Variable Friction Hinge With Cam-Actuated Torque Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge assemblies lack the ability to dynamically adjust friction resistance, which is essential for applications requiring varying torque levels depending on the rotational position and direction, such as in laptop screens or vehicle displays.
Innovation Solution
A hinge assembly with variable friction resistance is designed, incorporating an elongated element and torque elements with end portions that can change their relative position via an actuator, such as a cam or wedge, to adjust the friction torque by altering the distance between the end portions, allowing for controlled frictional resistance during rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If friction elements are used to control angular position, then the hinge can hold position, but the friction resistance cannot be adjusted dynamically
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly employs a cam mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear displacement, dynamically adjusting the compression force applied to friction elements. This allows the friction resistance to vary continuously as the cam rotates, enabling the hinge to adapt friction levels without adding complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the compression parameter applied to the friction elements through cam rotation. By varying the radial position of the cam profile, the compression force on the friction elements is modulated, thereby adjusting the friction torque generated between the friction elements and the shaft
2Reliability
If fixed friction torque is used, then the hinge structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate varying load moments and acceleration conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism provides a form of mechanical feedback where the rotational position of the hinge influences the compression force applied to friction elements. As the hinge rotates to different angular positions, the cam profile automatically adjusts the friction torque to maintain stable positioning under varying gravitational and inertial loads
3Force
If friction elements are compressed against the shaft, then friction torque is generated, but the friction level cannot be varied
Solution Approach 1:
The cam acts as an intermediary mechanism between the hinge rotation and the friction elements. It translates rotational motion into controlled linear displacement, mediating the compression force applied to the friction elements and thereby controlling the friction torque in a smooth, continuous manner
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 enables the hinge assembly to provide adjustable friction torque, ensuring stable display positions under different conditions like vehicle acceleration and deceleration, and accommodating various load moments, enhancing usability and performance in diverse applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one torque element having a generally cylindrical surface compressively engaged with the cylindrical surface of the elongated element
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides a hinge assembly having variable friction resistance. The hinge assembly includes an elongated element having a generally cylindrical surface extending longitudinally. It also includes at least one torque element having a generally cylindrical surface compressively engaged with the cylindrical surface of the elongated element, the cylindrical surface of the at least one torque element having end portions. An actuator of the hinge assembly is configured for changing friction resistance generated by the at least one torque element by changing the relative position of the end portions of the at least one torque element, thus reducing compressive engagement between the cylindrical surface of the at least one torque element and the cylindrical surface of the elongated element.