Single-Axis Hinge Integrating Catch and Damper for Compact Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional single-axis hinges face challenges in attaching the first and second members to small attachment spaces due to the placement of the catch and damper mechanisms, which increases the size of both members, making it difficult to fit within narrow openings or the thickness of doors or main bodies.
Innovation Solution
The catch mechanism and damper mechanism are integrated on either the first or second member, allowing for compact design and attachment to small spaces by positioning them on one member, enabling the other member to be attached to a small opening or within the thickness of a door or main body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the catch mechanism and damper mechanism are disposed on both the first member and the second member separately, then the functionality of the hinge is ensured, but the size of both members increases making it difficult to attach to small spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both the catch mechanism and damper mechanism on a single member (either the first member or the second member). This merging of mechanisms eliminates the need for separate mechanisms on both members, thereby reducing the overall size of the hinge components while maintaining all necessary functionalities. The combined configuration allows the hinge to be attached to small spaces such as narrow door openings or thin door bodies.
2Volume of moving object
If the catch mechanism and damper mechanism are integrated on one member, then the attachment space is reduced, but the complexity of integrating both mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested configuration where the damper mechanism is positioned within or adjacent to the catch mechanism structure. The piston rod of the linear damper is arranged to extend in the rotation direction, and the damper mechanism is integrated into the same member as the catch mechanism. This nesting approach allows both mechanisms to share space and structural elements, reducing overall complexity while achieving compact integration.
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 configuration allows for the attachment of the single-axis hinge to small spaces, providing a compact solution that maintains the functionality of both the catch and damper mechanisms, ensuring the door can be securely closed and impact absorbed.
Implementation Method 1
a catch mechanism (6) having a spring (8) and giving rotational force in a closing direction to the door (4) in the vicinity of a closed position
Implementation Method 2
a damper mechanism (7) having a linear damper (9) and damping rotation of the door (4) when the door (4) is closed
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a single-axis hinge with a damper mechanism and a catch mechanism for allowing either one of a first member and a second member to be attached to a portion having a small attachment space. The single-axis hinge (2) includes the first member (11) attached to the main body, and the second member (12) which is attached to the door and can rotate with respect to the first member (11) around a shaft (13) facing a vertical direction. The catch mechanism (6) has a spring (8) and gives rotational force in a closing direction to the door in the vicinity of a closed position. The damper mechanism (7) has a linear damper (9) and damps rotation of the door when the door is closed. The catch mechanism (6) and the damper mechanism (7) are disposed on either one of the first member (11) and the second member (12).