Hinge for Separation Screen Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional separation screen hinges are aesthetically unappealing and structurally unstable, leading to premature panel separation and frequent reassembly issues, which compromises the appearance and durability of separation screens.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design featuring a bent member with lateral arms and coupling means, including sleeves and rotational connection mechanisms, that provides rotational stability and axial locking, ensuring panels remain securely connected while allowing for flexible positioning and easy assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If conventional hinges (piano hinges, rings, or cords) are used to join panels, then the separation screen can be assembled, but the aesthetic appearance is impaired due to visible joints and protruding parts
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge components are nested within the tubular frame structure. The lateral arms are inserted into the tubular frames of adjacent panels, and the coupling means are positioned within the frame members, concealing all joint components inside the tubular structure. This nesting approach eliminates visible external joints while maintaining the articulation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The tubular frame acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the hinge components and the external environment. By routing the hinge lateral arms and coupling means through and within the tubular frame structure, the design uses the frame as a concealing intermediary that hides the mechanical joint components from view.
2Ease of manufacture
If simple ring or cord hinges are used to join panels, then assembly is simple, but structural stability deteriorates causing untimely panel separation
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is segmented into distinct functional components: lateral arms for articulation, coupling means for connection, and rotational connection mechanisms for stability. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity of construction and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational connection mechanisms incorporate spherical or curved surfaces that provide smooth rotational movement while maintaining stable engagement. The curved geometries of the rotational connections prevent panel separation by providing continuous contact surfaces that guide and constrain motion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional hinges are used, then panels can be articulated, but frequent reassembly is required due to panel separation during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge components are pre-configured with engagement features that automatically secure panels in the correct position during assembly. The coupling means and rotational connection mechanisms are designed to engage in a single operation, preventing subsequent separation and eliminating the need for frequent reassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge design incorporates self-locking or self-retaining features that automatically maintain panel connection without requiring external fastening operations. The rotational connection mechanisms and coupling means work together to self-secure the panels, preventing separation during handling and transport.
4Device complexity
If simple joining mechanisms are used, then device complexity is low, but the hinge lacks rotational stability allowing untimely separation
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational connection mechanisms incorporate spherical or curved surfaces that provide smooth rotational movement while maintaining stable engagement. The curved geometries create continuous contact surfaces that guide rotation and prevent deviation, providing inherent rotational stability without complex locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge design utilizes changes in geometric parameters of the rotational connection surfaces to provide stability. By carefully designing the curvature radii, contact surface areas, and engagement depths of the rotational mechanisms, the system achieves stable rotation with relatively simple components.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a hinge (10, 11) for a separation screen (4) consisting of at least two panels (43, 44) that are hingedly connected about an axis of rotation X, each comprising a tubular frame (40, 40ʼ) and forming an angle α with respect to one another in an operating position of said separation screen (4). According to the invention, said hinge (10, 11) comprises an elbow member (2) having two side arms (21, 22) forming said angle α therebetween, as well as coupling means (3, 3ʼ) between each one of said side arms (21, 22) and a free end (41, 41ʼ, 42, 42ʼ) of the tubular frame (40, 40ʼ) of each one of said panels (43, 44). A first side arm (21) and said coupling means also comprise means arranged such as to enable a rotatable link, about said axis of rotation (X), between said coupling means (3, 3ʼ) and said first side arm (21).