Sequential Panel Hinge Control With Guide-Stop Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel deployment mechanisms are complex, requiring interlock mechanisms that complicate the hinge structure and restrict the start timing of side panel deployment, leading to unstable deployment behavior and excessive impact during deployment.
Innovation Solution
A panel deployment apparatus with orthogonal hinges and guide mechanisms allows for sequential deployment of side panels independently of main panels, using a deployment stop mechanism that engages and disengages with guides to control the deployment timing without a complicated synchronization mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an interlock mechanism is used to synchronize main panel and side panel deployment, then sequential deployment control is achieved, but the hinge structure becomes complicated and mass increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deployment control function is segmented from the hinge structure itself and assigned to a separate deployment control mechanism. This allows the hinge to remain simple while the control system handles sequential deployment logic through guide means and stop means interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
A deployment stop means acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the main panel deployment and side panel deployment. It temporarily holds the side panel in a deployed position and releases it at the appropriate time, enabling sequential control without complex interlock mechanisms in the hinge.
2Productivity
If main panel deployment is fully completed before side panel deployment starts, then sequential deployment is achieved, but the start timing of side panel deployment cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The deployment control system is made dynamic by allowing the side panel to be held in a partially deployed state by the stop means. This enables flexible timing control where the side panel can be deployed at different stages of main panel deployment, not just after complete deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The side panel is preliminarily deployed to a held position during main panel deployment, and the final release is performed at the desired timing. This preliminary action allows for timing adjustment flexibility while maintaining sequential deployment control.
3Speed
If side panels are deployed simultaneously with main panels, then deployment speed is maintained, but deployment behavior becomes unstable and impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stop means applies a preliminary restraining force to the side panel, preventing it from deploying simultaneously with the main panel. This counteracts the natural tendency toward simultaneous deployment, ensuring stable sequential deployment behavior and reducing impact forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop means acts as a cushioning mechanism that gradually releases the side panel after main panel deployment. This beforehand cushioning prevents sudden deployment and excessive impact by controlling the timing and rate of side panel deployment.
Data Source
AI summary
A panel deployment apparatus includes a guide provided on a first hinge axis of a main hinge; a guide provided on a second hinge axis of a side hinge; and a deployment stop arm that stops deployment of a second side panel by sequential engagement with the guide and the guide, the deployment stop arm being fixed to the second side panel, wherein the second main panel is deployed in a state of the deployment stop arm being engaged with the guide and, when the deployment stop arm is disengaged from the guide and then engaged with the guide, the first side panel is deployed in a state of the deployment stop arm being engaged with the guide and, when the deployment stop arm is disengaged from the guide, the second side panel is deployed.