Sliding Clamshell Hinge for Electronic Device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with clamshell mechanisms require separate displays for conference calls, are prone to accidental opening and closing, and lack protection for sliding displays, making them cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction mechanism with a hinge structure that allows sliding and clamshell modes, featuring a locking mechanism and optional optical hinge for secure operation, enabling a single display to be used in secondary or divided view mode, and supporting conference calls without additional displays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a clamshell mechanism is used with a hinge at the bottom edge, then the device can be opened and closed, but the hinge structure is exposed to significant load and accidental opening/closing occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is divided into two functional segments: a rotation function for opening/closing operation and a sliding function for position adjustment. The hinge can slide along the longitudinal axis to different positions, with specific positions providing different functions (e.g., bottom edge for rotation, top edge for locking). This segmentation allows the system to distinguish between intentional opening operations and accidental displacements.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge transitions from a static attachment to a dynamic component that can slide along the longitudinal axis. The hinge is adapted to slide in a longitudinal direction when the second part is turned, enabling it to move between different functional positions. This dynamic capability allows the hinge to adapt to different operational states and prevent accidental opening by changing its position in response to operational demands.
2Volume of moving object
If a sliding mechanism is used to make the device compact, then the device size is reduced, but the display is mechanically unprotected
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge's dynamic sliding capability allows it to change position based on operational state. When the device is in a compact sliding configuration, the hinge can move to a position that provides structural protection for the display. The second part can be turned and slid to a position where it overlaps with or protects the display area, thereby providing mechanical protection while maintaining compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure serves multiple functions: it enables rotation for opening/closing, allows sliding for position adjustment and compactness, and provides structural support for display protection. By making the hinge a multi-functional component, the system achieves device compactness without sacrificing display protection, as the same hinge mechanism that enables sliding also provides structural support for protecting the display.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single display is used in clamshell mode, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but the display must be viewed in secondary view mode which may reduce usability
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge's dynamic positioning allows the second part to be turned to different angles and positions. When in clamshell mode, the hinge can be positioned to allow the display to be viewed in secondary view mode, such as above the keyboard or at an angled position. This dynamic adjustment enables a single display to serve multiple viewing purposes, maintaining usability while reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The single display is designed to serve multiple functions through the hinge's multi-position capability. The display can be viewed in primary mode when the device is fully opened, and in secondary view mode when the hinge is positioned for clamshell configuration. The hinge's ability to provide structural support and positioning enables the same display to fulfill different operational requirements without requiring separate displays.
4Ease of operation
If the hinge is positioned at the bottom edge for rotation, then the device can be opened and closed, but the hinge is exposed to significant load
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge dynamically changes its position along the longitudinal axis in response to operational demands. When rotation is required, the hinge moves to the bottom edge position to enable easy opening and closing. When the device is in a closed or compact state, the hinge slides to a different position where it is less exposed to external loads. This dynamic repositioning allows the hinge to optimize between rotational ease and load protection based on the operational state.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge is designed to slide to a protective position before being subjected to significant loads. When the device is closed or in a compact configuration, the hinge proactively moves to a position along the longitudinal axis where it is better protected from external forces. This preliminary action of repositioning the hinge prevents excessive load exposure before damage can occur.
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
Enables seamless switching between sliding, clamshell, and conference call modes, reduces manufacturing costs, and provides enhanced protection for the display, allowing for efficient and versatile use of electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
a spring, where the second part of the electronic device connected by the hinge to the first part of the electronic device is adapted to being locked in at least one certain position, when the locking member and the counterpart member (hole and the corresponding stopping spring bubble for example) are forced to form a locking by a springback factor
Implementation Method 2
The hinge is adapted to slide in the groove and to make a lock when the locking member and counterpart member get together. The lock is opened when external force against the springback factor is applied.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a sliding and clamshell mechanism for an electronic device which comprises a first part comprising a first side, and a second side opposite to the first side, and further comprises a movable second part attached to the first part by a hinge, where the hinge is adapted to slide in an essentially longitudinal direction of the first part of the electronic device when the second part is turned with relation to the first part of the electronic device so that the longitudinal axis of the first part and the second part of the electronic device are essentially parallel to each other and where the second part is adapted to move from the second side of the first part of the electronic device toward the first side of the first part of the electronic device around the hinge by a rotation movement.