One-Way Clutch Hinge for Tablet Base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing one-way clutch hinges in tablet computer bases face challenges in maintaining stable angular positions under varying loads and user interactions, as they struggle to resist torque-induced rotation while allowing free rotation in the opposite direction without mechanical resistance, leading to inconsistent user experience and potential device damage.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a one-way clutch hinge mechanism featuring a shaft with rollers and a cam system, where friction elements and a spring work together to resist rotation in one direction while allowing free rotation in the opposite direction, utilizing a combination of concave washers and a roller cage to manage torque and maintain stable angular positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a one-way clutch hinge mechanism is implemented to allow free rotation in one direction, then ease of operation is improved, but stability under varying loads deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism dynamically transitions between two states: a locked state where friction elements engage with gear teeth to resist torque and maintain angular position, and an unlocked state where the cam lifts the friction elements off the gear teeth, allowing free rotation. This dynamic state change enables the hinge to provide stability when needed and freedom of movement when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism changes the friction parameter between engaged and disengaged states. When the cam rotates, it varies the normal force between the friction elements and gear teeth, effectively changing the friction coefficient from high (locked) to low (unlocked), thereby controlling the transition between stable and free-rotation modes.
2Reliability
If friction elements are used to resist torque-induced rotation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated clutch mechanism: the friction elements provide torque resistance, the cam provides the actuating motion and control, and the gear teeth provide both the locking surface and the rotational path. This merging of functions into a compact assembly achieves reliable torque resistance without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch mechanism is self-actuating through the cam's rotational motion, which automatically engages and disengages the friction elements based on the hinge's angular position. The weight of the display assembly and spring force work together to provide the necessary normal force on the friction elements without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems.
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
This solution effectively resists torque-induced rotation, maintaining stable angular positions and allowing user-adjustable viewing angles without mechanical resistance, enhancing the user experience and device durability by ensuring consistent operation under varying loads.
Implementation Method 1
a spring positioned within the clutch mechanism and in contact with the cam, the spring exerting a normal force on the cam
Implementation Method 2
the friction elements engage with teeth on the gear, the friction elements resisting movement of the gear relative to the clutch housing
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system includes a base, a hinge area, and a clutch device. The hinge area is in physical communication with the base, and includes a curved portion. The curved portion is to be placed in physical communication with a tablet computer when the tablet computer is in a first open position, and the hinge area is to hold the tablet computer in the first open position. The clutch device is located within the hinge area, and includes rollers, a shaft, and a clutch housing. A weight of the tablet computer is to exert a first torque on the clutch device. The rollers are to lock the clutch device in response to the first torque, and the clutch device locks in response to the rollers being placed in physical communication with both the shaft and the clutch housing.