Spiral-Groove Synchronization Mechanism for Compact Foldable Hinges
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing synchronization mechanisms for foldable screens in electronic devices require complex assembly, numerous parts, high costs, and are difficult to miniaturize due to the need for multiple gears to ensure synchronous rotation, leading to increased size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A synchronization mechanism utilizing a slider and swing arms with fitting parts that allow for synchronous rotation, reducing the number of parts and simplifying assembly, while using rotating shafts and sleeves to ensure stable and compact operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If four gears are successively arranged to ensure synchronous rotation of left and right middle frames, then synchronous transmission is achieved, but the structure becomes complex, assembly is difficult, and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of four separate gears into a single gear structure that directly connects the left and right middle frames. This single gear simultaneously engages with both swing arms, achieving synchronous transmission while eliminating the complexity of multiple meshed gears, reducing part count, and simplifying assembly procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The single gear in the patent performs multiple functions: it connects both swing arms, transmits motion synchronously, and provides structural support. This multi-functional design replaces the specialized four-gear system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable synchronous transmission
2Reliability
If four pinion gears are assembled and meshed based on positions, then synchronous rotation is achieved, but the assembly procedure becomes complex and requires high precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines four separate pinion gears into one integrated gear component that directly meshes with both swing arms. This eliminates the need for complex position-based assembly of multiple small gears, significantly simplifying the manufacturing and assembly process while maintaining precise synchronous rotation through the single gear's direct engagement
3Reliability
If a gear set with four successively meshed gears is used, then synchronous swing is achieved, but the size of the synchronization mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges four successive gears into a single compact gear structure that achieves synchronous swing in one engagement step rather than through four sequential meshing stages. This dramatically reduces the axial length and overall volume of the synchronization mechanism while maintaining reliable synchronous swing operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent repositions the gear engagement from a sequential multi-stage arrangement (requiring significant axial space) to a compact configuration where the single gear simultaneously engages both swing arms. This dimensional optimization reduces the mechanism's footprint and allows for more compact integration into the foldable device
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of this application provide a synchronization mechanism, a rotating shaft mechanism, and an electronic device. The synchronization mechanism includes a swing arm and a slider, the swing arm rotates around an axis, the slider is slidably disposed in a direction parallel to the axis, a spiral groove is disposed on the swing arm, and a protruding part that fits the spiral groove is disposed on the slider.