Waterproof Hinge Module for Rotational and Sliding Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic equipment with rotating and sliding mechanisms lacks a waterproof and dustproof hinge module that enables both rotational and sliding motions, particularly in compact designs, and existing waterproof structures only support one-dimensional linear motion or rotational motion without sliding functionality.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof hinge module is designed with a first hinge part featuring a slot and an annular groove with an inserted annular gasket, and a second hinge part with a cylindrical projection that slides within the slot, allowing for both rotational and sliding motions while maintaining a waterproof seal through a combination of gaskets, sliding surfaces, and waterproof tapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge module enables both rotational and sliding motions, then the device achieves versatile motion capability, but the structure becomes more complex and waterproofing becomes difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges rotational and sliding motions into a single hinge module structure. The first hinge part and second hinge part work together to provide both rotational movement around a hinge axis and sliding movement along the hinge axis, combining multiple degrees of freedom in one integrated mechanism rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge module is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides rotational motion, sliding motion, and waterproof sealing. The same structural elements (hinge parts, gaskets, grooves) serve multiple functions: enabling motion while maintaining waterproof barriers, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each function.
2Reliability
If a gasket is used to maintain waterproof seal during sliding motion, then waterproofing is achieved, but friction increases and motion smoothness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The waterproof sealing function is segmented from the motion-guiding function. Gaskets are placed in specific grooves on the hinge parts to provide sealing only where needed, while the slot and cylindrical projection structures guide the sliding motion with minimal friction. This segmentation allows sealing elements to be positioned optimally without interfering with motion smoothness.
Solution Approach 2:
The gasket acts as an intermediary element that provides waterproof sealing between the first and second hinge parts during sliding motion. By positioning the gasket in a groove and allowing it to slide along the groove rather than across the entire interface, the patent reduces friction while maintaining sealing effectiveness throughout the motion range.
3Volume of moving object
If the hinge module is made compact for portable devices, then device portability is improved, but the hinge mechanism becomes more difficult to design and manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge module employs a nested structure where the cylindrical projection of the second hinge part fits into the slot of the first hinge part, and gaskets are nested within grooves on the hinge parts. This nesting arrangement maximizes space utilization, allowing the compact design required for portable devices while maintaining all necessary functional elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing the hinge mechanism first and then adding waterproofing, the patent inverts the approach by integrating waterproof grooves and gasket positions into the fundamental hinge structure design. The grooves and slots are built into the hinge parts themselves, making waterproofing an inherent feature of the compact structure rather than an added complexity.
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 solution enables stable and smooth rotational and sliding motions while preventing water ingress, maintaining a waterproof and dustproof environment, even when the device changes attitudes, by using a gasket that slides on a treated surface and employing low-friction materials and spacers to manage the gap between hinge parts.
Implementation Method 1
a sliding surface formed around the periphery of the cylindrical projection on which the gasket slides... employing low-friction materials and spacers to manage the gap between hinge parts
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge module includes a first hinge part; and a second hinge part confronting the first hinge part. The first hinge part includes a slot; and an annular groove surrounding the slot and formed in a recessed shape in relation to the second hinge part, and an annular gasket inserted into the annular groove and projecting to the second hinge part side. The second hinge part includes a cylindrical projection non-removably inserted into the slot while freely moveable in a longitudinal direction of the slot; and a sliding surface formed around periphery of the cylindrical projection and on which the gasket slides.