Variable Torque Hinge With Tube Spring Cam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional auto-locking hinge structures in consumer electronics require high force to open and are complex to assemble, leading to user inconvenience and increased manufacturing costs due to the need for additional locking mechanisms and holes.
Innovation Solution
A hinge structure incorporating a pivot with a circular axle, a bush-like tube spring, a cam member with protruded and indented portions, and a resilient member that disperses torque, allowing for easy opening and firm closing without lifting the main body, using a variable torque mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional auto-locking hinge structure with cam member and locking elements is used, then the cover can be automatically locked when closed, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to additional holes and locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking elements and cam member into an integrated one-piece component. The locking elements are formed as integral parts of the cam member, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining the auto-locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the auto-locking mechanism through integrated locking elements, acts as a structural support component, and enables the variable torque mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of parts needed in the hinge structure.
2Reliability
If a conventional cam member with protruded and indented portions is used for auto-locking, then the cover can be locked firmly when closed, but a large force is required to open the cover
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a variable torque mechanism where the torque required to open the cover changes dynamically during the opening motion. The torque is high when the cover is closed (providing firm closing) and decreases as the cover opens (enabling easy opening). This is achieved through the specific geometric design of the cam member and tube spring interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque parameter varies continuously during the opening process. The tube spring compresses and expands during opening/closing motions, changing the mechanical advantage and torque requirements. This parameter change allows the system to provide high torque for firm closing while requiring minimal force for opening.
3Device complexity
If a conventional hinge structure without variable torque mechanism is used, then the structure is simpler, but the main body is lifted upward when opening the cover
Solution Approach 1:
The variable torque mechanism creates a dynamic force distribution during opening. The torque required to open the cover is concentrated in a specific angular range, allowing the user to apply force efficiently without lifting the main body. The tube spring's elastic deformation provides this dynamic torque variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical advantage parameter changes during the opening motion, allowing easy opening at specific angles. The tube spring's compression ratio and cam member geometry are designed to optimize the torque curve, enabling user-friendly operation while maintaining structural simplicity.
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 the cover to be opened with a small force without lifting the main body, providing a user-friendly 'easy opening and firm closing' function while simplifying assembly and reducing manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a bush-like tube spring below for the insertion of the shaft, the tube spring being positioned to have a gap with the connection portion
Implementation Method 2
at least a resilient member insertingly connected with the axle and secured with the connection segment of the axle by an end enclosure, which presses and constrains the aforementioned parts
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a hinge structure, comprising a pivot having a linking portion disposed with a circular axle axially and a smaller axle extending from the center of the front end of the shaft; a main frame having a connection portion which is formed axially to have a bush-like tube spring below for the insertion of the shaft, the tube spring being positioned to have a gap with the connection portion and one end of the wall of the tube spring being formed to have an notch; a cam member having a rotation part and fixed part between which is disposed with concurrent protruded and indented portions and which are installed inside the tube spring for the insertion of the axle, the rotation part being axially disposed with a protruded tenon, which is connected with the notch of the tube spring, and the fixed part being secured with the axle; and at least a resilient member insertingly connected with the axle and secured with the connection segment of the axle by an end enclosure, which presses and constrains the aforementioned parts.