Thin Flex Hinge Assembly for Information Handling Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Information handling systems require flexible and efficient mechanisms to transition between positions, such as opening and closing, while maintaining structural integrity and supporting various display configurations, which existing technologies do not adequately address.

Innovation Solution

An information handling system incorporating a flex hinge assembly with multiple layers of thin flexible sheets and an adjustable friction linkage that allows the system to rotate from zero to 360 degrees, supported by support bars and a shroud, enabling smooth movement and secure attachment to the system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional hinge mechanism is used to enable rotation between positions, then the information handling system can transition between open and closed positions, but the hinge adds significant thickness and structural complexity to the device

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverotation capabilityVSAvoiddevice thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge is segmented into multiple thin flexible sheets (first flexible sheet, second flexible sheet, third flexible sheet) stacked together, allowing the hinge to maintain flexibility and rotation capability while reducing overall thickness compared to a single rigid hinge structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses flexible sheets made of thin materials that can bend and flex to enable rotation. These thin film structures replace traditional bulky hinge mechanisms, achieving the required adaptability while minimizing device thickness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Strength

If multiple layers of flexible sheets are used in the flex hinge, then the hinge can support various display configurations and maintain structural integrity, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple flexible sheets are combined into a single stacked assembly that functions as one integrated hinge unit. The sheets are attached to common support bars and mounted on a single shroud, merging multiple components into a unified structure that maintains structural integrity while simplifying assembly

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The stacked flexible sheets serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural support, enable rotation, maintain display alignment, and accommodate various display thicknesses. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying manufacturing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If a friction linkage is used to engage with slots in flexible sheets, then the hinge can be securely attached and control rotation, but the mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The friction linkage acts as an intermediary mechanism that engages with slots in the flexible sheets through friction rather than rigid mechanical connection. This allows for secure attachment and controlled rotation without requiring complex locking mechanisms or additional fasteners

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The friction linkage provides self-adjusting attachment security through friction forces that automatically adapt to the applied load. The system self-regulates the engagement strength between the linkage and flexible sheet slots without requiring external control mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 flex hinge assembly allows for efficient and secure rotation of the information handling system, maintaining structural integrity and supporting displays with varying thicknesses, including an OLED display, while allowing for easy user operation and secure attachment to the system.

Implementation Method 1

An organic light emitting diode is connected to the flex hinge

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectroluminescence: Electroluminescence

Data Source

PatentUS10394278B1Information handling system with thin flex hinge

Publication Date: 2019.08.27 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

An information handling system includes a flex hinge having a first flexible sheet that bends at a different radius than a second flexible sheet when the flex hinge is transitioned from a first position to a second position. A mounting bracket fixes each of the flexible sheets to the information handling system, and a friction linkage engages with slots within the first and second flexible sheets. An organic light emitting diode is connected to the flex hinge.