Terminal Hinge Structure for Self-Locking and Hovering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge structures for terminal devices with self-locking and hovering functions are complex and costly due to the need for multiple components, leading to increased size and assembly complexity.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure incorporating two shaft gears, connecting gears, first and second elastic pieces, and fixing members that work together to provide self-locking and torque functions, allowing for adjustable angles and reduced component count, thereby simplifying assembly and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple components are used to realize self-locking and hovering functions, then the functional requirements are met, but the size of the hinge structure increases and the assembly process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple components (first elastic piece, second elastic piece, shaft gear, connecting gear) into an integrated hinge structure where these elements work together through shared mechanical interactions. The elastic pieces are positioned between the hinge arms and engage with the gear structures, creating a unified system that achieves self-locking and hovering functions without requiring separate dedicated mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft gear and connecting gear serve multiple functions simultaneously: they transmit rotational motion between hinge arms, provide self-locking through gear tooth engagement, enable hovering through controlled disengagement, and work with the elastic pieces to provide both locking force and hovering suspension. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components.
2Reliability
If various components are used to achieve self-locking and hovering functions, then the functional requirements are satisfied, but the cost of the hinge structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the hovering function into the existing gear and elastic piece structure rather than adding a separate hovering mechanism. The second elastic piece works in conjunction with the gear assembly to provide hovering capability, allowing the same components to serve multiple purposes and reducing overall manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The gear assembly and elastic pieces are designed to provide both self-locking and hovering functions through the same mechanical elements. The connecting gear and shaft gear, in combination with the elastic pieces, create a system where the same components enable both functions, avoiding the need for additional specialized parts that would increase manufacturing cost.
3Reliability
If multiple components are used to realize self-locking and hovering functions, then the functional requirements are met, but the number of components increases leading to increased size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the elastic pieces between the hinge arms in a nested arrangement where the first elastic piece is located between the first hinge arm and the shaft gear, and the second elastic piece is positioned between the second hinge arm and the connecting gear. This nested positioning allows components to occupy shared spatial volumes and reduces the overall envelope of the hinge structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the self-locking mechanism and hovering mechanism into a single integrated gear and elastic piece assembly. The shaft gear and connecting gear, together with the elastic pieces, form a compact unit that provides both functions without requiring separate spatially distributed mechanisms, thereby minimizing the overall size of the hinge structure.
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 proposed hinge structure effectively achieves self-locking and hovering functions with a reduced number of components, enhancing portability and usability while minimizing size and weight, and lowering production costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first elastic piece (40) and at least one second elastic piece (50) are positioned between the two hinge arms (10)
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge structure includes two hinge arms, two shaft gears, at least one first elastic piece, and at least one second elastic piece. Each hinge arm includes a central shaft. Each of the two shaft gears is connected to the central shaft, each shaft gear includes an extending portion, the groove is defined on the extending portion. Each first elastic piece includes two elastic arms, a first connecting portion, and two protrusions. The elastic arms are disposed on opposite sides of the first connecting portion, the elastic arms and the first connecting portion cooperatively form a first opening, the extending portion passes through the first opening, each protrusion is disposed on each elastic arm. Each second elastic piece is sleeved on the extending portion. The protrusions are configured to be accommodated in the groove. A terminal device is provided according to the present disclosure.