Synchronized Hinge Mechanism for 360-Degree Laptop Lid 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 need for flat alignment on both housing surfaces, which complicates the conversion between clamshell and tablet configurations, especially in portable devices with a small form factor.
Innovation Solution
A hinge system with synchronized axles connected by a flexible compressive member, such as ball bearings or a spring, ensures continuous and fluid motion between the lid and housing, allowing for seamless conversion between configurations by translating rotational motion between axles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a double hinge is used to provide full 360-degree rotation, then the lid can rotate about two axes to achieve tablet configuration, but the motion becomes unsynchronized and discontinuous requiring cam mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate hinge axes into a single integrated hinge assembly where the first and second axles are positioned at different locations but function as a unified mechanism. The lid rotates about the first axle initially, then transitions to rotating about the second axle, all within one hinge structure rather than requiring separate hinge assemblies for each axis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cam mechanism as an intermediary element that mediates the transition between rotation about the first axle and rotation about the second axle. The cam engages with a follower to coordinate the switching of rotation axes, ensuring synchronized and continuous motion throughout the 360-degree rotation range.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large hinge is used to allow flat alignment on both housing surfaces, then full rotation is achieved, but the form factor increases which is undesirable for portable devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the two axles at different spatial locations rather than overlapping them at the same point. The first axle is positioned at a first location and the second axle at a second location, creating a distributed hinge structure that achieves full rotation capability while minimizing the overall envelope volume occupied by the hinge mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism dynamically switches between rotating about the first axle and rotating about the second axle depending on the rotation angle. This dynamic behavior allows the mechanism to achieve full 360-degree rotation capability while maintaining a compact form factor, as the rotation center effectively moves from one axle to the other during the rotation sequence.
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 reliable and manufacturable mechanism for synchronized and continuous lid movement, enhancing user experience and device usability by maintaining fluid motion across both axes, improving reliability and assembly efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
compressive force transferred from a first axle through a flexible member to a second axle
Data Source
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 in a spaced and substantially parallel orientation by a support. A flexible compressive member translates motion of each axle to the other to provide fluid movement of the lid relative to the housing. For instance, ball bearings disposed in guide formed in the support translate rotational motion between a first and second axles.