Multistage Friction Hinge for Mobile Device Kickstand
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computing devices face challenges in adapting to different usage scenarios without compromising their mobile aesthetic, as traditional methods for converting them into table-top devices are awkward and detract from their design.
Innovation Solution
A multistage friction hinge that allows for adjustable attachment of a support component, such as a kickstand, to a computing device, featuring different friction engines that provide varying resistance to rotational and pivoting movement across different angle ranges, enabling multiple usage orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a support component is added to enable table-top usage, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support component is nested within the device housing, allowing it to be stored inside the device when not in use and deployed when needed. This nesting approach enables table-top functionality without permanently increasing the device's external dimensions or visual complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism transitions from a static connection to a dynamic, multi-stage friction-based system that allows controlled movement through different angle ranges. This dynamic capability enables the support component to adapt to various usage scenarios while maintaining a compact form factor.
2Device complexity
If a simple hinge is used for the support component, then device complexity is reduced, but stability at various angles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism incorporates different friction engines with distinct friction characteristics for different angle ranges. Each friction engine is optimized to provide appropriate resistance and stability for its specific angular sector, enabling stable positioning at multiple discrete angles while maintaining overall mechanism simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction characteristics of the hinge are changed across different angle ranges through the engagement of different friction engines. This parameter variation allows the hinge to provide high stability at specific angles while maintaining ease of movement during transitions, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and angular stability.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional attachment methods are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but aesthetic quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support component and hinge mechanism are nested within the device housing, concealing the mechanical elements from external view. This allows the use of functional attachment methods while maintaining the sleek, minimalist aesthetic characteristic of modern mobile devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism acts as an intermediary between the support component and the device housing, enabling a clean integrated appearance while facilitating the attachment and detachment functions. This intermediary mechanism allows the aesthetic requirements to be met without compromising manufacturing feasibility.
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
Enables seamless transition between mobile and table-top usage scenarios by providing consistent alignment and support, maintaining the device's aesthetic while accommodating various viewing angles and usage positions.
Implementation Method 1
the hinge includes different sets of components that form different friction engines that provide resistance to rotational and/or pivoting movement of the hinge
Data Source
AI summary
A multistage friction hinge is described. In at least some embodiments, the described hinge enables a support component to be adjustably attached to an apparatus. According to various embodiments, a hinge includes different activity stages where movement of the hinge is based on different activity mechanisms. For instance, the hinge includes different sets of components that form different friction engines that provide resistance to rotational and/or pivoting movement of the hinge.