Progressive-Resistance Hinge for Thin Tablet Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tablet computers lack a support to hold them in an upright or angled position, resulting in increased thickness when a hinge is integrated to provide sufficient strength, and existing hinges offer constant torque resistance throughout the range of motion, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design featuring a frame, arm, and torque element with a longitudinally displaced rotational axis, allowing varying torque resistance between positions, achieved through a camming mechanism and interlocking features that alter resistance based on rotational position, enabling progressive torque application and reduced thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a hinge is integrated into the frame to provide sufficient strength for supporting the tablet in various positions, then the support strength is improved, but the thickness of the tablet is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is nested within the tablet frame structure, with the torque element positioned within the thickness of the frame rather than adding external bulk. The link connects the arm to the torque element in a compact arrangement that fits within the existing frame boundaries, allowing the hinge to provide sufficient support strength without increasing overall tablet thickness
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge uses a progressive resistance curve where the torque resistance varies as a function of the arm angle, providing higher resistance when needed (at certain angles) and lower resistance during movement transitions. This optimized torque distribution allows for reduced structural mass while maintaining adequate support strength across all positions
2Device complexity
If a conventional hinge provides constant torque resistance throughout the range of motion, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the energy efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge transitions from constant torque resistance to a dynamic progressive resistance curve where the torque varies as a function of the arm angle. The torque element rotates about a longitudinal axis that is perpendicular to the lateral axis of rotation, creating a camming action that naturally produces varying resistance throughout the range of motion. This dynamic behavior optimizes energy efficiency by providing appropriate resistance only when needed during the movement cycle
Solution Approach 2:
The torque resistance parameter changes continuously as a function of the arm angle, creating a progressive resistance curve. The torque element's rotational position about the longitudinal axis varies with the arm angle, and this variation is used to modulate the resistance provided to the arm's movement, optimizing energy efficiency across different positions
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 hinge provides increased rotational resistance and a smaller overall thickness with a progressive resistance curve, allowing the electronic device to be supported at various angles without tools, enhancing user mobility and energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
resisting the rotation of the torque element about the longitudinal axis
Data Source
Figure 1~2-2
Figure 3-1
Figure 3-2
AI summary
A device for controlling movement of a support includes a frame, an arm, a torque element, and a link. The arm is rotatably connected to the frame about a lateral axis. The torque element is displaced from the lateral axis in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the lateral axis. At least part of the torque element is rotatable about a longitudinal axis. The link is connected to the arm and the torque element such that rotation of the arm about the lateral axis translates at least part of the torque element in the longitudinal direction.