Synchronized Hinge Axles for Tablet Mode Rotation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional information handling system lids with 360-degree rotation suffer from unsynchronized and discontinuous motion due to the use of cams, which compromises the stability and usability of touchscreen interfaces in portable devices, particularly in devices with a small form factor.

Innovation Solution

A hinge system with synchronized axles, where a spacer provides friction and a synchronizer, such as a pair of cables forming a discontinuous figure eight, ensures continuous and synchronized motion between the lid and the housing, allowing for smooth conversion between clamshell and tablet configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a double hinge with cams is used to provide 360-degree rotation, then the lid can rotate fully relative to the housing, but the motion becomes unsynchronized and discontinuous

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverotation capabilityVSAvoidmotion synchronization

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A synchronizer mechanism acts as an intermediary between the first and second axles, using a continuous cable or belt to transmit rotational motion and ensure synchronized movement. This mediator component coordinates the rotation of both axles, eliminating the discontinuous motion problem caused by cam-based systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the cam-based mechanical system with a direct cable-driven synchronization system. The continuous cable or belt provides smooth, uninterrupted motion transmission between axles, substituting the discontinuous cam engagement mechanism with a more reliable continuous transmission system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a large hinge is used to allow flat alignment of the lid, then the lid can rest flat relative to both upper and lower surfaces, but the device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflat alignment capabilityVSAvoidhinge size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge system is segmented into multiple functional components: a first axle for rotation, a second axle for synchronization, and a spacer that maintains distance between them. This segmentation allows the large functional capability to be achieved through coordinated small components rather than a single large hinge structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a third dimension by using a spacer to create vertical separation between the first and second axles. This dimensional approach allows the synchronization mechanism to operate in a different spatial plane, enabling flat alignment capability without increasing the horizontal footprint of the hinge.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If friction is provided against rotation of the axles, then controlled motion is achieved, but friction-related wear increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemotion controlVSAvoidcomponent lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces high-friction cam-based motion control with a low-friction cable-driven synchronization system. The cable or belt transmits motion with minimal friction and wear, substituting the cam-follower contact system that generates significant friction and reduces component lifespan.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 solution provides a stable and continuous motion of the lid relative to the housing, enhancing user experience by maintaining fluid movement and reducing friction-related wear, thus improving reliability and usability of touchscreen interfaces in portable information handling systems.

Implementation Method 1

A spacer holds the first and second axles apart from each other and provides friction against rotation of the first and second axles

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS9201465B2Information handling system housing lid with synchronized motion

Publication Date: 2015.12.01 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

An information handling system converts from a closed position to a tablet position by rotating a lid with a display 360 degrees about a hinge having synchronized and continuous motion. The hinge has first and second axles held distal by a spacer. A synchronizer translates motion of each axle to the other to provide fluid movement of the lid relative to the housing. For instance, first and second cables translate rotational motion with the disposition of a discontinuous figure eight between the first and second axles.