Reversible Vehicle Window Hinge With Simplified Locking Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automobile window hinges with reversible locking mechanisms are complex to assemble due to the need for precise alignment of multiple parts and require a large number of components, leading to increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design featuring a movable locking mechanism that is independent of the axis of rotation, utilizing a simple cylindrical bore with a narrowing and a spring to lock the hinges in a reversible position, requiring only two main components: a movable locking means and a spring, which are easily assembled and standardized.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a reversible locking mechanism is installed at the axis of rotation with multiple pins and cylindrical rods, then the hinge can be held in a locked position, but the assembly complexity increases and the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted from the axis of rotation and placed on the inner face of the second hinge. This separates the locking mechanism from the rotational connection, allowing independent optimization of both functions. The locking means now consists of simpler elements (protrusion and recess) rather than the complex pin-rod-washer assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means is integrated directly into the hinge body structure rather than being separate components. The protrusion is formed as part of the second hinge, and the recess is formed as part of the first hinge, merging the locking function with the hinge structure itself and eliminating the need for separate locking components.
2Reliability
If multiple locking elements and pins are aligned simultaneously during assembly, then the hinge achieves proper locking function, but the manufacturing and assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is segmented into functional zones: the rotational connection through the axis and the locking function on the inner face. This segmentation allows each zone to be assembled independently without requiring simultaneous alignment of multiple components, simplifying the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to self-align and self-lock during assembly. The protrusion and recess are shaped to guide themselves into proper alignment, and the spring automatically engages the locking position without requiring precise manual alignment or additional fastening operations.
3Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism with multiple parts is used, then the hinge can achieve reversible locking, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means uses simple, inexpensive elements (protrusion, recess, and spring) that can be manufactured with standard machining operations. These replace the expensive, complex pin-rod-washer assembly requiring precision alignment and specialized manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The simple protrusion-recess-spring mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides reversible locking, allows easy unlocking by moving the locking means, and can be manufactured using standard processes. This universal design approach reduces the need for specialized components and manufacturing equipment.
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 simplified hinge design reduces assembly complexity, lowers manufacturing costs, and allows for easy unlocking, while maintaining effective locking with reduced wear and effort, using widely available and standardized parts.
Implementation Method 1
a spring pushing said movable locking means to a stop position in which this movable locking means is in contact against the narrowing
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A hinge (1) comprising a first knuckle (11) that is mounted so as to be able to pivot on a second knuckle (12) between a first position and a second position, by means of a rotation pin (2), this hinge being arranged in such a way that, in the second position, an inner face (123) of the second knuckle (12), substantially perpendicular to the rotation pin (2), is positioned facing a lateral face (113) of the first knuckle (11), being noteworthy in that the second knuckle (11) comprises a locking means (30) on its inner face (123), and the first knuckle comprises, on its lateral face (113), a securing interface (110) that cooperates with said locking means (30) when said first knuckle (11) is in the second position so as to lock said first knuckle (11) with respect to the second knuckle (12) in this second position, the locking means (30) being able to move.