Rotating Display Cover Mechanism for Concealed Hinge Interiors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with rotatable displays often have aesthetically undesirable visibility of inner components of the rotation mechanism, especially when the display is in certain orientations, which can detract from the device's appearance.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with covers that conceal the inner components of the rotation mechanism when the display is in one orientation and conceal the cover itself when the display is rotated to a different orientation, using a combination of pins, torsion springs, and uniquely shaped channels to facilitate smooth rotation and concealment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the display is made rotatable to allow various viewing angles and user input, then the adaptability and functionality are improved, but the inner components of the rotation mechanism become visible in certain orientations, worsening the aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rotation mechanism from the visible exterior by enclosing it within a housing, separating the functional component from the aesthetic surface. The cover acts as an independent element that can be positioned to conceal the mechanism, effectively removing the visual distraction while preserving the rotational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation mechanism is nested within the housing structure, and the cover is nested within the apparatus overall. This nested arrangement allows the cover to slide over and conceal the rotation mechanism when needed, while the mechanism remains accessible for operation. The multi-layered nesting enables both aesthetic concealment and functional access.
2Shape
If a cover is added to conceal the inner components, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components like pins, torsion springs, and channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cover's aesthetic function with its mechanical operation by integrating the torsion spring mechanism directly into the cover structure. The pins and channels are incorporated as integral features of the housing and cover assembly rather than separate components, reducing overall complexity while maintaining the concealment functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The torsion spring provides self-powered operation of the cover, automatically positioning it to conceal or reveal the rotation mechanism based on the display's orientation. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for motors, sensors, or external actuators, simplifying the overall system while achieving intelligent, context-aware aesthetic concealment.
3Shape
If the cover is designed to conceal the rotation mechanism in one orientation, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the cover must be concealed itself when the display is rotated, requiring additional mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed as a dynamic element that changes its position and function based on the display's orientation. The torsion spring enables the cover to automatically transition between concealing and revealed states, adapting to the operational context. This dynamic behavior eliminates the need for complex multi-position locking mechanisms or additional actuators.
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
This solution allows for the rotation of the display while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance by hiding the inner components in one orientation and the cover in another, enhancing the device's visual appeal.
Implementation Method 1
using a combination of pins, torsion springs, and uniquely shaped channels to facilitate smooth rotation and concealment
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, an apparatus can include an arm and a cover connected to the arm, where the cover conceals an inner portion of the apparatus when the arm is in a vertical orientation relative to a base of the apparatus, and the cover is concealed in the inner portion of the apparatus when the arm is in a horizontal orientation relative to the base of the apparatus.