Two-Stage Torsion Pivot Hinge for Variable Screen Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pivot hinges in foldable electronic equipment provide a constant torsion force, making it difficult to open the screen without excessive force or risk of it falling when closing, which is inadequate for touch-controlled displays that require varying torsion forces and limited maximum opening degrees.
Innovation Solution
A two-stage type torsion pivot hinge design that adjusts torsion force based on the screen's position, providing a lower force for opening to a vertical position and increasing force for maximum opening and closing, with a mechanism to limit the maximum opening degree using protrusion elements and torsion sleeves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a common pivot hinge with constant torsion force is used, then the structure is simple, but the screen cannot provide sufficient supporting force when opened and may fall during closing
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge structure is segmented into multiple functional components: a first torsion spring for initial opening support, a second torsion spring for enhanced supporting force at opened positions, and a limiting mechanism with protrusions and recesses to control maximum opening degree. This segmentation allows each component to address specific force requirements at different stages of screen movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge transitions from a static constant-torsion design to a dynamic two-stage system where the torsion force varies based on screen position. The first torsion spring operates during initial opening, then the second torsion spring engages to provide increased supporting force when the screen is opened, creating a dynamic force adaptation mechanism.
2Force
If a larger torsion force is applied to support the screen when opened, then the screen stability is improved, but excessive force is needed for opening
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge employs a dynamic two-stage torsion force system where the magnitude of torsion force changes based on screen position. During opening, the first torsion spring provides moderate force for ease of operation. When the screen reaches opened positions, the second torsion spring engages to provide larger supporting force for stability, thus adapting force levels to operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge operation follows a periodic pattern with distinct phases: initial opening phase with lower torsion force from the first spring, and stabilized opened phase with higher torsion force from the second spring. This periodic force application matches the operational cycle of the screen, providing appropriate force at each stage.
3Reliability
If a two-stage torsion mechanism is implemented, then the screen supporting force is improved, but the hinge structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The reliability enhancement is achieved through segmentation of the torsion function into two separate springs, each optimized for specific operational phases. The first torsion spring handles initial opening movements, while the second torsion spring provides enhanced support when the screen is opened. This functional segmentation improves reliability without requiring a completely redesigned hinge system.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-stage torsion mechanism employs a nested arrangement where the first and second torsion springs are integrated within the same hinge assembly. The springs are positioned and connected such that they sequentially engage during operation, with the second spring providing additional support functionality while sharing the same structural space, thus reducing overall complexity compared to separate mechanisms.
4Reliability
If the maximum opening degree is limited using protrusion elements, then the screen is protected from over-rotation, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting mechanism operates on a self-service principle where the protrusions on the rotating component automatically engage with the recesses on the stationary component to prevent over-rotation. This mechanical self-limiting action protects the screen from damage without requiring external control systems or complex actuation mechanisms, achieving protection through simple geometric interlocking.
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
Enables convenient operation of touch screens by providing a larger supporting force when opened and preventing impact during closure, while maintaining ease of opening and limiting the maximum opening degree to prevent over-rotation.
Implementation Method 1
a torsion spring having two ends respectively connected with the base and the supporting member; the torsion spring can store and release energy when the screen is opened or closed
Data Source
AI summary
A two-stage torsion pivot hinge including an axle connected with a base and having a shaft mounted thereon with a bush for a spring tube. The bush forms a first and a second protrusion element respectively extending out of its two ends. The spring tube is fixedly connected with a supporting member and is provided with two torsion sleeves respectively on the two ends of the bush. Each torsion sleeve has an axial cut and has two contact elements extending respectively toward the two ends of the bush. The contact elements respectively interfere with the first and the second protrusion elements. By the function between the torsion sleeve and the bush, the pivot hinge can provide different torsion forces for the stroke of rotating the screen from its closed position to a vertical angular position and for the stroke from the vertical position to its maximum opening angular position.