Parallel-Gear Hinge Structure for Magnet-Free Auto-Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shaft structures for electronic devices like notebook computers face challenges in providing an auto-lock function without relying on magnets, which increases cost and space requirements when closing the screen and base.

Innovation Solution

A shaft structure with a carrier, first and second mandrels, and helical gears that expand and contract to create a resistant force for auto-locking, allowing the screen and base to be automatically closed and locked without magnets, utilizing a groove and receiving space mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If magnets are used to provide auto-lock function for closing screen and base, then the lock function is achieved, but cost and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauto-lock functionVSAvoidspace for magnet

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the magnetic field-based locking mechanism with a mechanical gear-based locking mechanism. The second gear engages with the groove and protruding portions to provide the auto-lock function through mechanical interaction rather than magnetic attraction, thereby eliminating the need for magnets and reducing space requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The gear mechanism automatically locks when the second gear engages with the groove and protruding portions during the closing motion. The structure itself provides the locking function through its geometric design, without requiring external magnetic fields or additional active components, making the system self-sufficient.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If magnets are used to provide auto-lock function for closing screen and base, then the lock function is achieved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauto-lock functionVSAvoidcost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses simple mechanical components (gears with standard tooth profiles) that are inexpensive to manufacture compared to magnets. The gear structure can be produced through conventional machining or molding processes, reducing material costs and manufacturing complexity while maintaining the auto-lock function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

By replacing the magnetic system with a mechanical gear system, the patent eliminates the need for expensive magnetic materials and associated assembly processes. The mechanical gears can be manufactured using standard industrial processes, reducing overall production costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Device complexity

If a uniaxial shaft structure is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot provide 360 degree rotation function

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshaft structureVSAvoidrotation function

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the shaft structure into two independent mandrels (first and second mandrels), each capable of rotating independently around its own axis. This segmentation allows the structure to achieve 360-degree rotation capability while maintaining relative simplicity of each individual component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single-axis (uniaxial) rotation system to a dual-axis (biaxial) rotation system by introducing two independent mandrels. This dimensional expansion enables 360-degree rotation functionality while keeping each mandrel's structure relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

4Reliability

If the second gear moves between groove and receiving space, then auto-lock function is provided, but structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauto-lock functionVSAvoidgear movement mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the locking mechanism with the existing gear structure. The second gear serves dual purposes: transmitting rotational motion and providing the auto-lock function through its engagement with the groove and protruding portions. This merging eliminates the need for separate locking components, reducing overall structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The second gear is designed to perform multiple functions: it transmits rotation from the third gear, enables biaxial rotation through the connection shaft, and provides auto-locking by engaging with the groove and protruding portions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and simplifies the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11353056B2Hinge having at least two parallel gears

Publication Date: 2022.06.07 INVENTEC PUDONG TECH CORPOARTION

AI summary

A shaft structure includes a carrier, a first mandrel, and a second mandrel. The carrier has a groove, a receiving space communicated with the groove, and two protruding portions. The two protruding portions protrude from an inner wall of the carrier, and the two protruding portions are located between the receiving space and the groove. The first mandrel has a first gear, a first rotation shaft, and a first connection shaft connected to the first gear and the first rotation shaft. The first gear is located in the receiving space. The second mandrel has a second gear, a second rotation shaft, and a second connection shaft connected to the second gear and the second rotation shaft. The second gear is configured to move in the receiving space and the groove.