Spectacle Hinge with Two-Tier Spring-Back Biasing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spectacles hinges lack a mechanism to provide a graduated spring-back biasing force that securely holds the temples in place during wear while preventing damage from accidental over-pivoting, especially during sports activities.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design featuring polymeric resilient portions with a rigid metallic reinforcement and a two-tiered spring-back biasing system, allowing temples to pivot between a stored, operative, and spread-out position, with the second spring-back force being greater than the first to ensure secure retraction without constant discomfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible resilient member is used to link temples to the front frame, then the temples can be pivoted beyond their operative position without damaging the hinge, but the hinge lacks a mechanism to provide a graduated spring-back biasing force that securely holds the temples in place during wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing a two-tiered spring-back biasing system with different force levels. The first spring-back biasing force operates during normal wear to securely hold temples in place, while the second spring-back biasing force engages when temples are over-pivoted to prevent damage. This graduated force system changes the mechanical parameter of spring-back force based on the temple position, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism transitions from a static resilient member to a dynamic two-tiered spring-back system. The mechanism adaptively adjusts the spring-back force based on temple position: providing a first biasing force during normal operation and a second biasing force during over-pivoting. This dynamic response allows the hinge to maintain reliability across varying operational conditions while preserving full pivoting range.
2Reliability
If a resilient hinge with spring-back effect is used to hold spectacles securely against the wearer's head, then the spectacles remain stable during wear, but the constant spring-back force may cause discomfort during extended use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by changing the spring-back force parameter based on operational conditions. During normal wear, the first spring-back biasing force provides secure retention without excessive pressure. When temples are over-pivoted beyond the operative position, the mechanism transitions to a second spring-back biasing force that is greater than the first, preventing damage while maintaining comfort during regular use.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism applies partial spring-back action (first biasing force) during normal operation to maintain secure fit without excessive force. Only when necessary (during over-pivoting) does the mechanism apply excessive action (second biasing force greater than the first) to prevent damage. This selective application of force levels resolves the contradiction between retention reliability and wearing comfort.
3Reliability
If the temples are allowed to pivot outwardly beyond their operative position, then accidental damage to the hinge and frame is prevented, but the hinge structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic two-tiered spring-back mechanism that automatically adjusts its response based on temple position. The mechanism remains relatively simple during normal operation with the first spring-back biasing force, but automatically transitions to a protective mode with the second greater biasing force when temples are over-pivoted. This dynamic behavior provides enhanced durability without requiring complex additional structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism serves itself by automatically detecting when temples are over-pivoted and activating the second spring-back biasing force to prevent damage. The two-tiered system self-regulates based on operational conditions without requiring external control or complex mechanical stops, maintaining structural simplicity while enhancing durability through intelligent force modulation.
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
The design enhances the resistance to wear and sturdiness of the spectacles, providing a secure fit during use while preventing damage from accidental over-pivoting and ensuring a longer product lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
said first and second resilient portions are made of a polymeric material having an intrinsic resiliency
Implementation Method 2
said intermediate portion comprises a rigid metallic piece extending between said first and second resilient portions and attached thereto
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
The hinge is for use on spectacles of the type comprising a front frame for carrying lenses and a pair of temples. The hinge comprises a first attachment device for attaching the hinge to a corresponding one of the temples, a second attachment device for attaching the hinge to the frame, a rigid intermediate portion, a first flexible resilient portion carrying the first attachment device and attached to the rigid intermediate portion, and a second flexible resilient portion carrying the second attachment device and attached to the rigid intermediate portion opposite the first resilient portion.