Gear-Guided Support Plate Hinge for Stable Cradling Positions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with support plates struggle to maintain a stable accommodated state and cradling position, as the support plate may protrude or be difficult to stabilize, especially when inclined, due to weak support forces.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a hinge structure with a gear module and guide members that pivotally couple the support plate to the housing, generating frictional forces to maintain the accommodated and cradling states, while being concealed within the housing to maintain a clean external appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the support plate is made protrudable from the housing for cradling, then the device can be used in cradled state, but the support plate cannot be stably maintained in accommodated state or close contact state
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure enables dynamic positioning of the support plate, allowing it to transition smoothly between accommodated state (flush with housing) and cradling state (protruding at an angle). The pivot mechanism provides controlled movement while maintaining stability in both positions through friction engagement between gear teeth.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge structure acts as an intermediary mechanism between the support plate and housing, mediating the transition between accommodated and cradling states. The gear module and guide structures serve as intermediate components that control the movement and maintain stable positioning in both states.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the support plate is made protrudable for cradling, then the device can be cradled on flat surfaces, but the inclination angle cannot be stably maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The gear module provides beforehand cushioning by engaging gear teeth that create frictional forces to prevent unintended movement of the support plate. This friction engagement acts as a cushioning mechanism that maintains the inclination angle stability during cradling operation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a hinge structure is introduced to enable pivoting, then the support plate can be stably positioned, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure merges multiple functions into a single integrated assembly: the gear module provides both motion transmission and positioning control, while the guide structures simultaneously constrain movement paths and enable pivoting. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The gear module serves multiple functions: it transmits motion between the support plate and housing, provides friction-based positioning control, and enables both accommodated and cradling states. The guide structures also serve dual purposes by both guiding movement and constraining the pivot path.
4Shape
If the hinge structure is concealed within the housing, then the external appearance is maintained, but the mechanical structure becomes more complex to accommodate
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is nested within the housing, with the gear module and guide structures arranged in a compact configuration that fits inside the housing volume. The support plate pivots within the confines of the housing, allowing the mechanical components to be concealed while maintaining functionality.
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 hinge structure effectively stabilizes the support plate's position, allowing for stable pivoting and cradling, enhancing the operational feel and maintaining the device's aesthetics by hiding the mechanical components.
Implementation Method 1
capable of being stably maintained... while generating a friction force (a kinetic friction force or a static friction force)
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention comprises: a housing including a front surface and a rear surface facing the direction opposite to the front surface; a support plate rotatably coupled to the rear surface of the housing, and rotating around a first axis from a position in which the support plate is in close contact with a partial area of the rear surface to an open state in which the support plate forms an angle with respect to the rear surface; and a hinge structure having at least a portion accommodated inside the housing, and rotatably coupling the support plate to the housing. Therein, the hinge structure can comprise: a first guide member mounted on and fixed to the inner side surface of the housing; a second guide member mounted on and fixed to one surface of the support plate; and a gear module for linking the first guide member and the second guide member, wherein the first axis can be positioned on the rear surface on the outside of the housing. The electronic device can vary according to embodiments.