Nested Hinge Module for Electronic Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable computing devices, such as notebook computers, have a visually unappealing exposed rotating shaft module that detracts from their appearance while failing to efficiently utilize internal space for a hinge mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A hinge module is designed with a guiding member, a first rail, a rotating shaft, and a linking member, where the rotating shaft is disposed inside one body and the linking member transfers torsion force to the other body, allowing for rotation and folding/unfolding without external exposure, thus enhancing the device's appearance and internal space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rotating shaft module is disposed between two bodies to enable rotation, then the rotation function is achieved, but the rotating shaft module is exposed outside the bodies which deteriorates the appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating shaft is nested inside the second body rather than being exposed externally. The linking member extends from the second body to connect with the guiding member on the first body, creating a nested configuration where the rotational mechanism is hidden within the device structure, thus maintaining appearance while enabling rotation function
Solution Approach 2:
The linking member acts as an intermediary element that transfers the rotational motion and torsion force from the hidden rotating shaft to the guiding member on the first body. This intermediary allows the rotating shaft to remain concealed inside the second body while still enabling the rotation function between the two bodies
2Shape
If the hinge mechanism is placed inside the device to improve appearance, then the appearance is improved, but the internal space becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the rotating shaft (providing torsion), the linking member (providing connection and motion transfer), and the guiding member (providing rotational guidance). This segmentation allows each component to be optimally sized and positioned within the limited internal space of the second body, reducing overall space requirements compared to a traditional exposed hinge structure
3Shape
If the rotating shaft is placed inside the second body to improve appearance, then the appearance is improved, but the torsion force transfer to the first body becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The linking member serves as a mechanical intermediary that directly connects the rotating shaft to the guiding member on the first body. This direct mechanical connection through the linking member ensures efficient transfer of torsion force from the rotating shaft inside the second body to the guiding member on the first body, overcoming the challenge of force transfer across the hidden hinge structure
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 solution provides a thin and aesthetically pleasing design by hiding the hinge mechanism within the device, ensuring a favorable appearance while maintaining the necessary torsion force for rotation, thus enhancing user experience and manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the torsion force generated by the rotating shaft located inside the second body is further transferred to the first body through the linking member
Implementation Method 2
The guiding member and the first rail are disposed at the first body respectively. The guiding member is movably coupled to the first rail
Implementation Method 3
The linking member is linked between the rotating shaft and the guiding member. the guiding member drives the linking member to rotate the rotating shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge module and an electronic device are provided. The electronic device includes a first body and a second body that the hinge module is connected therebetween, and the first and the second bodies are rotated to be folded or unfolded through the hinge module. The hinge module includes a guiding member, a first rail, a rotating shaft, and a linking member. The rotating shaft disposed at the first body in a rotatable and penetrating manner. The linking member is linked between the rotating shaft and the guiding member. The first and the second bodies are rotated relatively to each other via the guiding member and the first rail, and the guiding member drives the linking member to rotate the rotating shaft.