US8615848B2 - Hinge apparatus for electronic device - Google Patents

Hinge apparatus for electronic device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US8615848B2
US8615848B2 US13/809,213 US201113809213A US8615848B2 US 8615848 B2 US8615848 B2 US 8615848B2 US 201113809213 A US201113809213 A US 201113809213A US 8615848 B2 US8615848 B2 US 8615848B2
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
cam
gear
plate
shaft
unit
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
US13/809,213
Other versions
US20130111704A1 (en
Inventor
Yasuhiro Mitsui
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Mitsubishi Steel Mfg Co Ltd
Original Assignee
Mitsubishi Steel Mfg Co Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Mitsubishi Steel Mfg Co Ltd filed Critical Mitsubishi Steel Mfg Co Ltd
Assigned to MITSUBISHI STEEL MFG. CO., LTD. reassignment MITSUBISHI STEEL MFG. CO., LTD. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: MITSUI, YASUHIRO
Publication of US20130111704A1 publication Critical patent/US20130111704A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US8615848B2 publication Critical patent/US8615848B2/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/02—Constructional features of telephone sets
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
    • G06F1/1675—Miscellaneous details related to the relative movement between the different enclosures or enclosure parts
    • G06F1/1681—Details related solely to hinges
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
    • F16C11/00—Pivots; Pivotal connections
    • F16C11/04—Pivotal connections
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/02—Constructional features of telephone sets
    • H04M1/0202—Portable telephone sets, e.g. cordless phones, mobile phones or bar type handsets
    • H04M1/0206—Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings
    • H04M1/0208—Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings characterized by the relative motions of the body parts
    • H04M1/0214—Foldable telephones, i.e. with body parts pivoting to an open position around an axis parallel to the plane they define in closed position
    • H04M1/0216—Foldable in one direction, i.e. using a one degree of freedom hinge
    • H04M1/022—The hinge comprising two parallel pivoting axes

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a hinge apparatus for an electronic device such as a portable terminal that oscillates a lid body part relative to a main body part.
  • a collapsible electronic device such as a portable telephone or a laptop computer includes, for example, a main body part including ten-keys or the like and a lid body part including a liquid crystal display or the like. Further, a hinge apparatus is provided at a connecting area between the main body part and the lid body part for rotating (oscillating) the lid body part relative to the main body part.
  • a hinge apparatus used for the above-described type of electronic device is disclosed in Patent Document 1.
  • the hinge device for the electronic device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is a so-called double shaft type hinge apparatus.
  • the lid body part can be rotated 180 degrees about a first rotation shaft relative to the main body part.
  • the main body part can be rotated 180 degrees about a second rotation shaft relative to the lid body part. Therefore, as a whole, the lid body part can be rotated 360 degrees relative to the main body part.
  • the hinge apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a cam mechanism and a gear mechanism integrally provided therein.
  • a toggle is generated when the lid body part is positioned having a predetermined rotation angle relative to the main body part, to thereby retain the lid body part. Accordingly, visibility of the liquid crystal display or the like can be improved.
  • the conventional hinge apparatus for an electronic device has the cam mechanism and the gear mechanism integrally provided inside the hinge apparatus, it is inevitable for the size to become large. Therefore, as illustrated in Patent Document 1, the conventional hinge apparatus for an electronic device is arranged at a center area of the electronic device.
  • the center area of the electronic device is where main electronic circuits and electronic components of the electronic device (hereinafter referred to as “main components and the like”) are arranged.
  • main components and the like main electronic components of the electronic device
  • the present invention provides a hinge apparatus for an electronic device including a cam unit; and a gear unit; wherein the cam unit includes a cam cover, a first cam shaft that is rotatably arranged in the cam cover and connected to a first cam bracket fixed to a first plate, a first cam mechanism that causes the first cam shaft to generate a torque, a second cam shaft configured to independently rotate relative to the first cam shaft and connected to a second cam bracket fixed to a second plate, and a second cam mechanism that causes the second cam shaft to generate a torque, wherein the gear unit includes a gear cover, a first gear shaft that is rotatably arranged in the gear cover and connected to a first cam bracket fixed to the first plate, a first gear part arranged in the first gear shaft, a second gear shaft that is rotatably arranged in the gear cover and connected to a second cam bracket fixed to the second plate, a second gear part arranged in the second gear shaft, and a gear mechanism including the first gear part and the second gear part, and
  • first gear shaft and the second gear shaft may be configured to rotate in different directions relative to each other.
  • first and second cam mechanisms may be configured to generate the torque one time when the second plate is rotate 360 degrees relative to the first plate.
  • a cam unit which generates a torque at a predetermined rotation position
  • a gear unit which performs synchronization when first and second plates are rotated
  • FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to a first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a cam unit constituting a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of a cam unit constituting a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a gear unit constituting a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 4B is an exploded perspective view of a gear unit constituting a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 5A is a plan view illustrating a substantial part of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 5B is a front view illustrating a substantial part of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 6 is a plan view illustrating a substantial part of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9A is a plan view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9B is a front view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9C is a right side view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10A is a plan view of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10B is front view of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10C is a right side view of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 11A is a perspective view illustrating a closed state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 11B is a perspective view illustrating a rear installed state of an electronic apparatus
  • FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a connection configuration of a bracket and an upper case of a hinge apparatus for electronic device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an enlarged cam mechanism of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 14A is a side view of a closed state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 14B is a developed view of cams of first and second cam portion in a closed state
  • FIG. 14C is a rear view illustrating a closed state of a cam unit of the present invention.
  • FIG. 15A is a side view illustrating a lid opening initiating state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 15B is a developed view of cams of first and second cam parts in a lid opening initiating state
  • FIG. 16A is a side view illustrating a lid opening middle state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 16B is a developed view illustrating a lid opening middle state of cams of first and second cam parts
  • FIG. 17A is a side view illustrating a rear installed state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 17B is a developed view illustrating a rear installed state of cams of first and second cam parts.
  • a hinge apparatus D 1 for an electronic device includes a cam unit 5 and a gear unit 6 .
  • the cam unit 5 and the gear unit 6 have a function of opening/closing an upper plate relative to a lower plate 9 .
  • the cam unit 5 which is positioned on the left side in FIG. 1 , includes an upper cam bracket 1 and a lower cam bracket 2 .
  • the gear unit 6 which is positioned on the right side in FIG. 1 , includes an upper gear bracket 3 and a lower gear bracket 4 .
  • a hole part 2 a of the lower cam bracket 2 is a coupling point (i.e. center of oscillation of the lower plate 9 ) of the lower cam bracket 2 relative to the cam unit 5 .
  • the hole part 2 a constitutes a lower plate oscillation shaft line C 1 that extends in a horizontal direction (arrow R direction). Arrow U and arrow F also indicate directions in the figures.
  • a hole part 1 a of an upper cam bracket 1 is a coupling point (i.e. center of oscillation of the upper plate 8 ).
  • the hole part 1 a constitutes an upper plate oscillation shaft line C 2 that is parallel to the lower plate oscillation shaft line C 1 .
  • a coupling point of the lower gear bracket 4 relative to the gear unit 6 (positioned on the right side of FIG. 1 ) is positioned on the lower plate oscillation shaft line C 1
  • a coupling point of the upper gear bracket 3 relative to the gear unit 6 is positioned on the upper plate oscillation shaft line C 2 .
  • the cam unit 5 and the gear unit 6 cooperatively support the lower plate 9 to oscillate about the lower plate oscillation shaft line C 1 and cooperatively support the upper plate 8 to oscillate about the upper plate oscillation shaft line C 2 .
  • the upper plate 8 has a pair of left/right ear parts 8 a that project outward therefrom. Further, the lower plate 9 also has a pair of left/right ear parts 9 a that project outward therefrom.
  • the upper cam bracket 1 has a flat surface part 1 c in which a pair of front/rear attachment hole parts 1 a is formed.
  • the flat surface part 1 c is fixed to an upper surface of the left ear part 8 a by a fastening screw 10 .
  • the lower cam bracket 2 has a flat surface part 2 c in which a pair of front/rear attachment hole parts 2 b is formed.
  • the flat surface part 2 c is fixed to a lower surface of the left ear part 9 a by the fastening screw 10 .
  • the upper gear bracket 3 has a flat surface part 3 c in which a pair of front/rear attachment hole parts 3 b is formed.
  • the flat surface part 3 c is fixed to an upper surface of the right ear part 8 a by the fastening screw 10 .
  • the lower gear bracket 4 has a flat surface part 4 c in which a pair of front/rear attachment hole parts 4 b is formed.
  • the flat surface part 4 c is fixed to a lower surface of the right ear part 9 a by the fastening screw 10 .
  • the cam unit 5 functions as a unit for restricting oscillation of the upper cam bracket 1 and the lower cam bracket 2 at a predetermined angle by increasing torque at the predetermined angle during relative oscillation between the upper cam bracket 1 and the lower cam bracket 2 .
  • the gear unit 6 functions as a unit that synchronizes the rotation of the lower gear bracket 4 about the lower plate oscillation shaft line C 1 (the angle of the rotation is hereinafter referred to as “first oscillation angle ⁇ 1 ”) and the rotation of the upper gear bracket 3 about the upper plate oscillation shaft line C 2 (the angle of the rotation is hereinafter referred to as “second oscillation angle ⁇ 2 ”).
  • the cam unit 5 has a first cam mechanism 50 A and a second cam mechanism 50 B arranged inside a hinge cover 56 .
  • the first cam part 50 A includes, for example, a first cam portion (constituted by a spring 54 , a first cam shaft 55 A, and cam plates 52 , 53 ) and a first cam 81 .
  • the second cam part 50 B includes, for example, a second cam portion (constituted by the spring 54 , a first cam shaft 55 B, and the cam plates 52 , 53 ) and a second cam 82 .
  • the first cam shaft 55 A included in the first cam mechanism 50 A is arranged in the hinge cover 56 to match the upper plate oscillation shaft line C 2 .
  • the first cam shaft 55 A is rotatably supported by the plates 52 , 53 , and the hinge cap 57 .
  • the spring 54 is arranged between the cam plate 53 and the hinge cap 57 . Further, the first cam 81 is arranged between the cam plate 52 and the cam plate 53 .
  • the first cam shaft 55 A includes a first intermediate key part 55 a having an oval-shaped cross section.
  • the first intermediate key part 55 a is to engage an oval-shaped engagement bore 81 a of the first cam 81 a .
  • the first intermediate key part 55 a engages the engagement bore 81 a .
  • the first cam shaft 55 A and the first cam 81 integrally rotate with each other.
  • the first cam shaft 55 A includes a second intermediate key part 55 b formed at its right end part in FIG. 3B .
  • the second intermediate key 55 b is configured to project in a right direction of the hinge cap 57 .
  • the upper cam bracket 1 is mounted to the second intermediate key part 55 b (projecting from the hinge cap 57 ) by way of a washer 58 and a sleeve 59 .
  • An oval-shaped bore 1 a is formed in an end part of the upper cam bracket 1 .
  • the second intermediate cam part 55 b of the first cam shaft 55 A is configured to engage the oval-shaped bore 1 a of the upper cam bracket 1 .
  • the upper cam bracket 1 integrally rotates with the first cam shaft 55 A by engaging the second intermediate key part 55 b with the oval-shaped bore 1 a .
  • a tip part of the second intermediate part 55 b is fixed to the upper cam bracket 1 by caulking.
  • the first cam portion is constituted by a peak part and a valley part formed in the cam plate 52 , the cam plate 53 , and the first cam 81 , respectively.
  • the cam plate 52 includes a pair of peak parts 52 c , 52 d and a pair of valley parts 52 g , 52 h .
  • the cam plate 53 includes a pair of peak parts 53 c , 53 d and a pair of valley parts 53 g , 53 h.
  • the first cam 81 has a pair of peak parts 81 d , 81 e and a pair of valley parts 81 h , 81 i formed on a surface facing the cam plate 52 and a pair of peak parts 81 b , 81 c and a pair of valley parts 81 f , 81 g formed on a surface facing the cam plate 53 .
  • Each of the cam plate 52 , the cam plate 53 , and the first cam 81 has the pair of peak parts arranged at an interval of 180 degrees.
  • each of the cam plate 52 , the cam plate 53 , and the first cam 81 has the pair of valley parts arranged at an interval of 180 degrees. Further, adjacent peak parts and valley parts are arranged at an interval of 90 degrees.
  • the peak parts 52 c , 52 d , and the valley parts 52 g , 52 h of the cam plate 52 and the peak parts 53 c , 53 d , the valley parts 53 g , 53 h of the cam plate 53 are arranged to have the same phase with each other. That is, the peak part 52 c and the peak part 53 c , the peak part 52 d and the peak part 53 d , the valley part 52 g and the valley part 53 g , and the valley part 52 h and the valley part 53 h are configured to face each other, respectively.
  • the second cam mechanism 50 B has substantially the same configuration as the configuration of the first cam mechanism 50 A.
  • the second cam shaft 55 A included in the second cam mechanism 50 B is arranged in the hinge cover 56 to match the lower plate oscillation shaft line C 1 .
  • the second cam shaft 55 B is rotatably supported by the plates 52 , 53 , and the hinge cap 57 .
  • the spring 54 is arranged between the cam plate 53 and the hinge cap 57 . Further, the second cam 82 is arranged between the cam plate 52 and the cam plate 53 .
  • the second cam shaft 55 B includes the first intermediate key part 55 a having an oval-shaped cross section.
  • the first intermediate key part 55 a is to engage an oval-shaped engagement bore 82 a of the second cam 82 a .
  • the first intermediate key part 55 a engages the engagement bore 82 a .
  • the second cam shaft 55 b and the second cam 82 integrally rotate with each other.
  • the second cam shaft 55 B includes the second intermediate key part 55 b formed at its right end part in FIG. 3B .
  • the second intermediate key 55 b is configured to project in a right direction of the hinge cap 57 .
  • the lower cam bracket 2 is mounted to the second intermediate key part 55 b (projecting from the hinge cap 57 ) by way of the washer 58 and the sleeve 59 .
  • An oval-shaped bore 1 a is formed in an end part of the lower cam bracket 2 .
  • the second intermediate cam part 55 b of the second cam shaft 55 B is configured to engage the oval-shaped bore 1 a of the lower cam bracket 2 .
  • the lower cam bracket 2 integrally rotates with the second cam shaft 55 B by engaging the second intermediate key part 55 b with the oval-shaped bore 2 a .
  • a tip part of the second intermediate part 55 b is fixed to the lower cam bracket 2 by caulking.
  • the second cam portion is constituted by a peak part and a valley part formed in the cam plate 52 , the cam plate 53 , and the second cam 82 , respectively. More specifically, as illustrated in the enlarged view of FIG. 13 , the cam plate 52 includes a pair of peak parts 52 e , 52 f and a pair of valley parts 52 i , 52 j . Further, the cam plate 53 includes a pair of peak parts 53 e , 53 f and a pair of valley parts 53 i , 53 j.
  • the second cam 82 has a pair of peak parts 82 d , 82 e and a pair of valley parts 82 h , 82 i formed on a surface facing the cam plate 52 and a pair of peak parts 82 b , 82 c and a pair of valley parts 82 f , 82 g formed on a surface facing the cam plate 53 .
  • each of the cam plate 52 , the cam plate 53 , and the second cam 82 has the pair of peak parts arranged at an interval of 180 degrees.
  • each of the cam plate 52 , the cam plate 53 , and the second cam 82 has the pair of valley parts arranged at an interval of 180 degrees.
  • adjacent peak parts and valley parts are arranged at an interval of 90 degrees.
  • the peak part 52 e and the peak part 53 e , the peak part 52 f and the peak part 53 f , the valley part 52 i and the valley part 53 i , and the valley part 52 j and the valley part 53 j are configured to face each other, respectively.
  • the first cam portion constituting the first cam mechanism 50 A is configured the same as the second cam portion constituting the second cam mechanism 50 B. Further, the first cam 81 is configured the same as the second cam 82 .
  • the upper plate 8 can be rotated 360 degrees relative to the lower plate 9 from the closed state illustrated in FIG. 1 .
  • the cam mechanism 50 A of the upper side is assigned with the rotation of 180 degrees whereas the cam mechanism of the lower side is assigned with the rotation of 180 degrees.
  • the cam unit 5 retains the upper and lower plates 8 , 9 in the aforementioned states by engaging the peak parts and the valley parts of the first and second cam portions and increasing the torque.
  • the cam unit 5 according to this embodiment of the present invention has two peak parts and valley parts arranged in portions of the first cam mechanism 50 A where the cam plate 52 , the cam plate 53 , and the first cam 81 are formed, respectively.
  • the cam unit 5 according to this embodiment of the present invention has two peak parts and valley parts arranged in portions of the second cam mechanism 50 B where the cam plate 52 , the cam plate 53 , and the first cam 81 are formed, respectively.
  • the numbers of peak parts and valley parts to be formed in the first and the second cam mechanisms 50 A, 50 B is not limited to those described above, and may be arbitrarily changed according to, for example, the purpose of the hinge apparatus D 1 for an electronic device.
  • the gear unit 6 has a configuration including, for example, a pair of first (upper) and second (lower) gear shafts 61 A, 61 B, a pair of gears 62 A, 62 B, a pair of gear shafts 63 A, 63 B, supporting plates 64 , 66 , a middle plate 65 , a riveting plate 67 , a gear cover 68 , and a gear cap 69 .
  • the first gear shaft 61 A on the upper side is positioned on the upper plate oscillation shaft line C 2
  • the second gear shaft 61 B on the lower side is positioned on the lower plate oscillation shaft line C 1
  • the support plate 64 includes a pair of upper and lower engagement bores 64 a to which the end parts of the first and second gear shafts 61 A, 61 B are rotatably engaged. Further, the support plate 64 includes bore parts 64 b formed in an intermediate area (in the vertical direction) between the engagement bores 64 a . Minor diameter parts formed on one end of the pair of gear shafts 63 A, 63 B are to be engaged to the bore parts 64 b.
  • the middle plate 65 includes bore parts 65 a to which the gear shafts 63 A, 63 B are inserted.
  • the support plate 66 includes a pair of hole parts 66 a to which end parts of the gear shaft 70 A, 70 B can be inserted.
  • the gear cap 69 includes a recess part (for installing the support plate 66 ) and a pair of hole parts 69 a (to which end parts of the gear shafts 70 A, 70 B are inserted) formed on its end surface facing the gear cover 68 .
  • the sub-assembly is inserted to the gear cover 68 ; the plate 66 is contacted to the end parts of engagement bore parts of the first and second gear shafts 61 A, 61 B; and the gear cap 69 is engaged with an opening part of the gear cover 68 .
  • the gear shaft 70 A is configured to match the upper plate oscillation shaft line C 2
  • the gear shaft 70 B is configured to match the lower plate oscillation shaft line C 1
  • each of the gear shafts 70 A, 70 B includes an insertion hole 70 a penetrating its center. The function of the insertion hole 70 a is described below.
  • the gear unit 6 is formed by engaging the pair of gear shafts 70 A, 70 B with the first and second gear shafts 61 A, 61 B.
  • the gear unit 6 integrally rotates the gear shaft 70 A and the first gear shaft 61 A and integrally rotates the gear shaft 70 B and the first gear shaft 61 B.
  • gear part 61 b of the first gear shaft 61 A meshes with the gear 62 A
  • gear part 61 b of the second gear shaft 61 B meshes with the gear 62 B
  • gear 62 A meshes with the gear 62 B.
  • the gears 62 A, 62 B along with the gear parts 61 b of the first and second gear shafts 61 A, 61 B constitute the gear mechanism taught in the claims.
  • the gear unit 6 rotates the lower cam bracket 2 (joined to the gear shaft 70 B) in the other direction (direction opposite to the rotating direction of the upper gear bracket 3 ).
  • the gear ratio between the gear parts 61 b of the first and second gear shafts 61 A, 61 B of the gear unit 6 and the gears 62 A, 62 B is set, so that the rotation of the upper gear bracket 3 and the rotation of the lower gear bracket 4 are synchronized (so that rotation can be performed with the same angular velocity).
  • the upper gear bracket 3 and the lower gear bracket 4 are restricted from uniquely rotating (oscillating) by being meshed and coupled to each of the gear parts 61 b and the gears 62 A, 62 B.
  • the upper gear bracket 3 is fixed to the upper plate 8 .
  • the lower gear bracket 4 is fixed to the lower plate 9 .
  • the gear unit 6 rotates the lower and upper cam brackets 2 , 4 in synchronization along with providing a function of a rotation prevention mechanism that prevents the lower and upper cam brackets 2 , 4 from oscillating relative to each other.
  • the upper plate 8 is fixed to the upper cam bracket 1 of the cam unit 5
  • the lower plate 9 is fixed to the lower cam bracket 2 of the cam unit 5 . Accordingly, when the cam unit 5 is rotated to a predetermined rotation angle for generating torque in a case where the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 are rotated in synchronization, the rotation of the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 is restricted by the increase of the torque.
  • the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 can be rotated in synchronization by the gear unit 6 , and the rotation of the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 can be restricted to a desired rotation angle by the cam unit 5 .
  • the insertion bore 70 a functions as a wiring insertion bore to which a core (wiring) 7 is inserted as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 .
  • the hinge apparatus D 1 constituted by the cam unit 5 and the gear unit 6 has the upper plate 8 fixed to an upper case of an electronic apparatus S which is to be the application target (see FIG. 6 ) and the lower plate 9 fixed to a lower case 12 of the electronic apparatus S.
  • Electronic components are mounted to each of the upper and lower cases 11 , 12 .
  • the cord 7 has a function of electrically connecting an electronic circuit mounted on the upper case 11 to an electronic circuit mounted on the lower case 12 .
  • the cord 7 is to be arranged between the upper case 11 and the lower case 12 , the cord 7 is preferred not to be exposed to the outside from an aspect of design and is liable of being pulled out in a case where, for example, external force is applied.
  • the cord 7 can be connected between the upper case 11 and the lower case 12 inside the gear unit 6 (gear cover 68 ) by forming the insertion bores 70 a in the gear shafts 70 A, 70 B and inserting the cord 7 to the insertion bores 70 a as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B .
  • the appearance of the electronic apparatus S can be improved and it can be prevented from being pulled out.
  • the upper case 11 of the electronic apparatus S is also closed (closed state) relative to the lower case 12 of the electronic apparatus S (as illustrated in FIGS. 8 , 10 A, 10 B, 10 C, 11 A, and 14 A).
  • each of the peak parts and valley parts of the first and second cam portions included in the first and second cam mechanisms 50 A, 50 B each of the peak parts and the valley parts of the first cam 81 and the cam plate 52 are engaged and the each of the peak parts and the valley parts of the second cam 82 and the cam plate 52 are engaged in this closed state as illustrated in FIG. 14B . Therefore, in the closed state, the hinge apparatus D 1 for an electronic device is in a state where the torque is increased and where the rotation of the upper case 11 (upper plate 8 ) and the lower case 12 (lower plate 9 ) is restricted.
  • FIGS. 14B , 15 B, 16 B, and 17 B are developed views of the cams of the first and second cam portions included in the first and second cam mechanisms 50 A, 50 B. Further, in FIG. 14C illustrating a rear surface of the cam unit 5 , each of the cam parts indicated with letters A-D corresponds to letters A-D illustrated on the left side of the developed views of FIGS. 14B , 15 B, 16 B, and 17 B.
  • the upper case 11 begins a rotation (lid opening) movement relative to the lower case 12 .
  • the upper case 11 can be steadily opened relative to the lower case 12 because the rotation of the upper gear bracket 3 and the lower gear bracket 4 are synchronized by the function of the gear unit 6 included in the hinge apparatus D 1 for an electronic device.
  • FIGS. 16A , 16 B illustrate a state where the upper case 11 (upper plate 8 ) is rotated 90 degrees or more relative to the lower case 12 (lower plate 9 ). In this state also, the engagement of all of the peak parts and valley parts of the first and second cam portions remains released.
  • FIGS. 11B and 17A illustrate a state where the upper case 11 (upper plate 8 ) is rotated 360 degrees relative to the lower case 12 (lower plate 9 ). In this sate, the upper case 11 and the lower case 12 are superposed and vertically inverted relative to the closed state.
  • each of the peak parts and valley parts of the first and second cam portions included in the first and second cam mechanisms 50 A, 50 B each of the peak parts and the valley parts of the first cam 81 and the cam plate 52 are engaged and the each of the peak parts and the valley parts of the second cam 82 and the cam plate 52 are engaged in the rear installed state as illustrated in FIG. 14B . Therefore, in the rear installed state also, the hinge apparatus D 1 for an electronic device is in a state where the torque is increased and where the rotation of the upper case 11 (upper plate 8 ) and the lower case 12 (lower plate 9 ) is restricted.
  • cam unit 5 By positioning the cam unit 5 on the left side of the upper plate 8 and positioning the cam unit 6 on the right side in FIG. 1 , mechanisms need not be provided at a center area of the upper case 11 in the horizontal direction and at a center area of the lower case 12 in the horizontal direction. Accordingly, electronic components such as a display a touch panel can be arranged in those center areas. Thus, a large size display or a touch panel can be used for the electronic apparatus S.
  • the upper case 11 can be chosen to be arranged in a rear installed position in which an outer surface of the upper case 11 is matched back to back with an outer surface of the lower case 12 .
  • the user may then choose to use either an inner surface of the upper case 11 or an inner surface of the lower case 12 by having the inner surface of the upper or lower case 11 , 12 faced upward.
  • the cam 51 having a cylindrical shape is sandwiched between the cam plate 52 and the cam plate 53 , and the outer peripheral surfaces of the cam plates 52 , 53 having elliptical shapes are supported by an inner peripheral surface of the hinge cover 56 .
  • the cam shafts 55 A, 55 B can be rotatably supported by the cam plates 52 , 53 .
  • the number of components can be reduced and size-reduction can be achieved.
  • the cord 7 can be prevented from being exposed to the outside.
  • the cord 7 can electrically connect the upper and lower plates 8 , 9 while being appropriately protected.
  • first and second gear shafts 61 A, 61 B include communicating parts 61 c provided at the outer sides in the radial directions of the upper and lower plate oscillation shaft lines C 1 , C 2 (provided in the extending direction of the cord 7 ). Therefore, even in a case where the upper plate 8 is oscillated relative to the lower plate 9 , each of the gear shafts 61 , 61 B can be prevented from interfering the cord 7 .
  • the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 provide the function of a rotation prevention unit.
  • a synchro-bar may be provided separately from the upper plate 8 for providing the function of the rotation prevention unit.
  • FIG. 12 illustrates the second embodiment of the present invention. It is to be noted that, in FIG. 12 , like components are denoted by like reference numeral as those of the first embodiment (described with FIGS. 1-11 ) and are not further explained.
  • the upper cam bracket 1 and the upper gear bracket 3 are fixed to the upper case 11 made of resin, and the lower cam bracket 2 and the lower gear bracket 4 are fixed to the lower case 12 made of resin (not illustrated).
  • a synchro-bar 13 is used for coupling the upper cam bracket 1 and the upper gear bracket 3
  • a synchro-bar 14 is used for coupling the lower cam bracket 2 and the lower gear bracket 4 .
  • the synchro-bars 13 , 14 are both formed of a plate-like member. In order to increase rigidity and facilitate attachment, both end parts of the synchro-bars 13 , 14 are bent and have a C-shaped cross section. The synchro-bars 13 , 14 are vertically arranged relative to the upper case 11 .
  • a space can be formed at a center area between the cam unit 5 and the gear unit 6 because both the synchro-bars 13 , 14 are formed of a plate-like member. Accordingly, a large space for arranging liquid crystal displays or the like can be obtained.
  • the synchro-bars 13 , 14 function as the rotation prevention unit.
  • the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 may also be used to function as the rotation prevention unit by fixing the upper cam bracket 1 and the upper gear bracket 3 to the upper plate 8 and fixing the lower cam bracket 2 and the lower gear bracket 4 to the lower plate 9 .
  • cam unit 5 is arranged on the left side whereas the gear unit 6 is arranged on the right side in the above-described embodiments, the cam unit 5 may be arranged on the right side whereas the gear unit 6 is arranged on the left side.
  • left/right direction (horizontal direction)”
  • left/right direction indicates the width direction of the above described electronic apparatus S or the hinge apparatuses D 1 , D 2 .
  • left side indicates “left direction”
  • right side indicates “right direction” where the benchmark is the center of the electronic apparatus S and the hinge apparatus D 1 , D 2 in the width direction.
  • positions can be defined even where the front/back direction does not match the vertical direction or where the front/rear direction does not match the horizontal direction.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Pivots And Pivotal Connections (AREA)
  • Telephone Set Structure (AREA)
  • Transmission Devices (AREA)

Abstract

A hinge apparatus for an electronic device includes a cam unit and a gear unit provided at a connecting position of an upper plate and a lower plate. The cam unit includes a first cam mechanism for causing a first cam shaft connected to an upper plate to generate a torque and a second cam mechanism for causing a second cam shaft connected to a lower plate to generate a torque. Further, the gear unit includes a first gear shaft connected to the upper plate and a second gear shaft connected to the lower plate, a first gear provided in the first gear shaft, a first gear provided in the second gear shaft, and a gear mechanism that synchronizes and rotates the first gear shaft and the second gear shaft.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a hinge apparatus for an electronic device such as a portable terminal that oscillates a lid body part relative to a main body part.
BACKGROUND ART
A collapsible electronic device such as a portable telephone or a laptop computer includes, for example, a main body part including ten-keys or the like and a lid body part including a liquid crystal display or the like. Further, a hinge apparatus is provided at a connecting area between the main body part and the lid body part for rotating (oscillating) the lid body part relative to the main body part.
A hinge apparatus used for the above-described type of electronic device is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The hinge device for the electronic device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is a so-called double shaft type hinge apparatus. With the double shaft type hinge apparatus, the lid body part can be rotated 180 degrees about a first rotation shaft relative to the main body part. In addition, the main body part can be rotated 180 degrees about a second rotation shaft relative to the lid body part. Therefore, as a whole, the lid body part can be rotated 360 degrees relative to the main body part.
Further, the hinge apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a cam mechanism and a gear mechanism integrally provided therein. By providing the cam mechanism, a toggle is generated when the lid body part is positioned having a predetermined rotation angle relative to the main body part, to thereby retain the lid body part. Accordingly, visibility of the liquid crystal display or the like can be improved.
RELATED ART REFERENCE Patent Document
  • Patent Document 1: Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2005-023955
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Problem to be Solved by Invention
Because the conventional hinge apparatus for an electronic device has the cam mechanism and the gear mechanism integrally provided inside the hinge apparatus, it is inevitable for the size to become large. Therefore, as illustrated in Patent Document 1, the conventional hinge apparatus for an electronic device is arranged at a center area of the electronic device.
However, the center area of the electronic device is where main electronic circuits and electronic components of the electronic device (hereinafter referred to as “main components and the like”) are arranged. Thus, conventionally, due to the hinge apparatus occupying a large area of the center area of the electronic device, there are problems such as lack of degree of freedom for arranging the main components and size increase of the electronic device.
Means for Solving Problem
It is a general object of the present invention to provide an improved useful hinge apparatus for an electronic device that solves the above-described problems of the related art.
It is a specific object of the present invention to provide a hinge apparatus for an electronic device that improves the efficiency of using space of the electronic device.
In order to achieve such object, the present invention provides a hinge apparatus for an electronic device including a cam unit; and a gear unit; wherein the cam unit includes a cam cover, a first cam shaft that is rotatably arranged in the cam cover and connected to a first cam bracket fixed to a first plate, a first cam mechanism that causes the first cam shaft to generate a torque, a second cam shaft configured to independently rotate relative to the first cam shaft and connected to a second cam bracket fixed to a second plate, and a second cam mechanism that causes the second cam shaft to generate a torque, wherein the gear unit includes a gear cover, a first gear shaft that is rotatably arranged in the gear cover and connected to a first cam bracket fixed to the first plate, a first gear part arranged in the first gear shaft, a second gear shaft that is rotatably arranged in the gear cover and connected to a second cam bracket fixed to the second plate, a second gear part arranged in the second gear shaft, and a gear mechanism including the first gear part and the second gear part, and configured to synchronize and rotate the first gear shaft and the second gear shaft, wherein the cam unit and the gear unit are positioned away from and faced against the first and second plates that are rotatable relative to each other.
Further, in the present invention, the first gear shaft and the second gear shaft may be configured to rotate in different directions relative to each other.
Further, in the present invention, the first and second cam mechanisms may be configured to generate the torque one time when the second plate is rotate 360 degrees relative to the first plate.
Effect of the Invention
With the present invention, by arranging a cam unit (which generates a torque at a predetermined rotation position) and a gear unit (which performs synchronization when first and second plates are rotated) separate from each other, components and the like can be arranged between the cam unit and the gear unit. Thereby, the efficiency of using the space of an electronic device having a hinge apparatus mounted thereon can be improved.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a cam unit constituting a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of a cam unit constituting a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a gear unit constituting a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4B is an exploded perspective view of a gear unit constituting a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 5A is a plan view illustrating a substantial part of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 5B is a front view illustrating a substantial part of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 6 is a plan view illustrating a substantial part of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 9A is a plan view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 9B is a front view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 9C is a right side view of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 10A is a plan view of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 10B is front view of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 10C is a right side view of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 11A is a perspective view illustrating a closed state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 11B is a perspective view illustrating a rear installed state of an electronic apparatus;
FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a connection configuration of a bracket and an upper case of a hinge apparatus for electronic device according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an enlarged cam mechanism of a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 14A is a side view of a closed state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 14B is a developed view of cams of first and second cam portion in a closed state;
FIG. 14C is a rear view illustrating a closed state of a cam unit of the present invention;
FIG. 15A is a side view illustrating a lid opening initiating state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 15B is a developed view of cams of first and second cam parts in a lid opening initiating state;
FIG. 16A is a side view illustrating a lid opening middle state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 16B is a developed view illustrating a lid opening middle state of cams of first and second cam parts;
FIG. 17A is a side view illustrating a rear installed state of an electronic apparatus using a hinge apparatus for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 17B is a developed view illustrating a rear installed state of cams of first and second cam parts.
 EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
  • S electronic device
  • D1 hinge apparatus for an electronic device
  • D2 hinge apparatus for an electronic device
  • 1 upper cam bracket (first cam side bracket)
  • 2 lower cam bracket (second cam side bracket)
  • 3 upper gear bracket (first gear side bracket)
  • 4 lower gear bracket (second gear side bracket)
  • 5 cam unit
  • 6 gear unit
  • 7 cord
  • 8 upper plate (first plate)
  • 9 lower plate (second plate)
  • 10 fastening screw
  • 11 upper case
  • 12 lower case
  • 13 synchro-bar
  • 14 synchro-bar
  • 50A first cam mechanism
  • 50B second cam mechanism
  • 52, 53 cam plate
  • 54 spring
  • 55A first cam shaft
  • 55B second cam shaft
  • 56 hinge cover
  • 57 hinge cap
  • 61A first gear shaft
  • 61B second gear shaft
  • 61 b gear part
  • 62A, 62B gear
  • 63A, 63B gear shaft
  • 64, 66 support plate
  • 65 middle plate
  • 67 riveting plate
  • 68 gear cover
  • 69 gear cap
  • 70 gear shaft
  • 70 a insertion hole
EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
As illustrated in FIG. 1, a hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cam unit 5 and a gear unit 6. The cam unit 5 and the gear unit 6 have a function of opening/closing an upper plate relative to a lower plate 9.
The cam unit 5, which is positioned on the left side in FIG. 1, includes an upper cam bracket 1 and a lower cam bracket 2. Further, the gear unit 6, which is positioned on the right side in FIG. 1, includes an upper gear bracket 3 and a lower gear bracket 4.
A hole part 2 a of the lower cam bracket 2 is a coupling point (i.e. center of oscillation of the lower plate 9) of the lower cam bracket 2 relative to the cam unit 5. The hole part 2 a constitutes a lower plate oscillation shaft line C1 that extends in a horizontal direction (arrow R direction). Arrow U and arrow F also indicate directions in the figures. A hole part 1 a of an upper cam bracket 1 is a coupling point (i.e. center of oscillation of the upper plate 8). The hole part 1 a constitutes an upper plate oscillation shaft line C2 that is parallel to the lower plate oscillation shaft line C1.
A coupling point of the lower gear bracket 4 relative to the gear unit 6 (positioned on the right side of FIG. 1) is positioned on the lower plate oscillation shaft line C1, and a coupling point of the upper gear bracket 3 relative to the gear unit 6 is positioned on the upper plate oscillation shaft line C2.
The cam unit 5 and the gear unit 6 cooperatively support the lower plate 9 to oscillate about the lower plate oscillation shaft line C1 and cooperatively support the upper plate 8 to oscillate about the upper plate oscillation shaft line C2.
The upper plate 8 has a pair of left/right ear parts 8 a that project outward therefrom. Further, the lower plate 9 also has a pair of left/right ear parts 9 a that project outward therefrom.
The upper cam bracket 1 has a flat surface part 1 c in which a pair of front/rear attachment hole parts 1 a is formed. The flat surface part 1 c is fixed to an upper surface of the left ear part 8 a by a fastening screw 10. The lower cam bracket 2 has a flat surface part 2 c in which a pair of front/rear attachment hole parts 2 b is formed. The flat surface part 2 c is fixed to a lower surface of the left ear part 9 a by the fastening screw 10.
The upper gear bracket 3 has a flat surface part 3 c in which a pair of front/rear attachment hole parts 3 b is formed. The flat surface part 3 c is fixed to an upper surface of the right ear part 8 a by the fastening screw 10. The lower gear bracket 4 has a flat surface part 4 c in which a pair of front/rear attachment hole parts 4 b is formed. The flat surface part 4 c is fixed to a lower surface of the right ear part 9 a by the fastening screw 10.
The cam unit 5 according to the first embodiment of the present invention functions as a unit for restricting oscillation of the upper cam bracket 1 and the lower cam bracket 2 at a predetermined angle by increasing torque at the predetermined angle during relative oscillation between the upper cam bracket 1 and the lower cam bracket 2.
Further, the gear unit 6 functions as a unit that synchronizes the rotation of the lower gear bracket 4 about the lower plate oscillation shaft line C1 (the angle of the rotation is hereinafter referred to as “first oscillation angle θ1”) and the rotation of the upper gear bracket 3 about the upper plate oscillation shaft line C2 (the angle of the rotation is hereinafter referred to as “second oscillation angle θ2”).
As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the cam unit 5 has a first cam mechanism 50A and a second cam mechanism 50B arranged inside a hinge cover 56. The first cam part 50A includes, for example, a first cam portion (constituted by a spring 54, a first cam shaft 55A, and cam plates 52, 53) and a first cam 81. Further, the second cam part 50B includes, for example, a second cam portion (constituted by the spring 54, a first cam shaft 55B, and the cam plates 52, 53) and a second cam 82.
The first cam shaft 55A included in the first cam mechanism 50A is arranged in the hinge cover 56 to match the upper plate oscillation shaft line C2. By inserting the first cam shaft 55A through a bore part 52 a of the cam plate 52, a bore part 53 a of the cam plate 53, and a bore part 57 a of a hinge cap 57 (which is to be a lid body of the hinge cover 56), the first cam shaft 55A is rotatably supported by the plates 52, 53, and the hinge cap 57.
The spring 54 is arranged between the cam plate 53 and the hinge cap 57. Further, the first cam 81 is arranged between the cam plate 52 and the cam plate 53.
The first cam shaft 55A includes a first intermediate key part 55 a having an oval-shaped cross section. The first intermediate key part 55 a is to engage an oval-shaped engagement bore 81 a of the first cam 81 a. In a mounted state, the first intermediate key part 55 a engages the engagement bore 81 a. Thereby, the first cam shaft 55A and the first cam 81 integrally rotate with each other.
The first cam shaft 55A includes a second intermediate key part 55 b formed at its right end part in FIG. 3B. In a state where the cam unit 5 is assembled, the second intermediate key 55 b is configured to project in a right direction of the hinge cap 57. The upper cam bracket 1 is mounted to the second intermediate key part 55 b (projecting from the hinge cap 57) by way of a washer 58 and a sleeve 59.
An oval-shaped bore 1 a is formed in an end part of the upper cam bracket 1. The second intermediate cam part 55 b of the first cam shaft 55A is configured to engage the oval-shaped bore 1 a of the upper cam bracket 1. Thus, the upper cam bracket 1 integrally rotates with the first cam shaft 55A by engaging the second intermediate key part 55 b with the oval-shaped bore 1 a. It is to be noted that a tip part of the second intermediate part 55 b is fixed to the upper cam bracket 1 by caulking.
As illustrated in an enlarged view of FIG. 13, the first cam portion is constituted by a peak part and a valley part formed in the cam plate 52, the cam plate 53, and the first cam 81, respectively. More specifically, the cam plate 52 includes a pair of peak parts 52 c, 52 d and a pair of valley parts 52 g, 52 h. Further, the cam plate 53 includes a pair of peak parts 53 c, 53 d and a pair of valley parts 53 g, 53 h.
Further, the first cam 81 has a pair of peak parts 81 d, 81 e and a pair of valley parts 81 h, 81 i formed on a surface facing the cam plate 52 and a pair of peak parts 81 b, 81 c and a pair of valley parts 81 f, 81 g formed on a surface facing the cam plate 53.
Each of the cam plate 52, the cam plate 53, and the first cam 81 has the pair of peak parts arranged at an interval of 180 degrees. Likewise, each of the cam plate 52, the cam plate 53, and the first cam 81 has the pair of valley parts arranged at an interval of 180 degrees. Further, adjacent peak parts and valley parts are arranged at an interval of 90 degrees.
Further, the peak parts 52 c, 52 d, and the valley parts 52 g, 52 h of the cam plate 52 and the peak parts 53 c, 53 d, the valley parts 53 g, 53 h of the cam plate 53 are arranged to have the same phase with each other. That is, the peak part 52 c and the peak part 53 c, the peak part 52 d and the peak part 53 d, the valley part 52 g and the valley part 53 g, and the valley part 52 h and the valley part 53 h are configured to face each other, respectively.
Next, the second cam mechanism 50B is described. The second cam mechanism 50B has substantially the same configuration as the configuration of the first cam mechanism 50A.
As illustrated in FIG. 3B, the second cam shaft 55A included in the second cam mechanism 50B is arranged in the hinge cover 56 to match the lower plate oscillation shaft line C1. By inserting the second cam shaft 55B through a bore part 52 b of the cam plate 52, a bore part 53 b of the cam plate 53, and a bore part 57 b of the hinge cap 57 (which is to be a lid body of the hinge cover 56), the second cam shaft 55B is rotatably supported by the plates 52, 53, and the hinge cap 57.
The spring 54 is arranged between the cam plate 53 and the hinge cap 57. Further, the second cam 82 is arranged between the cam plate 52 and the cam plate 53.
Similar to the first cam shaft 55A, the second cam shaft 55B includes the first intermediate key part 55 a having an oval-shaped cross section. The first intermediate key part 55 a is to engage an oval-shaped engagement bore 82 a of the second cam 82 a. In a mounted state, the first intermediate key part 55 a engages the engagement bore 82 a. Thereby, the second cam shaft 55 b and the second cam 82 integrally rotate with each other.
Further, the second cam shaft 55B includes the second intermediate key part 55 b formed at its right end part in FIG. 3B. In a state where the cam unit 5 is assembled, the second intermediate key 55 b is configured to project in a right direction of the hinge cap 57. The lower cam bracket 2 is mounted to the second intermediate key part 55 b (projecting from the hinge cap 57) by way of the washer 58 and the sleeve 59.
An oval-shaped bore 1 a is formed in an end part of the lower cam bracket 2. The second intermediate cam part 55 b of the second cam shaft 55B is configured to engage the oval-shaped bore 1 a of the lower cam bracket 2. Thus, the lower cam bracket 2 integrally rotates with the second cam shaft 55B by engaging the second intermediate key part 55 b with the oval-shaped bore 2 a. It is to be noted that a tip part of the second intermediate part 55 b is fixed to the lower cam bracket 2 by caulking.
Similar to the first cam portion, the second cam portion is constituted by a peak part and a valley part formed in the cam plate 52, the cam plate 53, and the second cam 82, respectively. More specifically, as illustrated in the enlarged view of FIG. 13, the cam plate 52 includes a pair of peak parts 52 e, 52 f and a pair of valley parts 52 i, 52 j. Further, the cam plate 53 includes a pair of peak parts 53 e, 53 f and a pair of valley parts 53 i, 53 j.
Further, the second cam 82 has a pair of peak parts 82 d, 82 e and a pair of valley parts 82 h, 82 i formed on a surface facing the cam plate 52 and a pair of peak parts 82 b, 82 c and a pair of valley parts 82 f, 82 g formed on a surface facing the cam plate 53.
In the second cam portion, each of the cam plate 52, the cam plate 53, and the second cam 82 has the pair of peak parts arranged at an interval of 180 degrees. Likewise, each of the cam plate 52, the cam plate 53, and the second cam 82 has the pair of valley parts arranged at an interval of 180 degrees. Further, adjacent peak parts and valley parts are arranged at an interval of 90 degrees. Further, the peak part 52 e and the peak part 53 e, the peak part 52 f and the peak part 53 f, the valley part 52 i and the valley part 53 i, and the valley part 52 j and the valley part 53 j are configured to face each other, respectively.
In the cam unit 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the first cam portion constituting the first cam mechanism 50A is configured the same as the second cam portion constituting the second cam mechanism 50B. Further, the first cam 81 is configured the same as the second cam 82.
In the hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the upper plate 8 can be rotated 360 degrees relative to the lower plate 9 from the closed state illustrated in FIG. 1. However, among the pair of upper and lower cam mechanisms 50A, 50B of the cam unit 5, the cam mechanism 50A of the upper side is assigned with the rotation of 180 degrees whereas the cam mechanism of the lower side is assigned with the rotation of 180 degrees. In a state where the upper and lower plates 8, 9 are closed or in a state where the upper plate 8 is rotated 360 degrees and installed on a rear side of the lower plate 9 (rear installed state), the cam unit 5 retains the upper and lower plates 8, 9 in the aforementioned states by engaging the peak parts and the valley parts of the first and second cam portions and increasing the torque.
The cam unit 5 according to this embodiment of the present invention has two peak parts and valley parts arranged in portions of the first cam mechanism 50A where the cam plate 52, the cam plate 53, and the first cam 81 are formed, respectively. Likewise, the cam unit 5 according to this embodiment of the present invention has two peak parts and valley parts arranged in portions of the second cam mechanism 50B where the cam plate 52, the cam plate 53, and the first cam 81 are formed, respectively. However, the numbers of peak parts and valley parts to be formed in the first and the second cam mechanisms 50A, 50B is not limited to those described above, and may be arbitrarily changed according to, for example, the purpose of the hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device.
Next, the gear unit 6 is described with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B.
The gear unit 6 has a configuration including, for example, a pair of first (upper) and second (lower) gear shafts 61A, 61B, a pair of gears 62A, 62B, a pair of gear shafts 63A, 63B, supporting plates 64, 66, a middle plate 65, a riveting plate 67, a gear cover 68, and a gear cap 69.
The first gear shaft 61A on the upper side is positioned on the upper plate oscillation shaft line C2, and the second gear shaft 61B on the lower side is positioned on the lower plate oscillation shaft line C1. The support plate 64 includes a pair of upper and lower engagement bores 64 a to which the end parts of the first and second gear shafts 61A, 61B are rotatably engaged. Further, the support plate 64 includes bore parts 64 b formed in an intermediate area (in the vertical direction) between the engagement bores 64 a. Minor diameter parts formed on one end of the pair of gear shafts 63A, 63B are to be engaged to the bore parts 64 b.
The middle plate 65 includes bore parts 65 a to which the gear shafts 63A, 63B are inserted. The support plate 66 includes a pair of hole parts 66 a to which end parts of the gear shaft 70A, 70B can be inserted. Further, the gear cap 69 includes a recess part (for installing the support plate 66) and a pair of hole parts 69 a (to which end parts of the gear shafts 70A, 70B are inserted) formed on its end surface facing the gear cover 68.
After the tip parts of the gear shafts 63A, 63B are inserted in center bores 62 a of the pair of upper and lower gears 62A, 62B and the bore parts 65 a of the middle plate 65, the tip parts of the gear shafts 63A, 63B are further inserted to the bore parts 64 b of the support plate 64. Then, the riveting plate 67 is fixed to the end parts of the gear shafts 63A, 63B projecting from the support plate 64 by caulking, to thereby constitute a sub-assembly (sub-ASSY).
Then, the sub-assembly is inserted to the gear cover 68; the plate 66 is contacted to the end parts of engagement bore parts of the first and second gear shafts 61A, 61B; and the gear cap 69 is engaged with an opening part of the gear cover 68.
After the pair of upper and lower gear shafts 70A, 70B are inserted to the holes 3 a, 4 a of the upper and lower gear brackets 3, 4, the hole parts 69 a of the gear cap 69, and the hole parts 66 a of the support plate 66, the upper and lower gear shafts 70A, 70B are engaged with the engagement bore parts 61 a of the first and second gear shafts 61A, 61B.
Further, in the gear unit 6 according to this embodiment of the present invention, the gear shaft 70A is configured to match the upper plate oscillation shaft line C2, and the gear shaft 70B is configured to match the lower plate oscillation shaft line C1. Further, each of the gear shafts 70A, 70B includes an insertion hole 70 a penetrating its center. The function of the insertion hole 70 a is described below.
As described above, the gear unit 6 is formed by engaging the pair of gear shafts 70A, 70B with the first and second gear shafts 61A, 61B. The gear unit 6 integrally rotates the gear shaft 70A and the first gear shaft 61A and integrally rotates the gear shaft 70B and the first gear shaft 61B.
Further, the gear part 61 b of the first gear shaft 61A meshes with the gear 62A, and the gear part 61 b of the second gear shaft 61B meshes with the gear 62B. Further, the gear 62A meshes with the gear 62B. The gears 62A, 62B along with the gear parts 61 b of the first and second gear shafts 61A, 61B constitute the gear mechanism taught in the claims.
Therefore, by rotating and urging the upper gear bracket 3 (joined to the gear shaft 70A) in one direction, the gear unit 6 rotates the lower cam bracket 2 (joined to the gear shaft 70B) in the other direction (direction opposite to the rotating direction of the upper gear bracket 3).
Further, the gear ratio between the gear parts 61 b of the first and second gear shafts 61A, 61B of the gear unit 6 and the gears 62A, 62B is set, so that the rotation of the upper gear bracket 3 and the rotation of the lower gear bracket 4 are synchronized (so that rotation can be performed with the same angular velocity).
Further, the upper gear bracket 3 and the lower gear bracket 4 are restricted from uniquely rotating (oscillating) by being meshed and coupled to each of the gear parts 61 b and the gears 62A, 62B. The upper gear bracket 3 is fixed to the upper plate 8. The lower gear bracket 4 is fixed to the lower plate 9. Thereby, the gear unit 6 rotates the lower and upper cam brackets 2, 4 in synchronization along with providing a function of a rotation prevention mechanism that prevents the lower and upper cam brackets 2, 4 from oscillating relative to each other.
Further, as described above, the upper plate 8 is fixed to the upper cam bracket 1 of the cam unit 5, and the lower plate 9 is fixed to the lower cam bracket 2 of the cam unit 5. Accordingly, when the cam unit 5 is rotated to a predetermined rotation angle for generating torque in a case where the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 are rotated in synchronization, the rotation of the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 is restricted by the increase of the torque.
Accordingly, with the hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 can be rotated in synchronization by the gear unit 6, and the rotation of the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 can be restricted to a desired rotation angle by the cam unit 5.
Next, the insertion bores 70 a that are formed in the gear shafts 70A, 70B are described. The insertion bore 70 a functions as a wiring insertion bore to which a core (wiring) 7 is inserted as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the hinge apparatus D1 constituted by the cam unit 5 and the gear unit 6 has the upper plate 8 fixed to an upper case of an electronic apparatus S which is to be the application target (see FIG. 6) and the lower plate 9 fixed to a lower case 12 of the electronic apparatus S. Electronic components are mounted to each of the upper and lower cases 11, 12. The cord 7 has a function of electrically connecting an electronic circuit mounted on the upper case 11 to an electronic circuit mounted on the lower case 12.
Thereby, although the cord 7 is to be arranged between the upper case 11 and the lower case 12, the cord 7 is preferred not to be exposed to the outside from an aspect of design and is liable of being pulled out in a case where, for example, external force is applied.
However, with the first embodiment of the present invention, the cord 7 can be connected between the upper case 11 and the lower case 12 inside the gear unit 6 (gear cover 68) by forming the insertion bores 70 a in the gear shafts 70A, 70B and inserting the cord 7 to the insertion bores 70 a as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. With this configuration, the appearance of the electronic apparatus S can be improved and it can be prevented from being pulled out.
Next, a hinge operation of the hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is described.
In a case where the upper plate 8 is closed (closed state) relative to the lower plate 9 (as illustrated in FIGS. 7, 9A, 9B, and 9C), the upper case 11 of the electronic apparatus S is also closed (closed state) relative to the lower case 12 of the electronic apparatus S (as illustrated in FIGS. 8, 10A, 10B, 10C, 11A, and 14A).
Further, in the peak parts and valley parts of the first and second cam portions included in the first and second cam mechanisms 50A, 50B, each of the peak parts and the valley parts of the first cam 81 and the cam plate 52 are engaged and the each of the peak parts and the valley parts of the second cam 82 and the cam plate 52 are engaged in this closed state as illustrated in FIG. 14B. Therefore, in the closed state, the hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device is in a state where the torque is increased and where the rotation of the upper case 11 (upper plate 8) and the lower case 12 (lower plate 9) is restricted.
It is to be noted that FIGS. 14B, 15B, 16B, and 17B are developed views of the cams of the first and second cam portions included in the first and second cam mechanisms 50A, 50B. Further, in FIG. 14C illustrating a rear surface of the cam unit 5, each of the cam parts indicated with letters A-D corresponds to letters A-D illustrated on the left side of the developed views of FIGS. 14B, 15B, 16B, and 17B.
In a case where the user opens the upper case 11 from the closed state by using a force greater than or equal to the above-described torque generated by the hinge apparatus D1, the upper case 11 begins a rotation (lid opening) movement relative to the lower case 12. In this case, the upper case 11 can be steadily opened relative to the lower case 12 because the rotation of the upper gear bracket 3 and the lower gear bracket 4 are synchronized by the function of the gear unit 6 included in the hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device.
Further, by rotating the upper case 11 (upper plate 8) relative to the lower case 12 (lower plate 9), the engagement of the peak parts and the valley parts between the first cam 81 and the cam plate 52 and the engagement of the peak parts and the valley parts between the second cam 82 and the cam plate 52 can be released as illustrated in FIG. 15B. Thereby, the engagement of all of the peak parts and valley parts of the first and second cam portions can be released. The rotation of the upper case 11 (upper plate 8) relative to the lower case 12 (lower plate 9) can be performed smoothly.
FIGS. 16A, 16B illustrate a state where the upper case 11 (upper plate 8) is rotated 90 degrees or more relative to the lower case 12 (lower plate 9). In this state also, the engagement of all of the peak parts and valley parts of the first and second cam portions remains released.
FIGS. 11B and 17A illustrate a state where the upper case 11 (upper plate 8) is rotated 360 degrees relative to the lower case 12 (lower plate 9). In this sate, the upper case 11 and the lower case 12 are superposed and vertically inverted relative to the closed state.
Further, in the peak parts and valley parts of the first and second cam portions included in the first and second cam mechanisms 50A, 50B, each of the peak parts and the valley parts of the first cam 81 and the cam plate 52 are engaged and the each of the peak parts and the valley parts of the second cam 82 and the cam plate 52 are engaged in the rear installed state as illustrated in FIG. 14B. Therefore, in the rear installed state also, the hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device is in a state where the torque is increased and where the rotation of the upper case 11 (upper plate 8) and the lower case 12 (lower plate 9) is restricted.
Hence, with the above-described first embodiment of the hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device and the electronic apparatus S including the hinge apparatus D1, the following effects can be attained.
By positioning the cam unit 5 on the left side of the upper plate 8 and positioning the cam unit 6 on the right side in FIG. 1, mechanisms need not be provided at a center area of the upper case 11 in the horizontal direction and at a center area of the lower case 12 in the horizontal direction. Accordingly, electronic components such as a display a touch panel can be arranged in those center areas. Thus, a large size display or a touch panel can be used for the electronic apparatus S.
Further, in a case of using only one of the upper case 11 and the lower case 12 where the upper case 11 has an oscillation angle of 360 degrees relative to the lower case 12, the upper case 11 can be chosen to be arranged in a rear installed position in which an outer surface of the upper case 11 is matched back to back with an outer surface of the lower case 12. After the rear installed position is chosen, the user may then choose to use either an inner surface of the upper case 11 or an inner surface of the lower case 12 by having the inner surface of the upper or lower case 11, 12 faced upward.
Further, in the cam unit 5 included in the hinge apparatus D1 for an electronic device, the cam 51 having a cylindrical shape is sandwiched between the cam plate 52 and the cam plate 53, and the outer peripheral surfaces of the cam plates 52, 53 having elliptical shapes are supported by an inner peripheral surface of the hinge cover 56. Thereby, the cam shafts 55A, 55B can be rotatably supported by the cam plates 52, 53. Thus, compared to supporting the cam shafts 55A, 55B with another configuration, the number of components can be reduced and size-reduction can be achieved.
Further, owing to the cord 7 being able to passed through the inside of the gear unit 6 by providing the insertion bores 70 a in the gear shafts 70A, 70B of the gear unit 6 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the cord 7 can be prevented from being exposed to the outside. Thus, the cord 7 can electrically connect the upper and lower plates 8, 9 while being appropriately protected.
Further, because the first and second gear shafts 61A, 61B include communicating parts 61 c provided at the outer sides in the radial directions of the upper and lower plate oscillation shaft lines C1, C2 (provided in the extending direction of the cord 7). Therefore, even in a case where the upper plate 8 is oscillated relative to the lower plate 9, each of the gear shafts 61, 61B can be prevented from interfering the cord 7.
In the above-described first embodiment, the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 provide the function of a rotation prevention unit. In an alternative embodiment, a synchro-bar may be provided separately from the upper plate 8 for providing the function of the rotation prevention unit. Next, the alternative embodiment (second embodiment) is described.
FIG. 12 illustrates the second embodiment of the present invention. It is to be noted that, in FIG. 12, like components are denoted by like reference numeral as those of the first embodiment (described with FIGS. 1-11) and are not further explained.
As illustrated in FIG. 12, in a hinge apparatus D2 for an electronic device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the upper cam bracket 1 and the upper gear bracket 3 are fixed to the upper case 11 made of resin, and the lower cam bracket 2 and the lower gear bracket 4 are fixed to the lower case 12 made of resin (not illustrated).
In the second embodiment of the present invention, instead of using the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9, a synchro-bar 13 is used for coupling the upper cam bracket 1 and the upper gear bracket 3, and a synchro-bar 14 is used for coupling the lower cam bracket 2 and the lower gear bracket 4.
The synchro- bars 13, 14 are both formed of a plate-like member. In order to increase rigidity and facilitate attachment, both end parts of the synchro- bars 13, 14 are bent and have a C-shaped cross section. The synchro- bars 13, 14 are vertically arranged relative to the upper case 11.
With the hinge apparatus D2 for an electronic device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, a space can be formed at a center area between the cam unit 5 and the gear unit 6 because both the synchro- bars 13, 14 are formed of a plate-like member. Accordingly, a large space for arranging liquid crystal displays or the like can be obtained.
In the second embodiment of the present invention, the synchro- bars 13, 14 function as the rotation prevention unit. However, similar to the first embodiment, the upper plate 8 and the lower plate 9 may also be used to function as the rotation prevention unit by fixing the upper cam bracket 1 and the upper gear bracket 3 to the upper plate 8 and fixing the lower cam bracket 2 and the lower gear bracket 4 to the lower plate 9.
Further, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but various variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
For example, although the cam unit 5 is arranged on the left side whereas the gear unit 6 is arranged on the right side in the above-described embodiments, the cam unit 5 may be arranged on the right side whereas the gear unit 6 is arranged on the left side.
Although the term “left/right direction (horizontal direction)” is used for clarifying the positional relationship of the cam unit 5 and the gear unit 6, the term “left/right direction (horizontal direction)” indicates the width direction of the above described electronic apparatus S or the hinge apparatuses D1, D2. Thus, “left side” indicates “left direction” and “right side” indicates “right direction” where the benchmark is the center of the electronic apparatus S and the hinge apparatus D1, D2 in the width direction. Thus, positions can be defined even where the front/back direction does not match the vertical direction or where the front/rear direction does not match the horizontal direction.
The present international application is based on Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2010-157781 and 2011-148699 filed on Jul. 12, 2010 and Jul. 4, 2011, respectively, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims (3)

The invention claimed is:
1. A hinge apparatus for an electronic device comprising:
a first plate;
a second plate;
a cam unit; and
a gear unit;
wherein the cam unit includes
a first cam shaft configured to rotate with and be connected to a first cam bracket fixed to the first plate,
a first cam mechanism, including a first spring, that causes the first cam shaft to generate a first torque upon rotation of said first cam shaft,
a second cam shaft configured to be independently rotatable relative to the first cam shaft and connected to a second cam bracket fixed to the second plate,
a second cam mechanism, including a second spring, that causes the second cam shaft to generate a second torque upon rotation of said second cam shaft, and
a cam cover configured to contain an arrangement of the first cam shaft, the second cam shaft, the first cam mechanism and the second cam mechanism,
wherein the gear unit includes
a first gear shaft configured to rotate with and be connected to a first gear bracket fixed to the first plate,
a first gear part arranged on the first gear shaft,
a second gear shaft configured to rotate with and be connected to a second gear bracket fixed to the second plate,
a second gear part arranged on the second gear shaft,
the first gear part, the second gear part and a pair of gears meshed with the first and second gear parts, are configured to synchronize and rotate the first gear shaft and the second gear shaft via the pair of gears, and
a gear cover configured to contain an arrangement of the first gear shaft, the second gear shaft, the first gear part, the second gear part and the pair of gears,
wherein the cam unit is positioned adjacent to one edge of the first and second plate and the gear unit is positioned adjacent to an opposite edge of the first and second plate, the first and second plates being rotatable relative to each other,
wherein the cam unit and the gear unit are independent units that are independently connected to the first and second plates.
2. The hinge apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first gear shaft and the second gear shaft are configured to rotate in different directions relative to each other.
3. The hinge apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first and second cam mechanisms are configured to generate the first torque and second torque one time when the second plate is rotated 360 degrees relative to the first plate.
US13/809,213 2010-07-12 2011-07-11 Hinge apparatus for electronic device Active US8615848B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JP2010157781 2010-07-12
JP2010157781 2010-07-12
JP2011148699A JP5864148B2 (en) 2010-07-12 2011-07-04 Hinge device for electronic equipment
JP2011148699 2011-07-04
PCT/JP2011/065813 WO2012008420A1 (en) 2010-07-12 2011-07-11 Hinge device for electronic apparatus

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20130111704A1 US20130111704A1 (en) 2013-05-09
US8615848B2 true US8615848B2 (en) 2013-12-31

Family

ID=45469418

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/809,213 Active US8615848B2 (en) 2010-07-12 2011-07-11 Hinge apparatus for electronic device

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US8615848B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2594814B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5864148B2 (en)
KR (1) KR101441915B1 (en)
CN (1) CN103052816B (en)
WO (1) WO2012008420A1 (en)

Cited By (27)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20130016489A1 (en) * 2011-07-13 2013-01-17 Lianhong Technology Co., Ltd. Transformer
US20130083466A1 (en) * 2011-09-27 2013-04-04 Z124 Hinge for a handheld computing device
US20130318746A1 (en) * 2012-05-30 2013-12-05 Kem Hongkong Limited Biaxial Hinge
US20130322004A1 (en) * 2012-05-31 2013-12-05 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Hinge apparatus and computing apparatus having the same
US20140251045A1 (en) * 2013-03-11 2014-09-11 First Dome Corporation Synchronous movement device applied to dual-shaft system
US20140268533A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Dell Products L.P. Information handling system housing lid with synchronized motion
US8904601B2 (en) * 2013-03-11 2014-12-09 First Dome Corporation Synchronous movement device applied to dual-shaft system
US20140360296A1 (en) * 2013-06-05 2014-12-11 Wistron Corporation Biaxial pivot mechanism and portable electronic device thereof
US20150007416A1 (en) * 2013-07-05 2015-01-08 Pegatron Corporation Hinge Module and Electronic Device Using the Same
US20150040704A1 (en) * 2013-06-11 2015-02-12 First Dome Corporation Synchronous movement device applied to dual-shaft system
US20150047152A1 (en) * 2013-08-16 2015-02-19 I3G Design Co., Ltd. Hinge assembly
US9003607B1 (en) * 2013-12-17 2015-04-14 First Dome Corporation Transmission device applied to rotary shafts
US20150160695A1 (en) * 2013-12-06 2015-06-11 Yuan Deng Metals Industrial Co., Ltd. Hinge unit with simultaneous rotatable axles
US20150173218A1 (en) * 2013-12-17 2015-06-18 First Dome Corporation Parallelism fixing device applied to dual-shaft system
US20150189777A1 (en) * 2013-12-31 2015-07-02 First Dome Corporation Transmission stabilization device applied to dual-shaft system
US9265166B2 (en) * 2014-02-25 2016-02-16 First Dome Corporation Parallelism control device applied to dual-shaft system
US20160047156A1 (en) * 2014-08-13 2016-02-18 First Dome Corporation Transmission device applied to pivot shaft mechanism
US20180164855A1 (en) * 2016-12-09 2018-06-14 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Computing device employing a self-spacing hinge assembly
TWI644608B (en) * 2014-07-14 2018-12-11 富世達股份有限公司 Double shaft synchronous transmission
US10227808B2 (en) 2015-11-20 2019-03-12 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10253804B2 (en) * 2017-01-24 2019-04-09 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10296044B2 (en) 2017-06-08 2019-05-21 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10344510B2 (en) 2017-06-16 2019-07-09 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10364598B2 (en) 2016-09-02 2019-07-30 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10474203B2 (en) 2016-09-01 2019-11-12 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10641318B2 (en) 2016-12-09 2020-05-05 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US20220113771A1 (en) * 2019-06-27 2022-04-14 Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. Foldable module and foldable electronic device

Families Citing this family (48)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP5864148B2 (en) * 2010-07-12 2016-02-17 三菱製鋼株式会社 Hinge device for electronic equipment
JP2013255206A (en) * 2012-01-24 2013-12-19 Panasonic Corp Portable terminal and portable terminal placement base
CN103291734A (en) * 2012-02-28 2013-09-11 富泰华工业（深圳）有限公司 Revolving mechanism and electronic equipment using same
US8971031B2 (en) 2012-08-07 2015-03-03 Creator Technology B.V. Display system with a flexible display
EP2911370B1 (en) 2012-10-18 2018-05-23 NEC Corporation Mobile terminal device
EP2913987B1 (en) 2012-10-29 2019-04-17 NEC Corporation Mobile terminal device and method for manufacturing the same
CN102954098B (en) * 2012-11-28 2015-06-03 浙江禾子施能科技有限公司 Hinge structure of folding warmer
JP5738927B2 (en) * 2013-06-10 2015-06-24 レノボ・シンガポール・プライベート・リミテッド Electronics
US9430000B2 (en) * 2013-07-12 2016-08-30 Dell Products L.P. Information handling system housing lid with synchronized motion provided by a flexible compressive member
US9500013B2 (en) * 2013-07-25 2016-11-22 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Hinge assembly for a computing device
CN103398093B (en) * 2013-08-21 2016-08-10 福立旺精密机电(中国)有限公司 Can 360 degree of rotating shafts rotated
TWI518256B (en) * 2013-08-26 2016-01-21 仁寶電腦工業股份有限公司 Hinge structure
US9009919B1 (en) * 2013-11-22 2015-04-21 Sinher Technology Inc. Steady opening and closing double-axis hinge
US9021658B1 (en) * 2013-12-09 2015-05-05 Chin-Hsing Horng Trigger hinge
US9265167B2 (en) * 2014-05-09 2016-02-16 First Dome Corporation Torque balancing device applied to synchronous dual-shaft system
US9715255B2 (en) 2014-06-27 2017-07-25 Intel Corporation Belt driven hinge assembly for electronic devices
US9563236B2 (en) * 2014-07-11 2017-02-07 Intel Corporation Adjustable tension wrap end hinge
TWI532930B (en) * 2014-08-15 2016-05-11 First Dome Corp Multi - joint synchronous shaft structure
JP6590135B2 (en) * 2014-10-14 2019-10-16 株式会社ナチュラレーザ・ワン Biaxial hinge and electronic device using the biaxial hinge
CN105697530A (en) * 2014-11-25 2016-06-22 联想(北京)有限公司 Connecting device and electronic equipment
US9625954B2 (en) 2014-11-26 2017-04-18 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Multi-pivot hinge
US10174534B2 (en) 2015-01-27 2019-01-08 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Multi-pivot hinge
US10162389B2 (en) 2015-09-25 2018-12-25 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Covered multi-axis hinge
US9964988B2 (en) * 2015-12-22 2018-05-08 Intel Corporation Hinge clip
WO2017142532A1 (en) 2016-02-17 2017-08-24 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Multi-band hinge device
US9624703B1 (en) * 2016-02-19 2017-04-18 Leohab Enterprise Co., Ltd. Positioning mechanisms of double-pintle hinge
US9857849B1 (en) 2016-06-10 2018-01-02 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device with wrapped displays
US9617770B1 (en) * 2016-08-03 2017-04-11 Leohab Enterprise Co., Ltd. Double-hinge device
US10908652B2 (en) 2016-08-19 2021-02-02 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Modular hinge for a computing device
US10437293B2 (en) 2016-09-23 2019-10-08 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Multi-axis hinge
CN106527588A (en) * 2016-11-15 2017-03-22 联想(北京)有限公司 Electronic equipment
KR102373875B1 (en) * 2017-05-22 2022-03-14 삼성전자주식회사 Electronic device with multi-angle cradling
CN209180220U (en) * 2017-11-03 2019-07-30 仁宝电脑工业股份有限公司 Double-shaft pivot device and electronic device
CN207975120U (en) * 2018-01-16 2018-10-16 杭州安费诺飞凤通信部品有限公司 A kind of hinge and hinge means of outer flexible screen mobile terminal
US10558245B2 (en) * 2018-02-02 2020-02-11 Dell Products L.P. Information handling system narrow width hinge
US10563438B1 (en) * 2018-12-11 2020-02-18 Lianhong Art Co., Ltd. Hinge device with helical gear
WO2020136887A1 (en) * 2018-12-28 2020-07-02 三菱製鋼株式会社 Hinge device and electronic device
CN210178745U (en) * 2019-01-15 2020-03-24 杭州安费诺飞凤通信部品有限公司 Synchronous mechanism of hinge of inward-folding flexible screen mobile terminal
US10480226B1 (en) * 2019-01-24 2019-11-19 Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd. Hinge and electronic device using the same
US10928864B1 (en) * 2019-09-26 2021-02-23 Dell Products L.P. Synchronized dual shaft expandable hinge
US11093008B2 (en) 2019-09-26 2021-08-17 Dell Products L.P. Synchronized dual shaft expandable hinge
US11099611B2 (en) 2019-09-26 2021-08-24 Dell Products L.P. Synchronized expandable dual axle hinge and clutch
US11016539B2 (en) 2019-09-26 2021-05-25 Dell Products L.P. Belt synchronized expandable dual axle hinge
US10852776B1 (en) 2019-09-26 2020-12-01 Dell Products L.P. Synchronized single axle hinge
US11016540B2 (en) 2019-09-26 2021-05-25 Dell Products L.P. Bi-stable synchronized dual axle hinge
KR20220067946A (en) * 2020-11-18 2022-05-25 삼성전자주식회사 Electronic device comprising a torque structure
KR102493176B1 (en) * 2021-11-02 2023-01-31 유아이엘 주식회사 Multi step hinge assembly for folder type portable device
KR102714559B1 (en) * 2022-08-19 2024-10-11 주식회사 파츠텍 Foldable mobile terminal hinge module

Citations (49)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4765027A (en) * 1986-06-30 1988-08-23 Andric Milos D Door hinge
US5249089A (en) * 1990-07-30 1993-09-28 Goldstar Alps Electronics Co. Ltd. Driving device for loading/unloading a tray for a digital audio tape
US5754395A (en) * 1995-08-29 1998-05-19 Acer Advanced Labs, Inc. Ergonomic keyboard for a portable computer which is moveable between two positions
US5867872A (en) * 1996-05-16 1999-02-09 Katoh Electrical Machinery Co., Ltd. Tilt hinge
US6191937B1 (en) * 1997-09-04 2001-02-20 Lg. Philips Lcd Co., Ltd. Display with gear type hinge
US6253419B1 (en) * 2000-01-13 2001-07-03 Lu Sheng-Nan Pivot device with multiple pivotal bars for a notebook computer
US20020038493A1 (en) * 2000-10-04 2002-04-04 Yu-Chen Ko Hinge structure
JP2005023955A (en) 2003-06-30 2005-01-27 Casio Comput Co Ltd Hinge structure, imaging device, and mobile phone device
JP2005133759A (en) * 2003-10-28 2005-05-26 Mitsubishi Steel Mfg Co Ltd Hinge mechanism
US20050117284A1 (en) * 2003-09-12 2005-06-02 Makoto Kida Hinge system used for personal computer and personal computer including the same
US20060238970A1 (en) * 2005-04-21 2006-10-26 Mikko Ukonaho Mobile communications device with synchronising hinge
US20060262496A1 (en) * 2005-05-23 2006-11-23 Seung-Won Lee Portable computer having detachable display
US7239504B2 (en) * 2004-07-27 2007-07-03 Dell Products L.P. Snap-in floating hinge cap for portable computer
US20070289099A1 (en) * 2006-05-15 2007-12-20 Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd. Opening and closing device for notebook computer
US7319749B2 (en) * 2004-08-04 2008-01-15 Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd. Hinge with orthogonal pivot axes
JP2008075747A (en) 2006-09-21 2008-04-03 Strawberry Corporation Hinge device and electronic device using the same
US20080109995A1 (en) * 2006-11-13 2008-05-15 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Opening-closing device
US20080134468A1 (en) * 2006-12-06 2008-06-12 Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd. Pivotal device
JP2008144962A (en) 2006-11-13 2008-06-26 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Opening/closing device
US20080151478A1 (en) * 2006-12-21 2008-06-26 Jr-Jiun Chern Hinge for laptop computer
JP2008215365A (en) 2007-02-28 2008-09-18 Nec Corp Hinge unit and collapsible portable electronic equipment
US20080307608A1 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-12-18 Sugatsune Kogyo Co., Ltd. Biaxial Hinge Device
US20090007372A1 (en) * 2005-01-25 2009-01-08 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Folding electronic apparatus
US20090013500A1 (en) * 2005-01-25 2009-01-15 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Hinge device
US7483723B2 (en) * 2002-11-21 2009-01-27 Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Ab Flexible conductors connected between two parts of a portable electronic device
US7484271B2 (en) * 2003-04-03 2009-02-03 Sugatsune Kogyo Co., Ltd. Device case opening/closing device, and 2-axis hinge device
JP2009041729A (en) 2007-08-10 2009-02-26 Omron Corp Hinge mechanism and portable terminal
US20090070961A1 (en) * 2007-09-17 2009-03-19 Chia-Ko Chung Simultaneous-rotating hinge
US7515707B2 (en) * 2004-04-09 2009-04-07 Amphenol Phoenix Co., Ltd. Portable apparatus having two rotatable and foldable units and hinge device used for the same
US7513011B2 (en) * 2005-12-29 2009-04-07 Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd. Hinge with multiple torsion springs
JP2009222079A (en) 2008-03-13 2009-10-01 Kato Electrical Mach Co Ltd Biaxial hinge device, and electronic equipment
US20090282650A1 (en) * 2008-05-14 2009-11-19 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Hinge apparatus for portable communication device
US20100071159A1 (en) * 2007-02-14 2010-03-25 Prexco Co., Ltd Hinge type cover opening and closing device for mobile phone
US7730587B2 (en) * 2006-03-01 2010-06-08 Quanta Computer Inc. Hinge apparatus
US7805810B2 (en) * 2006-10-05 2010-10-05 Lawrence Andrew Hoffman Multi leaf extendable gear hinge
US7900323B2 (en) * 2008-10-02 2011-03-08 Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd. Hinge and a lamp with the hinge
US7907415B2 (en) * 2005-07-28 2011-03-15 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Hinge mechanism of foldable device, and foldable device provided with hinge mechanism
US20110265288A1 (en) * 2010-04-29 2011-11-03 Yung-Chang Chiang Two-stage dual-pintle hinge
US8104144B2 (en) * 2009-12-25 2012-01-31 Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Hinge assembly and electronic device using the same
JP2012037049A (en) * 2010-07-12 2012-02-23 Mitsubishi Steel Mfg Co Ltd Hinge device for electronic apparatus
US20120149438A1 (en) * 2010-12-10 2012-06-14 Prexco Co., Ltd. Mobile phone of folding type and hinge device of the same
US8205305B2 (en) * 2010-05-10 2012-06-26 Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Hinge mechanism
US20120182677A1 (en) * 2011-01-18 2012-07-19 Pantech Co., Ltd. Portable terminal transformable into bracelet
US20120248048A1 (en) * 2011-03-31 2012-10-04 Chen Hao Wu Foldable display support
US8296905B2 (en) * 2011-01-28 2012-10-30 Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Hinge mechanism
US8312596B2 (en) * 2008-07-30 2012-11-20 Dlp Limited Hinge assembly
US20130014346A1 (en) * 2011-07-13 2013-01-17 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Gear cam mounting device in dual-hinge device for a portable terminal
US20130016489A1 (en) * 2011-07-13 2013-01-17 Lianhong Technology Co., Ltd. Transformer
US8474101B2 (en) * 2010-08-18 2013-07-02 Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Hinge mechanism

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP4212577B2 (en) * 2005-07-28 2009-01-21 三洋電機株式会社 Folding device hinge mechanism and folding device provided with this hinge mechanism

Patent Citations (54)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4765027A (en) * 1986-06-30 1988-08-23 Andric Milos D Door hinge
US5249089A (en) * 1990-07-30 1993-09-28 Goldstar Alps Electronics Co. Ltd. Driving device for loading/unloading a tray for a digital audio tape
US5754395A (en) * 1995-08-29 1998-05-19 Acer Advanced Labs, Inc. Ergonomic keyboard for a portable computer which is moveable between two positions
US5867872A (en) * 1996-05-16 1999-02-09 Katoh Electrical Machinery Co., Ltd. Tilt hinge
US6191937B1 (en) * 1997-09-04 2001-02-20 Lg. Philips Lcd Co., Ltd. Display with gear type hinge
US6253419B1 (en) * 2000-01-13 2001-07-03 Lu Sheng-Nan Pivot device with multiple pivotal bars for a notebook computer
US20020038493A1 (en) * 2000-10-04 2002-04-04 Yu-Chen Ko Hinge structure
US7483723B2 (en) * 2002-11-21 2009-01-27 Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Ab Flexible conductors connected between two parts of a portable electronic device
US7484271B2 (en) * 2003-04-03 2009-02-03 Sugatsune Kogyo Co., Ltd. Device case opening/closing device, and 2-axis hinge device
JP2005023955A (en) 2003-06-30 2005-01-27 Casio Comput Co Ltd Hinge structure, imaging device, and mobile phone device
US20050050686A1 (en) 2003-06-30 2005-03-10 Casio Computer Co., Ltd. Two-shaft hinge structure
US20050117284A1 (en) * 2003-09-12 2005-06-02 Makoto Kida Hinge system used for personal computer and personal computer including the same
US7506608B2 (en) * 2003-10-28 2009-03-24 Mitsubishi Steel Mfg. Co., Ltd. Hinge mechanism
JP2005133759A (en) * 2003-10-28 2005-05-26 Mitsubishi Steel Mfg Co Ltd Hinge mechanism
US20080307608A1 (en) * 2004-01-21 2008-12-18 Sugatsune Kogyo Co., Ltd. Biaxial Hinge Device
US7515707B2 (en) * 2004-04-09 2009-04-07 Amphenol Phoenix Co., Ltd. Portable apparatus having two rotatable and foldable units and hinge device used for the same
US7239504B2 (en) * 2004-07-27 2007-07-03 Dell Products L.P. Snap-in floating hinge cap for portable computer
US7319749B2 (en) * 2004-08-04 2008-01-15 Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd. Hinge with orthogonal pivot axes
US7765644B2 (en) * 2005-01-25 2010-08-03 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Hinge device
US20090013500A1 (en) * 2005-01-25 2009-01-15 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Hinge device
US20090007372A1 (en) * 2005-01-25 2009-01-08 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Folding electronic apparatus
US20060238970A1 (en) * 2005-04-21 2006-10-26 Mikko Ukonaho Mobile communications device with synchronising hinge
US7414834B2 (en) * 2005-04-21 2008-08-19 Nokia Corporation Mobile communications device with synchronising hinge
US20060262496A1 (en) * 2005-05-23 2006-11-23 Seung-Won Lee Portable computer having detachable display
US7907415B2 (en) * 2005-07-28 2011-03-15 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Hinge mechanism of foldable device, and foldable device provided with hinge mechanism
US7513011B2 (en) * 2005-12-29 2009-04-07 Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd. Hinge with multiple torsion springs
US7730587B2 (en) * 2006-03-01 2010-06-08 Quanta Computer Inc. Hinge apparatus
US20070289099A1 (en) * 2006-05-15 2007-12-20 Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd. Opening and closing device for notebook computer
JP2008075747A (en) 2006-09-21 2008-04-03 Strawberry Corporation Hinge device and electronic device using the same
US7805810B2 (en) * 2006-10-05 2010-10-05 Lawrence Andrew Hoffman Multi leaf extendable gear hinge
JP2008144962A (en) 2006-11-13 2008-06-26 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Opening/closing device
US20080109995A1 (en) * 2006-11-13 2008-05-15 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Opening-closing device
US7832056B2 (en) * 2006-11-13 2010-11-16 Panasonic Corporation Opening-closing device
US20080134468A1 (en) * 2006-12-06 2008-06-12 Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd. Pivotal device
US20080151478A1 (en) * 2006-12-21 2008-06-26 Jr-Jiun Chern Hinge for laptop computer
US20100071159A1 (en) * 2007-02-14 2010-03-25 Prexco Co., Ltd Hinge type cover opening and closing device for mobile phone
JP2008215365A (en) 2007-02-28 2008-09-18 Nec Corp Hinge unit and collapsible portable electronic equipment
JP2009041729A (en) 2007-08-10 2009-02-26 Omron Corp Hinge mechanism and portable terminal
US20090070961A1 (en) * 2007-09-17 2009-03-19 Chia-Ko Chung Simultaneous-rotating hinge
JP2009222079A (en) 2008-03-13 2009-10-01 Kato Electrical Mach Co Ltd Biaxial hinge device, and electronic equipment
US20090282650A1 (en) * 2008-05-14 2009-11-19 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Hinge apparatus for portable communication device
US8312596B2 (en) * 2008-07-30 2012-11-20 Dlp Limited Hinge assembly
US7900323B2 (en) * 2008-10-02 2011-03-08 Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd. Hinge and a lamp with the hinge
US8104144B2 (en) * 2009-12-25 2012-01-31 Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Hinge assembly and electronic device using the same
US20110265288A1 (en) * 2010-04-29 2011-11-03 Yung-Chang Chiang Two-stage dual-pintle hinge
US8205305B2 (en) * 2010-05-10 2012-06-26 Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Hinge mechanism
JP2012037049A (en) * 2010-07-12 2012-02-23 Mitsubishi Steel Mfg Co Ltd Hinge device for electronic apparatus
US8474101B2 (en) * 2010-08-18 2013-07-02 Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Hinge mechanism
US20120149438A1 (en) * 2010-12-10 2012-06-14 Prexco Co., Ltd. Mobile phone of folding type and hinge device of the same
US20120182677A1 (en) * 2011-01-18 2012-07-19 Pantech Co., Ltd. Portable terminal transformable into bracelet
US8296905B2 (en) * 2011-01-28 2012-10-30 Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Hinge mechanism
US20120248048A1 (en) * 2011-03-31 2012-10-04 Chen Hao Wu Foldable display support
US20130014346A1 (en) * 2011-07-13 2013-01-17 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Gear cam mounting device in dual-hinge device for a portable terminal
US20130016489A1 (en) * 2011-07-13 2013-01-17 Lianhong Technology Co., Ltd. Transformer

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
International Search Report mailed on Oct. 11, 2011.

Cited By (51)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8861211B2 (en) * 2011-07-13 2014-10-14 Acer Incorporated Collapsible electronic equipment and pivot structure
US20130016489A1 (en) * 2011-07-13 2013-01-17 Lianhong Technology Co., Ltd. Transformer
US9435410B2 (en) 2011-07-13 2016-09-06 Acer Incorporated Pivot structure
US9286024B2 (en) 2011-09-27 2016-03-15 Z124 Metal housing with moulded plastic
US9317243B2 (en) 2011-09-27 2016-04-19 Z124 Dual light pipe bracket in mobile communication device
US9116655B2 (en) 2011-09-27 2015-08-25 Z124 L bracket for handheld device activators
US20130083466A1 (en) * 2011-09-27 2013-04-04 Z124 Hinge for a handheld computing device
US9229675B2 (en) 2011-09-27 2016-01-05 Z124 Mounting structure for back-to-back bracket
US9690385B2 (en) 2011-09-27 2017-06-27 Z124 Handheld dual display device having foldover ground tabs
US9645607B2 (en) 2011-09-27 2017-05-09 Z124 Seam minimization in a handheld dual display device
US9497697B2 (en) 2011-09-27 2016-11-15 Z124 Magnetically securing two screens of a handheld communication device
US9176701B2 (en) 2011-09-27 2015-11-03 Z124 Seam minimization in a handheld dual display device
US9013867B2 (en) * 2011-09-27 2015-04-21 Z124 Hinge for a handheld computing device
US20130318746A1 (en) * 2012-05-30 2013-12-05 Kem Hongkong Limited Biaxial Hinge
US9104381B2 (en) * 2012-05-30 2015-08-11 Kem Hongkong Limited Biaxial hinge
US20130322004A1 (en) * 2012-05-31 2013-12-05 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Hinge apparatus and computing apparatus having the same
US9115750B2 (en) * 2012-05-31 2015-08-25 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Hinge apparatus and computing apparatus having the same
US9845625B2 (en) 2012-05-31 2017-12-19 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Hinge apparatus and computing apparatus having the same
US9003606B2 (en) * 2013-03-11 2015-04-14 First Dome Corporation Synchronous movement device applied to dual-shaft system
US20140251045A1 (en) * 2013-03-11 2014-09-11 First Dome Corporation Synchronous movement device applied to dual-shaft system
US8904601B2 (en) * 2013-03-11 2014-12-09 First Dome Corporation Synchronous movement device applied to dual-shaft system
US9201465B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2015-12-01 Dell Products L.P. Information handling system housing lid with synchronized motion
US20140268533A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Dell Products L.P. Information handling system housing lid with synchronized motion
US20140360296A1 (en) * 2013-06-05 2014-12-11 Wistron Corporation Biaxial pivot mechanism and portable electronic device thereof
US9342101B2 (en) * 2013-06-05 2016-05-17 Wistron Corporation Biaxial pivot mechanism and portable electronic device thereof
US9310850B2 (en) * 2013-06-11 2016-04-12 First Dome Corporation Synchronous movement device applied to dual-shaft system
US20150040704A1 (en) * 2013-06-11 2015-02-12 First Dome Corporation Synchronous movement device applied to dual-shaft system
US20150007416A1 (en) * 2013-07-05 2015-01-08 Pegatron Corporation Hinge Module and Electronic Device Using the Same
US9268371B2 (en) * 2013-07-05 2016-02-23 Pegatron Corporation Hinge module and electronic device using the same
US20150047152A1 (en) * 2013-08-16 2015-02-19 I3G Design Co., Ltd. Hinge assembly
US20150160695A1 (en) * 2013-12-06 2015-06-11 Yuan Deng Metals Industrial Co., Ltd. Hinge unit with simultaneous rotatable axles
US20150173218A1 (en) * 2013-12-17 2015-06-18 First Dome Corporation Parallelism fixing device applied to dual-shaft system
US9003607B1 (en) * 2013-12-17 2015-04-14 First Dome Corporation Transmission device applied to rotary shafts
US9388614B2 (en) * 2013-12-17 2016-07-12 First Dome Corporation Parallelism fixing device applied to dual-shaft system
US20150189777A1 (en) * 2013-12-31 2015-07-02 First Dome Corporation Transmission stabilization device applied to dual-shaft system
US9185815B2 (en) * 2013-12-31 2015-11-10 First Dome Corporation Transmission stabilization device applied to dual-shaft system
US9265166B2 (en) * 2014-02-25 2016-02-16 First Dome Corporation Parallelism control device applied to dual-shaft system
TWI644608B (en) * 2014-07-14 2018-12-11 富世達股份有限公司 Double shaft synchronous transmission
US9462713B2 (en) * 2014-08-13 2016-10-04 First Dome Corporation Transmission device applied to pivot shaft mechanism
US20160047156A1 (en) * 2014-08-13 2016-02-18 First Dome Corporation Transmission device applied to pivot shaft mechanism
US10227808B2 (en) 2015-11-20 2019-03-12 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10474203B2 (en) 2016-09-01 2019-11-12 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10364598B2 (en) 2016-09-02 2019-07-30 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US20180164855A1 (en) * 2016-12-09 2018-06-14 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Computing device employing a self-spacing hinge assembly
US10241548B2 (en) * 2016-12-09 2019-03-26 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Computing device employing a self-spacing hinge assembly
US10641318B2 (en) 2016-12-09 2020-05-05 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10253804B2 (en) * 2017-01-24 2019-04-09 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10296044B2 (en) 2017-06-08 2019-05-21 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US10344510B2 (en) 2017-06-16 2019-07-09 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Hinged device
US20220113771A1 (en) * 2019-06-27 2022-04-14 Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. Foldable module and foldable electronic device
US12063319B2 (en) * 2019-06-27 2024-08-13 Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. Foldable module and foldable electronic device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN103052816B (en) 2016-05-18
CN103052816A (en) 2013-04-17
KR20130041098A (en) 2013-04-24
US20130111704A1 (en) 2013-05-09
JP5864148B2 (en) 2016-02-17
EP2594814B1 (en) 2018-05-23
JP2012037049A (en) 2012-02-23
EP2594814A4 (en) 2015-10-07
EP2594814A1 (en) 2013-05-22
WO2012008420A1 (en) 2012-01-19
KR101441915B1 (en) 2014-09-23

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US8615848B2 (en) Hinge apparatus for electronic device
US7930803B2 (en) Foldable device
US10480227B1 (en) Hinge device with dual shaft
JP4156691B2 (en) Liquid crystal display
US9127490B2 (en) Transmission mechanism for dual-shaft hinge
KR100722240B1 (en) hinge device and electronic apparatus using the device
EP4117257B1 (en) Rotating mechanism, support apparatus and electronic device
US7907415B2 (en) Hinge mechanism of foldable device, and foldable device provided with hinge mechanism
CN114115455A (en) Articulation module and foldable electronic device including articulation module
JP2019067279A (en) Portable information equipment
US20160266615A1 (en) Hinge device for a portable computer
CN111885859A (en) Foldable housing assembly and foldable electronic device
US9086848B2 (en) Electronic device having a hinge unit
JP7445554B2 (en) 2-axis hinge mechanism
TWI458351B (en) Display device and housing module thereof
TW202036207A (en) Hinge mechanism and flexible electronic device having the same
JP2006046616A (en) Biaxial hinge
JP6084088B2 (en) Biaxial hinge
JP2017083966A (en) Electronic apparatus
JP2007043379A (en) Folding electronic apparatus
TWI585329B (en) Mobile equipment tripod deflection control unit
JP2007032764A (en) Hinge mechanism of folding equipment and folding equipment provided with hinge mechanism
JP3105039U (en) Hinge with positioning function
JP4818195B2 (en) Information processing device
WO2024001477A1 (en) Synchronous connection mechanism and foldable electronic device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: MITSUBISHI STEEL MFG. CO., LTD., JAPAN

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:MITSUI, YASUHIRO;REEL/FRAME:029594/0614

Effective date: 20130107

STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

MAFP Maintenance fee payment

Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 8TH YEAR, LARGE ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M1552); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

Year of fee payment: 8