clustered engine rooms, such as those in vehicles, it is difficult to secure sufficient space for the opening and closing of terminal caps due to the presence of various equipment and parts, making it challenging to rotate and close covers using conventional hinge structures.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure comprising a bendable thin-walled plate-like hinge with multiple rows and a rigid portion of larger wall thickness, where the hinge rows are arranged in parallel with the rigid portion interposed between them, allowing for multiple-stage bending and selection of a center of rotation based on the surrounding situation, enhancing durability by preventing twisting forces and allowing for operation even in confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional hinge structure is used for the terminal cap cover, then the cover can be opened and closed in open spaces, but it cannot be closed in densely clustered engine rooms where sufficient rotational space is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is segmented into multiple rows (first row, second row, third row, etc.) arranged in parallel. This segmentation allows the cover to perform multi-stage bending movements instead of a single large rotation, enabling the cover to close in confined spaces where a conventional single-hinge rotation would not fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure transitions from a single-plane rotation to a multi-plane bending mechanism. The multiple rows of hinges arranged in parallel allow the cover to bend in stages across different dimensions, converting a two-dimensional rotational motion into a three-dimensional multi-stage folding motion that accommodates tight spatial constraints.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a thin-walled plate-like hinge is used to enable bending in confined spaces, then the hinge can operate in tight areas, but the hinge becomes vulnerable to twisting forces and has reduced durability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges two distinct structural elements: thin-walled plate-like hinge rows that enable bending in confined spaces, and a rigid portion with large wall thickness that resists twisting forces. This combination allows the hinge structure to simultaneously achieve both adaptability to tight spaces and durability against twisting loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure uses a composite construction combining thin-walled flexible portions (for bending capability) and a thick-walled rigid portion (for structural strength and twist resistance). This composite approach integrates materials with different mechanical properties to achieve both flexibility and strength in the same component.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rows of hinges are used to enable multi-stage bending, then the cover can close in confined spaces, but the complexity of the hinge structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple hinge rows are constructed with homogeneous structure and material properties, each row being identical in design. This homogeneity simplifies manufacturing and assembly despite the increased number of components, as each row can be produced using the same process and integrated in a standardized manner.
Solution Approach 2:
Each hinge row serves multiple functions: it acts as a bending joint for the multi-stage folding motion, provides structural support, and contributes to the overall rigidity when combined with the rigid portion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby managing complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3
AI summary
A hinge structure 5 has a bendable thin-walled plate-like hinge 11 and a rigid portion 12 continuing from this hinge 11 and formed with a large wall thickness. The hinge 11 is constituted by a plurality of hinge rows 11a to 11c. In addition, the rigid portion 12 is also constituted by a plurality of rigid portion rows 12a to 12b. The number of the hinge rows 11a to 11c is set to a number which is more numerous by one than the number of the rigid portion rows 12a and 12b. The hinge rows 11a to 11c are arranged such that the rigid portion rows 12a and 12b are each interposed between each of the hinge rows 11 a to 11c. The hinge rows 11a to 11 c and the rigid portion rows 12a and 12b are arranged parallel to each other and parallel to an outer surface of a side wall 7 on the left side.