Variable Torque Hinge for Single-Handed Laptop Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Low profile portable information handling systems with minimal height and weight pose difficulties in opening due to insufficient grasp and torque resistance, requiring two hands to rotate the housing portions from a closed to an open position.
Innovation Solution
A variable torque hinge system that reduces torque resistance when an end user intends to open the housing, allowing single-handed operation by detecting user touch and adjusting friction through a torque release arm and actuator, reverting to full torque when the desired orientation is achieved.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the housing is designed with minimal height and weight for portability, then mobility and convenience are improved, but the ability to grasp and rotate the housing portions becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge torque is made dynamically adjustable based on the operational state. The system transitions between high torque mode (during closing) and low torque mode (during opening), allowing the hinge to adapt its mechanical properties to the current operation, thereby enabling easy opening of lightweight housings while maintaining secure closed position
Solution Approach 2:
The torque parameter of the hinge is changed based on detected user interaction. When a touch event is detected indicating opening intent, the system changes the torque parameter from high to low, reducing the force needed to rotate the housing portions. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by making the housing easy to open despite its lightweight design
2Ease of operation
If the hinge has minimal torque in closed position for easy opening, then ease of operation is improved, but the housing may inadvertently open reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge torque is dynamically adjusted based on the operational phase. During closing operation, high torque is applied to ensure reliable latching and prevent inadvertent opening. During opening operation (when touch detected), low torque is applied to facilitate easy rotation. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge operates in periodic cycles between high torque and low torque states based on detected user actions. The system alternates between torque modes: high torque when closing or at rest, and low torque when opening is initiated. This periodic switching ensures both reliable closed position and easy opening 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
Enables single-handed opening of portable information handling systems with reduced force requirement, enhancing user convenience and design robustness by minimizing the force needed to adjust the housing orientation.
Implementation Method 1
hinges that rotationally couple housing portions to each other typically integrate a torque engine, such as friction devices that resists housing rotation
Implementation Method 2
A spring applies a force to the torque engine
Implementation Method 3
An actuator reduces friction generated by the torque engine
Data Source
AI summary
A portable information handling system having a portable housing with first and second housing portions rotationally coupled by a hinge having an adjustable torque and a sensor disposed at a front corner of a housing portion reduces torque provided by the hinge when in a closed position and an indication is sensed of an end user opening the housing portions. Reducing torque of the hinge that resists housing rotation from the closed position aids an end user in a single handed rotation of the housing to an open position by allowing the weight of the housing to be sufficient to hold the housing in place on a support surface while the housing rotates open.