Retractable Hinge Structure for Flat Foldable Computing Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional computing devices with hinges face a challenge in achieving a flat configuration without interrupting the combined display area, as the hinge protrudes and separates the display housing and base.
Innovation Solution
A computing device with a retractable hinge that includes a central bar and links which slide into recesses of the display housing and base, allowing the device to rotate around a virtual pivot point and achieve a flat configuration with the display housing and base flush against each other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a 360-degree hinge is used to allow the display to rotate freely, then the adaptability is improved, but the hinge becomes more complex and harder to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is divided into multiple independent components: a first hinge portion attached to the display, a second hinge portion attached to the chassis, and a retractable element that connects them. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler while achieving the overall 360-degree rotation capability through their coordinated interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractable element is nested within the hinge structure, allowing it to extend and retract between the first and second hinge portions. This nesting approach enables the hinge to compact into a smaller space while maintaining full rotation capability when extended.
2Volume of moving object
If the hinge is made retractable to improve portability, then the volume is reduced, but the hinge mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge incorporates a retractable element that can dynamically change its state between extended and retracted positions. This dynamic characteristic allows the hinge to adapt its volume based on usage requirements, being compact for portability and extended for full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the hinge into fixed portions and a retractable portion, the design achieves volume reduction when the retractable element is retracted, while the segmentation keeps each individual component relatively simple in structure.
3Volume of moving object
If the hinge allows the display to lie flat against the chassis, then the compactness is improved, but the hinge structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it enables 360-degree rotation for various display orientations, provides a retractable mechanism for volume reduction, and allows the display to lie flat against the chassis. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified hinge design that integrates these capabilities rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function.
Data Source
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AI summary
An example computing device includes: a display housing including a first recess and a base including a second recess; and a hinge to rotate the display housing from a closed configuration to an open configuration, the hinge comprising: a central bar; a first link coupled to the central bar at a first pivot point, the first link rotatable about the first pivot point; and a second link coupled to the central bar at a second pivot point, the second link rotatable about the second pivot point; and wherein in response to the display housing rotating to the open configuration, a first sliding end of the first link is to retract into the first recess and a second sliding end of the second link is to retract into the second recess.