Wing Hinge With Tensioning Element For Field Device Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing field device housings often experience issues where the housing cover interferes with users during maintenance or installation, as it may open or close unintentionally, hindering comfortable access and requiring significant effort for insertion or removal.
Innovation Solution
A wing hinge system comprising a first and second wing connected by a tensioning element, allowing the housing cover to be securely held in either a closed or open position, preventing unintentional opening or closing, and facilitating comfortable operation by using a spring or elastic element to maintain the desired position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple hinge connection is used between housing cover and housing body, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the housing cover cannot be held stably in open or closed position and may open or close unintentionally
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge system transitions from a static simple hinge to a dynamic system with a tensioning element (spring) that actively adjusts to hold the housing cover in different positions. The spring provides continuous force to counteract gravity and maintain the cover in either open or closed position, resolving the instability issue while adding controlled complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameter of the hinge system by introducing a tensioning element with adjustable tension. This allows the system to adapt its holding force to maintain the housing cover in different positions, transforming a position-unstable simple hinge into a position-stable adjustable hinge system.
2Reliability
If a locking screw is used to secure the housing cover, then the housing cover can be held firmly, but the insertion and removal require great effort and the cover may open on its own if not installed horizontally
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning element (spring) automatically adjusts to the position of the housing cover and provides continuous holding force without requiring user intervention. The system serves itself by using the spring's elastic force to maintain the cover in the desired position, eliminating the need for manual locking screws and their associated operational difficulties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical locking screw system with a spring-based tensioning system. This substitution eliminates the need for threading and tightening operations, allowing the housing cover to be easily inserted and removed while maintaining secure positioning through the spring's elastic force.
3Ease of operation
If the housing cover is allowed to open freely for easy access, then the user can access the interior comfortably, but the housing cover may close on its own during maintenance work
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning element provides continuous feedback force on the housing cover, constantly adjusting to maintain the cover in its current position. When the cover is opened, the spring tensions to hold it open; when closed, it holds it closed. This feedback mechanism prevents unintended closing during maintenance while allowing easy access 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
The wing hinge system ensures the housing cover remains stable in its intended position, preventing accidental opening or closing, thus enhancing user comfort and efficiency during operations like maintenance and installation.
Implementation Method 1
the tensioning element is a spring, preferably a double leg spring
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a wing hinge for a field device housing, including: a first wing having a first and a second holding device, the first holding device configured to connect to the field device housing and to move the first wing about a first axis; a second wing having a third and a fourth holding device, the third holding device configured to connect to the second holding device and to move the second wing relative to the first wing about a second axis, wherein the fourth holding device is connectable to a housing cover as to move the housing cover relative to the second wing about a third axis; and a tensioning element in contact with the first wing and the second wing and configured to move the first wing relative to the second wing about the second axis from a first position into a second position.