Panel Assembly Hinge with Elastic Element for Wall Clearance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hidden water tank panel structures require users to perform two actions when opening the panel, leading to a poor user experience due to the risk of noise and damage from collisions with the wall.
Innovation Solution
A panel assembly with an elastic element disposed between the panel mounting frame and the hinge plate, allowing the panel cover to automatically open at a certain angle and move away from the wall when opened, simplifying the operation to a single turn-over action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the panel structure is directly turned over without pulling outward first, then the opening operation is simpler, but the panel structure collides with the wall causing noise and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic element automatically performs the preliminary action of pulling the panel structure outward before the user turns it over. When the user initiates the opening motion, the elastic element first extends to move the panel away from the wall, preventing collision, and then the panel rotates open. This eliminates the need for the user to manually perform the pull-out action while still preventing wall contact.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the user pulls the panel structure outward first then turns it over, then the panel structure does not collide with the wall, but the operation requires two actions resulting in poor user experience
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic element performs the panel pulling action automatically without requiring user intervention. The system uses the elastic potential energy stored in the compressed elastic element to autonomously move the panel outward before rotation, making the mechanism self-serving and eliminating the need for the user to perform the separate pull-out action.
3Ease of operation
If an elastic element is added to automatically open the panel, then the panel opens automatically at a certain angle, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an elastic sheet (thin flexible element) instead of a complex mechanical spring assembly. The elastic sheet is simple in structure, easily integrated into the hinge mechanism, and provides the necessary elastic force through its inherent material properties. This approach achieves automation with minimal added complexity compared to using traditional spring mechanisms.
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 enhances user experience by simplifying the opening process, reducing the risk of noise and damage, and providing easier access to the water tank for maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
An elastic element configured to drive the hinge plate to rotate is disposed between the panel mounting frame and the hinge plate
Data Source
AI summary
A panel assembly includes a panel mounting frame; a panel cover; and a hinge configured to connect the panel cover to the panel mounting frame. The hinge includes a hinge plate; a first pivot shaft disposed on a first side of the hinge plate and configured to be pivotally connected to the panel mounting frame; and a second pivot shaft disposed on a second side of the hinge plate and configured to be pivotally connected to the panel cover. The panel assembly also includes an elastic element configured to drive the hinge plate to rotate and disposed between the panel mounting frame and the hinge plate. The elastic element is in a compressed state when the panel cover is in a closed state relative to the panel mounting frame.