Segmented Hinge Mechanism for 360-Degree Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current portable electronic computing devices face challenges in designing a hinge mechanism that allows for flexible and durable 360-degree rotation while maintaining structural integrity and ease of use, particularly in transitioning between closed laptop and open tablet configurations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a first and second case section and a sheet member, where the sheet member is hingedly coupled to both case sections, allowing it to change between spatial contours for flexible contact and non-contact positions, enabling 360-degree rotation and folding configurations, with segments and mid-hinges facilitating the transition, and made from a combination of flexible synthetic materials and hard HDPE plastic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge mechanism allows for 360-degree rotation to enable flexible configurations, then adaptability is improved, but structural integrity and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is divided into multiple segments (first hinge segment, second hinge segment, third hinge segment) that can rotate independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the hinge to achieve 360-degree rotation and multiple configurations while maintaining structural integrity through distributed stress points rather than a single weak point.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism utilizes composite construction with a hinge housing, hinge base, and hinge segments that can be made from different materials optimized for their specific functions. This composite approach allows certain parts to be optimized for rotational movement while other parts maintain structural strength, resolving the contradiction between flexibility and integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge mechanism is designed for 360-degree rotation with multiple segments, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple hinge segments and functional elements are merged into a single integrated hinge base structure. The hinge housing, hinge base, and segments are designed to work together as one unified component rather than separate assemblies, reducing the number of parts and simplifying manufacturing while maintaining the complex rotational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism is designed as a multi-functional component that provides 360-degree rotation, multiple configuration positions, and structural support all through a single hinge assembly. This universal design eliminates the need for separate mechanisms for each function, reducing overall device complexity despite the advanced capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If the sheet member is made from flexible materials to enable spatial contour changes, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet member is designed to change its physical parameters dynamically - remaining rigid in certain spatial contours for structural accuracy, and becoming flexible in others for ease of operation. This parameter change approach allows the same component to provide both manufacturing precision and operational flexibility depending on its configuration state.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheet member transitions from a static component to a dynamic one that can change its spatial contour and mechanical properties during operation. This dynamic capability allows the sheet to be manufactured with high precision in its various contour states while maintaining the flexibility needed for easy operation and configuration changes.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are involved for a portable electronic computing device the system includes (I) a first case section to receive a first device portion, (II) a second case section to receive a second device portion, and (III) a sheet member coupled with and extending between the first case section and the second case section including the sheet member being able to flexibly change between (A) being received by a recess in the first case section and a recess in the second case section, and (B) being other than received by the recesses. In addition, other aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.