Frictional hinge for electronic devices
US9483084B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 27, 2013 |
| Grant date | Nov 1, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 26, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE05Y2999/00
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A frictional hinge assembly for use with electronics devices such as computer notebooks having base and lid portions may present a higher level of frictional resistance to rotation in one direction than in the other. The hinge may comprise a base-mounted helical sleeve having loops that embrace a rotational shaft that is connected to a lid. As the lid is opened, the rotation of the shaft may cause the loops of the helical sleeve to tighten and thereby generate frictional forces, which requires a greater opening force to overcome than when the lid is being closed, in which case the loops loosen. The helical hinge may have applicability for notebook computers, electronic devices having clamshell form factors, all-in-one designs and tablets using kickstands and the like.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.