Variable Torque Hinge With Ramped Friction Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional hinges for mobile computing devices lack a mechanism to provide adjustable support with varying torque profiles, making it difficult to transition between handheld and surface-based usage without compromising the device's aesthetic and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A hinge with a variable sliding friction feature, comprising a pivot member, an elongated member with a ramped surface, and an engagement member that slides along the elongated member, creating different torque responses based on the surface height change over longitudinal distance, allowing for adjustable support and orientation of mobile computing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional hinge is used to support the device in surface-based usage, then the device can be adapted for non-handheld use, but the hinge cannot provide variable torque profiles to maintain both compact design and adjustable support
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge employs a dynamic friction mechanism where the engagement member can slide along the elongated member with varying friction coefficients. This allows the torque profile to change dynamically based on the position and orientation of the support component, enabling compact design with adjustable support characteristics without requiring multiple fixed-structure hinges
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the friction parameter between the engagement member and elongated member to create variable torque profiles. By adjusting the sliding friction through the ramped surface geometry and material properties, the hinge provides different torque characteristics for different usage orientations while maintaining a compact single-structure design
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge with variable sliding friction is implemented, then adjustable support with varying torque profiles is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity increases due to ramped surfaces and sliding mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the friction adjustment mechanism into the basic hinge structure by integrating the engagement member and elongated member with ramped surfaces as core hinge components. This combines the variable torque functionality with the fundamental hinge operation, avoiding the need for separate adjustment mechanisms and reducing overall manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The ramped surface is applied locally to specific portions of the elongated member rather than the entire component. This localized application of the friction-modifying geometry allows the hinge to maintain simple manufacturing for the majority of each component while achieving variable torque profiles only where needed for torque control
3Reliability
If the engagement member slides along the ramped surface to create variable friction, then torque profile control is improved, but wear and friction losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding friction mechanism is designed to operate periodically only during torque adjustment phases rather than continuously. The engagement member slides along the ramped surface to establish the desired torque profile, then remains stationary during normal operation, minimizing energy loss from continuous friction while maintaining reliable torque control when needed
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 mobile computing devices to be securely supported in various orientations while maintaining a compact design, providing the necessary torque to resist device weight and external forces, thus enhancing usability and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
the sliding of the engagement member along the ramped surface of the elongated member causing variations in a sliding friction based on an amount of change in surface height over longitudinal distance of the ramped surface and contributing to a torque profile of the hinge
Data Source
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AI summary
A friction hinge providing a variable torque profile for a movable component is described. In an example, the friction hinge includes a hinge frame; a pivot member pivotably engaged with the hinge frame, the pivot member being attached to a support component movably attached to a device; an elongated member attached to the to hinge frame, the elongated member having a ramped surface on at least a first portion of the elongated member; and an engagement member slidably engaged with the elongated member, the engagement member configured to slide along the elongated member during pivoting of the pivot member relative to the hinge frame, the sliding of the engagement member along the taped surface of the elongated member causing variations in a sliding friction based on an amount of change in surface height over longitudinal distance of the ramped surface and contributing to a torque profile of the hinge.