Variable Torque Bar Hinge for Display Angle Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with touch screen displays face issues where user input can inadvertently cause the display to rotate to unwanted angles, leading to potential damage or failure to register inputs due to uncontrolled rotation.
Innovation Solution
A variable torque bar mechanism is integrated into the hinge system, allowing for adjustable torque resistance that maintains the display at desired angles while enabling easy one-handed operation and preventing damage from excessive force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed torque hinge is used to prevent display rotation, then the display can maintain its angle, but the user cannot easily open the device with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism transitions from a static fixed torque design to a dynamic variable torque design where the torque resistance changes based on the display angle. At smaller angles (during opening), the torque is lower to enable easy one-handed operation. At larger angles (during use), the torque increases to prevent unwanted rotation from touch input, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and angle stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If high torque resistance is applied to prevent display rotation during touch input, then the display angle is maintained, but the user experiences difficulty opening the device
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism changes the torque parameter dynamically based on the display angle. When the display is closed or partially open, the torque resistance is low, requiring minimal opening force. When the display reaches a certain angle threshold, the torque resistance increases automatically to maintain angle stability during touch input, thus resolving the contradiction between opening force and angle stability.
3Ease of operation
If the display is allowed to rotate freely for easy operation, then the user can easily adjust the angle, but the display may rotate to unwanted angles causing damage or input failure
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism applies preliminary counteracting torque resistance before unwanted rotation can occur. When the display approaches certain angle thresholds or when touch input is detected at larger angles, the mechanism automatically increases torque resistance to counteract the rotating force, preventing the display from rotating to unwanted angles that would cause damage or input failure, while still allowing easy angle adjustment during normal operation.
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 variable torque bar mechanism effectively resists unwanted rotation of the display, ensuring it remains at the desired angle during user input, reducing the risk of damage and improving usability by allowing single-handed operation.
Implementation Method 1
A variable torque bar mechanism is integrated into the hinge system, allowing for adjustable torque resistance that maintains the display at desired angles
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Examples herein relate to an apparatus. In some examples, an apparatus can include a first bracket connected to a first shaft, a second bracket connected to the first bracket, a variable torque bar connected to the first bracket and to a second shaft. The variable torque bar includes a plurality of notches to engage a tensioner mechanism and alter an amount of torque applied to the first shaft when the tensioner mechanism engages the respective notches of the plurality of notches.