Phase-Locked Pivot Assembly for Notebook Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pivot mechanisms in notebook computers for switching between tablet and laptop modes suffer from weak strength, short service life, and inconvenient operation due to asynchronous connections between shafts.
Innovation Solution
A phase-locked pivot assembly that includes a support component, first and second shafts, annular bodies, and gears to ensure synchronized and fluent rotation by locking the shafts step-by-step, enhancing durability and operational convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional pivot mechanism is used to enable rotation between laptop and tablet modes, then the device can switch between modes, but the mechanism has weak strength and short service life
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot mechanism is divided into two independent shafts (first shaft and second shaft) that can rotate asynchronously. Each shaft is controlled separately with its own annular body and locking mechanism, allowing the system to achieve complex rotational movements while maintaining structural integrity and reducing stress on individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transitions from a fixed rigid connection to a dynamic system with two independently rotatable shafts. The annular bodies can selectively lock or unlock the shafts based on rotation angle, enabling the system to adapt its stiffness and mobility characteristics during operation, thereby improving both versatility and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a biaxial pivot assembly with first shaft and second shaft is used to enable 0-360 degree rotation, then the rotation range is extended, but the operation becomes inconvenient due to asynchronous connection
Solution Approach 1:
The annular bodies provide mechanical feedback through their selective engagement with the shafts. As the shafts rotate, the annular bodies automatically detect the rotation angle and lock at specific positions, providing tactile feedback to the user and enabling intuitive operation without requiring precise manual control of the asynchronous shafts.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular bodies act as intermediary elements between the two shafts. They receive rotational input from one shaft and transmit controlled rotational output to the other shaft, mediating the asynchronous connection and transforming it into synchronized motion at specific angular positions, thereby improving operational convenience.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the first shaft and second shaft are asynchronously connected to enable independent rotation, then the rotation flexibility is improved, but the coordination between shafts deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between locked and unlocked states for each shaft based on the rotation angle. During normal operation, the shafts can rotate independently with high flexibility. At specific angular positions, the annular bodies automatically lock the shafts to maintain coordinated movement, thereby achieving both flexibility and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking and unlocking of the shafts occurs periodically at specific rotation intervals. The annular bodies are designed to engage with the shafts at predetermined angular positions, creating a periodic locking pattern that maintains shaft coordination while allowing flexible rotation between locked positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A phase-locked pivot assembly includes a support component. A first shaft and a second shaft pivot relative to the support component. A first annular body is configured to rotate with the first shaft. The first annular body includes a first outer annular surface and a first sunken arc portion. A second annular body is configured to rotate with the second shaft and corresponds to the first annular body. The second annular body includes a second outer annular surface and a second sunken arc portion. The first sunken arc portion and the second outer annular surface are matched and selectively contact each other to lock the first shaft. The second sunken arc portion and the first outer annular surface are matched and selectively contact each other to lock the second shaft.