초록 ▼

The present invention is a spring hinge for generating torque. The spring hinge includes a shaft and a single helical element. The shaft has a surface with an outer diameter and is capable of rotation. The single helical element is wrapped about the shaft. The helical element includes a first end an

The present invention is a spring hinge for generating torque. The spring hinge includes a shaft and a single helical element. The shaft has a surface with an outer diameter and is capable of rotation. The single helical element is wrapped about the shaft. The helical element includes a first end and a second end. The helical element produces a variable torque between the first and second ends.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A torque producing device comprising:a first hinged element;a second hinged element;a shaft having a surface portion; anda unitary helical device wrapped about the surface, the helical device having a first end coupled to the first hinged element and a second end coupled

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A torque producing device comprising:a first hinged element;a second hinged element;a shaft having a surface portion; anda unitary helical device wrapped about the surface, the helical device having a first end coupled to the first hinged element and a second end coupled to the second hinged element, and said helical device having a first portion that frictionally engages the surface producing a friction torque as the first hinged element is rotated relative to the shaft, and a second portion that produces a variable spring torque as the first and second ends are rotated relative to one another, the variable spring torque acting on the first portion to vary the friction torque between the first portion and the surface, relative rotation of the first and second hinged elements producing a combination torque between the first and second hinged elements, said combination torque comprising the friction torque and the variable spring torque.